2009 Maxima Owner's Manual

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 pulsation may indicate that road
conditions are hazardous and extra care is required
while driving.
5-24 Starting and driving
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system uses
various sensors to monitor driver inputs and vehicle
motion. Under certain driving situations, the
system will control braking and engine output to
help keep the vehicle on its steered path.
● When the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
system is operating, the SLIP indicator in
the instrument panel blinks.
● If the SLIP indicator blinks, the road conditions
may be slippery. Be sure to adjust your
speed and driving to these conditions. See
“Slip indicator light”, and “Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) off indicator light” in the “Instruments
and controls” section.
● Indicator light
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
SLIP and indicator lights come on in
the instrument panel.
As long as these indicator lights are on, the
traction control function is canceled.
If the vehicle is operated with the Vehicle Dynamic
Control system off using the VDC OFF
switch, VDC and the Traction Control System
(TCS) functions will be turned off. The SLIP
indicator will flash if wheel spin is detected. The
ABS will still operate with the VDC system off.
When the VDC system is operating, you may feel
a pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise or
vibration from under the hood. This is normal and
indicates that the VDC system is working properly.
The computer has a built in diagnostic feature
that tests the system each time you start the
engine and move the vehicle forward or in reverse
at a slow speed. When the self-test occurs, you
may hear a clunk noise and/or feel a pulsation in
the brake pedal. This is normal and is not an
indication of a malfunction.
WARNING
● The Vehicle Dynamic Control system is
designed to help improve driving stability
but does not prevent accidents due
to abrupt steering operation at high
speeds or by careless or dangerous
driving techniques. Reduce vehicle
speed and be especially careful when
driving and cornering on slippery surfaces
and always drive carefully.