VK56VD ENGINE
1. Window washer fluid reservoir (P. 8-14)
2. Fuse/fusible link holder (P. 8-21)
3. Engine oil dipstick (P. 8-9)4. Power steering fluid reservoir (P. 8-12)
5. Engine oil filler cap (P. 8-9)
6. Brake fluid reservoir (P. 8-12)
7. Fuse/fusible link holder (P. 8-21)
8. Battery (P. 8-15)9. Radiator filler cap (P. 8-7)
10. Engine coolant reservoir (P. 8-7)
11. Drive belts (P. 8-17)
12. Air cleaner (P. 8-18)
SDI2585
ENGINE COMPARTMENT
0-10Illustrated table of contents
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
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
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 no belt is
frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level spot and turning off the
engine. Wait more than 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
“PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING AND DRIVING”
in the “5. Starting and driving” 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
“CLEANING EXTERIOR” in the “7. Appearance
and care” section.
Windshield washer fluid*: Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
VK56VD ENGINE MODEL
1. Window washer fluid reservoir
2. Fuse/fusible link holder
3. Engine oil dipstick
4. Power steering fluid reservoir5. Engine oil filler cap
6. Brake fluid reservoir
7. Fuse/fusible link holder
8. Battery
9. Radiator filler cap10. Engine coolant reservoir
11. Drive belts
12. Air cleaner
SDI2585
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
8-6Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Check the fluid level in the reservoir.
The fluid level should be checked using the HOT
range (
1: HOT MAX.,2: HOT MIN.) at fluid
temperatures of 122 to 176°F (50 to 80°C) or
using the COLD range (
3: COLD MAX.,4:
COLD MIN.) at fluid temperatures of 32 to 86°F
(0 to 30°C).
If the fluid is below the MIN line, add Genuine
NISSAN PSF or equivalent. Remove the cap and
fill through the opening.
CAUTION
● Do not overfill.
● Use Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent. For further brake fluid specification information,
see “CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED FUEL/
LUBRICANTS” in the “9. Technical and con-
sumer information” section of this manual.
WARNING
●
Use only new fluid from a sealed container.
Old, inferior or contaminated fluid may dam-
age the brake system. The use of improper
fluids can damage the brake system and af-
fect the vehicle’s stopping ability.
● Be sure to clean the filler cap before
removing.
● Brake fluid is poisonous and should be
stored carefully in marked containers out of
the reach of children.
SDI1765A
POWER STEERING FLUID BRAKE FLUID
8-12Maintenance and do-it-yourself
1. Power steering fluid pump
2. Water pump
3. Alternator
4. Crankshaft pulley
5. Air conditioner compressor
WARNING
Be sure the ignition switch is in the OFF or LOCK
position before servicing drive belts. The en-
gine could rotate unexpectedly.
1. Visually inspect each belt for signs ofunusual wear, cuts, fraying or looseness.
If the belt is in poor condition or loose,
have it replaced or adjusted by an INFINITI
retailer.
2. Have the belts checked regularly for con- dition and tension in accordance with the
maintenance schedule in your “INFINITI
Service and Maintenance Guide”.WARNING
Be sure the engine and the ignition switch are
off and that the parking brake is engaged
securely.
CAUTION
Be sure to use the correct socket to remove the
spark plugs. An incorrect socket can damage
the spark plugs.
SDI2533
DRIVE BELTS SPARK PLUGS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-17
The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be a little different. When refilling, follow the procedure instructed in the “8.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate)Recommended specifications
US measure Imp mea- sureLiter
Fuel 26 gal 21-5/8 gal 98.4 See “FUEL RECOMMENDATION” later in this section.
Engine oil*1
Drain and refill With oil filter change 6-7/8 qt 5-3/4 qt 6.5 •Engine oil with API Certification Mark*2, *3
•Viscosity SAE 5W-30
Without oil filter change 6-1/2 qt 5-1/2 qt 6.2
Cooling system With reservoir 15-3/4 qt 13-1/8 qt 14.9 50% Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent
50% Demineralized or distilled water
Automatic transmission fluid ——— Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF*4
Transfer fluid ——— Genuine NISSAN Transfer Fluid for ATX90A transfer*5*6
Front differential gear oil ——— Genuine NISSAN Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5 80W-90 or API GL-5, Viscosity SAE
80W-90*7
Rear differential gear oil ——— Genuine NISSAN differential oil synthetic 75W-90 or API GL-5 synthetic gear oil, Viscosity
SAE 75W-90*8
Power steering fluid (PSF) Refill to the proper oil level according to the
instructions in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section. Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent*9
Brake fluid Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*10 or equivalent DOT 3
Suspension fluid ——— Genuine NISSAN Hydraulic Suspension Fluid*11*12
Multi-purpose grease ——— NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant ——— HFC-134a (R-134a)*13
Air conditioning system lubricants ——— NISSAN A/C System Oil Type S or exact equivalent
Window washer fluid ——— Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Antifreeze or equivalent
*1: For additional information, see “ENGINE OIL” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section for changing engine oil.
*2: For additional information, see “ENGINE OIL AND OIL FILTER RECOMMENDATION” later in this section.
*3:INFINITI recommends Genuine NISSAN Ester Engine Oil available at INFINITI retailers.
*4: Using automatic transmission fluid other than Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF will cause deterioration in driveability and automatic transmission durability, and may damage the automatic transmission, which is not
covered by the INFINITI new vehicle limited warranty.
*5: Using transfer fluid other than Genuine NISSAN Transfer Fluid will damage the transfer, which is not covered by the INFINITI new vehicle limited warranty.
*6: See your INFINITI retailer for recommended transfer fluid.
*7: For hot climates, Viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures above 32°F (0°C).
CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS
9-2Technical and consumer information