Hybrid System-4Hybrid System Overview
The emergency shut-off system is activated
and the high-voltage system automatically
turns off in the following conditions:
.Front and side collisions in which the
air bags are deployed.
. Certain rear collisions.
. Certain INFINITI Direct Response Hy-
brid
®System malfunctions
For the above collisions and the certain
hybrid system malfunctions, the READY to
drive indicator light will turn off. See
“Warning/indicator lights and audible re-
minders” (P.2-10).
The emergency shut-off activates for the
above collisions to minimize risk of an
event that could cause injury or an
accident. If the emergency shut-off system
activates, the hybrid system may not
switched to READY to drive position,
contact an INFINITI retailer. Even if the
ignition switch is switched to READY to
drive position, the system may shut-off
suddenly. Therefore, drive cautiously to the
nearest INFINITI retailer or contact an
INFINITI retailer as soon as possible. To start the INFINITI Direct Response
Hybrid
®System:
1. Depress the brake pedal and place the ignition switch in the ON position when
the transmission is in the P (Park) or N
(Neutral) position (P is recommended).
(For more details, see “Push-button
ignition switch” (P.5-9).)
2. The READY to drive indicator light
flashes, then turns illuminated. (The
hybrid system switched to the READY to
drive mode when the indicator light
illuminates.)
When the READY to drive indicator light
illuminates, the vehicle can be
driven, even if the gasoline engine is not
running.
NOTE:
The gasoline engine starts and stops
automatically. It may stop during low
speed driving, deceleration or when the
vehicle is stopped.
The gasoline engine may automatically
run in the following conditions:
. The level of remaining charge in the
Lithium ion (Li-ion) battery is low. The
engine runs to charge the Li-ion
battery and to provide power to the drive the vehicle.
. The temperature of the engine coolant
is low.
. Based on driving conditions.
. The shift lever is shifted to the P (Park)
position, the driver’ s seat belt is
released and the driver’s side door is
then opened.
The hybrid system operates as follows
based on driving conditions and the Li-ion
battery charge.
STARTING AND SLOW SPEED DRIV-
ING
The vehicle is driven by the electric motor
depending on the available Li-ion battery
charge.
MEDIUM OR HIGH SPEED DRIVING
The system automatically controls the
gasoline engine and electric motor in order
to obtain the optimum fuel mileage and
performance, depending on the driving
situation and available Li-ion battery
charge.
When the remaining battery level is low,
the Li-ion battery is charged by the electric
motor that is driven to generate electric
power while the vehicle is driving.
EMERGENCY SHUT-OFF SYSTEM OPERATION OF THE HYBRID SYSTEM
2-14Instruments and controls
it is safe to do so.
High temperature warning
light
When the ignition switch is in the ON
position, the high temperature warning
light illuminates and then turns off. This
indicates that the high temperature sensor
in the engine coolant system is opera-
tional.
CAUTION
If the high temperature warning light
illuminates when the ignition switch is in
the ON position, it may indicate the engine
temperature is extremely high.
Stop the vehicle safety as soon as possible.
If the vehicle is overheated, continuing
vehicle operation may seriously damage
the engine. (See “If your vehicle overheats”
(P.6-12) for the immediate action required.)
Hybrid EPS (Electrical Power
Steering) warning light
When the ignition switch is in the ON position, the Hybrid EPS (Electrical Power
Steering) warning light illuminates. After
starting the hybrid system, the Hybrid EPS
warning light turns off. This indicates that
the electrical power steering system is
operational.
If the Hybrid EPS warning light illuminates
while the hybrid system is running, it may
indicates the Hybrid EPS system is not
functioning properly and may need servi-
cing. Have the Hybrid EPS system checked
by an INFINITI retailer.
When the Hybrid EPS warning light illumi-
nates with the hybrid system running, the
power assist to the steering will cease
operation but you will still have control of
the vehicle. At this time, greater steering
efforts are required to operate the steering
wheel, especially in sharp turns and at low
speeds. However, if the steering wheel
operation is still performed, the Hybrid EPS
may stop and the Hybrid EPS warning light
will illuminate. Place the ignition switch in
the OFF position. For a while after it
refrains from the steering wheel control,
the temperature of the Hybrid EPS system
will go down and the power assist level will
return to normal after starting the hybrid
system. The Hybrid EPS warning light will
go off.
Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC)
system warning light (orange; if so
equipped)
This light comes on if there is a malfunc-
tion in the Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC)
system.
If the warning light comes on, park the
vehicle in a safe place. Stop the hybrid
system, restart the hybrid system, resume
driving and set the ICC system again.
If it is not possible to set the system or the
indicator stays on, it may indicate that the
system is malfunctioning. Although the
vehicle is still driveable under normal
conditions, have the vehicle checked at
an INFINITI retailer.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
light (orange; if so equipped)
When the ignition switch is pushed to the
ON position, the light will come on in
orange, turn green, and then turn off. This
indicates that the Lane Departure Warning
(LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)
systems are operational.
While the LDW and/or LDP system is on,
the light will blink in orange and a warning
2-28Instruments and controls
SIC4327
TRIP COMPUTER
Switches for the trip computer are located
on the right side of the combination meter
panel. To operate the trip computer, push
the side or front of the switches as shown
above.
*Aswitch
*Bswitch
When the ignition switch is pushed to the
ON position, modes of the trip computer
can be selected by pushing the
switch
*A.
Each time the
switch*Ais pushed, the
display will change as follows: Energy monitor
?Li-ion battery state of
charge and acceleration guide ?EV mode
odometer and twin trip odometer ?
Current fuel consumption ?Average fuel
consumption and speed ?Elapsed time
and trip odometer ?Distance to empty
(dte) ?Engine coolant temperature
gauge? Outside air temperature (ICY) ?
Setting ?Warning check
1. Energy monitor
The energy flow related to the hybrid
system is shown by the arrow symbols.
*A: Li-ion battery
*B: Engine
*Ashows the charge level of the Li-ion
battery.
+ : Charge level is high
- : Charge level is low
The charge level display will continuously
change as the Li-ion battery charge level
increase or decreases during normal vehi-
cle operation. Movement of the display
from the far right to the far left of the bar is
normal.
The energy monitor is also displayed on
the navigation system (if so equipped).
(See “Energy monitors” (P.Hybrid System- 5).)
2. Li-ion battery state of charge and
acceleration guide
*ALi-ion battery state of charge:
This displays the remaining charge in the
Li-ion battery.
The charge level display will continuously
change as the Li-ion battery charge level
increase or decrease during normal vehicle
operation. Movement of the display from
the far right to the far left of the bar is
normal.
This works in conjunction with the remain-
ing battery display on the navigation
system screen (if so equipped).
*BAcceleration guide:
This display provides the driver a visual
display of how efficiently the vehicle is
being driven based on accelerator pedal
position. When the drive mode is set to
ECO using the drive mode selector, the
acceleration guide operates with the ECO
drive indicator and ECO pedal (if so
equipped) to help you improve fuel econ-
omy. (See “ECO drive indicator light” (P.2-
18), “INFINITI drive mode selector” (P.5-18)
and “ECO pedal system” (P.5-19).)
2-30Instruments and controls
last reset. Resetting is done by pushing theswitch*Bfor longer than 1 second.
(The average speed is also reset at the
same time.)
The display is updated every 30 seconds.
At about the first 1/3 mile (500 m) after a
reset, the display shows “——”.
Speed:
The average speed mode shows the
average vehicle speed since the last reset.
Resetting is done by pushing the
switch*Bfor longer than 1 second. (The
average fuel consumption is also reset at
the same time.)
The display is updated every 30 seconds.
The first 30 seconds after a reset, the
display shows “——”.
6. Elapsed time and trip odometer
(mls or km)
Elapsed time:
The elapsed time mode shows the time
since the last reset. The displayed time can
be reset by pushing the
switch*Bfor
longer than 1 second. (The trip odometer is
also reset at the same time.) Trip odometer:
The trip odometer mode shows the total
distance the vehicle has been driven since
the last reset. Resetting is done by pushing
the
switch*Bfor longer than 1
second. (The elapsed time is also reset at
the same time.)
7. Distance to empty (dte —mls or
km)
The distance to empty (dte) mode provides
you with an estimation of the distance that
can be driven before refueling. The dte is
constantly being calculated, based on the
amount of fuel in the fuel tank and the
actual fuel consumption.
The display is updated every 30 seconds.
The dte mode includes a low range warning
feature. If the fuel level is low, the warning
is displayed on the screen.
When the fuel level drops even lower, the
dte display will change to “——”.
. If the amount of fuel added is small, the
display just before the ignition switch
is pushed to the OFF position may
continue to be displayed.
. When driving uphill or rounding curves,
the fuel in the tank shifts, which may momentarily change the display.
8. Engine coolant temperature
gauge
The gauge indicates the engine coolant
temperature.
This displays the temperature of the
engine coolant. The range of coolant over-
heat is indicated by the horizontal line of
the upper part of the H mark.
The engine coolant temperature varies with
the outside air temperature and driving
conditions.
CAUTION
If the engine is overheated, continued
operation of the vehicle may seriously
damage the engine. See
“If your vehicle
overheats” (P.6-12) for immediate action
required.
9. Outside air temperature (ICY —8F
or 8C)
The outside air temperature is displayed in
8For 8C in the range of −22 to 1318F(−30
to 558C).
5-12Starting and driving
4. Push the ignition switch while depres-sing the brake pedal within 10 seconds
after the chime sounds. The hybrid
system will start.
After step 3 is performed, when the
ignition switch is pushed without depres-
sing the brake pedal, the ignition switch
position will change to ACC.
NOTE:
. When the ignition switch is pushed to
the ACC or ON position or the hybrid
system is started by the above proce-
dures, the Intelligent Key battery dis-
charge indicator appears on the dot
matrix liquid crystal display even if the
Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle.
This is not a malfunction. To turn off
the Intelligent Key battery discharge
indicator, touch the ignition switch
with the Intelligent Key again.
. If the Intelligent Key battery discharge
indicator appears, replace the battery
as soon as possible. (See “Intelligent
Key battery replacement” (P.8-26).).
Make sure the area around the vehicle
is clear.
. Check fluid levels such as engine oil,
coolant, brake fluid and window
washer fluid as frequently as possible,
or at least whenever you refuel.
. Check that all windows and lights are
clean.
. Visually inspect tires for their appear-
ance and condition. Also check tires for
proper inflation.
. Lock all doors.
. Position seat and adjust head re-
straints.
. Adjust inside and outside mirrors.
. Fasten seat belts and ask all passen-
gers to do likewise.
. Check the operation of warning lights
when the ignition switch is pushed to
the ON position. (See “Warning/indica-
tor lights and audible reminders” (P.2-
10).) 1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Move the shift lever to P (Park) posi-
tion.
The INFINITI Direct Response Hybrid
®
System is designed not to operate if
the shift lever is not in the P (Park)
position.
3. Depress the brake pedal and push the ignition switch to start the hybrid
system. The READY to drive indicator
light will illuminate on the meter.
When starting the hybrid system at
very low outside temperatures, the
READY to drive indicator light will flash
and it may take longer for the READY to
drive indicator light to illuminate.
. The hybrid system may not start even
with the READY to drive indicator light
illuminated. Once the READY to drive
indicator light is illuminated you may
begin driving the vehicle.
. You may hear a sound in the engine
compartment when the brake pedal is
depressed with the hybrid system off.
This does not indicate a problem.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential 12-volt battery
BEFORE STARTING THE INFINITI DIRECT
RESPONSE HYBRID®SYSTEM STARTING THE INFINITI DIRECT RESPONSE
HYBRID®SYSTEM
The hill start assist system automatically
keeps the brakes applied to help prevent
the vehicle from rolling backwards in the
time it takes the driver to release the brake
pedal and apply the accelerator when the
vehicle is stopped on a hill.
The hill start assist system will operate
automatically under the following condi-
tions:
.The transmission is shifted to a forward
or reverse gear.
. The vehicle is stopped completely on a
hill by applying the brake.
The maximum holding time is 2 seconds.
After 2 seconds the vehicle will begin to
roll back and the hill start assist system
will stop operating completely.
The hill start assist system will not operate
when the transmission is shifted to the N
(Neutral) or P (Park) position or on a flat
and level road.
When staring the vehicle on a steep uphill
grade, wait one second after shifting the
shift lever into the driving position.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 12-volt battery fluid may freeze and
damage the 12-volt battery. To maintain
maximum efficiency, the 12-volt battery
should be checked regularly. For additional
information, see“12-volt battery” (P.8-18).
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.8-39).
Starting and driving5-103
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
maximum hot and fan control to high
speed.
3. If engine overheating is caused by climbing 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
radiator before opening the hood. (If
steam or coolant is escaping, turn off
the hybrid system.) 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. Also check if the cooling fan is running. The radiator hoses and radiator should
not leak water. If coolant is leaking or
the cooling fan does not run, stop the
hybrid system.
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 the coolant level in the reservoir tank with
the engine running. Add coolant to the
reservoir tank if necessary. Have your
vehicle repaired at the nearest INFINITI
retailer. When towing your vehicle, all State (Pro-
vincial 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 applicable laws and
procedures for towing. To assure proper
towing and to prevent accidental damage
to your vehicle, INFINITI recommends that
you have a service operator tow your
vehicle. It is advisable to have the service
operator carefully read the following pre-
cautions.
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 trans-
mission, axles, steering system and
powertrain are in working condition. If
any unit is damaged, dollies must be
In case of emergency6-13
TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
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 ................... 8-7 VQ35HR engine ............................................... 8-7
Engine cooling system ......................................... 8-9
Checking engine coolant level ....................... 8-10
Changing engine coolant ............................... 8-10
Inverter cooling system...................................... 8-11
Checking inverter coolant level ...................... 8-12
Changing inverter coolant.............................. 8-12
Engine oil .......................................................... 8-12
Checking engine oil level............................... 8-12
Changing engine oil and filter ....................... 8-13
Automatic transmission fluid ............................. 8-15
Power steering fluid........................................... 8-15
Brake fluid......................................................... 8-16 Brake fluid .................................................... 8-16
Window washer fluid ......................................... 8-17 12-volt battery .................................................. 8-18
Checking battery fluid level.......................... 8-19
Jump starting ............................................... 8-19
Spark plugs ...................................................... 8-19 Replacing spark plugs ................................. 8-20
Air cleaner ........................................................ 8-20
Windshield wiper blades ................................... 8-21 Cleaning ...................................................... 8-21
Replacing..................................................... 8-22
Brakes .............................................................. 8-23
Self-adjusting brakes ................................... 8-23
Brake pad wear warning .............................. 8-23
Fuses ................................................................ 8-24
Engine compartment or trunk room.............. 8-24
Passenger compartment............................... 8-25
Intelligent Key battery replacement ................... 8-26
Lights................................................................ 8-29 Headlights ................................................... 8-29
Exterior and interior lights ........................... 8-30
Wheels and tires ............................................... 8-32
Tire pressure ............................................... 8-32
Tire labeling ................................................ 8-36
Types of tires............................................... 8-38
Tire chains ................................................... 8-39
Changing wheels and tires........................... 8-39