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 replacement tire, make sure
that it is the proper size and type as specified on
the tire and loading information label. (See
Wheels and Tiresin the9. Maintenance and
Schedulessection.)
–For detailed information, seeWheels and
tiresin the8. Do-it-yourselfsection.
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 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. It is recommended you visit an
INFINITI retailer for this service.
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.
Starting and driving5-89
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 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.When the VDC system operates, the VDC warn-
ing 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.
SeeVehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning
lightin the2. Instruments and controlssec-
tion.
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the VDC
warning light
illuminates in the instrument
panel. The VDC system automatically turns off.
WARNING
•The VDC system is designed to help the
driver maintain stability but does not pre-
vent accidents due to abrupt steering opera-
tion at high speeds or by careless or danger-
ous driving techniques. Reduce vehicle
speed and be especially careful when driv-
ing and cornering on slippery surfaces and
always drive carefully.
•Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension. If
suspension parts such as shock absorbers,
struts, springs, stabilizer bars, bushings
and wheels are not INFINITI recommended
for your vehicle or are extremely deterio-
rated, the VDC system may not operate
properly. This could adversely affect vehicle
handling performance, and the VDC warning
light
may illuminate.
•If brake related parts such as brake pads,
rotors and calipers are not INFINITI recom-
mended or are extremely deteriorated, the
VDC system may not operate properly and
the VDC warning light
may illuminate.
•If engine control related parts are not
INFINITI recommended or are extremely de-
teriorated, the VDC warning light
may
illuminate.
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
5-90Starting and driving
NOTE
Activate VDC as soon as the situations described
above no longer apply. VDC will otherwise not be
able to stabilize the vehicle if the vehicle starts
to skid or a wheel starts to spin.
You can activate/deactivate VDC using the ve-
hicle information display. To activate/
deactivate VDC:
1. Start the engine
2. Press the
orbutton on the
steering wheel to select the [DriveAssist]
menu in the vehicle information display.
3. Press the
orbutton to select
VDC.
4. Press the
wheel. The current selection is displayed.
5. To activate/deactivate: press the
ton again.
VDC is deactivated if the
warning light
in the combination meter lights up continu-
ously when the engine is running.
Characteristics when VDC is deactivated
:
If VDC is deactivated and one or more wheels
start to spin, theVDC warning lamp
flashes in the combination meter. In such situ-
ations, VDC will not stabilize the vehicle.If you deactivate VDC:
•VDC no longer intervenes in understeer or
oversteer situations.
•Engine torque is no longer limited and the
drive wheels are able to spin.
The spinning of the wheels results in a
cutting action, so the tires cut through the
loose surface until the hit solid ground,
giving better traction.
•Traction control is still activated.
•VDC still provides support when you brake.
EBD (ELECTRONIC BRAKE FORCE
DISTRIBUTION)
EBD monitors and controls the brake pressure
on the rear wheels to help improve handling
during braking.
WARNING
If EBD is malfunctioning, the EBD [Inoperative
See Operator’s Manual] warning is displayed
in the vehicle information display. The
VDC warning lamp may also light up.
If EBD is malfunctioning as a result of a VDC
malfunction, the rear wheels can lock, e.g. un-
der full braking. This increases the risk of skid-
ding and an accident.You should therefore adapt your driving style
to the different handling characteristics. Have
the brake system checked. It is recommended
you see an INFINITI retailer.
STEER CONTROL
STEER CONTROL helps you by transmitting a
noticeable steering force to the steering wheel
in the direction required for vehicle stabilisa-
tion.
This steering support is provided in particular if:
•Both right wheels or both left wheels are on
a wet or slippery road surface when you
brake.
•The vehicle starts to skid.
WARNING
No steering support is provided from STEER
CONTROL, if:
•VDC is malfunctioning.
•The steering is faulty.
Power steering will, however, continue to
function.
5-92Starting and driving
TIRE EQUIPMENT
1. 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 ve-
hicle on snowy or icy roads, INFINITI recom-
mends the use of MUD & SNOW or ALL
SEASON TIRES on all four wheels. It is rec-
ommended that you visit an INFINITI retailer
for the tire type, size, speed rating and
availability information.
2. 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.
3. Tire chains may be used if desired. Make
sure they are the proper size for the tires on
your vehicle and are installed according to
the chain manufacturer’s instructions. Use
chain tensioners when recommended by the
tire chain manufacturer to ensure a tight fit.
Loose end links of the tire chains must be
secured or removed to prevent the possibil-
ity of whipping action damage to the fendersor underbody. In addition, drive at a reduced
speed, otherwise, your vehicle may be dam-
aged and/or vehicle handling and perfor-
mance may be adversely affected.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT
It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during the winter:
•A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows.
•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 washer fluid to refill the windshield
washer fluid reservoir.
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 ac-
celerating or downshifting too 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 slip-
pery 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 cruise control on slippery roads.
•Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gas under
your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the exhaust
pipe and from around your vehicle.
5-94Starting and driving
The driving distance possible in run-flat mode is
counted from the moment the tire pressure loss
warning appears in the vehicle information dis-
play.
You must not exceed a maximum speed of 50
MPH (80 km/h).
When replacing one or all tires, observe the
following specifications for your vehicle’s tires:
•Size
•Type
•Run-flat mark
If a tire has gone flat and cannot be replaced
with a run flat tire, a standard tire may be used
as a temporary measure. Make sure that you
use the proper size and type (summer or winter
tire).
WARNING
Do not exceed the stated maximum speed.
Avoid abrupt steering and driving maneuvers,
and driving over obstacles (curbs, pot holes,
off road). This applies in particular to a laden
vehicle.
Stop driving in emergency mode if:
•You hear banging noises.
•The vehicle starts to shake.
•You see smoke and smell rubber.
•VDC is intervening constantly.
•There are tears in the sidewalls of the tire.
After driving in emergency mode, have the
wheel rims checked with regard to their further
use. It is recommended you visit an INFINITI
retailer for this service. The faulty tire must be
replaced.
REMOVING AND FITTING WHEELS
NOTE
A spare wheel is not provided with your vehicle.
Blocking the wheels
WARNING
Make sure to block the appropriate wheel to
prevent the vehicle from moving, which may
cause personal injury.
Place suitable blocks
1in front of and behind
the wheel diagonally opposite the flat tire
Ato
prevent the vehicle from moving when it is on
the jack.
MCE0001DZ
In case of emergency6-5
When towing your vehicle, all jurisdictions 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
generally familiar with the applicable laws and
procedures for towing. To assure proper towing
and to prevent accidental damage to your ve-
hicle, INFINITI recommends having a service
operator tow your vehicle. It is advisable to
have the service operator carefully 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 RECOMMENDED BY INFINITI
INFINITI recommends towing your vehicle based
upon the type of drivetrain. Please refer to the
diagrams in this section to ensure that your
vehicle is properly towed.
Two-Wheel Drive (FWD) models
NCE451FWD (2WD) models
TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
6-14In case of emergency
•Only use devices specifically designed for
vehicle recovery and follow the manufactur-
er’s instructions.
•Always pull the recovery device straight out
from the front of the vehicle. Never pull at an
angle.
•Route recovery devices so they do not touch
any part of the vehicle except the attach-
ment point.
If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, or mud,
and the vehicle is unable to free itself without
being pulled, use the recovery hook stored in
the vehicle trunk.
WARNING
•Use the recovery hook only. Do not attach
the pulling device to any other part of the
vehicle body. Otherwise, the vehicle body
may be damaged.
•Use the recovery hook to free a vehicle only.
Never tow a vehicle using only the recovery
hook.
•The recovery hook is under tremendous
stress when used to free a trapped vehicle.
Always pull the pulling device straight out
from the vehicle. Never pull on the recovery
hook at an angle.
Securely install the recovery hook (stored in the
vehicle trunk) to the attaching mount located on
the front or rear bumper.
Make sure that the recovery hook is properly
secured in its storage location after use and the
license plate is properly reinstalled before driv-
ing the vehicle.
Rocking a stuck vehicle
WARNING
•To avoid potential injury, stand clear of a
stuck vehicle.
•Do not spin your tires at high speed. This
could cause them to explode and result in
serious injury. Parts of your vehicle could
also overheat and be damaged.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 (Reverse) and D (Drive).
•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 service
to remove the vehicle.
6-16In case of emergency
released. 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 oper-
ating properly and installed securely. Also
check the aim of the headlights.
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 marked with directional indi-
cators can only be rotated between front and
rear. Make sure that the directional indicators
point in the direction of wheel rotation after the
tire rotation is completed.
Tires*
:
Check the pressure with a gauge often and
always prior to long distance trips. Adjust the
pressure in all tires to the pressure specified.
Check carefully for damage, cuts or excessive
wear.Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) trans-
mitter 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
INFINITI 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 damaged wind-
shield repaired by a qualified repair facility.
Wiper blades*
:
Check for cracks or wear if not functioning
correctly. Replace as necessary.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when
performing scheduled maintenance, cleaning
the vehicle, etc.
Accelerator pedal
:
Check the pedal for smooth operation and make
sure that the pedal does not catch or require
uneven effort. Keep the floor mat away from the
pedal.
Automatic transmission P (Park) mechanism
:
On a fairly steep hill, check that your vehicle is
held securely when P (Park) has been activated,
without applying any brakes.
Brake pedal*
:
Check the pedal for smooth operation. If the
brake pedal suddenly goes down further than
normal, the pedal feels spongy or the vehicle
seems to take longer to stop, have your vehicle
checked immediately. It is recommended 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.
Maintenance and Schedules9-3