2014 INFINITI Q50-HYBRID lock

5-18Starting and driving
normal operating condition, have an
INFINITI retailer check the transmission
and repair if necessary.
JVS0188X
Shift lock release
If the 12-volt battery charge is low or
discharged, the shift lever may not be
moved from the P (Park) position even with
the brake pedal depressed and the shift
lever button pushed.
To move the shift lever, perform the
following procedure:
1. Push the ignition switch to the OFF orLOCK position.
2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Remove the shift lock cover
*Ausing a
suitable tool. 4. Push down the shift lock
*Busing
mechanical key as illustrated.
5. Push the shift lever button
*Cand
move the shift lever to N (Neutral)
position
*Dwhile holding down the
shift lock.
If the lever cannot be moved out of P
(Park), have an INFINITI retailer check the
automatic transmission system as soon as
possible.
Adaptive Shift Control (ASC)
The adaptive shift control system automa-
tically operates when the transmission is
in the D (Drive) position and selects an
appropriate gear depending on the road
conditions such as uphill, downhill or
curving roads.
Control on uphill and curving roads:
A low gear is maintained that suits the
degree of the slope or curve to allow
smooth driving with a small number of
shifts.
Control on downhill roads:
The adaptive shift control system shifts to
a low gear that suits the degree of the
slope to reduce the number of times that
the brake must be used.

SSD1040
NOTE:
.The BSI system will not operate if your
vehicle is on a lane marker when
another vehicle enters the detection
zone. In this case only the BSW system
operates.
. BSI steering assist will not operate or
will stop operating and only a warning
chime will sound under the following
conditions.
— When the accelerator pedal is de-
pressed while steering control as-
sist is provided.
— When steering quickly —
When the ICC, DCA, predictive for-
ward collision warning or forward
emergency braking warnings sound.
— When the hazard warning flashers
are operated.
— When driving on a curve at a high
speed.
BSW/BSI temporarily not available
Condition A:
. Under the following conditions, the BSI
system will be turned off automatically,
a beep will sound and the “currently
unavailable” warning message will
appear in the vehicle information dis-
play. The BSW system is still available,
but the BSI system will not be available
until the conditions no longer exist.
— When the VDC system (except TCS
function) or ABS operates.
— When the VDC system is turned off.
— When the INFINITI Drive Mode Se-
lector is turned to the SNOW mode.
Action to take:
Turn off the BSI system and turn it on again
when the above conditions no longer exist. Condition B:
BSW system: When radar blockage is
detected, the BSW system will be deacti-
vated automatically, the
“side radar ob-
struction” warning message will appear
and the driver assist system blind spot
indicator (white) will blink in the vehicle
information display.
BSI system: When radar blockage is
detected, the BSI system will be turned
off automatically, a beep will sound and
the “side radar obstruction” warning mes-
sage will appear in the vehicle information
display.
The BSW and BSI systems are not available
until the conditions no longer exist.
The radar sensors may be blocked by
temporary ambient conditions such as
splashing water, mist or fog. The blocked
condition may also be caused by objects
such as ice, frost or dirt obstructing the
radar sensors.
Action to take:
When the above conditions no longer exist,
the BSW system will resume automatically.
For the BSI system, turn it on again. If the
driver assist system blind spot indicator
(white) continues to blink and/or the “side
Starting and driving5-47

5-54Starting and driving
.The brake engagement by the BCI
system is not as effective on a slope as
it is on flat ground. When on a steep
slope the system may not function
properly.
. Do not use the BCI systems under the
following conditions because the system
may not function properly.
—When driving with a tire that is not
within normal tire conditions (for
example, tire wear, low tire pressure,
installation of tire chains, non-stan-
dard wheels).
—When the vehicle is equipped with
non-original brake parts or suspen-
sion parts.
. Excessive noise (for example, audio
system volume, open vehicle window)
will interfere with the chime sound, and
it may not be heard.
BCI temporarily not available
When the following message appears in
the vehicle information display, a chime
will sound and the BCI system will be
turned off automatically. .
“Unavailable High Accelerator Temp.”:
When the accelerator pedal actuator
detects that the internal motor tem-
perature is high.
Action to take:
Turn on the BCI system again when the
above condition no longer exists.
. “Unavailable Side Radar Obstruction”:
When side radar blockage is detected.
Action to take:
If the warning message appears, park
the vehicle in a safe place, turn the
hybrid system off. Check for and
remove objects obscuring the radar
sensors on the rear bumper, and restart
the hybrid system. If the BSW or BSI
system operates normally, the BCI
system will also operate normally.
(See “BSW/BSI temporarily not avail-
able” (P.5-47).)
BCI malfunction
When the BCI system malfunctions, it will
be turned off automatically, a beep will
sound and BCI system “malfunction”
warning message will appear in the vehicle
information display.
Stop the vehicle in a safe location, turn the
hybrid system off and restart the hybrid system. If the warning message continues
to appear, have the system checked by an
INFINITI retailer.

“Power steering warning light”(P.2-17).)
When the power steering warning light
illuminates with the hybrid system run-
ning, the power assist for the steering will
cease operation. You will still have control
of the vehicle. However, greater steering
effort will be needed, especially in sharp
turns and at low speeds.
If the direct adaptive steering system is
malfunctioning, the steering wheel may
turn slightly even when driving on a
straight road.
Under the following conditions, the steer-
ing wheel may turn slightly even when
driving on a straight road. This is due to a
protection mechanism for the direct adap-
tive steering system.
. When the battery is discharged
. When the hybrid system is stalled
. After the vehicle is tested on the four-
wheel dynamometer
. When the steering wheel is held in the
full lock position or when the front tire
touches an obstruction.
The steering wheel will return to the
normal position after the protection me-
chanism deactivates. To return to the
normal position, turn the hybrid system off, restart the hybrid system, and then
drive the vehicle for a period of time.
When the vehicle is tested on the 2-wheel
dynamometer, the power steering warning
light may illuminate. To turn off the power
steering warning light, stop the vehicle in a
safe location, turn the hybrid system off,
restart the hybrid system, and then drive
the vehicle for a period of time.
The following conditions do not indicate a
malfunction of the direct adaptive steering
system.
.
You may notice wider steering play
when the ignition switch is in the OFF
or ACC position compared to when it is
in the ON position.
. After the hybrid system is started, the
steering wheel may turn slightly even
when driving on a straight road. To
return to the normal position, drive the
vehicle on a straight road for a period
of time.
. After the hybrid system is started, the
steering wheel may move if the steering
wheel was turned to the fully locked
position while the ignition switch was
in the OFF position.
You may hear a noise under the following
conditions. However, this is not a malfunc- tion.
.
When the hybrid system is started or
stopped.
. When the steering wheel is turned in
the full lock position.
Starting and driving5-105

BRAKE ASSIST
When the force applied to the brake pedal
exceeds a certain level, the Brake Assist is
activated generating greater braking force
than a conventional brake booster even
with light pedal force.
WARNING
The Brake Assist is only an aid to assist
braking operation and is not a collision
warning or avoidance device. It is the
driver’s responsibility to stay alert, drive
safely and be in control of the vehicle at all
times.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)
WARNING
.The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a
sophisticated device, but it cannot pre-
vent accidents resulting from careless or
dangerous driving techniques. It can
help maintain vehicle control during
braking on slippery surfaces. Remember
that stopping distances on slippery
surfaces will be longer than on normal surfaces even with ABS. Stopping dis-
tances may also be longer on rough,
gravel or snow covered roads, or if you
are using tire chains. Always maintain a
safe distance from the vehicle in front of
you. Ultimately, the driver is responsible
for safety.
. Tire type and condition may also affect
braking effectiveness.
—When replacing tires, install the
specified size of tires on all four
wheels.
—For detailed information, see“Wheels and tires” (P.8-30) of this
manual.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) con-
trols 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 pre-
venting 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
pressure, 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, elec-
tric pumps, hydraulic solenoids and a
computer. The computer has a built-in
diagnostic feature that tests the system
each time you start the hybrid system 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 operates normally,
Starting and driving5-107
BRAKE ASSIST

5-108Starting and driving
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).
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. How-
ever, the pulsation may indicate that road
conditions are hazardous 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 conditions, 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 or
motor output to reduce drive wheel slip
based on vehicle speed (traction con-
trol function).
. Controls brake pressure at individual
wheels and engine or motor output to
help the driver maintain control of the
vehicle in the following conditions:
— understeer (vehicle tends to not
follow the steered path despite
increased steering input)
— oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due
to certain road or driving condi-
tions).
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.
When the VDC system operates, the VDC
warning light
in 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.
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warn-
ing light” (P.2-18).
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
VDC warning light
illuminates in the
instrument panel. The VDC system auto-
matically turns off.
The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the
VDC system. The VDC off indicator light
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,
except for rise-up and build-up, and brake
force distribution, and the VDC warning
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC) SYSTEM

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 328F
(08C), check antifreeze to assure proper
winter protection. For additional informa-
tion, see“Engine cooling system” (P.8-9).
12-VOLT BATTERY
If the 12-volt battery is not fully charged
during extremely cold weather conditions,
the battery fluid may freeze and damage
the 12-volt battery. To maintain maximum
efficiency, the 12-volt battery should be
checked regularly. For additional informa-
tion, see“12-volt battery” (P.8-17).
DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER
If the vehicle is to be left outside without
antifreeze, drain the cooling system, in-
cluding the engine block. Refill before
operating the vehicle. For details, see
“Engine cooling system” (P.8-9) and“In-
verter cooling system” (P.8-11).
TIRE EQUIPMENT
SUMMER tires have a tread designed to
provide superior performance on dry pave-
ment. However, the performance of these
tires will be substantially reduced in snowy
and icy conditions. 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 prohi-
bit 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”(P.8-37) of this manual.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
models
If you install snow tires, they must also be
the same size, brand, construction and tread pattern 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
reservoir tank.
DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING
. Wet ice (328F, 0 8C 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 cau-
tion. Accelerate and slow down with
care. If accelerating or downshifting too
Starting and driving5-113
COLD WEATHER DRIVING

5-114Starting and driving
fast, the drive wheels will lose even
more traction.
. Allow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.
. Allow greater following distances on
slippery roads.
. Watch for slippery spots (glare ice).
These may appear on an otherwise clear
road in shaded areas. If a patch of ice is
seen ahead, brake before reaching it. Try
not to brake while on the ice, and avoid
any sudden steering maneuvers.
. Do not use the cruise control on slippery
roads.
. Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gases
under your vehicle. Keep snow clear of
the exhaust pipe and from around your
vehicle.ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if so
equipped)
Engine block heaters are used to assist in
cold temperature starting.
The engine block heater should be used
when the outside temperature is 208 F
(−78C) or lower.
To use the engine block heater
1. Turn the INFINITI Direct Response Hy- brid®System off.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the engine block heater cord.
3. Plug the engine block heater cord into a grounded 3-wire, 3-pronged extension
cord.
4. Plug the extension cord into a Ground Fault Interrupt (GFI) protected,
grounded 110-volt AC (VAC) outlet.
5. The engine block heater must be plugged in for at least 2 - 4 hours,
depending on outside temperatures, to
properly warm the engine coolant. Use
an appropriate timer to turn the engine
block heater on.
6. Before starting the hybrid system, unplug and properly store the cord to
keep it away from moving parts.
WARNING
. Do not use your engine block heater with
an ungrounded electrical system or a 2-
pronged adapter. You can be seriously
injured by an electrical shock if you use
an ungrounded connection.
. Disconnect and properly store the en-
gine block heater cord before starting
the hybrid system. Damage to the cord
could result in an electrical shock and
can cause serious injury.
. Use a heavy-duty 3-wire, 3-pronged
extension cord rated for at least 10A.
Plug the extension cord into a Ground
Fault Interrupt (GFI) protected, grounded
110-VAC outlet. Failure to use the proper
extension cord or a grounded outlet can
result in a fire or electrical shock and
cause serious personal injury.