2000 Nissan Maxima Owner's Manual - Page 142

COLD WEATHER DRIVING FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply de-icer or glycerin to it through the key hole. If the lock becomes frozen, heat the key before inserting it into the key hole. the "8. Do-it-yourself" section for changing engine coolant. installing tire chains. When installing tire chains, make sure they are of proper size for the tires on your vehicle and are installed according to the chain manufacturer's suggestions. Use only SAE Class S chains. Other types may damage your vehicle. Use chain tensioners when recommended by the tire chain manufacturer to ensure a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire chain must be secured or removed to prevent the possibility of whipping action damage to the fenders or underbody. If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle when using tire chains. In addition, drive at a reduced speed. Otherwise, your vehicle may be damaged and/or vehicle handling and performance may be adversely affected. Never install tire chains on a T-type spare tire. Do not use tire chains on dry roads. TIRE EQUIPMENT 1. SUMMER tires are of a tread design to provide superior performance on dry pavement. However, the performance of these tires will be substantially reduced in snowy and icy conditions. If you operate your vehicle on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recommends the use of MUD & SNOW or ALL SEASON tires on all four wheels. Please consult your NISSAN dealer for the tire type, size, speed rating and availability information. 2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded tires may be used. However, some provinces and states prohibit their use. Check local, state and provincial laws before installing studded tires. Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be poorer than that of non-studded snow tires. 3. Tire chains may be used if desired. Make sure they are of proper size for the tires on your vehicle and are installed according to the chain manufacturer's suggestions. Use of tire chains may be prohibited according to location. Check the local laws before ANTI-FREEZE In the winter when it is anticipated that the temperature will drop below 32°F (0°C), check anti-freeze (ethylene glycol base) to assure proper winter protection. For additional information, see "Engine Cooling System" in the "8. Do-it-yourself" section. BATTERY If the battery is not fully charged during extremely cold weather conditions, the battery fluid may freeze and damage the battery. To maintain maximum efficiency, the battery should be checked regularly. For additional information, see "Battery" in the "8. Do-ityourself" section. SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT It is recommended that the following items be carried in the vehicle during winter: ¼ a scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove ice and snow from the windows and wiper blades. ¼ a sturdy, flat board to be placed under the jack to give it firm support. Starting and driving DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-freeze, drain the cooling system by opening the drain valves located under the radiator and on the engine block. Refill before operating the vehicle. See "Engine cooling system" in 5-21