engine coolant INFINITI QX50 2023 User Guide
Page 433 of 548
A Genuine INFINITI service manual is also
available. For additional information, see
“Owner’s Manual/Service Manual order in-
formation” (P. 10-37).
You should be aware that incomplete or im-
proper servicing may result in operating diffi-
culties or excessive emissions, and could af-
fect warranty coverage.If in doubt about any
servicing, it is recommended that you have it
done by an INFINITI retailer.
2.0L 4 cylinder (KR20DDET engine model)
1. Engine coolant reservoir
2. Drive belt location
3. Air cleaner 4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Battery
6. Fuse/Fusible link box
7. Windshield-washer fluid reservoir
LDI3173
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
Do-it-yourself8-3
Page 434 of 548
8. Engine oil filler cap
9. Engine oil dipstick
NOTE:
Your vehicle may not be equipped with
an engine cover.
The engine cooling system is filled at the
factory with a pre-diluted mixture of 50%
Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/
Coolant (blue) and 50% water to provide
year-round antifreeze and coolant protec-
tion. The antifreeze solution contains rust
and corrosion inhibitors. Additional engine
cooling system additives are not necessary.
WARNING
• Never remove the coolant reservoir cap
when the engine is hot. Wait until the
engine and radiator cool down. Serious
burns could be caused by high pressure
fluid escaping from the radiator. For ad-
ditional information on precautions, see
“If your vehicle overheats” (P. 6-7).
• The coolant reservoir is equipped with a
pressure type coolant reservoir cap. To
prevent engine damage, use only a
Genuine NISSAN coolant reservoir cap.
CAUTION
• Never use any cooling system additives
such as radiator sealer. Additives may
clog the cooling system and cause dam-
age to the engine, transmission and/or
cooling system.
• When adding or replacing coolant, be
sure to use only Genuine NISSAN Long
Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or
equivalent. Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) is pre-diluted
to provide antifreeze protection to -34°
F (-37° C). If additional freeze protection
is needed due to weather where you op-
erate your vehicle, add Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue)
concentrate following the directions on
the container. If an equivalent coolant
other than Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) is used, fol-
low the coolant manufacturer’s instruc-
tions to maintain minimum antifreeze
protection to -34° F (-37° C). The use of
other types of coolant solutions other
than Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent
may damage the engine cooling system.
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
8-4Do-it-yourself
Page 435 of 548
•The life expectancy of the factory-fill
coolant is 105,000 miles (168,000 km)
or 7 years. Mixing any other type of cool-
ant other than Genuine NISSAN Long
Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) (or
equivalent coolant), including Genuine
NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant
(green), or the use of non-distilled water
may reduce the life expectancy of the
factory-fill coolant. For additional infor-
mation, see the “Maintenance and
schedules” section of this manual.
CHECKING ENGINE COOLANT
LEVEL
Check the coolant level in the reservoir when
the engine is cold. If the coolant level is below
the MIN level
OB, add coolant to the MAX
level
OA.
This vehicle contains Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue). The life
expectancy of the factory-fill coolant is
105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years.
Mixing any other type of coolant or the use of
non-distilled water will reduce the life expec- tancy of the factory-fill coolant. For addi-
tional information, see the “Maintenance and
schedules” section of this manual.
If the cooling system frequently requires
coolant, have it checked. It is recommended
that you visit an INFINITI retailer for this
service.
For additional information on the location of
the engine coolant reservoir, see “Engine
compartment check locations” (P. 8-3).
CHANGING ENGINE COOLANT
An INFINITI retailer can change the engine
coolant. The service procedure can be found
in the INFINITI Service Manual.
Improper servicing can result in reduced
heater performance and engine overheating.
WARNING
• To avoid the danger of being scalded,
never change the coolant when the en-
gine is hot.
• Never remove the coolant reservoir cap
when the engine is hot. Serious burns
could be caused by high pressure fluid
escaping from the radiator.
LDI3157
Do-it-yourself8-5
Page 436 of 548
•Avoid direct skin contact with used cool-
ant. If skin contact is made, wash thor-
oughly with soap or hand cleaner as soon
as possible.
• Keep coolant out of the reach of children
and pets.
Engine coolant must be disposed of properly.
Check your local regulations.
CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reaches operating temperature.
3. Turn off the engine. Wait more than 10
minutes for the oil to drain back into the
oil pan.
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Reinsert it all the way. 5. Remove the dipstick again and check the
oil level. It should be between the H (High)
and L (Low) marksOB. This is the normal
operating oil level range. If the oil level is
below the L (Low) mark
OA, remove the oil
filler cap and pour recommended oil
through the opening. Do not fill oil level
above H (High) mark
OC.
6. Recheck the oil level with the dipstick.
It is normal to add some oil between oil main-
tenance intervals or during the break-in pe-
riod, depending on the severity of operating
conditions.
LDI3158LDI0371
ENGINE OIL
8-6Do-it-yourself
Page 441 of 548
CAUTION
Do not spill the fluid on any painted sur-
faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid is
spilled, immediately wash the surface with
water.
Check the fluid level in the reservoir. If the
brake fluid is below the MIN line
OB, the
brake warning light will illuminate. Add brake
fluid up to the MAX line
OA. For additional
information on the recommended type of
brake fluid, see “Recommended fluids/
lubricants and capacities” (P. 10-2).
If the brake fluid must be added frequently,
the brake system should be thoroughly
checked. It is recommended that you visit an
INFINITI retailer for this service.
For additional information on the location of
the brake fluid reservoir, see “Engine com-
partment check locations” (P. 8-3).
WINDSHIELD-WASHER FLUID
RESERVOIR
Fill the windshield-washer fluid reservoir pe-
riodically. Add windshield-washer fluid when
the “Low Washer Fluid” warning message
shows on the vehicle information display.
To fill the windshield-washer fluid reservoir,
lift the cap off the reservoir and pour the
windshield-washer fluid into the reservoir
opening.
Add a washer solvent to the washer for bet-
ter cleaning. In the winter season, add a windshield-washer antifreeze. Follow the
manufacturer's instructions for the mixture
ratio.
Refill the reservoir more frequently when
driving conditions require an increased
amount of windshield-washer fluid.
Recommended fluid is Genuine NISSAN
Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner &
Antifreeze or equivalent.
CAUTION
• Do not substitute engine antifreeze
coolant for windshield-washer fluid.
This may result in damage to the paint.
• Do not fill the windshield-washer fluid
reservoir with washer fluid concentrates
at full strength. Some methyl alcohol
based washer fluid concentrates may
permanently stain the grille if spilled
while filling the windshield-washer fluid
reservoir.
• Pre-mix washer fluid concentrates with
water to the manufacturer's recom-
mended levels before pouring the fluid
into the windshield-washer fluid reser-
voir. Do not use the windshield-washer
fluid reservoir to mix the washer fluid
concentrate and water.
LDI3162
WINDSHIELD-WASHER FLUID
Do-it-yourself8-11
Page 476 of 548
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) P
(Park) position mechanism:On a fairly steep
hill check that the vehicle is held securely with
the shift position in the P (Park) position
without applying any brakes.
Parking brake: Check the parking brake op-
eration regularly. The vehicle should be se-
curely held on a fairly steep hill with only the
parking brake applied. If the parking brake
does not securely hold the vehicle, it is recom-
mended that you visit an INFINITI retailer for
service.
Seat belts: Check that all parts of the seat
belt system (for example, buckles, anchors,
adjusters and retractors) operate properly
and smoothly, and are installed securely.
Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying,
wear or damage.
Seats: Check seat position controls such as
seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc., to en-
sure they operate smoothly and all latches
lock securely in every position. Check that the
head restraints/headrests move up and
down smoothly and the locks (if so equipped)
hold securely in all latched positions.
Steering wheel: Check for changes in the
steering system, such as excessive free play,
hard steering or strange noises. Warning lights and chimes:
Make sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating
properly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly
and in sufficient quantity when operating the
heater or air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and
that the wipers do not streak.
Under the hood and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically (for example, each time
you check the engine oil or refuel).
Battery (for maintenance free batteries)*:
This vehicle is equipped with a sealed main-
tenance free battery. It is recommended that
you visit an INFINITI retailer for this service.
NOTE:Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery discharge
and potential no-start conditions such as:
1. Installation or extended use of electronic accessories that consume battery power
when the engine is not running (Phone
chargers, GPS, DVD players, etc.). 2. Vehicle is not driven regularly and/or
only driven short distances.
In these cases, the battery may need to be
charged to maintain battery health.
Brake fluid level*: Make sure that the brake
fluid level is between the MAX and MIN lines
on the reservoir.
Engine coolant level*: Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belt*: Make sure the drive belt is
not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level spot and turning off the
engine. Wait more than 15 minutes for the oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
Exhaust system: Make sure there are no
loose supports, cracks or holes. If the sound
of the exhaust seems unusual or there is a
smell of exhaust fumes, immediately have the
exhaust system inspected. It is recommended
that you visit an INFINITI retailer for this
service. For additional information, see “Ex-
haust gas (carbon monoxide)” (P. 5-4).
Fluid leaks: Check under the vehicle for fuel,
oil, water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle
has been parked for a while. Water dripping
from the air conditioner after use is normal.
9-4Maintenance and schedules
Page 477 of 548
If you should notice any leaks or if fuel fumes
are evident, check for the cause and have it
corrected immediately.
Radiator and hoses:Check the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,
etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure
the hoses have no cracks, deformation, rot or
loose connections.
Underbody: The underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances, oth-
erwise rust may form on the floor pan, frame,
fuel lines and around the exhaust system. At
the end of winter, the underbody should be
thoroughly flushed with plain water, being
careful to clean those areas where mud and
dirt may accumulate. For additional informa-
tion, see “Cleaning exterior” (P. 7-2).
Windshield-washer fluid*: Check that there
is adequate fluid in the reservoir. The following descriptions are provided to
give you a better understanding of the sched-
uled maintenance items that should be regu-
larly checked or replaced. The maintenance
schedule indicates at which mileage/time in-
tervals each item requires service.
In addition to scheduled maintenance, your
vehicle requires that some items be checked
during normal day-to-day operation. For ad-
ditional information, see “General mainte-
nance” (P. 9-2).
Items marked with
“*”are recommended by
INFINITI for reliable vehicle operation. You
are not required to perform maintenance on
these items in order to maintain the warran-
ties which come with your INFINITI. Other
maintenance items and intervals are required.
When applicable, additional information can
be found in the “Do-it-yourself” section of
this manual.NOTE:
INFINITI does not advocate the use of non-
OEM approved aftermarket flushing sys-
tems and strongly advises against perform-
ing these services on an INFINITI product.
Many of the aftermarket flushing systems
use non-OEM approved chemicals or sol-
vents, the use of which has not been vali-
dated by INFINITI.
For recommended fuel, lubricants, fluids,
grease, and refrigerant, see “Recommended
fluids/lubricants and capacities” (P. 10-2).
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE:
Engine Drive belt*: Check engine drive belt
for wear, fraying or cracking and for proper
tension. Replace any damaged drive belt.
Engine air filter: Replace at specified inter-
vals. When driving for prolonged periods in
dusty conditions, check/replace the filter
more frequently.
Engine coolant*: Replace coolant at the
specified interval. When adding or replacing
coolant, be sure to use only Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or
EXPLANATION OF SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE ITEMS
Maintenance and schedules9-5
Page 478 of 548
equivalent with the proper mixture. (For ad-
ditional information on the proper mixture for
your area, see “Engine cooling system”
(P. 8-4).)
NOTE: Mixing any other type of coolant or
the use of non-distilled water may reduce
the recommended service interval of the
coolant.
Engine oil and oil filter:Replace engine oil
and oil filter at the specified intervals. For
recommended oil grade and viscosity, see
“Recommended fluids/lubricants and capaci-
ties” (P. 10-2).
Engine valve clearance*: Inspect only if valve
noise increases. Adjust valve clearance if
necessary.
Evaporative emissions control vapor lines*:Check vapor lines for leaks or looseness.
Tighten connections or replace parts as
necessary.
Fuel lines/connections*: Check the fuel
hoses, piping and connections for leaks,
looseness, or deterioration. Tighten connec-
tions or replace parts as necessary.
Spark plugs: Replace at specified intervals.
Install new plugs of the same type as origi-
nally equipped.
CHASSIS AND BODY
MAINTENANCE:
Brake lines and cables: Visually inspect for
proper installation. Check for chafing, cracks,
deterioration, and signs of leaking. Replace
any deteriorated or damaged parts
immediately.
Brake pads and rotors: Check for wear, de-
terioration and fluid leaks. Replace any dete-
riorated or damaged parts immediately.
Exhaust system: Visually inspect the exhaust
pipes, muffler and hangers for leaks, cracks,
deterioration, and damage. Tighten connec-
tions or replace parts as necessary.
In-cabin microfilter: Replace at specified in-
tervals. When driving for prolonged periods in
dusty conditions, replace the filter more
frequently.
Propeller shaft(s): Check for damage, loose-
ness, and grease leakage. (AWD)
Steering gear and linkage, axle and suspen-
sion parts, drive shaft boots: Check for dam-
age, looseness, and leakage of oil or grease.
Under severe driving conditions, inspect more
frequently. Tire rotation:
Rotate tires at the specified
interval shown in the maintenance schedule.
When rotating tires, check for damage and
uneven wear. Replace if necessary.
Transmission fluid/oil, differential oil and
transfer case oil: Visually inspect for signs of
leakage at specified intervals.
Replace at specified intervals.
9-6Maintenance and schedules
Page 481 of 548
2.0L 4 CYLINDER (KR20DDET
engine model)
The following shows the maintenance
schedule.
Choose the maintenance schedule needed
based on your vehicle driving conditions.
After 90,000 miles (144,000 km)/144
months, continue maintenance at the same
mileage/time interval.
NOTE:
For information regarding coolant or spark
plug replacement, see “Additional informa-
tion” (P. 9-25).
3,750 miles/(6,000 km)/6 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
•
Not applicable. Proceed to the next interval.
Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads & rotors
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaft (AWD models)
• Drive shaft boots
• Steering gear and linkage
• Axle & suspension parts
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/hood lift supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Engine drive belt and hose inspections
• Engine air filter
• Suspension components (shocks, sub- frame, tie rods)
• Differential and fluid (AWD models)
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
7,500 miles/(12,000 km)/12 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake lines & cables
• Brake pads & rotors
• CVT transmission fluid
• Propeller shaft (AWD models)
• Differential gear oil (AWD models) (1)
• Transfer case oil (AWD models) (1)
• Drive shaft boots
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/ hood lift supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Engine drive belts and hose inspections
• Engine air filter
•
Suspension components (shocks, subframe,
tie rods)
• Differential and fluid (AWD models)
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Essentials:
• Replace engine oil & filter (2)
• Tire rotation
Maintenance and schedules9-9
Page 482 of 548
Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads & rotors
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaft (AWD models)
• Drive shaft boots
• Steering gear & linkage
• Axle & suspension parts
Essentials:
• Replace brake fluid
(1) If towing a trailer, using a camper or a
car-top carrier, or driving on rough or muddy
roads, change (not just inspect) oil every
20,000 miles (32,000 km) or 24 months.
(2) If the oil replacement indicator is dis-
played, change the engine oil and filter within
two weeks or less than 500 miles (800 km).11,250 miles/(18,000 km)/18 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Intelligent key battery
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/hood lift supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Engine drive belts and hose inspections
• Engine air filter
•
Suspension components (shocks, subframe,
tie rods)
• Differential and fluid (AWD models)
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Essentials:
• Replace in-cabin microfilter Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads & rotors
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaft (AWD models)
• Drive shaft boots
• Steering gear & linkage
• Axle & suspension parts
9-10Maintenance and schedules