2003 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 59

Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) If this indicator lamp comes on steady or blinks while the engine is running, it may indicate a potential emission control malfunction. The malfunction indicator lamp may also come on steady if the fuel filler cap is loose or missing, or if the vehicle runs out of fuel. Check to make sure the fuel filler cap is installed and closed tightly, and that the vehicle has at least 3 gallons of fuel in the fuel tank. After a few driving trips, the lamp should turn off if no other potential emission control system malfunction exists. Operation The malfunction indicator lamp will come on in one of two ways: ● Malfunction indicator lamp on steady - An emission control system malfunction has been detected. Check the fuel filler cap. If the fuel filler cap is loose or missing, tighten or install the cap and continue to drive the vehicle. The lamp should turn off after a few driving trips. If the lamp does not turn off after a few driving trips, have the vehicle inspected by a NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer. ● Malfunction indicator lamp blinking - An engine misfire has been detected which may damage the emission control system. To reduce or avoid emission control system damage: - do not drive at speeds above 45 MPH (72 km/h). - avoid hard acceleration or deceleration. - avoid steep uphill grades. - if possible, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled or towed. The malfunction indicator lamp may stop blinking and come on steady. Have the vehicle inspected by a NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer. Slip indicator light (if so equipped) This indicator light will blink when the traction control system is limiting wheel spin. Slippery road conditions may exist if the slip indicator blinks on. If this happens, adjust your driving accordingly. The slip indicator light also comes on when you turn the ignition key to the ON position. The light will turn off after about 2 seconds if the system is operational. If the light does not come on or go off, have the traction control system checked by a NISSAN dealer. The system operates in all transmission shift lever positions, but the system can upshift the transmission only as high as the indicated shift lever position. CAUTION Continued vehicle operation without having the emission control system checked and repaired as necessary could lead to poor driveability, reduced fuel economy, and possible damage to the emission control system. Traction control system off indicator light After turning the ignition key to the ON position, the light will illuminate. The light will turn off after about 2 seconds if the traction control system (TCS) is operational. If the light stays on or comes on when you are driving, it may indicate the traction control system is not functioning properly. Have the system checked by a NISSAN dealer. Instruments and controls 2-11