1997 Nissan Sentra Owner's Manual - Page 168

EXPLANATION OF MAINTENANCE ITEMS Additional information on the following items with is found in the ''Do-ityourself operations'' section. filter might become clogged. In such an event, replace the filter immediately. Engine coolant* - Drain and flush the cooling system. Engine oil & oil filter* - Under normal driving conditions, the engine oil and oil filter should be replaced in accordance with the maintenance schedule. However, under severe driving conditions, they may have to be replaced more frequently. Spark plugs* - Replace with new plugs having the correct heat range. Intake & exhaust valve clearance - Check and adjust the valve clearance. Manual & automatic transmission fluid* - Check the fluid level and visually inspect for signs of leakage. Under severe driving conditions, the fluid should be replaced at the specified interval. Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspension parts, and drive shaft boots - Check for damage, looseness and leakage of oil or grease. Under severe driving conditions, more frequent inspection should be performed. Steering linkage ball joints & front suspension ball joints - Check the ball joints for damage, looseness and grease leakage. Exhaust system - Visually check the exhaust pipes, muffler, and hangers for proper attachment, leaks, cracks, chafing, abrasion, deterioration, etc. Under severe driving conditions, inspection should be performed more frequently. Supplemental air bag system (if so equipped) - Check the supplemental air bag system components for proper attachment, damage, deformities, cracks, rust, etc. Work around and on the supplemental air bag system should be done by an authorized NISSAN dealer. Emission control system maintenance Drive belts* - Check drive belts for wear, fraying or cracking and also for proper tension. Replace the drive belts if found damaged. Air cleaner filter - Under normal driving conditions, the air cleaner filter should be replaced in accordance with the maintenance schedule. However, driving the vehicle in dusty areas may cause more rapid clogging of the element. Consequently, the element may have to be replaced more frequently. Vapor lines - Check vapor lines and connections for failure or looseness. If leaks are found, replace them. Fuel lines - Check the fuel hoses, piping and connections for leaks, looseness or deterioration. Replace any parts if they are damaged. Fuel filter - If the vehicle is operated under extremely adverse weather conditions or in areas where ambient temperatures are either extremely low or extremely high, the Chassis and body maintenance Brake lines & cables - Check the brake lines and hoses (including brake booster vacuum hoses, connections & check valve) and parking brake cables for proper attachment, leaks, cracks, chafing, abrasion, deterioration, etc. Brake pads, discs, drums & linings - Check these and the other neighboring brake components for wear, deterioration and leaks. Under severe driving conditions, they may have to be inspected more frequently. 8-10