2010 Nissan Sentra Owner's Manual - Page 253

VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC) SYSTEM (if so equipped) WARNING Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so may result in increased stopping distances. Normal operation The ABS operates at speeds above 3 - 6 MPH (5 - 10 km/h). The speed varies according to road conditions. When the ABS senses that 1 or more wheels are close to locking up, the actuator rapidly applies and releases hydraulic pressure. This action is similar to pumping the brakes very quickly. You may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise from under the hood or feel a vibration from the actuator when it is operating. This is normal and indicates that the ABS is operating properly. However, the pulsation may indicate that road conditions are hazardous and extra care is required while driving. The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system uses various sensors to monitor driver inputs and vehicle motion. Under certain driving situations, the system will control braking and engine output to help keep the vehicle on its steered path. ● When the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system is operating, the slip indicator in the instrument panel blinks. indicator blinks, the road condi● If the tions may be slippery. Be sure to adjust your speed and driving to these conditions. See "Slip indicator light" and "Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF indicator light" in the "Instruments and controls" section. ● Indicator light - If a malfunction occurs in the system, and indicator lights the come on in the instrument panel. - As long as these indicator lights are on, the traction control function is canceled. If the vehicle is operated with the Vehicle Dynamic Control system off using the VDC OFF switch, VDC and Traction Control System (TCS) indicator functions will be turned off. The will flash if wheel spin is detected. The ABS will still operate with the VDC system off. Self-test feature The ABS includes electronic sensors, electric pumps, hydraulic solenoids and a computer. The computer has a built-in diagnostic feature that tests the system each time you start the engine and move the vehicle at a low speed in forward or reverse. When the self-test occurs, you may hear a "clunk" noise and/or feel a pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction. If the computer senses a malfunction, it switches the ABS off and illuminates the ABS warning light on the instrument panel. The brake system then operates normally, but without anti-lock assistance. If the ABS warning light illuminates during the self-test or while driving, have the vehicle checked by a NISSAN dealer. 5-26 Starting and driving