Get Starting and driving -> Cold weather driving Guide for Nissan Micra 4 Door Fourth Generation (2010-2016)

● When driving on an unstable surface

such as a turntable, ferry, elevator or

ramp, the VDC warning light may illumi-

nate. This is not a malfunction. Restart

the engine after driving onto a stable

surface.

● If wheels or tires other than the NISSAN

recommended ones are used, the VDC

system may not operate properly and

the VDC warning light may illuminate.

● The VDC system is not a substitute for

winter tires or tire chains on a snow

covered road.

FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK

To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply de-

icer through the key hole. If the lock becomes

frozen, heat the key before inserting it into the key

hole or use the remote keyless entry key fob (if so

equipped).

ANTIFREEZE

In the winter when it is anticipated that the tem-

perature will drop below 32°F (0°C), check the

anti-freeze to assure proper winter protection.

For additional information, refer to “Engine cool-

ing system” in the “Maintenance and do-it-

yourself” section of this manual.

BATTERY

If the battery is not fully charged during extremely

cold weather conditions, the battery fluid may

freeze and damage the battery. To maintain maxi-

mum efficiency, the battery should be checked

regularly. For additional information, refer to “Bat-

tery” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” sec-

tion of this manual.

DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER

If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-

freeze, drain the cooling system, including the

engine block. Refill before operating the vehicle.

For additional information, refer to “Changing

engine coolant” in the “Maintenance and do-it-

yourself” section of this manual.

TIRE EQUIPMENT

1. SUMMER tires have a tread designed to

provide superior performance on dry pave-

ment. However, the performance of these

tires will be substantially reduced in snowy

and icy conditions. If you operate your ve-

hicle on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recom-

mends the use of MUD & SNOW or ALL

SEASON TIRES on all four wheels. Please

consult a NISSAN dealer for the tire type,

size, speed rating and availability informa-

tion.

2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded

tires may be used. However, some states

and provinces prohibit their use. Check lo-

cal, state and provincial laws before install-

ing 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.

COLD WEATHER DRIVING

5-24 Starting and driving

3. Tire chains may be used. For additional in-

formation, refer to “Tire chains” in the “Main-

tenance and do-it-yourself” section of this

manual.

SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT

It is recommended that the following items be

carried in the vehicle during winter:

● A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove

ice and snow from the windows and wiper

blades.

● A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the

jack to give it firm support.

● A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snowdrifts.

● Extra washer fluid to refill the windshield-

washer fluid reservoir.

DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE

WARNING

● Wet ice (0°C, 32°F and freezing rain),

very cold snow or ice can be slick and

very hard to drive on. The vehicle will

have much less traction or “grip” under

these conditions. Try to avoid driving on

wet ice until the road is salted or

sanded.

● Whatever the condition, drive with cau-

tion. Accelerate and slow down with

care. If accelerating or downshifting too

fast, the drive wheels will lose even

more traction.

● Allow more stopping distance under

these conditions. Braking should be

started sooner than on dry pavement.

● Allow greater following distances on

slippery roads.

● Watch for slippery spots (glare ice).

These may appear on an otherwise

clear road in shaded areas. If a patch of

ice is seen ahead, brake before reach-

ing it. Try not to brake while on the ice,

and avoid any sudden steering

maneuvers.

● Snow can trap dangerous exhaust

gases under your vehicle. Keep snow

clear of the exhaust pipe and from

around your vehicle.

ENGINE BLOCK HEATER

Engine block heaters are used to assist with cold

temperature starting.

The engine block heater should be used when

the outside temperature is 20°F (-7°C) or lower.

WARNING

● Do not use your engine block heater

with an ungrounded electrical system or

a 2-pronged adapter. You can be seri-

ously injured by an electrical shock if

you use an ungrounded connection.

● Disconnect and properly store the en-

gine block heater cord before starting

the engine. Damage to the cord could

result in an electrical shock and can

cause serious injury.

● Use a heavy-duty 3-wire, 3-pronged ex-

tension cord rated for at least 10 A. Plug

the extension cord into a Ground Fault

Interrupt (GFI) protected, grounded

110-VAC outlet. Failure to use the

proper extension cord or a grounded

outlet can result in a fire or electrical

shock and cause serious personal

injury.

To use the engine block heater:

1. Turn the engine off.

2. Open the hood and unwrap the engine block

heater cord.

3. Plug the engine block heater cord into a

grounded 3-wire, 3-pronged extension

cord.

Starting and driving 5-25

4. Plug the extension cord into a Ground Fault

Interrupt (GFI) protected, grounded 110-

volt AC (VAC) outlet.

5. The engine block heater must be plugged in

for at least 2 - 4 hours, depending on outside

temperatures, to properly warm the engine

coolant. Use an appropriate timer to turn the

engine block heater on.

6. Before starting the engine, unplug and prop-

erly store the cord to keep it away from

moving parts.

5-26 Starting and driving

Starting and driving -> Cold weather driving for Your Nissan Micra 4 Door Fourth Generation (2010-2016)

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