Anti-lock braking system (abs) -31 – NISSAN 2008 Xterra User Manual

Page 211

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This procedure is described in the vehicle service

manual and can be performed by a NISSAN

dealer.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM

(ABS)

WARNING

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. Remem-

ber that stopping distances on slippery

surfaces will be longer than on normal

surfaces even with ABS. Stopping dis-

tances 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 driver is respon-

sible for safety.

Tire type and condition may also affect

braking effectiveness.

– When replacing tires, install the

specified size of tires on all four

wheels.

– When installing a spare tire, make

sure that it is the proper size and type

as specified on the Tire and Loading

Information label. See “Tire and

Loading Information label” in the

“Technical and consumer informa-

tion” section of this manual.

– For

detailed

information,

see

“Wheels and tires” in the “Mainte-

nance and do-it-yourself” section of

this manual.

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 pre-

vent each wheel from locking and sliding. By

preventing each wheel from locking, the system

helps the driver maintain steering control and

helps to minimize swerving and spinning on slip-

pery surfaces.

Using the system

Depress the brake pedal and hold it down. De-

press the brake pedal with firm steady pressure,

but do not pump the brakes. The ABS will oper-

ate 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.

Normal operation

The ABS operates at speeds above 3 - 6 MPH (5

- 10 km/h).
When the ABS senses that one or more wheels

are close to locking up, the system electronically

controls the pressure applied to each brake.
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 oper-

ating. This is normal and indicates that the ABS is

operating properly. However, the pulsation may

indicate that road conditions are hazardous and

extra care is required while driving.

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

Starting and driving

5-31

REVIEW COPY—

2008 Xterra (xtr)

Owners Manual—USA_English (nna)
06/26/07—debbie

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