2010 INFINITI M oil level

orBrake warning
light
This light functions for both the parking brake
and the foot brake systems.
Parking brake indicator :
When the ignition switch is in the ON position,
the light comes on when the parking brake is
applied.
Low brake fluid warning light :
When the ignition switch is in the ON position,
the light warns of a low brake fluid level. If the
light comes on while the engine is running with
the parking brake not applied, stop the vehicle
and perform the following:
1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brakefluid as necessary. (See ªBRAKE FLUIDº in
the ª8. Maintenance and do-it-yourselfº
section.)
2. If the brake fluid level is correct, have the warning system checked by an INFINITI
retailer.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning indica-
tor :
When the parking brake is released and the
brake fluid level is sufficient, if both the brake
warning light and the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light illuminate, it may indicate
the ABS is not functioning properly. Have the
brake system checked, and if necessary re-
paired, by an INFINITI retailer promptly. (See
ªAnti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning lightº
earlier in this section.)
WARNING
c
Your brake system may not be working prop-
erly if the warning light is on. Driving could
be dangerous. If you judge it to be safe, drive
carefully to the nearest service station for
repairs. Otherwise, have your vehicle towed
because driving it could be dangerous.
c Pressing the brake pedal with the engine
stopped and/or low brake fluid level may
increase your stopping distance and braking
will require greater pedal effort as well as
pedal travel.
c If the brake fluid level is below the minimum
or MIN mark on the brake fluid reservoir, do
not drive until the brake system has been
checked at an INFINITI retailer.
Charge warning light
If the light comes on while the engine is run-
ning, it may indicate the charging system is not functioning properly. Turn the engine off and
check the alternator belt. If the belt is loose,
broken, missing or if the light remains on, see
an INFINITI retailer immediately.
CAUTION
Do not continue driving if the alternator belt is
loose, broken or missing.
Door open warning light
This light comes on when any of the doors are
not closed securely while the ignition switch is
in the ON position.
Engine oil pressure warning
light
This light warns of low engine oil pressure. If
the light flickers or comes on during normal
driving, pull off the road in a safe area, stop the
engine
immediately and call an INFINITI retailer
or other authorized repair shop.
The engine oil pressure warning light is not de-
signed to indicate a low oil level. Use the dip-
stick to check the oil level. (See ªENGINE OILº in
the ª8. Maintenance and do-it-yourselfº sec-
tion.)
2-14Instruments and controls
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RAIN-SENSING AUTO WIPER SYSTEM
The rain-sensing auto wiper system can auto-
matically turn on the wipers and adjust the
wiper speed depending on the rainfall and the
vehicle speed by using the rain sensor located
on the upper part of the windshield.
To set the rain-sensing auto wiper system, push
the lever down to the INT (intermittent) position
s1. The wiper will sweep once while the ignition
switch is in the ON position.
The rain sensor sensitivity level can be adjusted
by turning the knob toward the front
s2(High)
or toward the rear
s3(Low).
c High Ð High sensitive operation
c Low Ð Low sensitive operation To turn the rain-sensing auto wiper system off,
push up the lever to the OFF position, or pull
down the lever to the LO or HI position.
CAUTION
Do not touch the rain sensor and around it when
the wiper switch is in the INT position and the
ignition switch is in the ON position. The wipers
may operate unexpectedly and cause to an in-
jury or a wiper damage.
c The rain-sensing auto wipers are intended for
use during rain. If the switch is left in the INT
position, the wipers may operate unexpect-
edly when dirt, fingerprints, oil film or insects
are stuck on or around the sensor. The wipers
may also operate when exhaust gas or mois-
ture affect the rain sensor.
c The rain-sensing auto wipers may not oper-
ate if rain does not hit the rain sensor even if
it is raining. To defog/defrost the rear window glass and
outside mirrors (if so equipped with defroster),
start the engine and push the switch on. The
indicator light
s1will come on. Push the switch
again to turn the defroster off.
It will automatically turn off in approximately 15
minutes.
CAUTION
When cleaning the inner side of the rear win-
dow, be careful not to scratch or damage the
rear window defroster.
SIC3887SIC2767B
REAR WINDOW AND OUTSIDE MIRROR
DEFROSTER SWITCH
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To remove the Intelligent Key from the port,
push the ignition switch to the LOCK position
and push in the Intelligent Key
s2. Then the
Intelligent Key will be ejected from the port. Pull
the Intelligent Key out.
NOTE:
The Intelligent Key port does not charge the In-
telligent Key battery. If you see the low battery
indicator in the dot matrix liquid crystal display,
replace the battery as soon as possible. (See
ªBATTERY REPLACEMENTº in the ª8. Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourselfº section.)
CAUTION
c Never place anything except the Intelligent
Key in the Intelligent Key port. Doing so may
cause damage to the equipment.
c Make sure the Intelligent Key is in the cor-
rect direction when inserting it to the Intelli-
gent Key port. The engine may not start if it is
in the incorrect direction.
c Remove the Intelligent Key from the Intelli-
gent Key port after the ignition switch is
pushed to the LOCK position.
c Do not pull out the Intelligent Key from the
Intelligent Key port until the Intelligent Key
is ejected to the removal position. c
Make sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
c Check fluid levels such as engine oil, cool-
ant, brake fluid and window washer fluid as
frequently as possible, or at least whenever
you refuel.
c Check that all windows and lights are clean.
c Visually inspect tires for their appearance
and condition. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
c Lock all doors.
c Position seat and adjust head restraints.
c Adjust inside and outside mirrors.
c Fasten seat belts and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
c Check the operation of warning lights when
the ignition switch is pushed to the ON
position. (See ªWARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS
AND AUDIBLE REMINDERSº in the ª2. Instru-
ments and controlsº section.)
SSD0513
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
5-10Starting and driving
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8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirement.......................... 8-2
Scheduled maintenance ........................ 8-2
General maintenance ........................... 8-2
Where to go for service ......................... 8-2
General maintenance .............................. 8-2
Explanation of maintenance items ............... 8-2
Maintenance precautions .......................... 8-5
Engine compartment check locations ................ 8-6
VK45DE engine ................................. 8-6
VQ35HR engine ................................ 8-8
Engine cooling system ............................ 8-10
Checking engine coolant level ...................8-11
Changing engine coolant ........................ 8-11
Engine oil ....................................... 8-12
Checking engine oil level ......................8-12
Changing engine oil and filter ..................8-12
Automatic transmission fluid ......................8-15
5-speed automatic transmission ................8-15
7-speed automatic transmission ................8-15
Power steering fluid .............................. 8-16
Brake fluid ...................................... 8-16
Brake fluid ................................... 8-16
Window washer fluid ............................. 8-17
Battery .......................................... 8-17
Jump starting ................................. 8-19Variable voltage control system (if so equipped)
....8-19
Drive belts ....................................... 8-19
Spark plugs ..................................... 8-20
Replacing spark plugs ......................... 8-21
Air cleaner ....................................... 8-21
Windshield wiper blades .......................... 8-22
Cleaning ...................................... 8-22
Replacing ..................................... 8-23
Brakes .......................................... 8-24
Self-adjusting brakes .......................... 8-24
Brake pad wear warnings ......................8-24
Fuses ........................................... 8-25
Engine compartment ........................... 8-25
Passenger compartment ....................... 8-27
Battery replacement .............................. 8-28
Intelligent Key ................................ 8-28
Lights ........................................... 8-30
Headlights .................................... 8-31
Exterior and interior lights .....................8-32
Wheels and tires ................................. 8-34
Tire pressure .................................. 8-34
Tire labeling .................................. 8-38
Types of tires ................................. 8-40
Tire chains ................................... 8-41
Changing wheels and tires..................... 8-41
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Steering wheel:Check for changes in the steer-
ing conditions, such as excessive free play,
hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure that all
warning lights and chimes are operating prop-
erly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air comes
out of the defroster outlets properly and in
sufficient quantity when operating the heater or
air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check that the
wipers and washer operate properly and that
the wipers do not streak.
Under the hood and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically (for example, each time
you check the engine oil or refuel).
Battery*: Check the fluid level in each cell. It
should be between the MAX and MIN lines.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or un-
der severe condition require frequent checks of
the battery fluid level.
Brake fluid level*: Make sure that the brake
fluid level is between the MAX and MIN lines on
the reservoir.
Engine coolant level*: Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold. Engine drive belts*:
Make sure that the drive
belts are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level surface and turning off the
engine. Wait more than 10 or 15 minutes for the
oil to drain back into the oil pan.
Exhaust system: Make sure there are no loose
supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the
exhaust seems unusual or there is a smell of
exhaust fumes, immediately have the exhaust
system inspected by an INFINITI retailer. (See
ªPRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING AND DRIVINGº
in the ª5. Starting and drivingº section for
exhaust gas (carbon monoxide).)
Fluid leaks: Check under the vehicle for fuel, oil,
water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle has
been parked for a while. Water dripping from
the air conditioner after use is normal. If you
should notice any leaks or if gasoline fumes are
evident, check for the cause and have it cor-
rected immediately.
Power steering fluid level* and lines: Check the
level when the fluid is cold, with the engine off.
Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, etc.
Radiator and hoses: Check the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves, etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure the
hoses have no cracks, deformation, rot or loose
connections.
Underbody:
The underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances, other-
wise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and around the exhaust system. At the
end of winter, the underbody should be thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, being careful
to clean those areas where mud and dirt may
accumulate. For additional information, see
ªCLEANING EXTERIORº in the ª7. Appearance
and careº section.
Windshield washer fluid*: Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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When performing any inspection or mainte-
nance work on your vehicle, always take care to
prevent serious accidental injury to yourself or
damage to the vehicle. The following are gen-
eral precautions which should be closely ob-
served.
WARNING
cPark the vehicle on a level surface, apply the
parking brake securely and block the wheels
to prevent the vehicle from moving. Move
the selector lever to P (Park).
c Be sure the ignition switch is in the LOCK
position when performing any parts replace-
ment or repairs.
c If you must work with the engine running,
keep your hands, clothing, hair and tools
away from moving fans, belts and any other
moving parts.
c It is advisable to secure or remove any loose
clothing and remove any jewelry, such as
rings, watches, etc. before working on your
vehicle.
c Always wear eye protection whenever you
work on your vehicle. c
If you must run the engine in an enclosed
space such as a garage, be sure there is
proper ventilation for exhaust gases to
escape.
c Never get under the vehicle while it is sup-
ported only by a jack. If it is necessary to
work under the vehicle, support it with
safety stands.
c Keep smoking materials, flame and sparks
away from fuel tank and the battery.
c Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic
engine cooling fan. It may come on at any
time without warning, even if the ignition
key is in the OFF position and the engine is
not running. To avoid injury, always discon-
nect the negative battery cable before work-
ing near the fan.
c The fuel filter or fuel lines should be serviced
by an INFINITI retailer because the fuel lines
are under high pressure even when the en-
gine is off.
CAUTION
cDo not work under the hood while the engine
is hot. Turn the engine off and wait until it
cools down. c
Avoid direct contact with used engine oil and
coolant. Improperly disposed engine oil, en-
gine coolant and/or other vehicle fluids can
damage the environment. Always conform to
local regulations for disposal of vehicle
fluid.
c Never connect or disconnect the battery or
any transistorized component while the ig-
nition switch is in the ON position.
c Never leave the engine or automatic trans-
mission related component harnesses dis-
connected while the ignition switch is in the
ON position.
This ª8. Maintenance and do-it-yourselfº sec-
tion gives instructions regarding only those
items which are relatively easy for an owner to
perform.
A genuine INFINITI Service Manual is also avail-
able. (See ªOWNER'S MANUAL/SERVICE
MANUAL ORDER INFORMATIONº in the ª9. Tech-
nical and consumer informationº section.)
You should be aware that incomplete or im-
proper servicing may result in operating diffi-
culties or excessive emissions, and could affect
warranty coverage. If in doubt about any servic-
ing, we recommend that it be done by an INFINITI
retailer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5
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CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface andapply the parking brake.
2. Run the engine until it reaches operating temperature.
3. Turn off the engine. Wait more than 15
minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil
pan.
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Reinsert it all the way.
5. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. It should be within the range
s1.
If the oil level is below
s2, remove the oil
filler cap and pour recommended oil
through the opening. Do not overfill
s3.
6. Recheck oil level with the dipstick.
It is normal to add some oil between oil mainte-
nance intervals or during the break-in period,
depending on the severity of operating condi-
tions.
CAUTION
Oil level should be checked regularly. Operat-
ing the engine with an insufficient amount of oil
can damage the engine, and such damage is
not covered by warranty.
CHANGING ENGINE OIL AND FILTER
Change the engine oil and filter according to the
maintenance intervals shown in the INFINITI
Service and Maintenance Guide.
Vehicle set-up
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Run the engine until it reaches operating temperature.
3. Turn the engine off and wait more than 15 minutes.
4. Raise and support the vehicle using a suitable floor jack and safety jack stands.
cPlace the safety jack stands under the
vehicle jack-up points.
c A suitable adapter should be attached to
the jack stand saddle.
5. Remove the plastic engine undercover.
a. Remove the small plastic clip at the center
point of the undercover.
b. Then remove the other bolts that hold the undercover in place.
VK45DE engine
SDI1822
VQ35HR engine
SDI2045
ENGINE OIL
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Engine oil and filter
1. Place a large drain pan under the drainplug.
2. Remove the oil filler cap.
3. Remove the drain plug
s1with a wrench
and completely drain the oil.
CAUTION
Be careful not to burn yourself, as the engine oil
is hot.
cWaste oil must be disposed of properly.
c Check your local regulations.
Perform steps 4 to 7 only when the engine oil
filter change is needed.
4. Loosen the oil filters2with an oil filter
wrench. Remove the oil filter by turning it
by hand.
5. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting sur- face with a clean rag.
CAUTION
Be sure to remove any old rubber gasket re-
maining on the mounting surface of the engine.
Failure to do so could lead to engine failure.
6. Coat the gasket on the new filter with clean engine oil.
7. Screw in the oil filter clockwise until a slight resistance is felt, then tighten ad-
ditionally more than 2/3 turn.
Oil filter tightening torque:11 to 15 ft-lb
(14.7 to 20.5 N´m)
8. Clean and re-install the drain plug with a new washer. Securely tighten the drain
plug with a wrench.
Drain plug tightening torque:22 to 29 ft-lb
(29 to 39 N´m)
Do not use excessive force.
9. Refill engine with recommended oil and install the oil filler cap securely.
CAUTION
The dipstick must be inserted in place to pre-
vent oil spillage from the dipstick hole while
filling the engine with oil.
See ªCAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTSº in the ª9. Technical and
consumer informationº section for drain and refill capacity. The drain and refill capacity
depends on the oil temperature and drain time.
Use these specifications for reference only.
Always use the dipstick to determine the proper
amount of oil in the engine.
10. Start the engine and check for leakage
around the drain plug and the oil filter.
Correct as required.
11. Turn the engine off and wait more than 15 minutes. Check the oil level with the
dipstick. Add engine oil if necessary.
After the operation
1. Install the engine undercover into positionas the following steps.
a. Pull the center of the small plastic clip out.
b. Hold the engine undercover into position.
c. Insert the clip through the undercover into the hole in the frame, then push the
center of the clip in to lock the clip in
place.
d. Install the other bolts that hold the un- dercover in place. Be careful not to strip
the bolts or over-tighten them.
2. Lower the vehicle carefully to the ground.
3. Dispose of waste oil and filter properly.
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