2004 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 180

ABLS system brakes the spinning wheel which distributes the driving power to the other drive wheel. If the vehicle is operated with the vehicle dynamic control system off, all VDC and TCS functions will be turned off. The ABLS system and ABS will still operate with the VDC system OFF. If the ABLS system or the ABS is activated, the slip indicator light will blink and you may hear a clunk noise and/or feel a pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal. While the VDC system is operating, you may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise or vibration from under the hood. This is normal and indicates that the VDC system is working properly. The computer has a built in diagnostic feature that tests the system each time you start the engine and move the vehicle forward or in reverse at a slow speed. When the self-test occurs, you may hear a clunk noise and/or feel a pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal and is not an indication of a malfunction. WARNING ● The vehicle dynamic control system is designed to help improve driving stability but does not prevent accidents due to abrupt steering operation at high speeds or by careless or dangerous driving techniques. Reduce vehicle speed and be especially careful when driving and cornering on slippery surfaces and always drive carefully. ● If brake related parts such as brake pads, rotors and calipers are not standard equipment or are extremely deteriorated, the vehicle dynamic control system may not operate properly and the vehicle dynamic control off indicator light may come on. ● Do not modify the vehicle's suspension. If suspension parts such as shock absorbers, struts, springs, stabilizer bars and bushings are not NISSAN approved for your vehicle or are extremely deteriorated the vehicle dynamic control system may not operate properly. This could adversely affect vehicle handling performance, and the vehicle dynamic control off indicator light may come on. ● When driving on extremely inclined surfaces such as higher banked corners, the vehicle dynamic control system may not operate properly and the vehicle dynamic control off indicator light may come on. Do not drive on these types of roads. ● If wheels or tires other than the recommended ones are used, the vehicle dynamic control system may not operate properly and the vehicle dynamic control off indicator light may come on. ● The vehicle dynamic control system is not a substitute for winter tires or tire chains on a snow covered road. 5-26 Starting and driving