WARNING
●While driving on a slippery surface, be
careful when braking, accelerating or
downshifting. Abrupt braking or accel-
erating could cause the wheels to skid
and result in an accident.
● If the engine is not running or is turned
off while driving, the power assist for
the brakes will not work. Braking will be
harder.
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 the brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe
speed while lightly pressing 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
effect of the parking brake is weakened or when-
ever the parking brake shoes and/or rotors are
replaced, in order to assure the best brake per-
formance. This procedure is described in the INFINITI Ser-
vice Manual. It is recommended that you visit an
INFINITI retailer for this service.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
(ABS)
WARNING
●
The ABS is a sophisticated device, but it
cannot prevent accidents resulting from
careless or dangerous driving tech-
niques. It can help maintain vehicle con-
trol during braking on slippery surfaces.
Remember that stopping distances on
slippery surfaces will be longer than on
normal surfaces even with ABS. Stop-
ping distances 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 ve-
hicle 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. – When installing a spare tire, make
sure that it is the proper size and type
as specified on the Tire and Loading
Information label. For additional in-
formation, refer to “Tire and loading
information label” in the “Technical
and consumer information” section
of this manual.
– For additional information, refer to “Wheels and tires” in the “Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section of
this manual.
The ABS controls the brakes so the wheels do
not lock during hard braking or when braking on
slippery surfaces. The system detects the rota-
tion speed at each wheel and varies the brake
fluid pressure to prevent each wheel from locking
and sliding. By preventing each wheel from lock-
ing, the system helps the driver maintain steering
control and helps to minimize swerving and spin-
ning on slippery surfaces.
Using the system
Depress the brake pedal and hold it down. De-
press the brake pedal with firm steady pressure,
but do not pump the brakes. The ABS will oper-
ate to prevent the wheels from locking up. Steer
the vehicle to avoid obstacles.
5-136Starting and driving
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 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 pulsa-
tion 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 instru-
ment panel. The brake system then operates
normally, but without anti-lock assistance.
If the ABS warning light illuminates during the
self-test or while driving, have the vehicle
checked. It is recommended that you visit an
INFINITI retailer for this service.
Normal operation
The ABS operates at speeds above3-6mph(5
- 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 ap-
plies 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 pulsation may indicate that road
conditions are hazardous and extra care is re-
quired while driving.
BRAKE ASSIST
When the force applied to the brake pedal ex-
ceeds a certain level, the brake assist is activated
generating greater braking force than a conven-
tional 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 driv-
ers responsibility to stay alert, drive safely
and be in control of the vehicle at all times.
The VDC system uses various sensors to monitor
driver inputs and vehicle motion. Under certain
driving conditions, the VDC system helps to per-
form 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 maintain
control of the vehicle in the following condi-
tions:
– 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
Starting and driving5-137
●When driving on extremely inclined sur-
faces such as higher banked corners,
the VDC system may not operate prop-
erly and the
indicator may flash or
both the
andindicator
lights 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
indicator may flash or
both the
andindicator
lights may illuminate. This is not a mal-
function. Restart the hybrid system af-
ter driving onto a stable surface.
● If wheels or tires other than the INFINITI
recommended ones are used, the VDC
system may not operate properly and
the
indicator may flash or both
the
andindicator lights may
illuminate.
● The VDC system is not a substitute for
winter tires or tire chains on a snow
covered road.
WARNING
●Never rely solely on the hill start assist
system to prevent the vehicle from mov-
ing backward on a hill. Always drive
carefully and attentively. Depress the
brake pedal when the vehicle is stopped
on a steep hill. Be especially careful
when stopped on a hill on frozen or
muddy roads. Failure to prevent the ve-
hicle from rolling backwards may result
in a loss of control of the vehicle and
possible serious injury or death.
● The hill start assist system is not de-
signed to hold the vehicle at a standstill
on a hill. Depress the brake pedal when
the vehicle is stopped on a steep hill.
Failure to do so may cause the vehicle
to roll backwards and may result in a
collision or serious personal injury.
● The hill start assist system may not pre-
vent the vehicle from rolling backwards
on a hill under all load or road condi-
tions. Always be prepared to depress
the brake pedal to prevent the vehicle
from rolling backwards. Failure to do so
may result in a collision or serious per-
sonal injury. The hill start assist system automatically keeps
the brakes applied to help prevent the vehicle
from rolling backward 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 automati-
cally under the following conditions:
● 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 ve-
hicle 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 shift lever is placed in the N (Neutral) or P
(Park) position or on a flat and level road.
HILL START ASSIST SYSTEM
5-140Starting and driving
●Read and understand the limitations of
the sonar system as contained in this
section. Inclement weather may affect
the function of the sonar system; this
may include reduced performance or a
false activation.
● The system is deactivated at speeds
above 6 mph (10 km/h). It is reactivated
at lower speeds.
● Inclement weather or ultrasonic
sources such as an automatic car wash,
a truck’s compressed-air brakes or a
pneumatic drill may affect the function
of the system; this may include reduced
performance or a false activation.
● The system is not designed to prevent
contact with small or moving objects.
Always move slowly. The system will
not detect small objects below the bum-
per or on the ground.
● The system may not detect the follow-
ing objects: Fluffy objects such as
snow, cloth, cotton, glass-wool, etc.
Thin objects such as rope, wire and
chain, etc, or wedge-shaped objects. ●
The system may not detect objects at
speeds above 3 mph (5 km/h) and may
not detect certain angular or moving
objects.
SYSTEM TEMPORARILY
UNAVAILABLE
When sonar blockage is detected, the system
will be deactivated automatically.
The system is not available until the conditions no
longer exist.
The sonar 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 sonar sensors.
Action to take:
When the above conditions no longer exist, the
system will resume automatically.
SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
The sonar sensors are located on the front and
rear bumpers. Always keep the area near the
sonar sensors clean.
The sonar 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
sonar sensors.
Check for and remove objects obstructing the
area around the sonar sensors.
LSD2135
5-144Starting and driving
4. Lower the vehicle slowly until the tiretouches the ground. Then, with the wheel
nut wrench, tighten the wheel nuts securely
in the sequence illustrated (
A,B,C,D,
E) . Lower the vehicle completely.
WARNING
●Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly
tightened wheel nuts can cause the
wheel to become loose or come off.
This could cause an accident.
● Do not use oil or grease on the wheel
studs or nuts. This could cause the nuts
to become loose.
● Retighten the wheel nuts when the ve-
hicle has been driven for 621 miles
(1,000 km) (also in cases of a flat tire,
etc.) .
As soon as possible, tighten the wheel nuts
to the specified torque with a torque
wrench.
Wheel nut tightening torque: 83 ft-lb (113 N·m)
The wheel nuts must be kept tightened to
specification at all times. It is recom-
mended that wheel nuts be tightened to
specifications at each lubrication interval. Adjust tire pressure to the COLD pressure.
COLD pressure: After vehicle has been
parked for 3 hours or more or driven less
than 1 mile (1.6 km) .
COLD tire pressures are shown on the tire
and loading information label affixed to the
driver side center pillar.
5. Securely store the flat tire, tools and jacking equipment in the vehicle.
6. Close the liftgate.
WARNING
● Always make sure that the spare tire
and jacking equipment are properly se-
cured after use. Such items can become
dangerous projectiles in an accident or
sudden stop.
● The spare tire is designed for emer-
gency use. For additional information,
refer to “Wheels and tires” in the “Main-
tenance and do-it-yourself” section of
this manual.
WARNING
●If the hybrid system stops operating
while driving, the power assist for the
brakes and steering will not work. Brak-
ing and steering will be harder.
● If the hybrid system stops operating
while driving, do not open any door until
the vehicle comes to a complete stop.
Opening a door will lock the steering
wheel. This may cause the driver to lose
control of the vehicle and could result in
serious vehicle damage or personal
injury.
The hybrid system may stop operating while driv-
ing if the high-voltage battery becomes dis-
charged, the 12-volt battery becomes dis-
charged or the fuel tank is empty. If the hybrid
system stops operating while driving, perform the
following: 1. Reduce your speed gradually. Pull to the side of the road to a safe area.
2. Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
3. Set the push-button ignition switch at ACC or OFF, and try to start the hybrid system.
4. If the hybrid system will not start, refer to the “If the vehicle does not start” section of this
manual.
HYBRID SYSTEM STOPS OPERATING
WHILE DRIVING
In case of emergency6-9
8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirements..........................8-2
General maintenance ..............................8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items .........8-2
Maintenance precautions ...........................8-5
Engine compartment check locations ................8-7
Engine cooling system .............................8-8
Checking engine coolant level ...................8-9
Changing engine coolant ........................8-9
Inverter cooling system ............................ 8-10
Checking inverter coolant level ..................8-10
Changing inverter coolant ......................8-11
Engine oil ........................................ 8-11
Checking engine oil level .......................8-11
Changing engine oil ........................... 8-12
Changing engine oil filter .......................8-13
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid ......8-14
Power steering fluid ............................... 8-15
Brake fluid ....................................... 8-15
Windshield-washer fluid ........................... 8-16
Windshield-washer fluid reservoir ...............8-16
12-Volt Battery ................................... 8-17
Jump starting ................................. 8-18
Drive belt ........................................ 8-19Spark plugs
...................................... 8-19
Replacing spark plugs ......................... 8-19
Air cleaner ....................................... 8-20
In-cabin microfilter ............................. 8-20
Windshield wiper blades .......................... 8-21
Cleaning ..................................... 8-21
Replacing .................................... 8-21
Brakes .......................................... 8-22
Fuses ........................................... 8-23
Engine compartment ........................... 8-23
Passenger compartment .......................8-24
Battery replacement .............................. 8-25
INFINITI Intelligent Key ......................... 8-25
Lights ........................................... 8-27
Headlights .................................... 8-27
Fog lights ..................................... 8-27
Exterior and
interior lights ....................... 8-27
Wheels and tires ................................. 8-29
Tire pressure .................................. 8-29
Tire labeling ................................... 8-32
Types of tires .................................. 8-35
Tire chains .................................... 8-36
Changing wheels and tires .....................8-37
When driving in areas using road salt or other
corrosive materials, check lubrication frequently.
Lights*Clean the headlights on a regular basis.
Make sure that the headlights, stop lights, tail
lights, turn signal lights, and other lights are all
operating properly and installed securely. Also
check headlight aim.
Road wheel nuts (lug nuts)* When checking
the tires, make sure no wheel nuts are missing,
and check for any loose wheel nuts. Tighten if
necessary.
Tire rotation* Tires should be rotated every
5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Tires* Check the pressure with a gauge often
and always prior to long distance trips. If neces-
sary, adjust the pressure in all tires, including the
spare, to the pressure specified. Check carefully
for damage, cuts or excessive wear.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
transmitter components Replace the TPMS
transmitter grommet seal, valve core and cap
when the tires are replaced due to wear or age.
Wheel alignment and balance If the vehicle
should pull to either side while driving on a
straight and level road, or if you detect uneven or
abnormal tire wear, there may be a need for wheel alignment. If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at
normal highway speeds, wheel balancing may be
needed.
● For additional information regarding tires,
refer to “Important Tire Safety Information”
(US) or “Tire Safety Information” (Canada) in
the Warranty Information Booklet.
Windshield Clean the windshield on a regular
basis. Check the windshield at least every six
months for cracks or other damage. Have a dam-
aged windshield repaired by a qualified repair
facility.
Windshield wiper blades* Check for cracks or
wear if they do not wipe properly.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when per-
forming periodic maintenance, cleaning the ve-
hicle, etc.
Additional information on the following
items with an “*” is found in this section.
Accelerator pedal Check the pedal for smooth
operation and make sure the pedal does not bind
or require uneven effort. Keep the floor mat away
from the pedal. Brake pedal
Check the pedal for smooth opera-
tion. If the brake pedal suddenly goes down fur-
ther than normal, the pedal feels spongy or the
vehicle seems to take longer to stop, have your
vehicle checked immediately. It is recommended
that you visit an INFINITI retailer for this service.
Keep the floor mat away from the pedal.
Brakes Check that the brakes do not pull the
vehicle to one side when applied.
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
P (Park) position mechanism On a fairly
steep hill check that your vehicle is held securely
with the shift lever in the P (Park) position without
applying any brakes.
Parking brake Check the parking brake opera-
tion regularly. The vehicle should be securely held
on a fairly steep hill with only the parking brake
applied. If the parking brake needs adjustment, it
is recommended that you visit an INFINITI retailer
for this service
Seats Check seat position controls such as seat
adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to ensure they
operate smoothly and all latches lock securely in
every position. Check that the head restraints and
headrests move up and down smoothly and the
locks (if so equipped) hold securely in all latched
positions.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-3
If you wax the surface of the hood, be careful not
to let wax get into the washer nozzle
D. This may
cause clogging or improper windshield-washer
operation. If wax gets into the nozzle, remove it
with a needle or small pin
C.
Rear window wiper blade
If checking or replacement is required, it is rec-
ommended that you visit an INFINITI retailer for
this service. If the brakes do not operate properly, it is recom-
mended that you have the brakes checked. It is
recommended that you visit an INFINITI retailer
for this service.
Self-adjusting brakes
Your vehicle is equipped with self-adjusting
brakes.
The front and rear disc-type brakes self-adjust
every time the brake pedal is applied.
WARNING
Have your brake system checked if the
brake pedal height does not return to nor-
mal. It is recommended that you visit an
INFINITI retailer for this service.
Brake pad wear indicators
The disc brake pads on your vehicle have audible
wear indicators. When a brake pad requires re-
placement, a high pitched scraping or screech-
ing sound will be heard when the vehicle is in
motion. The noise will be heard whether or not the
brake pedal is depressed. Have the brakes
checked as soon as possible if the wear indicator
sound is heard.
LDI2710
BRAKES
8-22Maintenance and do-it-yourself