1999 Nissan Maxima Owner's Manual - Page 136
1999 Nissan Maxima Manual
Page 136 highlights
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM (if so equipped) Self-test feature The anti-lock brake system consists of electronic sensors, electric pumps, and hydraulic solenoids controlled by 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 is not an indication of any malfunction. If the computer senses any malfunction, it switches the antilock brake system OFF and turns on the ABS warning light in the dashboard. The brake system will then behave normally, but without anti-lock assistance. If the light comes on during the self check, or while you are driving, you should take your vehicle to your NISSAN dealer for repair at your earliest convenience. the stopping distance on slippery surfaces will be longer than on normal surfaces, even with the anti-lock system. Stopping distances may also be longer on rough, gravel or snow covered roads, or if you are using tire chains. Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Ultimately, the responsibility for safety of self and others rests in the hands of the driver. Tire type and condition of tires may also affect braking effectiveness. ¼ When replacing tires, install the specified size of tires on all four wheels. ¼ When installing a spare tire, make sure it is the proper size and type as specified on the tire placard. See "Vehicle identification" in the "10. Technical and consumer information" section for tire placard location. On slippery surfaces such as wet asphalt roads, vehicle wheels may spin when the vehicle is accelerated. This wheel spin reduces acceleration, or causes the vehicle to swerve, thus decreasing vehicle stability. The traction control system helps limit wheel spin on slippery roads. The system operates only if it senses one or both of the front wheels spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system reduces engine power and may also upshift the transmission to help limit wheel spin. ¼ Indicator light If a malfunction occurs in the traction control system, the SLIP and indicator lights come on in the meter panel. As long as these warning lights are on, the traction control function is canceled. The vehicle will behaves like a model without the traction control system. The anti-lock brake system is a sophisticated device, but it cannot prevent accidents resulting from careless or dangerous driving techniques. It can help maintain vehicle control during braking on slippery surfaces, but remember that ¼ The traction control system is most effective when the transmission gear selector is in the D position. ¼ If you drive in gear 1 or 2 with the TCS on, this could cause the three way catalyst to overheat and be damaged. Starting and driving 5-19