2020 INFINITI QX50 ABS

DIRECT ADAPTIVE STEERING®
TYPE
WARNING
∙ When the power steering warning lightilluminates with the engine running, the
power assist for the steering will cease
operation. You will still have control of
the vehicle, but the steering will be
harder to operate.
∙ If wheels or tires other than the INFINITI recommended ones are used, Direct
Adaptive Steering® may not operate
properly and the power steering warning
light may illuminate.
∙ Do not modify the vehicle’s 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, Direct Adaptive Steering may not
operate properly and the power steering
warning light may illuminate.
∙ Do not modify the vehicle’s steering. If steering parts are not INFINITI recom-
mended for your vehicle or are extremely
deteriorated, Direct Adaptive Steering
may not operate properly and the power
steering warning light may illuminate. ∙ If the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
OFF indicator light illuminates, the
power steering warning light may also il-
luminate at the same time. Stop the ve-
hicle in a safe location, turn the engine off
and restart the engine. If the power
steering warning light continues to illu-
minate, have the system checked. It is
recommended that you visit an INFINITI
retailer for this service. For additional in-
formation, refer to “Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) system” in this section.
CAUTION
∙ Do not place the ignition switch in the ONposition while the steering wheel or a tire
is removed.
∙ Do not turn the steering wheel as much as possible while the ignition switch is any
position other than the ON position.
∙ Installing an accessory on the steering wheel, or changing the steering wheel,
may reduce the steering performance.
Direct Adaptive Steering is designed to con-
trol the steering force and steering angle ac-
cording to the vehicle speed and amount of
turning of the steering wheel. The steering characteristic can be selected
using the INFINITI Drive Mode Selector. For
additional information, refer to “INFINITI
Drive Mode Selector” in this section.
If the VDC system is turned off, the setting of
steering becomes Standard mode.
If the power steering warning light illumi-
nates while the engine is running, it may indi-
cate that Direct Adaptive Steering is not
functioning properly and may need servicing.
Have the system checked. It is recommended
that you visit an INFINITI retailer for this
service. For additional information, refer to
“Power steering warning light” in the “Instru-
ments and Controls” section of the manual.
When the power steering warning light illu-
minates with the engine running, the power
assist for the steering will cease operation.
You will still have control of the vehicle. How-
ever, greater steering effort will be needed,
especially in sharp turns and at low speeds.
If Direct Adaptive Steering is malfunctioning,
the steering wheel may turn slightly even
when driving on a straight road.
5-178Starting and driving

The brake system has two separate hydraulic
circuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will
still have braking at two wheels.
BRAKE PRECAUTIONS
Vacuum assisted brakes
The brake booster aids braking by using en-
gine vacuum. If the engine stops, you can
stop the vehicle by depressing the brake
pedal. However, greater foot pressure on the
brake pedal will be required to stop the ve-
hicle and stopping distance will be longer.
Using the brakes
Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal
while driving. This will overheat the brakes,
wear out the brake pads faster, and reduce
gas mileage.
To help reduce brake wear and to prevent the
brakes from overheating, reduce speed and
downshift to a lower gear before going down
a slope or long grade. Overheated brakes
may reduce braking performance and could
result in loss of vehicle control.
WARNING
∙ While driving on a slippery surface, becareful when braking, accelerating or
downshifting. Abrupt braking or acceler-
ating 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 cor-
rectly.
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 rotors are replaced, in order to
assure the best brake performance. This procedure is described in the INFINITI
Service 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 techniques.
It can help maintain vehicle control dur-
ing braking on slippery surfaces. Remem-
ber that stopping distances on slippery
surfaces will be longer than on normal
surfaces even with ABS. Stopping dis-
tances 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 speci- fied size of tires on all four wheels.
BRAKE SYSTEM
5-180Starting and driving

– When installing a spare tire, make surethat it is the proper size and type as
specified on the Tire and Loading In-
formation label. For additional infor-
mation, refer to “Tire and Loading In-
formation label” in the “Technical and
consumer information” section of this
manual.
– For additional information, refer to “Wheels and tires” in the “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
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 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
Anti-lock Braking System will operate to pre-
vent 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 Anti-lock Braking System (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 op-
erates normally but without anti-lock assis-
tance.
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 Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) operates
at speeds above3-6mph(5-10km/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 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 prop-
erly. However, the pulsation may indicate
that road conditions are hazardous and extra
care is required while driving.
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 driv-
er’s responsibility to stay alert, drive safely
and be in control of the vehicle at all times.
Starting and driving5-181

∙ Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension. Ifsuspension parts such as shock absorb-
ers, struts, springs, stabilizer bars, bush-
ings and wheels are not INFINITI recom-
mended for your vehicle or are extremely
deteriorated, the VDC system may not
operate properly. This could adversely
affect vehicle handling performance, and
the
indicator light may flash or
both the
andindicator lights
may illuminate.
∙ If brake related parts such as brake pads, rotors and calipers are not INFINITI rec-
ommended or are extremely deterio-
rated, the VDC system may not operate
properly and both the
and
the
indicator lights may illuminate.
∙ If engine control related parts are not INFINITI recommended or are extremely
deteriorated, both the
andindicator lights may illuminate. ∙ When driving on extremely inclined sur-
faces such as higher banked corners, the
VDC system may not operate properly
and the
indicator light 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 light may flash or
both the
andindicator lights
may illuminate. This is not a malfunction.
Restart the engine after 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 light 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 cov-
ered road.
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 thedriver maintain controllability 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.
∙ Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension. If suspension parts such as shock absorb-
ers, struts, springs, stabilizer bars, bush-
ings and wheels are not INFINITI recom-
mended for your vehicle or are extremely
deteriorated, the VDC system may not
operate properly. This could adversely
affect vehicle handling performance, and
the
indicator light may flash or
both the
andindicator lights
may illuminate.
Starting and driving5-183

LEATHER CLEANING KIT (if so
equipped)
Spray onto leather cleaning cloth, then gently
wipe the surface of the leather. Use a dry
towel to absorb any excess moisture.
Clean light-colored leather more frequently
because soiling on such surfaces is much
more visible.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instruc-
tions supplied with the leather cleaning kit.
You can obtain the leather cleaning kit from
an INFINITI retailer or other authorized repair
shop.
CAUTION
Do not leave the leather cleaning kit inside
the vehicle. The leather cleaning kit left in a
closed vehicle can become very hot.
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 sur-
face.
∙ Liquid-type air fresheners typically clip on the vents. These products can cause im-
mediate damage and discoloration when
spilled on interior surfaces.
Carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s
instructions before using the air fresheners.
POWER MOONROOF (if so
equipped)
The sunshade is made from a tricot material.
CAUTION
To help prevent damaging the moonroof
while cleaning:
∙ Do not rub the material with a cloth. Do- ing so can damage the surface of the ma-
terial or cause a stain to spread.
∙ Never use benzine, thinner or any similar chemical to clean the sunshade. This may
discolor the moonroof 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 possible and then let air dry.
∙ Clean oil based stains by patting the sur- face with a clean soft cloth dampened 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

WARNING
∙ Operating the engine with the air cleanerfilter off can cause you or others to be
burned. The air cleaner filter not only
cleans the intake air, it also stops the
flame if the engine backfires. If the air
cleaner is not installed and the engine
backfires, you could be burned. Never
drive with the air cleaner filter off. Be
cautious working on the engine when the
air cleaner is off. ∙ Never pour fuel into the throttle body or
attempt to start the engine with the air
cleaner removed. Doing so could result in
serious injury.
To remove the filter from the air cleaner, push
the tabs
Aand pull the cover upward.
The viscous paper type filter element should
not be cleaned and reused. Replace it accord-
ing to the maintenance log shown in the
“Maintenance and schedules” section of this
manual.
When replacing the air filter, wipe the inside
of the air cleaner housing and the cover with
a damp cloth.
NOTE:
After installing a new air cleaner filter, make
sure the air cleaner cover is seated in the
housing and latch the clips
A.
IN-CABIN MICROFILTER
The in-cabin microfilter restricts the entry of
airborne dust and pollen particles and re-
duces some objectionable outside odors. The
filter is located behind the glove box. For
additional information on change intervals,
refer to the "Maintenance and schedules"
section of this manual.
If replacement is required, it is recommended
that you visit an INFINITI retailer for this
service.
LDI3165
AIR CLEANER
Do-it-yourself8-15

ENGINE COMPARTMENT
WARNING
Never use a fuse of higher or lower amper-
age rating than that specified on the fuse
box cover. This could damage the electrical
system or electronic control units or cause a
fire.If any electrical equipment does not come on,
check for an open fuse.
1. Be sure the ignition switch and the head- light switch are OFF.
2. Open the engine hood.
3. Remove the fuse box cover by pushing the tabs and lifting the cover up.
4. Remove the fuse with the fuse puller. The fuse puller is located in the fuse
block in the passenger compartment.
5. If the fuse is open
A, replace it with a
new fuse
B.
6. If a new fuse also opens, have the elec- trical system checked and repaired. It is
recommended that you visit an INFINITI
retailer for this service.
Fusible links
If the electrical equipment does not operate
and fuses are in good condition, check the
fusible links. If any of these fusible links are
melted, replace with only Genuine NISSAN
parts.
LDI3174LDI3200
Do-it-yourself8-19

∙ Load the trailer so approximately 60% ofthe trailer load is in the front half and
40% is in the back half. Also make sure
the load is balanced side to side.
∙ Check your hitch, trailer tire pressure, ve- hicle tire pressure, trailer light operation,
and trailer wheel lug nuts every time you
attach a trailer to the vehicle.
∙ Be certain your rearview mirrors conform to all federal, state or local regulations. If
not, install any mirrors required for tow-
ing before driving the vehicle.
∙ Determine the overall height of the ve- hicle and trailer so the required clearance
is known.
Trailer towing tips
In order to gain skill and an understanding of
the vehicle’s behavior, you should practice
turning, stopping and backing up in an area
which is free from traffic. Steering stability
and braking performance will be somewhat
different than under normal driving condi-
tions.
∙ Always secure items in the trailer to pre- vent load shift while driving. ∙ Lock the trailer hitch coupler with a pin or
lock to prevent the coupler from inadver-
tently becoming unlatched.
∙ Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops.
∙ Avoid sharp turns or lane changes.
∙ Always drive your vehicle at a moderate speed.
∙ When backing up, hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Move your
hand in the direction in which you want
the trailer to go. Make small corrections
and back up slowly. If possible, have
someone guide you when you are back-
ing up.
Always block the wheels on both vehicle and
trailer when parking. Parking on a slope is not
recommended; however, if you must do so:
CAUTION
If you move the shift selector to the P
(Park) position before blocking the wheels
and applying the parking brake, transmis-
sion damage could occur. 1. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
2. Have someone place blocks on the
downhill side of the vehicle and trailer
wheels.
3. After the wheel blocks are in place, slowly release the brake pedal until the
blocks absorb the vehicle load.
4. Apply the parking brake.
5. Shift the transmission into P (Park).
6. Turn off the engine.
To drive away: 1. Start the vehicle.
2. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
3. Shift the transmission into gear.
4. Release the parking brake.
5. Drive slowly until the vehicle and trailer are clear from the blocks.
6. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
7. Have someone retrieve and store the blocks.
10-26Technical and consumer information