1997 Nissan Maxima Owner's Manual - Page 109

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE "START" (4) This position activates the starter motor, starting the engine. ¼ Make sure the area around the vehicle is clear. ¼ Maintenance items listed here should be checked periodically, e.g., each time you check engine oil. ¼ Check that all windows and lights are clean. ¼ Visually inspect tires for their appearance and condition. Also check tires for proper inflation. ¼ Lock all doors. ¼ Position seat and adjust head restraints. ¼ Adjust inside and outside mirrors. ¼ Fasten seat belts and ask all passengers to do likewise. ¼ Check the operation of warning lights when key is turned to the "ON (3)" position. STARTING THE ENGINE 1. Apply the parking brake. 2. Automatic transmission: Move the selector lever to "P" (Park) or "N" (Neutral). ("P" preferred.) The selector lever cannot be moved out of "P" and into any of the other gear positions if the key is removed from the switch. The starter is designed not to operate if the selector lever is in one of the driving positions. Manual transmission: Move the gearshift lever to "N" (Neutral), and depress the clutch pedal to the floor while cranking the engine. The starter is designed not to operate unless the clutch pedal is depressed. 3. Crank the engine with your foot off the accelerator pedal by turning the ignition key to "START". Release the key when the engine starts. If the engine starts, but fails to run, repeat the above procedure. - If the engine is very hard to start in extremely cold or hot weather, depress the accelerator pedal and hold it to help start the engine. 4-6