Transmission problems can develop over time as components wear out or get damaged. Any damage in the transmission will get worse if it’s not repaired, but fortunately, there are always early signs that something is wrong. As your Nissan dealership, we’d like you to know a few signs that you may need a transmission repair.
Signs You Need a Transmission Repair at Your Nissan Dealership
Old Fluid
Transmission fluid performs several vital functions in the transmission. It protects components from damage by surrounding them in a protective friction-resistant coating, and it reduces the temperature in the transmission as it has a cooling effect on the hot components. It also provides the essential hydraulic power that enables the gears to shift effortlessly.
This fluid needs to be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, although the exact timeframe is listed in your car manual. Older transmission fluid loses many specialized properties and provides less hydraulic power. If your transmission feels sluggish or is slow to respond, old fluid could be the problem. We’ll test the fluid, then drain the transmission and flush it to remove any traces of the old fluid. Once this is done, we’ll refill the fluid.
Transmission Leak
A transmission leak is usually due to a worn gasket or seal, and a leak is usually easy to identify as transmission fluid is bright or dark red. If you see a pool of liquid underneath your car, the transmission is leaking. If this happens, we advise that you don’t drive with a leaking transmission, but rather contact us ASAP.
Our experienced technicians will examine your transmission to find and repair the leak. One of the most common places fluid can leak from is the transmission pan gasket. The transmission pan gasket fits into the transmission pan underneath the transmission. Age and damage can cause the gasket to shrink, and fluid will leak out. We can easily replace this gasket to solve the problem.
Slipping Gears
When you step on the accelerator, the engine produces more energy, and the transmission uses this energy to shift into a higher gear, so your car will move faster. Conversely, if you take your foot off the accelerator, the transmission receives less energy and will change to a lower gear. These changes are determined by the transmission computer.
A slipping gear occurs when the gear changes and then drops to another gear without a change in speed or instruction from the computer. This can feel scary, but fortunately, it’s usually a quick and inexpensive repair. The main reason for gear slipping is a lack of transmission fluid. We’ll check the transmission for any damage or leaks, then refill the fluid, and the transmission will work perfectly again.
If you have a transmission problem, contact us right away at Granite Nissan in Rapid City, SD.
Does Your Nissan Need New Headlights?
Your headlights not only light the road for you during night driving but also make your vehicle visible to other drivers in low light. However, like any other part of your car, they can wear out over time. Learning the signs that it’s time for new headlights from the Nissan dealer can help you avoid being left in the dark.
One Headlight Is Out
There’s nothing like a dead bulb to let you know it’s time to take care of your headlights. Driving with one headlight poses a double hazard: it reduces your visibility and puts you at risk of getting a ticket. Headlight bulbs are usually replaced in pairs, so your sole remaining headlight may fail shortly afterward. If one of your bulbs dies, don’t waste time getting them both replaced.
Dimming Headlights
Headlights can grow weaker due to aging bulbs, a weak battery, or problems with your charging system. If your headlights seem dimmer than usual, it’s time to have them inspected.
Flickering, Inconsistent Light
If your headlights flicker on and off without warning, it’s a clear indication that something is wrong. Flickering can result from loose connections, faulty wiring, or dying bulbs. This intermittent lighting can be dangerous, as it may suddenly fail altogether.
Yellowed or Cloudy Headlight Lenses
As they get older, the plastic covers of your headlights can become yellowed or cloudy due to exposure to the sun. This oxidation significantly reduces the amount of light that can pass through, making it harder to see. While headlight restoration may be able to reduce this issue, severely damaged or clouded lenses might require replacement to restore proper light output.
Moisture Inside the Headlight Assembly
Water inside your Nissan’s headlight assembly can lead to bulb failure or more serious electrical problems. If moisture has gotten inside your headlight, it usually means you have either a crack in the headlight casing or worn-out seals. Water in the headlights can affect light output and damage internal components. In such cases, you may need to replace the entire headlight unit.
Warning Light on the Dashboard
Some Nissan models come equipped with a dashboard warning light that alerts you to issues with your headlights. A headlight inspection at the dealership can help pinpoint the issue.
Visit Your Nissan Dealer for New Headlights
If you’ve noticed any signs of trouble with your headlights, the best thing to do is visit the local dealership and have them inspected. Our technicians will be able to tell you whether your headlights need to be replaced and help you choose the perfect ones for your vehicle.
Don’t delay dealing with headlight problems. Call Granite Nissan in Rapid City, SD, to schedule your headlight inspection right away.
Introducing the Limited Edition 2024 Nissan TITAN XD
If you need a truck with both brains and brawn, check out the 2024 Nissan TITAN XD. The TITAN XD is known for its comfortable cabin, desirable standard amenities, and durable truck bed, which is equipped with features that make any job a little easier. Whether you need a truck for work jobs, off-roading, or all-around use, the full-size heavy-duty TITAN XD, available at your Nissan dealer, is the perfect choice.
Introducing the Limited Edition 2024 Nissan TITAN XD at Your Nissan Dealer
Powerful V8 Engine
Every TITAN XD comes equipped with an Endurance V8 engine that offers 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. That engine pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain on this truck includes capabilities like Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, and an Electronic Locking Rear Differential. Four-wheel drive is standard.
It all adds up to powerful capacity. The TITAN XD has a maximum towing capacity of 11,050 when equipped with a gooseneck hitch, and a maximum payload of 2,360 pounds.
Three Trim Levels
The TITAN XD is available in three trim levels. The SV is perfect for all-around use, while the Pro 4X is designed for off-road use. The Platinum Reserve trim level is the most luxurious.
Comfortable Cab
The TITAN XD comes with a six-passenger crew cab that’s equipped with Nissan’s ergonomic Zero Gravity seats, which help you maintain a neutral spine position while driving. The rear seat has a lockable under-seat cargo organizer that provides multiple bins that keep your belongings organized and out of sight. There’s also a clever holder for two smartphones or a tablet.
Features like dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a panoramic sunroof are optional.
Bed Built for Convenience
The bed of the TITAN XD is designed for serious use. A Utili-track Channel system makes it possible to slide aluminum-alloy cleats along three wall channels to help secure your cargo. An available 12-volt outlet allows you to power up your equipment from the bed, and an assisted tailgate can be opened easily with one hand and then lowered smoothly and quietly. The available spray-on bedliner, applied at the factory, will protect your truck bed from years of abuse.
Tech Amenities
The TITAN XD comes with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and a separate digital instrument cluster. Satellite radio, Bluetooth, two USB ports, and a six-speaker stereo all come standard. This truck also has a suite of standard technology-driven driver-assistance features, like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
If you’re driving a truck, there are many reasons why it should be the TITAN XD. When you’re ready to test drive this truck, come see us at Granite Nissan in Rapid City, SD.
5 Safety Features of the 2024 Nissan Altima
The Altima, available at your Nissan dealer, is one of the most comfortable, reliable, and affordable sedans on the market. The exterior of this sedan is sleek, with crisp lines and brilliant headlights. The interior is spacious, with plenty of tech and convenience features your family will adore. Read on to learn more about the 2024 Nissan Altima’s safety and driver assistance features.
5 of the 2024 Nissan Altima’s Best Safety Features Available at Your Nissan Dealer
1. ProPILOT Assist
You can equip your Altima with the available ProPILOT Assist. This driver assistance feature works to keep you centered in your lane and automatically keeps your preset distance between you and the vehicle ahead. The ProPILOT Assist feature can actually bring you to a complete stop and then resume speed after traffic starts up again.
2. Intelligent Forward Collision Warning
This vehicle’s Intelligent Forward Collision Warning system uses monitors and sensors to watch the vehicles ahead. This system tracks two cars ahead and sends you a warning if it detects sudden deceleration. This warning gives you enough time to slow down and avoid costly collisions.
3. Automatic Emergency Braking
The Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection on this sedan monitors your speed and the road ahead. This feature automatically tracks the distance between you and vehicles ahead, warning you if you are too close. The system can then engage your brakes to help you lessen the severity of an impact or avoid a frontal collision entirely. Additionally, if this system detects a pedestrian in a crosswalk ahead of you, it can bring the car to a halt.
4. Rear Automatic Braking
The Rear Automatic Braking system on this sedan utilizes sensors and monitors to watch for large stationary objects behind the vehicle when you are reversing. If the system detects an object and you don’t stop, it can engage your brakes automatically. This helps to lessen the damage caused by impact and can help you avoid rear collisions altogether.
5. Blind Spot Warning
Every vehicle, no matter how well they engineered, has blind spots. The Blind Spot Warning on the Altima ensures that you don’t hit motorcycles or other vehicles that might be hiding in your blind spots.
If you are looking for a reliable and reasonably priced sedan that works hard to keep your family safe, you need to check out the incredible features of the ’24 Nissan Altima. Your vehicle is a big investment and deserves the best protection available. Call or stop by Granite Nissan of Rapid City, SD, and ask us about our RecovR Vehicle Theft Recovery System today.
5 Signs Your Nissan Needs a New Battery
While you’re driving, your car’s alternator uses the engine’s power to generate electricity, which supplies the battery, which in turn keeps the engine’s spark plugs firing along with powering the vehicle’s many other electronic components. If your battery starts to malfunction or degrade, this entire marvelous cycle is interrupted. So to keep your car fully functional, watch out for the following indications that you need to visit your nearest Nissan dealer for a new car battery.
5 Signs Your Nissan Needs a New Car Battery
Your Headlights Are Fading or Flickering
When a battery starts to fail, your headlights will eventually begin to fail, too. Without a strong supply of electrical voltage, the light ahead of your car will begin to weaken, especially when the engine’s turned off and the alternator can’t help to keep them powered. A failing battery might also cause the headlights to flicker, becoming alternately brighter and weaker, as the electrical supply becomes unstable.
Your Electronics Accessories Are Faltering
All the other electronics in your vehicle also depend on the battery for power. This includes the air conditioner, power windows and sunroof, heated seats, dashboard dials, infotainment screens, phone charger, and many more.
If just one of these accessories malfunctions, the problem might lie with that component alone. But if several of them fail at the same time, the blame probably lies with the overall electrical supply.
Your Engine Won’t Start Promptly on Cold Mornings
Perhaps the most important electrical components of a car are the starter, ignition coils, and spark plugs. If an aging battery can’t deliver a strong voltage to these parts, the engine will struggle to start. This problem is likely to be worse early on winter mornings when the engine’s at its coldest.
Your Battery Looks Misshapen, Cracked, or Corroded
When you visually check your battery, you’ll be able to see whether or not it’s still in good shape. Any battery that’s warped out of shape or has seriously corroded terminals will probably have to go. And if the battery’s cracked and leaking battery acid, don’t hesitate to have it replaced. You’re likely to smell the sulfur stench of a leaking battery from within the car’s cabin.
Your Nissan Dealer Recommends Replacing Your Battery
It’s not always easy to notice an aging or degrading car battery. However, during routine maintenance visits at your local dealership, the technicians will check your battery and electronics with an expert eye and are far more likely to notice early warning signs of a bad battery. This way, you can replace your battery early and avoid potential mishaps on the road.
Have your battery inspected and replaced today at Granite Nissan in Rapid City, SD. We offer an excellent range of new and used vehicles, a cutting-edge customer service lounge, and outstanding deals and service to every customer who steps foot through our doors.
Introducing the Powerful 2024 Nissan TITAN
Truck drivers need a powerful vehicle they can rely upon when the going gets tough, as well as a versatile array of features and a comfortable interior to enjoy their travels from. One vehicle that offers all of this and more is the 2024 Nissan TITAN, available at your local Nissan dealer.
Introducing the Powerful 2024 Nissan TITAN at Your Nissan Dealer
Going Big on Power
You’ll have the strength needed to get through even the most ambitious challenges when you’re behind the wheel of the TITAN. This truck comes standard with 400 horsepower, delivering pulse-raising performance as well as the capability required for tough tasks. When properly equipped, this truck lets you haul up to 11,050 pounds, making the TITAN the perfect choice for big payloads.
Versatile, Durable Bed
Nissan understands what truck people want in their vehicles, and that priority on functionality shows in the TITAN’s multipurpose truck bed. The Utili-track channel system allows you to use durable aluminum cleats and three channels to customize the way you secure your cargo. LED bed lighting assists you with loading and unloading in low-visibility conditions, with the assisted tailgate lowering smoothly with ease to further help you.
Comprehensive Protection
Advanced safety features surround you and your passengers when you’re riding in the TITAN, letting you travel with confidence. Navigating the highway is easy with Blind Spot Warning helping you merge safely and High Beam Assist helping you adjust your headlights to avoid blinding oncoming drivers. The Automatic Emergency Braking system provides another line of defense between you and an accident.
Flexible Interior Space
No matter what gets thrown at you next, you’ll be ready to adapt to the moment with the TITAN’s versatile cabin on your side. Add the available Lockable Rear Underseat Cargo Organizer to get a secure place to stow away your things, with multiple compartments to make multitasking a breeze.
Entertainment for the Road
Enjoy the ride to the fullest with the convenient entertainment options of the TITAN. NissanConnect services allow your smartphone and your vehicle to work in perfect harmony, bringing your favorite apps with you hands-free using Bluetooth integration. The available Fender Premium Audio System takes your favorite tracks to the next level with a subwoofer that creates rich bass tones for an immersive listening experience.
Ready to get a truck that will deliver more than what the competition offers? Come check out the TITAN at Granite Nissan, where our experts can give you all the information you need to know about this powerful pickup!
3 Benefits of Financing Through Your Nissan Dealer
Financing your new Nissan is a great way to get the model you can afford without the requirement to save up the cash first. When you choose to finance, your two options are a bank or your dealership. As your Nissan dealer in Rapid City, SD, we want to give you a few reasons why choosing us for your finance is the best choice for you.
3 Benefits of Financing Through Your Nissan Dealer
Handy Online Tools
When you’ve decided on the model you want, we have some handy online tools to make your financial planning easier. The first tool is a pre-approval form. Once you’ve gathered some information together, you’re ready to apply. The application is a short four pages long and can be completed very quickly. Complete the form, hit the send button, and one of our finance experts will contact you as soon as they see your application.
Our second tool, the payment calculator, will give you a heads-up on term length, interest rates, and monthly repayments. You can use it to calculate the deal that best meets your budget. Once you’ve determined your ideal terms, our experts will work for you to make it a reality.
You’re an Individual
If you apply for a bank loan, it can feel very impersonal. Once you’ve filled in the form, their loan application process starts, and you become a number. Banks have specific policies and requirements regarding term length and repayment schedules. If they approve your loan, they specify the terms, and they won’t negotiate.
We see you as an individual who wants the car of your dreams. Our finance experts work with you throughout the application process. We negotiate with our pool of local South Dakota banks and with Nissan to get you the best deal possible.
Improving Your Credit
Not everyone has a perfect credit score, and we understand that. We have options available whether you have great credit, average credit, or credit that needs some improvement. If you have great credit, we’ll get you a great new vehicle APRI, or very competitive used vehicle rates. If your credit needs some improvement, we’ll get you a loan package that enables you to get a car and rebuild your credit at the same time.
If you apply to a bank and don’t have perfect credit, the situation is very different. Banks aren’t interested in helping you improve your credit. They’re only interested in their bottom line. If you have a lower credit score than you’d like, a bank will most likely reject your application.
These are only some of the many reasons why financing through us is a good deal. Contact our finance department today at Granite Nissan for your perfect deal.
Safety should always be your top priority when driving in winter conditions on snowy and icy roads in South Dakota, where temperatures can fall below 10°F. The correct tires are crucial to ensure optimal handling, braking, and cornering in freezing conditions. Below, your Rapid City, SD, Nissan dealer offers valuable advice on choosing tires for your Nissan in the state’s harsh winter months.
Advice From Your Rapid City, SD, Nissan Dealer: Choosing Tires For South Dakota Winters
Rely on Snow Tires
Snow tires are designed to provide optimal traction and handling performance when driving in harsh winter conditions, especially in South Dakota, where it snows from October to April. These tires offer maximum traction and a reduced braking distance on icy roads in freezing weather.
Good snow tires will give you the traction you need for safe braking and cornering at temperatures below 45°F. Snow tires have specific features like specialized rubber, deeper grooves, and wide sipes that help increase traction when you need it the most.
Specialized Rubber Compound
Snow tires keep you safe behind the wheel when the temperature drops and the roads turn slippery. They are made with a specialized rubber compound to be extra flexible and pliable for improved traction.
Deep Grooves
When driving on snowy and icy roads, it’s essential to have tires with deep grooves that offer maximum traction to improve overall handling. The deep grooves work to direct slush and ice away, ensuring that the tire maintains contact with the road surface.
Wide Sipes
Snow tires are designed with sipes, which are multiple wide slits within the tread pattern, to provide extra grip. This helps to reduce the risk of skidding and ensures safer driving in winter weather.
Check the Symbols on the Tires
When buying tires for winter driving conditions, keep an eye out for specific symbols that indicate the conditions the tires are meant to handle. In South Dakota, look for the three-peak mountain and snowflake symbols on the tire sidewalls that are ideal for snowy conditions.
Three-Peak Mountain and Snowflake Symbol
When you see the three-peak mountain and snowflake symbol on the tire’s sidewall, you can rest assured that the tires have undergone rigorous testing and certification for use in severe winter conditions. These tires are designed to deliver reliable and safe performance, ensuring you have all the traction you need to navigate snowy winter roads. Ensure your safety on the road this winter with a set of quality snow tires. Stop at Granite Nissan today. Our team of tire specialists will help you choose the right snow tires for your vehicle, and our certified Nissan technicians will perform a professional installation.
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder is well-equipped with features to support your next family road trip. As a Nissan dealer, we see families drawn to this amazing vehicle time and again. Read on for a closer look at the Pathfinder’s seating options, cutting-edge assist technology, and ample cargo space.
4 Reasons Your Nissan Dealer Sees Families Choosing the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder
1. Seating Options
Your family will be able to spread out across three comfortable rows of seating. The standard setup includes seating for up to eight passengers. The second row easily slides forward, or tilts, so you can easily access the third row from either side of your vehicle.
Drivers can also choose the available second-row captain chairs. This creates seating for up to seven passengers. Between the two captain chairs will be a removable center console, making it even easier to access the third row.
2. The Maximum Towing Capacity
If your next family road trip requires you to hitch up a trailer and bring along some gear, you’re going to love the Pathfinder’s towing features. For example, the available seven driver-selectable modes include a towing mode. This feature has a downhill speed control technology to help you tow more confidently. You’ll also have a trailer sway control feature that will enhance your towing experience.
These features are complemented by the 6,000 pounds of maximum towing capacity in the Pathfinder. In the top-tier Platinum trim, you’ll also have a tow hitch receiver with a seven-pin wiring harness, making hooking up a simple process.
3. So Much Cargo Space
With the second and third-row seats folded down, your Pathfinder has a maximum cargo volume of 80.5 cubic feet. You’ll easily be able to access this area with the available kick-activated liftgate, making loading and unloading a breeze.
When your car is full of passengers, you’ll still have flexible storage solutions underneath your vehicle’s floor. This space is out of sight and designed to be easy to clean.
4. ProPILOT Assist
You’ll drive with confidence when you have the available ProPILOT Assist on your side. This unique, cutting-edge feature is activated with the push of a button. The technology will adjust your Pathfinder’s speed to the flow of traffic. It will use navigation mapping technology to see what’s happening with the road ahead and make appropriate adjustments for improved safety and a smoother ride.
The technology will also adjust your vehicle’s speed in response to traffic signs. Additionally, the technology will gently center your vehicle back in the lane when you start to drift.
The Pathfinder is a great option for busy families. Whether you’re headed off on a major road trip, or handling the demands of daily life, this vehicle is designed to support you along the way. Visit Granite Nissan now to see our wide selection of new vehicles.
When it comes to car maintenance, there’s not much more important than a Nissan oil change. It may seem like a small thing, but regular oil changes at the Nissan dealer are vital for keeping your car running its best for as long as possible.
Prevents Engine Damage
Engine oil has a critical task: it lubricates the moving parts of your engine. Old oil gets filled with dirt, debris, and other contaminants as it circulates through your engine. An oil change removes these impurities, allowing fresh oil to continue protecting your engine.
Enhances Fuel Efficiency
A well-lubricated engine runs more efficiently than one that is struggling with old, dirty oil. An efficient engine needs less fuel, meaning that you can save some money at the gas pump by changing your oil regularly.
Prolongs Vehicle Life
Regular maintenance, including oil changes, extends the life of your Nissan. Fresh oil helps lubricate your engine, cool its components, prevent rust and corrosion, and keep your seals and gaskets in good condition. This allows your engine to run well for much longer than it could otherwise.
Signs You’re Overdue for That Nissan Oil Change
Dark, Dirty Oil
Clean oil is typically a light amber color. Over time, as it accumulates particles from the engine, it thickens and gets darker. If you check your oil and notice that it’s dark and gritty, it’s time for a change.
Extra Engine Noise
The protective layer that oil provides between the moving parts of your engine reduces their friction. If your oil is too old, your engine might get noisier and even start to make a knocking sound. These noises indicate that your engine is beginning to get damaged from the lack of fresh oil.
Oil Change Light or Check Engine Light
If either one of these lights comes on, it’s a good idea to check your oil. Your check engine light may be triggered for a variety of reasons, so if it comes on it’s wise to get a professional diagnostic test performed.
Low Oil Levels
You should check your oil levels regularly, at least once a month. If your oil is consistently low, even after you add more, it’s a sign that your vehicle is either burning or leaking oil.
Visit Your Nissan Dealer for an Oil Change
Regular oil changes are essential for keeping your vehicle running at its best, and there’s no better place to have this service done than the dealership. Not only can we help you keep your oil fresh, but we can also perform a comprehensive check-up to look for other potential issues before they become major problems.
A little maintenance can go a long way toward ensuring your Nissan stays a reliable ride. Regular oil changes help keep your engine healthy and can even save you money in the long run by boosting your fuel efficiency and preventing expensive repairs. Call Granite Nissan to schedule your next service right away.
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