2018 INFINITI Q50-HYBRID brake light

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 stopping effect of the parking brake is
weakened or whenever the parking brake
shoes and/or drums/rotors are replaced, in
order to assure the best braking perfor-
mance.
This procedure is described in the vehicle
service manual. It is recommended you visit
an INFINITI retailer for this service.
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 prevent accidents resulting
from careless or dangerous driving
techniques. It can help maintain ve-
hicle control during braking on slip-
pery surfaces. Remember that
stopping distances on slippery sur- faces will be longer than on normal
surfaces even with ABS. Stopping
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
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.8-28) of
this manual.
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.
Starting and driving5-129
BRAKE ASSIST

5-130Starting and driving
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 dis-
tances.
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 pulsation in the brake
pedal. This is normal and does not indicate a
malfunction. If the computer senses a mal-
function, it switches the ABS off and
illuminates the ABS warning light on the
instrument 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 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).
When the ABS senses that one or more
wheels are close to locking up, the actuator
rapidly applies and releases hydraulic pres-
sure. 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 indi-
cate 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 control
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 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
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
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL
(VDC) SYSTEM

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.2-15).
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
VDC warning light
illuminates in the
instrument panel. The VDC system automa-
tically 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
light
will not flash. The VDC system is
automatically reset to on when the ignition
switch is placed in the off position then back
to the on position.
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warn-
ing light” (P.2-15) and “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off indicator light” (P.2-17).
The computer has a built-in diagnostic
feature that tests the system each time you
start the INFINITI Direct Response Hybrid
®
System and move the vehicle forward or in
reverse at a slow speed. When the self-test
occurs, you may hear a “clunk” noise and/or
feel a pulsation in the brake pedal. This is
normal and is not an indication of a mal-
function.
RISE-UP AND BUILD-UP
The system gradually adjusts braking power
during normal braking to help provide an
enhanced brake feel.
BRAKE FORCE DISTRIBUTION
During braking while driving through turns,
the system optimizes the distribution of
force to each of the four wheels depending
on the radius of the turn.
WARNING
.
The VDC system is designed to help
the driver maintain stability but does
not prevent accidents due to abrupt
steering operation at high speeds or
by careless or dangerous driving
techniques. Reduce vehicle speed
and be especially careful when driving and cornering on slippery surfaces
and always drive carefully.
. The rise-up and build-up, and brake
force distribution system may not be
effective depending on the driving
condition. Always drive carefully and
attentively.
. Do not modify the vehicle’s suspen-
sion. If suspension parts such as
shock absorbers, struts, springs, sta-
bilizer bars, bushings and wheels are
not INFINITI recommended for your
vehicle or are extremely deteriorated,
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 recommended or are extre-
mely deteriorated, the VDC system
may not operate properly and the
VDC warning light
may illumi-
nate.
. If engine control related parts are not
INFINITI recommended or are extre-
mely deteriorated, the VDC warning
light
may illuminate.
. When driving on extremely inclined
surfaces such as higher banked cor-
Starting and driving5-131

5-132Starting and driving
ners, the VDC system may not oper-
ate properly and the VDC warning
light
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 VDC warning light
may
illuminate. This is not a malfunction.
Restart the hybrid system after driv-
ing onto a stable surface.
. If wheels or tires other than the
INFINITI recommended ones are
used, the VDC system may not oper-
ate properly and the VDC warning
light
may illuminate.
. The VDC system is not a substitute
for winter tires or tire chains on a
snow covered road. This system senses driving based on the
driver’s steering and acceleration/braking
patterns, and controls brake pressure at
individual wheels to help smooth vehicle
response.
When the SPORT mode is selected by the
INFINITI Drive Mode Selector, the amount
of brake control provided by the active trace
control is reduced.
When the PERSONAL mode is selected, the
active trace control can be set to ON
(enabled) or OFF (disabled). See “INFINITI
Drive Mode Selector” (P.5-21).
When the VDC OFF switch is used to turn
off the VDC system, the active trace control
is also turned off.
ACTIVE TRACE CONTROL

8 Do-it-yourself
Maintenance precautions ................................................ 8-2
Engine compartment check locations ......................... 8-3VQ35HR engine ........................................................... 8-3
Engine cooling system ..................................................... 8-5 Checking engine coolant level .................................. 8-6
Changing engine coolant ........................................... 8-7
Inverter cooling system ................................................... 8-7 Checking inverter coolant level ................................ 8-8
Changing inverter coolant ......................................... 8-9
Engine oil ........................................................................\
..... 8-9
Checking engine oil level ............................................ 8-9
Changing engine oil and oil filter .......................... 8-10
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) ......................... 8-12
Brake fluid ........................................................................\
. 8-12
Window washer fluid ..................................................... 8-13
12-volt battery ................................................................. 8-14
Checking battery fluid level .................................... 8-15
Jump starting .............................................................. 8-15
Spark plugs ........................................................................\
8-15 Replacing spark plugs ............................................... 8-16
Air cleaner ........................................................................\
.. 8-16 Windshield wiper blades ............................................... 8-17
Cleaning ...................................................................... 8-17
Replacing .................................................................... 8-18
Brakes ........................................................................\
........ 8-18 Self-adjusting brakes .............................................. 8-18
Brake pad wear warning ....................................... 8-18
Fuses ........................................................................\
.......... 8-19 Engine compartment and trunk ........................... 8-19
Passenger compartment ....................................... 8-20
Intelligent Key battery replacement .......................... 8-21
Lights ........................................................................\
........ 8-24 Headlights .................................................................. 8-25
Exterior and interior lights .................................... 8-25
Wheels and tires ............................................................ 8-28 Tire pressure ............................................................. 8-28
Tire labeling ............................................................... 8-32
Types of tires ........................................................... 8-34
Tire chains .................................................................. 8-35
Changing wheels and tires .................................... 8-36
Jacking up the vehicle and replacing tires ........ 8-39

8-12Do-it-yourself
When checking or replacement is required,
we recommend an INFINITI retailer for
servicing.
CAUTION
.It is recommended you use only
Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF. Do
not mix with other fluids.
. Using automatic transmission fluid
(ATF) other than Genuine NISSAN
Matic S ATF may cause deterioration
in driveability and automatic trans-
mission durability, and may damage
the automatic transmission. Damage
caused by the use of fluid other than
as recommended is not covered by
the INFINITI new vehicle limited
warranty. For further brake fluid information, see
“Capacities and recommended fluids/lubri-
cants” (P.10-2) of this manual.
WARNING
.
Use only new fluid from a sealed
container. Old, inferior or contami-
nated fluid may damage the brake
system. The use of improper fluids
can damage the brake system and
affect the vehicle’s stopping ability.
. Clean the filler cap before removing.
. Brake fluid is poisonous and should
be stored carefully in marked con-
tainers out of the reach of children.
CAUTION
Do not spill the fluid on painted surfaces.
This will damage the paint. If fluid is
spilled, wash the surface with water.
JVM0053X
Check the fluid level in the reservoir. If the
fluid is below the MIN lineor the brake
warning light comes on, add Genuine
NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or
equivalent DOT 3fluid up to the MAX line
.
If fluid must be added frequently, the system
should be checked. It is recommended you
visit an INFINITI retailer for this service.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID (ATF) BRAKE FLUID

Under some driving or climate conditions,
occasional brake squeak, squeal or other
noise may be heard. Occasional brake noise
during light to moderate stops is normal and
does not affect the function or performance
of the brake system.
Proper brake inspection intervals should be
followed.For additional information, see the
maintenance schedule shown in the “9.
Maintenance and schedules” section.
JVM0255X
Engine compartment
JVM0322X
Trunk
ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND
TRUNK
WARNING
Never use a fuse of a higher or lower
amperage rating than that specified on
the fuse box cover. This could damage
the electrical system or electronic con-
trol units or cause a fire.
If any electrical equipment does not operate,
check for an open fuse.
1. Be sure the ignition switch is pushed to the OFF or LOCK position and the
headlight switch is turned to OFF.
2. Open the engine hood or trunk lid and to access the cover on the fuse/fusible link
holder.
3. Remove the fuse/fusible link holder cover.
4. Remove the fuse with the fuse puller.
Do-it-yourself8-19
FUSES

8-38Do-it-yourself
tire pressure to be displayed in the vehicle
information display while the vehicle is
driven. Depending on the radio wave circum-
stance, tire pressure may not correctly be
displayed.
WARNING
.The use of tires other than those
recommended or the mixed use of
tires of different brands, construc-
tion (bias, bias-belted, radial or run-
flat), or tread patterns can adversely
affect the ride, braking, handling,
ground clearance, body-to-tire clear-
ance, tire chain clearance, speed-
ometer calibration, headlight aim
and bumper height. Some of these
effects may lead to accidents and
could result in serious personal injury.
. For Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) models,
if your vehicle was originally
equipped with 4 tires that were the
same size and you are only replacing
2 of the 4 tires, install the new tires
on the rear axle. Placing new tires on
the front axle may cause loss of
vehicle control in some driving condi-
tions and cause an accident and
personal injury. .
If the wheels are changed for any
reason, always replace with wheels
which have the same off-set dimen-
sion. Wheels of a different off-set
could cause premature tire wear,
degrade vehicle handling character-
istics and/or interference with the
brake discs/drums. Such interference
can lead to decreased braking effi-
ciency and/or early brake pad/shoe
wear. See “Wheels and tires” (P.10-
9) of this manual for wheel off-set
dimensions.
. When a wheel is replaced, the TPMS
will not function and the low tire
pressure warning light will flash for
approximately 1 minute. The light will
remain on after 1 minute. Have your
tires replaced and/or TPMS system
reset as soon as possible. It is recom-
mended you visit an INFINITI retailer
for these services.
. Replacing tires with those not origin-
ally specified by INFINITI could affect
the proper operation of the TPMS.
. The TPMS sensor may be damaged if
it is not handled correctly. Be careful
when handling the TPMS sensor.
. When replacing the TPMS sensor, the
ID registration may be required. It is
recommended you contact an INFINITI retailer for ID registration.
. Do not use a valve stem cap that is
not specified by INFINITI. The valve
stem cap may become stuck.
. Be sure that the valve stem caps are
correctly fitted. Otherwise the valve
may be clogged up with dirt and
cause a malfunction or loss of pres-
sure.
. Do not install a damaged or deformed
wheel or tire even if it has been
repaired. Such wheels or tires could
have structural damage and could fail
without warning.
. The use of retread tire is not recom-
mended.
. For additional information regarding
tires, refer to “Important Tire Safety
Information” (US) or “Tire Safety
Information” (Canada) in the War-
ranty Information Booklet.