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7-4Appearance and care
CHROME PARTS
Clean chrome parts regularly with a non-
abrasive chrome polish to maintain the
finish.
TIRE DRESSING
INFINITI does not recommend the use of tire
dressings. Tire manufacturers apply a coat-
ing to the tires to help reduce discoloration
of the rubber. If a tire dressing is applied to
the tires, it may react with the coating and
form a compound. This compound may come
off the tire while driving and stain the vehicle
paint.
If you choose to use a tire dressing, take the
following precautions:
.Use a water-based tire dressing. The
coating on the tire dissolves more easily
with an oil-based tire dressing.
. Apply a light coat of tire dressing to help
prevent it from entering the tire tread/
grooves (where it would be difficult to
remove).
. Wipe off excess tire dressing using a dry
towel. Make sure the tire dressing is
completely removed from the tire tread/
grooves.
. Allow the tire dressing to dry as recom-
mended by tire dressing manufacturer.
Occasionally remove loose dust from the
interior trim, plastic parts and seats using a
vacuum cleaner or soft bristled brush. Wipe
the vinyl and leather surfaces with a clean,
soft cloth dampened in mild soap solution,
then wipe clean with a dry soft cloth.
Regular care and cleaning is required in order
to maintain the appearance of the leather.
Before using any fabric protector, read the
manufacturer’s recommendations. Some
fabric protectors contain chemicals that
may stain or bleach the seat material.
Use a cloth dampened only with water, to
clean the meter and gauge lens.
WARNING
Do not use water or acidic cleaners (hot
steam cleaners) on the seat. This can
damage the seat or occupant classifica-
tion sensors. This can also affect the
operation of the air bag system and
result in serious personal injury.
CAUTION
. Never use benzine, thinner, or any
similar material. .
For cleaning, use a soft cloth, dam-
pened with water. Never use a rough
cloth, alcohol, benzine, thinner or any
kind of solvent or paper towel with a
chemical cleaning agent. They will
scratch or cause discoloration to the
lens.
. Do not spray any liquid such as water
on the meter lens. Spraying liquid
may cause the system to malfunction.
. Small dirt particles can be abrasive
and damaging to the leather surfaces
and should be removed promptly. Do
not use saddle soap, car waxes,
polishes, oils, cleaning fluids, sol-
vents, detergents or ammonia-based
cleaners as they may damage the
leather’s natural finish.
. Do not clean the interior or trunk
using water. If water contacts the
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, it may
cause a short circuit and damage the
battery.
. Only use fabric protectors approved
by INFINITI.
. Do not use glass or plastic cleaner on
meter or gauge lens covers. It may
damage the lens cover.
CLEANING INTERIOR
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JVO0019X
LITHIUM-ION (Li-ion) BATTERY
AIR VENT
CAUTION
.Do not place objects over or into the
air vent. The Li-ion battery may
overheat and be damaged.
. Do not allow any liquid to get on or in
the air vent. It may cause a short
circuit and damage the Li-ion bat-
tery.
. Clean the air vent regularly to pre-
vent the Li-ion battery from over- heating.
Regularly clean the air vent
with a dry
cloth to prevent the vent from being blocked.
AIR FRESHENERS
Most air fresheners use a solvent that could
affect the vehicle interior. If you use an air
freshener, take the following precautions:
. Hanging-type air fresheners can cause
permanent discoloration when they con-
tact vehicle interior surfaces. Place the
air freshener in a location that allows it
to hang free and not contact an interior
surface.
. Liquid-type air fresheners typically clip
on the vents. These products can cause
immediate damage and discoloration
when spilled on interior surfaces.
Carefully read and follow the manufac-
turer’s instructions before using air fresh-
eners.
MOONROOF SUNSHADE
The moonroof sunshade is made from a
suede material.
Clean the sunshade material as follows:
CAUTION
To help prevent damaging the sunshade
while cleaning:
. Do not rub the material with a cloth.
Doing so can damage the surface of
the material or can use a stain to
spread.
. Never use benzine, thinner or any
similar chemical to clean the suede.
This may discolor the sunshade and
damage the surface.
. Clean water based stains by patting
the surface with a clean soft cloth
dampened in warm water. Press a
clean dry cloth onto the surface to
remove as much dampness as possi-
ble and then let air dry.
. Clean oil based stains by patting the
surface with a clean soft cloth dam-
pened in warm water. Press a clean
dry cloth onto the surface to remove
as much dampness as possible and
then let air dry.
Appearance and care7-5
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7-6Appearance and care
FLOOR MATS
WARNING
To avoid potential pedal interference
that may result in a collision, injury or
death:
.NEVER place a floor mat on top of
another floor mat in the driver front
position or install them upside down
or backwards.
. It is recommended that you use only
genuine INFINITI floor mats specifi-
cally designed for use in your vehicle
model and model year. See your
INFINITI retailer for more informa-
tion.
. Properly position the mats in the
floorwell using the floor mat posi-
tioning hook. See “Floor mat installa-
tion” (P.7-6).
. Make sure the floor mat does not
interfere with pedal operation.
. Periodically check the floor mats to
make sure they are properly installed.
. After cleaning the vehicle interior,
check the floor mats to make sure
they are properly installed. The use of genuine INFINITI floor mats can
extend the life of your vehicle carpet and
make it easier to clean the interior. Mats
should be maintained with regular cleaning
and replaced if they become excessively
worn.
SAI0050
Floor mat installation
Your vehicle is equipped with floor mat
positioning hook(s). The number and shape
of the floor mat positioning hook(s) for each
seating position varies depending on the
vehicle.
When installing genuine INFINITI floor mats,
follow the installation instructions provided
with the floor mat and the following:
1. Position the floor mat in the floorwell so
that the mat grommet holes are aligned
with the hook(s).
2. Secure the grommet holes into the hook (s) and ensure that the floor mat is
properly positioned.
Page 372 of 458
3. Make sure the floor mat does notinterfere with pedal operation. With the
ignition in the OFF position and the shift
lever in the P (Park) position, fully apply
and release all pedals. The floor mat
must not interfere with pedal operation
or prevent the pedal from returning to its
normal position. It is recommended you
see an INFINITI retailer for details about
installing the floor mats in your vehicle.
SAI0051
Positioning hooks
The illustration shows the location of the
floor mat positioning hooks.
SEAT BELTS
The seat belts can be cleaned by wiping
them with a sponge dampened in a mild soap
solution. Allow the belts to dry completely
before using them.
See “Seat belts” (P.1-9).
WARNING
Do not allow wet seat belts to roll up in
the retractor. NEVER use bleach, dye, or
chemical solvents to clean the seat belts, since these materials may severely
weaken the seat belt webbing.
Appearance and care7-7
Page 373 of 458

7-8Appearance and care
MOST COMMON FACTORS
CONTRIBUTING TO VEHICLE
CORROSION
.The accumulation of moisture-retaining
dirt and debris in body panel sections,
cavities, and other areas.
. Damage to paint and other protective
coatings caused by gravel and stone
chips or minor traffic accidents.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS IN-
FLUENCE THE RATE OF COR-
ROSION
Moisture
Accumulation of sand, dirt and water on the
vehicle body underside can accelerate corro-
sion. Wet floor coverings will not dry
completely inside the vehicle, and should be
removed for drying to avoid floor panel
corrosion.
Relative humidity
Corrosion will be accelerated in areas of high
relative humidity, especially those areas
where the temperatures stay above freezing
where atmospheric pollution exists, or where
road salt is used.
Temperature
A temperature increase will accelerate the
rate of corrosion to those parts which are
not well ventilated.
Air pollution
Industrial pollution, the presence of salt in
the air in coastal areas, or heavy road salt
use will accelerate the corrosion process.
Road salt will also accelerate the disintegra-
tion of paint surfaces.
TO PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE
FROM CORROSION
. Wash and wax your vehicle often to keep
the vehicle clean.
. Always check for minor damage to the
paint and repair it as soon as possible.
. Keep drain holes at the bottom of the
doors open to avoid water accumulation.
. Check the underbody for accumulation of
sand, dirt or salt. If present, wash with
water as soon as possible.
CAUTION
. NEVER remove dirt, sand or other
debris from the passenger compart-
ment by washing it out with a hose.
Remove dirt with a vacuum cleaner. .
Never allow water or other liquids to
come in contact with electronic com-
ponents inside the vehicle as this may
damage them.
Chemicals used for road surface deicing are
extremely corrosive. They accelerate corro-
sion and deterioration of underbody compo-
nents such as the exhaust system, fuel and
brake lines, brake cables, floor pan and
fenders.
In winter, the underbody must be cleaned
periodically.
For additional protection against rust and
corrosion, which may be required in some
areas, it is recommended you consult an
INFINITI retailer.
CORROSION PROTECTION
Page 374 of 458

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............................................ 8-6
Inverter cooling system.................................................... 8-7 Checking inverter coolant level ................................ 8-8
Changing inverter coolant.......................................... 8-8
Engine oil.....................................................................\
......... 8-8
Checking engine oil level ............................................ 8-8
Changing engine oil and filter................................... 8-9
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).......................... 8-11
Power steering fluid........................................................ 8-11
Brake fluid...................................................................\
....... 8-12 Brake fluid .................................................................... 8-12
Window washer fluid...................................................... 8-12
12-volt battery ................................................................. 8-13 Checking battery fluid level..................................... 8-14
Jump starting............................................................... 8-15
Spark plugs ........................................................................\
8-15 Replacing spark plugs................................................ 8-15 Air cleaner........................................................................\
.. 8-16
Windshield wiper blades ............................................... 8-17
Cleaning....................................................................... 8-17
Replacing..................................................................... 8-17
Brakes..................................................................\
............... 8-18 Self-adjusting brakes............................................... 8-18
Brake pad wear warning........................................ 8-18
Fuses...................................................................\
................ 8-19 Engine compartment or trunk room ................... 8-19
Passenger compartment ....................................... 8-20
Intelligent Key battery replacement........................... 8-21
Lights........................................................................\
.......... 8-23 Headlights.................................................................. 8-24
Exterior and interior lights.................................... 8-24
Wheels and tires.............................................................. 8-26 Tire pressure .............................................................. 8-26
Tire labeling............................................................... 8-30
Types of tires............................................................. 8-32
Tire chains................................................................... 8-32
Changing wheels and tires..................................... 8-33
Page 375 of 458

8-2Do-it-yourself
When performing any inspection or main-
tenance work on your vehicle, always take
care to prevent serious accidental injury to
yourself or damage to the vehicle. The
following are general precautions which
should be closely observed.
WARNING
.This vehicle has high voltage DC and
AC systems as well as a 12-volt
system. DC and AC high voltage is
very dangerous and can cause severe
burns and electric shock that may
result in serious injury or death.
. Never touch, disassemble, remove or
replace the high voltage parts, har-
nesses and their connectors. High
voltage cables are orange. Touching,
disassembling, removing or replacing
those parts and harnesses can cause
severe burns or electric shock that
may result in serious injury or death.
. Never try to remove the service plug
located in the trunk room. The service
plug is used only when the vehicle is
serviced by trained technicians wear-
ing personal protection equipment
and is part of the high voltage
system. Touching the service plug
can cause severe burns or electric shock that may result in serious injury
or death.
. The INFINITI Direct Response Hy-
brid
®System uses high voltage up to
408 volts. The system can be hot
while and after starting. Be careful of
both the high voltage and the high
temperature. Obey the caution labels
attached to the vehicle.
. Park the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the
vehicle from moving. Move the shift
lever to P (Park).
. Be sure the ignition switch is in the
OFF or LOCK position when per-
forming any parts replacement or
repairs.
. The engine can start at any time
without warning when the hybrid
system is in the READY to drive
mode. If you must work with the
Hybrid System in the READY to drive
mode, keep your hands, clothing, hair
and tools away from fans, belts and
any other parts that can move.
. It is advisable to secure or remove
any loose clothing and remove any
jewelry, such as rings, watches, etc.
before working on your vehicle. .
Always wear eye protection when-
ever you work on your vehicle.
. Your vehicle is equipped with an
automatic engine cooling fan. It may
come on at any time without warn-
ing, even if the ignition key is in the
OFF position and the engine is not
running. To avoid injury, always dis-
connect the negative battery cable
before working near the fan.
. If you must run the engine in an
enclosed space such as a garage, be
sure there is proper ventilation for
exhaust gases to escape.
. Never get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is
necessary to work under the vehicle,
support it with safety stands.
. Keep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from the fuel tank and
battery.
CAUTION
.Do not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the hybrid system
off and wait until it cools down.
. Avoid direct contact with used en-
gine oil and coolant. Improperly dis-
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Page 376 of 458

posed engine oil, coolant, and/or
other vehicle fluids can damage the
environment. Always conform to lo-
cal regulations for disposal of vehicle
fluid.
. Never leave the engine or the trans-
mission related component harness
connector disconnected while the
ignition switch is in the ON position.
. Never connect or disconnect the
battery or any transistorized compo-
nent while the ignition switch is in the
ON position.
This “8. Do-it-yourself” section gives in-
structions regarding only those items which
are relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A genuine INFINITI Service Manual is also
available. (See “Owner’s Manual/Service
Manual order information” (P.10-20).)
You should be aware that incomplete or
improper servicing may result in operating
difficulties or excessive emissions, and could
affect your warranty coverage. If in doubt
about any servicing, it is recommended you
have it done by an INFINITI retailer.
JVM0063X
VQ35HR ENGINE
To remove the engine compartment cover,
unhook the clips located as illustrated.
Do-it-yourself8-3
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS