1996 Nissan Pathfinder Owner's Manual - Page 108

ON-PAVEMENT AND OFF-ROAD DRIVING PRECAUTIONS THREE-WAY CATALYST The three-way catalyst is an emission control device, installed in the exhaust system. In the converter, exhaust gases are burned at high temperatures to help reduce pollutants. electrical systems can cause overrich fuel flow into the three-way catalyst, causing it to overheat. Do not keep driving if the engine misfires, or if noticeable loss of performance or other unusual operating conditions are detected. Have the vehicle inspected promptly by an authorized NISSAN dealer. ¼ Avoid driving with an extremely low fuel level. Running out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, damaging the three-way catalyst. ¼ Do not race the engine while warming it up. ¼ Do not push or tow your vehicle to start the engine. Utility vehicles have higher ground clearance than passenger cars and a narrower track to make them capable of performing in a wide variety of off-road applications. Specific design characteristics give them a higher center of gravity than ordinary cars. An advantage of higher ground clearance is a better view of the road, allowing you to anticipate problems. They are not designed for cornering at the same speeds as conventional 2-wheel drive vehicles any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. If at all possible, avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers. As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or vehicle rollover. Be sure to read the driving safety precautions later in this section. ¼ The exhaust gas and the exhaust system are very hot. While the engine is running, keep people or flammable materials away from the exhaust system. ¼ Do not stop or park the vehicle over flammable materials, such as dry grass, waste paper, or rags as they may burn easily. To help prevent damage ¼ Do not use leaded gasoline. Deposits from leaded gasoline will seriously reduce the three-way catalyst's ability to help reduce exhaust pollutants. ¼ Keep your engine tuned up. Malfunctions in the ignition, fuel injection, or 4-3