Open/close the ventilators by moving the con-
trol to either direction.
: This symbol indicates that the ventila-tors are closed. Moving the side control
to this direction will close the ventila-
tors.
:This symbol indicates that the ventilatorsare open. Moving the side control to this
direction will open the ventilators.
Adjust the air flow direction of the ventilators by
moving the center knob (up/down, left/right)
until the desired position is achieved. Open/close the ventilators by moving the con-
trol to either direction.
Adjust the air flow direction of the ventilators by
moving the center knob (up/down, left/right)
until the desired position is achieved.
WARNING
●
The air conditioner cooling function oper-
ates only when the engine is running.
● Do not leave children or adults who would
normally require the support of others alone
in your vehicle. Pets should not be left alone
either. On hot, sunny days, temperatures in
a closed vehicle could quickly become high
enough to cause severe or possibly fatal in-
juries to people or animals.
● Do not use the recirculation mode for long
periods as it may cause the interior air to
become stale and the windows to fog up.
● Do not adjust the heating and air condition-
ing controls while driving so that full atten-
tion may be given to vehicle operation.
Start the engine and operate the automatic
climate control system.
Side ventilators
SAA3054
Rear ventilators
SAA3055
AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL
Monitor, climate, audio, phone and voice recognition systems4-31
AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL
Automatic operation
Cooling and/or dehumidified heating (AUTO) :
This mode may be used all year round. The
system works automatically to control the in-
side temperature, air flow distribution and fan
speed after the preferred temperature is set
manually.
1. Push the “AUTO” button on. (The indicatoron the button will illuminate and AUTO will
be displayed.)
2. Turn the temperature control dial (driver side) to set the desired temperature.
●The temperature can be set within the
following range.
– For U.S.: 60 to 90°F
– For Canada: 18 to 32°C
● The temperature of the passenger com-
partment will be maintained automati-
cally. Air flow distribution and fan speed
will also be controlled automatically.
3. You can individually set driver and front passenger side temperature using each
temperature control button. When the
“DUAL” button is pushed or the passen-
ger side temperature control button is
turned, the DUAL indicator will come on.
To turn off the passenger side tempera-
ture control, push the “DUAL” button.
4. To turn off the climate control system, push the “OFF” button.
A visible mist may be seen coming from the
ventilators in hot, humid conditions as the air is
cooled rapidly. This does not indicate a mal-
function.
Heating (A/C OFF) :
The air conditioner does not activate in this
mode. When you need to heat only, use this
mode.
1. Push the “AUTO” button on.
2. Push the “A/C” button. (The A/C indicatorwill turn off.)
3. Turn the temperature control dial to set the desired temperature.
●The temperature of the passenger compart-
ment will be maintained automatically. Air
flow distribution and fan speed are also
controlled automatically. ●
Do not set the temperature lower than the
outside air temperature. Otherwise the sys-
tem may not work properly.
● Not recommended if windows fog up.
Dehumidified defrosting or defogging:
1. Push the “” front defroster button.
(The indicator light on the button will
illuminate.)
2. Turn the temperature control dial to set the desired temperature.
●To quickly remove ice from the outside of the
windows, push the fan speed increase but-
ton “
” and set it to the maximum
position.
● As soon as possible after the windshield is
clean, push the “AUTO” button to return to
the auto mode.
● When the “
” front defroster button is
pushed, the air conditioner will automati-
cally be turned on at outside temperatures
above 23°F (5°C) to defog the windshield,
and the air recirculate mode will automati-
cally be turned off.
Outside air is drawn into the passenger
compartment to improve the defogging per-
formance.
4-34Monitor, climate, audio, phone and voice recognition systems
5. To stop the engine, shift the selector leverto the P (Park) position and push the
ignition switch to the OFF position.ENGINE PROTECTION MODE
The engine has an engine protection mode to
reduce the chance of damage if the coolant
temperature becomes too high (for example,
when climbing steep grades in high tempera-
ture with heavy loads, such as when towing a
trailer).
When the engine temperature reaches a certain
level:
● The engine coolant temperature gauge will
move toward the H position.
● Engine power may be reduced.
● The air conditioning cooling function may be
automatically turned OFF for a short time
(the blower will continue to operate).
Engine power and, under some conditions, ve-
hicle speed will decrease. Vehicle speed can be
controlled with the accelerator pedal, but the
vehicle may not accelerate at the desired
speed. The transmission will downshift or up-
shift as it reaches prescribed shift points. You
can also shift manually.
As driving conditions change and engine cool-
ant temperature is reduced, vehicle speed can
be increased using the accelerator pedal, and
air conditioning cooling function will automati-
cally be turned back ON. If:1. The engine coolant temperature is not
reduced.
2. The air conditioning cooling function does not turn back ON.
3. The engine oil pressure warning light
illuminates or engine coolant tem-
perature gauge does not return to the
normal range from the H position, this
may indicate a malfunction. Move the
vehicle off the road to a safe area and
allow the engine to cool. If after checking
the oil and coolant, the
remains on
or engine coolant temperature does not
return to the normal range, do not con-
tinue to drive and contact an INFINITI
retailer.
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)may also come ON. You do not need to have
your vehicle towed, unless it remains on, but
have it inspected soon by an INFINITI retailer.
See “WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS AND AU-
DIBLE REMINDERS” in the “2. Instruments and
controls” section.
DRIVING THE VEHICLE
5-14Starting and driving
FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK
To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply
deicer through the key hole. If the lock becomes
frozen, heat the key before inserting it into the
key hole or use the Intelligent Key system.
ANTIFREEZE
In the winter when it is anticipated that the
outside temperature will drop below 32°F (0°C),
check antifreeze to assure proper winter protec-
tion. For additional information, see “ENGINE
COOLING SYSTEM” in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.
BATTERY
If the battery is not fully charged during ex-
tremely cold weather conditions, the battery
fluid may freeze and damage the battery. To
maintain maximum efficiency, the battery
should be checked regularly. For additional
information, see “BATTERY” in the “8. Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section.
DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER
If the vehicle is to be left outside without
antifreeze, drain the cooling system, including
the engine block. Refill before operating the
vehicle. For details, see “ENGINE COOLING SYS-
TEM” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.
TIRE EQUIPMENT
SUMMER tires have a tread designed to provide
superior performance on dry pavement. How-
ever, the performance of these tires will be
substantially reduced in snowy and icy condi-
tions. If you operate your vehicle on snowy or
icy roads, INFINITI recommends the use of MUD
& SNOW or ALL SEASON tires on all four wheels.
Consult an INFINITI retailer for the tire type,
size, speed rating and availability information.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some U.S. states
and Canadian provinces prohibit their use.
Check local, state and provincial laws before
installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow
tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be poorer than
that of non-studded snow tires.
Tire chains may be used. For details, see “TIRE
CHAINS” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section of this manual.
For four-wheel drive
If you install snow tires, they must also be the
same size, brand, construction and tread pat-
tern on all four wheels.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT
It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
●A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.
● A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.
● A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snowdrifts.
● Extra window washer fluid to refill the reser-
voir tank.
DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING
● Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain), very
cold snow or ice can be slick and very hard to
drive on. The vehicle will have much less
traction or “grip” under these conditions.
Try to avoid driving on wet ice until the road
is salted or sanded.
● Whatever the condition, drive with caution.
Accelerate and slow down with care. If accel-
erating or downshifting too fast, the drive
wheels will lose even more traction.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
Starting and driving5-101
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
●Use the towing hook only to free a vehicle
stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc. Never tow the
vehicle for a long distance using only the
towing hook.
● The towing hook is under tremendous force
when used to free a stuck vehicle. Never pull
the hook at an angle.
● Always pull the cable straight out from the
front or rear of the vehicle.
● Pulling devices should be routed so they do
not touch any part of the suspension, steer-
ing, brake or cooling systems.
● Pulling devices such as ropes or canvas
straps are not recommended for use in ve-
hicle towing or recovery.Rocking a stuck vehicle
If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc.,
use the following procedure:
1. Turn off the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system.
2. Make sure the area in front and behind the vehicle is clear of obstructions.
3. Turn the steering wheel right and left to clear an area around the front tires. 4. Slowly rock the vehicle forward and back-
ward.
●Shift back and forth between R (Reverse)
and D (Drive).
● Apply the accelerator as little as possible
to maintain the rocking motion.
● Release the accelerator pedal before
shifting between R and D.
● Do not spin the tires above 35 MPH (55
km/h).
5. If the vehicle cannot be freed after a few tries, contact a professional towing ser-
vice to remove the vehicle.
6-18In case of emergency
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
Vk56vd engine model ........................... 8-6
Engine cooling system ............................. 8-7
Checking engine coolant level ................... 8-8
Changing engine coolant ........................ 8-8
Engine oil ........................................ 8-9
Checking engine oil level ....................... 8-9
Changing engine oil and filter ................... 8-9
Automatic transmission fluid .......................8-11
Power steering fluid .............................. 8-12
Brake fluid ...................................... 8-12
Brake fluid ................................... 8-13
Window washer fluid ............................. 8-14
Battery .......................................... 8-15
Jump starting ................................. 8-16
Variable voltage control system ...................8-16
Drive belts ....................................... 8-17Spark plugs
..................................... 8-17
Replacing spark plugs ......................... 8-18
Air cleaner ....................................... 8-18
Windshield wiper blades .......................... 8-19
Cleaning ...................................... 8-19
Replacing ..................................... 8-19
Rear window wiper blades ........................8-20
Brakes .......................................... 8-20
Self-adjusting brakes .......................... 8-20
Brake pad wear warning ....................... 8-20
Brake booster ................................. 8-21
Fuses ........................................... 8-21
Engine compartment ........................... 8-22
Passenger compartment ....................... 8-23
Intelligent Key battery replacement ................8-24
Lights ........................................... 8-26
Headlights .................................... 8-27
Exterior
and interior lights ..................... 8-27
Wheels and tires ................................. 8-29
Tire pressure .................................. 8-29
Tire labeling .................................. 8-33
Types of tires ................................. 8-35
Tire chains ................................... 8-35
Changing wheels and tires..................... 8-36
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
●Park 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).
● Be sure the ignition switch is in the OFF or
LOCK position when performing any parts
replacement or repairs.
● Never connect or disconnect the battery or
any transistorized component while the ig-
nition switch is in the ON position.
● Never leave the engine or automatic trans-
mission related component harnesses dis-
connected while the ignition switch is in the
ON position.
● 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. ●
It is advisable to secure or remove any loose
clothing and remove any jewelry, such as
rings, watches, etc. before working on your
vehicle.
● Always wear eye protection whenever you
work on your vehicle.
● 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.
● 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.
● Keep smoking materials, flame and sparks
away from fuel tank and the battery.
● 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.
● On gasoline engine models, the fuel filter or
fuel lines should be serviced by an INFINITI
retailer because the fuel lines are under high
pressure even when the engine is off.
CAUTION
● Do not work under the hood while the engine
is hot. Turn the engine off and wait until it
cools down.
● Avoid direct contact with used engine oil and
coolant. Improperly disposed engine oil,
coolant, and/or other vehicle fluids can dam-
age the environment. Always conform to lo-
cal regulations for disposal of vehicle fluid.
This “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” 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 “OWNER’S MANUAL/SERVICE
MANUAL ORDER INFORMATION” in the “9. Tech-
nical and consumer information” section.)
You should be aware that incomplete or im-
proper servicing may result in operating diffi-
culties or excessive emissions, and could affect
your warranty coverage. If in doubt about any
servicing, we recommend that it be done by an
INFINITI retailer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5