2011 INFINITI QX power steering

3 Pre-driving checks and adjustments
Keys............................................. 3-2
Intelligent Key ................................. 3-2
Valet hand-off .................................. 3-3
Doors ............................................ 3-4
Locking with mechanical key .................... 3-4
Opening and closing windows with the
mechanical key ................................ 3-4
Locking with inside lock knob ................... 3-5
Locking with power door lock switch ............. 3-5
Automatic door locks ........................... 3-5
Child safety rear door lock ...................... 3-6
Intelligent Key system ............................. 3-6
Intelligent Key operating range .................. 3-8
Door locks/unlocks precaution .................. 3-9
Intelligent Key operation ........................ 3-9
Battery saver system .......................... 3-12
Warning signals ............................... 3-12
Troubleshooting guide ......................... 3-13
Remote keyless entry system .......................3-15
How to use remote keyless entry system .........3-15 Hood
............................................ 3-18
Lift gate ......................................... 3-19
Operating manual lift gate .....................3-19
Operating power lift gate ......................3-19
Auto closure .................................. 3-23
Lift gate release lever .......................... 3-23
Fuel-filler door ................................... 3-23
Opening the fuel-filler door ....................3-23
Fuel-filler cap ................................. 3-24
Tilt/telescopic steering ........................... 3-26
Electric operation ............................. 3-26
Sun visors ....................................... 3-26
Mirrors .......................................... 3-27
Inside mirror .................................. 3-27
Outside mirrors ............................... 3-28
Vanity mirror .................................. 3-30
Automatic drive positioner ........................3-30
Entry/exit function ............................ 3-30
Memory storage ............................... 3-31
System operation ............................. 3-32

CAUTION
●Be sure to carry the Intelligent Key with you
when operating the vehicle.
● Never leave the Intelligent Key in the vehicle
when you leave the vehicle.
The Intelligent Key is always communicating
with the vehicle as it receives radio waves. The
Intelligent Key system transmits weak radio
waves. Environmental conditions may interfere
with the operation of the Intelligent Key system
under the following operating conditions.
● When operating near a location where strong
radio waves are transmitted, such as a TV
tower, power station and broadcasting sta-
tion.
● When in possession of wireless equipment,
such as a cellular telephone, transceiver,
and CB radio.
● When the Intelligent Key is in contact with or
covered by metallic materials.
● When any type of radio wave remote control
is used nearby.
● When the Intelligent Key is placed near an
electric appliance such as a personal com-
puter. ●
When the vehicle is parked near a parking
meter.
In such cases, correct the operating conditions
before using the Intelligent Key function or use
the mechanical key.
Although the life of the battery varies depend-
ing on the operating conditions, the battery’s
life is approximately 2 years. If the battery is
discharged, replace it with a new one.
Since the Intelligent Key is continuously receiv-
ing radio waves, if the key is left near equip-
ment which transmits strong radio waves, such
as signals from a TV and personal computer, the
battery life may become shorter.
For information regarding replacement of a bat-
tery, see “INTELLIGENT KEY BATTERY REPLACE-
MENT” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section.
Because the steering wheel is locked electri-
cally, unlocking the steering wheel with the
ignition switch in the LOCK position is impos-
sible when the vehicle battery is completely
discharged. Pay special attention that the ve-
hicle battery is not completely discharged.
As many as 4 Intelligent Keys can be registered
and used with one vehicle. For information
about the purchase and use of additional Intel-
ligent Keys, contact an INFINITI retailer.
CAUTION
● Do not allow the Intelligent Key, which con-
tains electrical components, to come into
contact with water or salt water. This could
affect the system function.
● Do not drop the Intelligent Key.
● Do not strike the Intelligent Key sharply
against another object.
● Do not change or modify the Intelligent Key.
● Wetting may damage the Intelligent Key. If
the Intelligent Key gets wet, immediately
wipe until it is completely dry.
● If the outside temperature is below 14°F
(10°C), the battery of the Intelligent Key
may not function properly.
● Do not place the Intelligent Key for an ex-
tended period in an area where tempera-
tures exceed 140°F (60°C).
● Do not attach the Intelligent Key with a key
holder that contains a magnet.
● Do not place the Intelligent Key near equip-
ment that produces a magnetic field, such as
a TV, audio equipment and personal
computers.
Pre-driving checks and adjustments3-7

Distance Control Assist (DCA) system
(if so equipped).................................. 5-62
Precautions on distance control assist
system ....................................... 5-63
Distance control assist operation ...............5-64
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system
(if so equipped) .................................. 5-75
Precautions on FCW system ....................5-76
Intelligent brake assist (IBA) system
(if so equipped) .................................. 5-80
Precautions on IBA system .....................5-80
Break-in schedule ................................ 5-83
Increasing fuel economy .......................... 5-83
INFINITI all-mode 4wd (if so equipped)............5-84
INFINITI all-mode 4wd system................. 5-84
4wd shift switch .............................. 5-88
4wd shift indicator ............................ 5-89
4wd warning light ............................. 5-89
Hill start assist system ........................... 5-91
Parking/parking on hills .......................... 5-92
Tow mode ....................................... 5-93Snow mode
...................................... 5-93
Power steering ................................... 5-94
Brake system .................................... 5-94
Braking precautions ........................... 5-94
Parking brake break-in ......................... 5-94
Brake assist ..................................... 5-95
Brake assist .................................. 5-95
Preview function (Intelligent Cruise Control
system equipped models) ......................5-95
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) .................5-97
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system .............5-98
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF switch ......5-100
Cold weather driving ............................. 5-101
Freeing a frozen door lock .....................5-101
Antifreeze .................................... 5-101
Battery ....................................... 5-101
Draining

of coolant water ...................... 5-101
Tire equipment ................................ 5-101
Special winter equipment ......................5-101
Driving on snow or ice ......................... 5-101
Engine block heater (if so equipped) ...........5-102

WARNING
If the engine is not running or is turned off while
driving, the power assist for the steering will
not work. Steering will be harder to operate.
The power assisted steering uses a hydraulic
pump, driven by the engine, to assist steering.
If the engine stops or the drive belt breaks, you
will still have control of the vehicle. However,
much greater steering effort is needed, espe-
cially in sharp turns and at low speeds.
BRAKING PRECAUTIONS
The brake system has two separate hydraulic
circuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will still
have braking ability at two wheels.
You may feel a small click and hear a sound
when the brake pedal is fully depressed slowly.
This is not a malfunction and indicates that the
brake assist mechanism is operating properly.
Hydraulically-assisted brakes
The hydraulically-assisted brake system is de-
signed to use a hydraulic pump driven electri-
cally, to assist braking. If the engine stops, you
can stop the vehicle by depressing the foot
brake pedal. However, greater foot pressure on
the foot brake pedal will be required to stop the
vehicle. The stopping distance will be longer.
Wet brakes
When the vehicle is washed or driven through
water, the brakes may get wet. As a result, your
braking distance will be longer and the vehicle
may pull to one side during braking.
To dry brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe speed
while lightly tapping the brake pedal to heat-up
the brakes. Do this until the brakes return to
normal. Avoid driving the vehicle at high speeds
until the brakes function correctly.
PARKING BRAKE BREAK-IN
Break in the parking brake shoes whenever the
stopping effect of the parking brake is weak-
ened or whenever the parking brake shoes
and/or drums/rotors are replaced, in order to
assure the best braking performance.
This procedure is described in the vehicle ser-
vice manual and can be performed by an
INFINITI retailer.
Using the brakes
Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal while
driving. This will cause overheating of the
brakes, wearing out the brake and pads faster
and reduce gas mileage.
To help save the brakes and to prevent the
brakes from overheating, reduce speed and
downshift to a lower gear before going down a
slope or long grade. Overheated brakes may
reduce braking performance and could result in
loss of vehicle control.
POWER STEERING BRAKE SYSTEM
5-94Starting and driving

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
prevent 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
slippery surfaces.
Using the system
Depress the brake pedal and hold it down.
Depress the brake pedal with firm steady pres-
sure, but do not pump the brakes. The ABS will
operate 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.
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 pedal. This is normal and
does not indicate a malfunction. If the computer
senses a malfunction, it switches the ABS off
and illuminates the ABS warning light on the
instrument panel. The brake system then oper-
ates normally, but without anti-lock assistance.
If the ABS warning light illuminates during the
self-test or while driving, have the vehicle
checked by an INFINITI retailer.
Normal operation
The ABS operates at speeds above 3 to 6 MPH
(5 to 10 km/h). The speed varies according to
road conditions.
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 pulsa-
tion may indicate that road conditions are haz-
ardous and extra care is required while driving.
The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system uses
various sensors to monitor driver inputs and
vehicle motion. Under certain driving condi-
tions, the VDC system helps to perform the
following functions.
●
Controls brake pressure to reduce wheel slip
on one slipping drive wheel so power is
transferred to a non slipping drive wheel on
the same axle.
● Controls brake pressure and engine output
to reduce drive wheel slip based on vehicle
speed (traction control function).
● Controls brake pressure at individual wheels
and engine output to help the driver main-
tain control of the vehicle in the following
conditions:
– understeer (vehicle tends to not follow the steered path despite increased steer-
ing input)
– oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due to certain road or driving conditions).
The VDC system can help the driver to maintain
control of the vehicle, but it cannot prevent loss
of vehicle control in all driving situations.
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
5-98Starting and driving

When the VDC system operates, the VDC warn-
ing lightin the instrument panel flashes
so note the following:
● The road may be slippery or the system may
determine some action is required to help
keep the vehicle on the steered path.
● 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.
● Adjust your speed and driving to the road
conditions.
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the VDC
warning light
illuminates in the instru-
ment panel. The VDC system automatically
turns off.
The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the VDC
system. The VDC off indicator
illuminates
to indicate the VDC system is off. When the VDC
switch is used to turn off the system, the VDC
system still operates to prevent one drive wheel
from slipping by transferring power to a non
slipping drive wheel. The VDC warning light
flashes if this occurs. All other VDC
functions are off, and the VDC warning light
will not flash. The VDC system is auto-
matically reset to on when the ignition switch is
placed in the off position then back to the on
position. When the 4L position is selected with the 4WD
shift switch, the VDC system is disabled and the
VDC off indicator light illuminates.
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning
light” in the “2. Instruments and controls”
section and “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off
indicator light” in the “2. Instruments and con-
trols” section.
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 malfunc-
tion.
WARNING
●
The VDC system is designed to help improve
driving stability but does not prevent acci-
dents 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. ●
Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension. If
suspension parts such as shock absorbers,
struts, springs, stabilizer bars, bushings
and wheels are not INFINITI recommended
for your vehicle or are extremely deterio-
rated, the VDC system may not operate prop-
erly. This could adversely affect vehicle han-
dling performance, and the VDC warning
light
may illuminate.
● If brake related parts such as brake pads,
rotors and calipers are not INFINITI recom-
mended or are extremely deteriorated, the
VDC system may not operate properly and
the VDC warning light
may illuminate.
● If engine control related parts are not
INFINITI recommended or are extremely de-
teriorated, the VDC warning light
may
illuminate.
● When driving on extremely inclined surfaces
such as higher banked corners, the VDC sys-
tem may not operate properly and the VDC
warning light
may illuminate. Do not
drive on these types of roads.
● When driving on an unstable surface such as
a turntable, ferry, elevator or ramp, the VDC
warning light
may illuminate. This is
not a malfunction. Restart the engine after
driving onto a stable surface.
Starting and driving5-99

WARNING
Always follow the instructions below. Failure to
do so could result in damage to the charging
system and cause personal injury.
1. Remove the engine compartment cover, ifnecessary. See “ENGINE COMPARTMENT
CHECK LOCATIONS” in the “8. Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section. 2. If the booster battery is in another vehicle
A, position the two vehicles (AandB)
to bring their batteries into close proxim-
ity to each other.
Do not allow the two vehicles to touch.
3. Apply parking brake. Move the selector lever to the P (Park) position. Switch off
all unnecessary electrical systems (light,
heater, air conditioner, etc.).
4. Remove vent caps on the battery (if so equipped). Cover the battery with a firmly
wrung out moist cloth
Cto reduce explo-
sion hazard. 5. Connect jumper cables in the sequence as
illustrated (
1→2→3→4).
If the battery is disconnected or discharged,
the steering wheel will lock and cannot be
turned. Supply power using jumper cables
before pushing the ignition switch and disen-
gaging the steering lock.
CAUTION
●Always connect positive (+) to positive (+)
and negative () to body ground (as illus-
trated) — not to the battery.
● Make sure the jumper cables do not touch
moving parts in the engine compartment and
that clamps do not contact any other metal.
6. Start the engine of the booster vehicleA
and let it run for a few minutes.
7. Keep the engine speed of the booster vehicle
Aat about 2,000 rpm, and start
the engine of the vehicle being jump
started
B.
SCE0920
6-12In case of emergency

3. If engine overheating is caused by climb-ing a long hill on a hot day, run the engine
at a fast idle (approximately 1,500 rpm)
until the temperature gauge indication
returns to normal.
4. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for steam or coolant escaping from the radia-
tor before opening the hood. (If steam or
coolant is escaping, turn off the engine.)
Do not open the hood further until no
steam or coolant can be seen.
5. Open the engine hood.
WARNING
If steam or water is coming from the engine,
stand clear to prevent getting burned.
6. Visually check drive belts for damage or looseness. Also check if the cooling fan is
running. The radiator hoses and radiator
should not leak water. If coolant is leak-
ing or the cooling fan does not run, stop
the engine.
WARNING
Be careful not to allow your hands, hair, jewelry
or clothing to come into contact with, or get
caught in, engine belts or the engine cooling
fan. The engine cooling fan can start at any
time.
7. After the engine cools down, check thecoolant level in the reservoir tank with the
engine running. Add coolant to the reser-
voir tank if necessary. Have your vehicle
repaired at the nearest INFINITI retailer.
If needed, Roadside Assistance is available.
Please see your Warranty Information Booklet
or Roadside Assistance I.D. Card for the toll-free
number to call (U.S.) or Warranty & Roadside
Assistance Information Booklet (Canada). When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial
in Canada) and local regulations for towing
must be followed. Incorrect towing equipment
could damage your vehicle. Towing instructions
are available from an INFINITI retailer. Local
service operators are familiar with the appli-
cable laws and procedures for towing. To assure
proper towing and to prevent accidental dam-
age to your vehicle, INFINITI recommends that
you have a service operator tow your vehicle. It
is advisable to have the service operator care-
fully read the following precautions.WARNING
●
Never ride in a vehicle that is being towed.
● Never get under your vehicle after it has been
lifted by a tow truck.
CAUTION
● When towing, make sure that the transmis-
sion, axles, steering system and powertrain
are in working condition. If any of these con-
ditions apply, dollies or a flatbed tow truck
must be used.
● Always attach safety chains before towing.
TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
6-14In case of emergency