— When installing
a
spare tire, make
off and illuminates the ABS warning light on the
meter. The brake system then operates nor-
mally, but without anti-lock assistance.
If the ABS warning light illuminates during the
self-test or while driving, have the vehicle
checked by a NISSAN dealer.
BRAKE ASSIST
sure that it is the proper size and
type as specified on the tire placard.
(See “Tire placard” (P.9-13).)
When the force applied to the brake pedal
exceeds
a certain level, the Brake Assist is
activated generating greater braking force
than a conventional brake booster even with
light pedal force.
— For detailed information, see “Tires
and wheels” (P.8-44).
Normal operation
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) controls
the brakes so the wheels do not lock during
hard braking or when braking on slippery
surfaces. The system detects the rotation
speed at each wheel and varies the brake fluid
pressure to prevent each wheel from locking
and sliding. By preventing each wheel from
locking, the system helps the driver maintain
steering control and helps to minimize swer-
ving and spinning on slippery surfaces.
WARNING:
The ABS operates at speeds above 5 to 10
km/h (3 to 6 MPH). The speed varies according
to road conditions.
The Brake Assist is only an aid to assist
braking operation and is not
a collision
warning or avoidance device. It is the driver’s
responsibility to stay alert, drive safely and
be in control of the vehicle at all times.
When the ABS senses that one or more wheels
are close to locking up, the actuator rapidly
applies and releases hydraulic pressure. This
action is similar to pumping the brakes very
quickly. You may feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal and hear a noise from under the hood or
feel a vibration from the actuator when it is
operating. This is normal and indicates that the
ABS is operating properly. However, the pulsa-
tion may indicate that road conditions are
hazardous and extra care is required while
driving.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)
WARNING:
Using system
.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a
sophisticated device, but it cannot pre-
vent accidents resulting from careless or
dangerous driving techniques. It can help
maintain vehicle control during braking
on slippery surfaces. Remember that
stopping distances on slippery surfaces
will be longer than on normal surfaces
even with ABS. 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. Ulti-
mately, the driver is responsible for
safety.
Depress the brake pedal and hold it down.
Depress the brake pedal with firm steady
pressure, but do not pump the brakes. The
ABS will operate to prevent the wheels from
locking up. Steer the vehicle to avoid obstacles.
WARNING:
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so may
result in increased stopping distances.
Self-test feature
The ABS includes electronic sensors, electric
pumps, hydraulic solenoids and 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
does not indicate a malfunction. If the compu-
ter senses a malfunction, it switches the ABS
.
Tire type and condition may also affect
braking effectiveness.
— When replacing tires, install the spe-
cified size of tires on all four wheels.
Starting and driving 5-157
