engine overheat INFINITI G-CONVERTIBLE 2010 Owners Manual

CAUTION
If the gauge indicates engine coolant tempera-
ture near the hot (H) end of the normal range,
reduce vehicle speed to decrease temperature.
If gauge is over the normal range, stop the
vehicle as soon as safely possible. If the engine
is overheated, continued operation of the ve-
hicle may seriously damage the engine. See “IF
YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS” in the “6. In case of
emergency” section for immediate action
required.
FUEL GAUGE
The gauge indicates theapproximatefuel level
in the tank.
The gauge may move slightly during braking,
turning, acceleration, or going up or down hills.
The gauge needle returns to E (Empty) after the
ignition switch is pushed to the OFF position.
Refill the fuel tank before the gauge registers
“E” (Empty).
The low fuel warning
appears on the dot
matrix liquid crystal display when the fuel tank
is getting low. Refuel as soon as it is conve-
nient, preferably before the gauge reaches “E”. There will be a small reserve of fuel in the tank
when the fuel gauge needle reaches “E”.
The
indicates that the fuel-filler door is
located on the front passenger’s side of the
vehicle.
CAUTION
● If the vehicle runs out of fuel, themalfunction indicator light (MIL) may come
on. Refuel as soon as possible. After a few
driving trips, the
light should turn off.
If the light remains on after a few driving
trips, have the vehicle inspected by an
INFINITI retailer.
● For additional information, see “Malfunction
Indicator Light (MIL)” later in this section.
SIC4292
Instruments and controls2-7
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The flasher can be actuated with the ignition
switch in any position.
Some state laws may prohibit the use of the
hazard warning flasher switch while driving.To sound the horn, push the center pad area of
the steering wheel.
WARNING
Do not disassemble the horn. Doing so could
affect proper operation of the supplemental
front air bag system. Tampering with the
supplemental front air bag system may result
in serious personal injury.
WARNING
Do not use or allow occupants to use the seat
heater if you or the occupants cannot monitor
elevated seat temperatures or have an inability
to feel pain in those body parts in contact with
the seat. Use of the seat heater by such people
could result in serious injury.
CAUTION
●The battery could run down if the seat heater
is operated while the engine is not running.
● Do not use the seat heater for extended pe-
riods or when no one is using the seat.
● Do not put anything on the seat which insu-
lates heat, such as a blanket, cushion, seat
cover, etc. Otherwise, the seat may become
overheated.
● Do not place anything hard or heavy on the
seat or pierce it with a pin or similar object.
This may result in damage to the heater.
● Any liquid spilled on the heated seat should
be removed immediately with a dry cloth.
● When cleaning the seat, never use gasoline,
thinner, or any similar materials.
● If any abnormalities are found or the heated
seat does not operate, turn the switch off
and have the system checked by an INFINITI
retailer.
SIC3312
HORN HEATED SEATS (if so equipped)
Instruments and controls2-35
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3. Adjust the desired amount of the air usingthe control knob
A.
4. When the vehicle’s interior is warmed or cooled, and/or before you leave the ve-
hicle, be sure to turn the control knob to
the OFF position (center). The indicator
light
Bon the control knob goes off at
the OFF position.
To check the air filter for the climate con-
trolled seat, contact an INFINITI retailer.
CAUTION
● Do not place objects in front of the intake
inlet located behind the front seat. Doing so
could cause improper operation or interrup-
tion of the operation.
● The battery could run down if the climate
controlled seat is operated while the engine
is not running.
● Do not use the climate controlled seat for
extended periods or when no one is using
the seat.
● Do not put anything on the seat which insu-
lates heat, such as a blanket, cushion, seat
cover, etc. Otherwise, the seat may become
overheated. ●
Do not place anything hard or heavy on the
seat or pierce it with a pin or similar object.
This may result in damage to the climate
controlled seat.
● Any liquid spilled on the seat should be re-
moved immediately with a dry cloth.
● The climate controlled seat has air filters. Do
not operate the climate controlled seat with-
out the air filters. This may result in damage
to the system.
● When cleaning the seat, never use gasoline,
thinner, or any similar materials.
● If any malfunctions are found or the climate
controlled seat does not operate, turn the
switch off and have the system checked by
an INFINITI retailer. The vehicle should be driven with the Vehicle
Dynamic Control (VDC) system on for most
driving conditions.
If the vehicle is stuck in mud or snow, the VDC
system reduces the engine output to reduce
wheel spin. The engine speed will be reduced
even if the accelerator is depressed to the floor.
If maximum engine power is needed to free a
stuck vehicle, turn the VDC system off.
To turn off the VDC system, push the VDC OFF
switch. The
indicator will illuminate.
Push the VDC OFF switch again or restart the
engine to turn on the system. (See “VEHICLE
DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC) SYSTEM” in the “5.
Starting and driving” section.)
SIC1881
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC) OFF
SWITCH
Instruments and controls2-37
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TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
If the retractable hard top stops halfway during operation or does not operate normally, follow the procedures shown in the following table. If the
procedures in the following table do not solve the symptom, immediately contact INFINITI retailer for the inspection.
SymptomBeepPossible cause Possible solution
The OPEN side of the retractable hard
top operating switch is pushed, but
the retractable hard top does not
operate. Sounds twice
The OPEN side of the retractable hard top op-
erating switch is pushed while the retractable
hard top is fully open, or the CLOSE side of
the retractable hard top operating switch is
pushed while the retractable hard top is fully
closed. Push the CLOSE side of the retractable hard top
operating switch when the retractable hard top
is fully open. Push the OPEN side of the retract-
able hard top operating switch when the re-
tractable hard top is fully closed.
Sounds twice The selector lever (automatic transmission
models only) or the shift lever (manual trans-
mission models only) is in the R (Reverse)
position. Shift the selector lever (automatic transmission
models only) to the P (Park) or N (Neutral)
position, or shift the shift lever (manual trans-
mission model only) to the N (Neutral) position,
and then operate the retractable hard top.
Sounds twice The trunk lid is opened. Fully close the trunk lid.
Does not sound The battery voltage is low. Start the engine again and operate the retract-
able hard top.
Sounds twice The separator in the trunk room is not cor-
rectly set. Set the separator correctly. For details, refer to
“Separator” earlier in this section.
Does not sound The retractable hard top is in the deactivation mode in order to avoid motor overheating by
the continuous operation of the retractable
hard top. Wait for approximately 20 minutes without op-
erating the retractable hard top and then oper-
ate the retractable hard top.
3-26Pre-driving checks and adjustments
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CAUTION
●Do not use leaded gasoline. Deposits from
leaded gasoline seriously reduce the three-
way catalyst’s ability to help reduce exhaust
pollutants.
● Keep your engine tuned up. Malfunctions in
the ignition, fuel injection, or electrical sys-
tems can cause overrich fuel flow into the
three-way catalyst, causing it to overheat.
Do not keep driving if the engine misfires, or
if noticeable loss of performance or other
unusual operating conditions are detected.
Have the vehicle inspected promptly by an
INFINITI retailer.
● Avoid driving with an extremely low fuel
level. Running out of fuel could cause the
engine to misfire, damaging the three-way
catalyst.
● Do not race the engine while warming it up.
● Do not push or tow your vehicle to start the
engine.
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM
(TPMS)
Each tire, including the spare (if provided),
should be checked monthly when cold and
inflated to the inflation pressure recommended
by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle
placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your
vehicle has tires of a different size than the size
indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation
pressure label, you should determine the
proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has
been equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pres-
sure telltale when one or more of your tires is
significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when
the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you
should stop and check your tires as soon as
possible, and inflate them to the proper pres-
sure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated
tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to
tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel
efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the
vehicle’s handling and stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for
proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s
responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure,
even if under-inflation has not reached the level
to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire
pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a
TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when
the system is not operating properly. The TPMS
malfunction indicator is combined with the low
tire pressure telltale. When the system detects
a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approxi-
mately one minute and then remain continu-
ously illuminated. This sequence will continue
upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as
the malfunction exists. When the malfunction
indicator is illuminated, the system may not be
able to detect or signal low tire pressure as
intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a
variety of reasons, including the installation of
replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the
vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning
properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction
telltale after replacing one or more tires or
wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the
replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow
the TPMS to continue to function properly.
Starting and driving5-3
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PARKING BRAKE BREAK-IN
Break in the parking brake shoes whenever the
stopping effect of the parking brake is weak-
ened or whenever the parking brake shoes
and/or drums/rotors are replaced, in order to
assure the best braking performance.
This procedure is described in the vehicle ser-
vice manual and can be performed by an
INFINITI retailer.
Using the brakes
Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal while
driving. This will cause overheating of the
brakes, wearing out the brake and pads faster
and reduce gas mileage.
To help save the brakes 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, be care-
ful when braking, accelerating or downshift-
ing. Abrupt braking or accelerating 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.
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 responsibil-
ity to stay alert, drive safely and be in control of
the vehicle at all times.
PREVIEW FUNCTION (Intelligent Cruise
Control system equipped models)
When the Preview Function identifies the need
to apply emergency braking by sensing a ve-
hicle ahead in the same lane and the distance
and relative speed from it, it applies the brake
pre-pressure before the driver depresses the
brake pedal and helps improve brake response
by reducing pedal free play.
● This system will not operate when the ve-
hicle is moving at approximately 20 MPH (32
km/h) or less.
BRAKE ASSIST
5-46Starting and driving
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CAUTION
Do not keep the starter motor engaged for more
than 10 seconds. If the engine does not start
right away, push the ignition switch to the OFF
position and wait 10 seconds before trying
again.
9. After starting your engine, carefully dis-connect the negative cable and then the
positive cable (
4→3→2→1).
10. Replace the vent caps (if so equipped). Be sure to dispose of the cloth used to
cover the vent holes as it may be con-
taminated with corrosive acid.
Do not attempt to start the engine by pushing.
CAUTION
●Automatic transmission models cannot be
push-started or tow-started. Attempting to
do so may cause transmission damage.
● Three way catalyst equipped models should
not be started by pushing since the three
way catalyst may be damaged.
● Never try to start the vehicle by towing it;
when the engine starts, the forward surge
could cause the vehicle to collide with the
tow vehicle.
If needed, Roadside Assistance is available.
Please see your Warranty Information Booklet
or Roadside Assistance I.D. Card for the toll-free
number to call (U.S.) or Warranty & Roadside
Assistance Information Booklet (Canada).
CAUTION
● Do not continue to drive if your vehicle over-
heats. Doing so could cause engine damage
or a vehicle fire.
● To avoid the danger of being scalded, never
remove the radiator cap while the engine is
still hot. When the radiator cap is removed,
pressurized hot water will spurt out, possi-
bly causing serious injury.
● Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.
If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by an
extremely high temperature gauge reading), or
if you feel a lack of engine power, detect
abnormal noise, etc., take the following steps:
1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, apply the parking brake.
2. Automatic Transmission model:
Move the selector lever to the P (Park)
position.
Manual Transmission model:
Move the shift lever to the N (Neutral) posi-
tion.
Do not stop the engine.
PUSH STARTING IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS
In case of emergency6-19
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3. Turn off the air conditioner. Open all thewindows, move the heater or air condi-
tioner temperature control to maximum
hot and fan control to high speed.
4. If engine overheating is caused by climb- ing a long hill on a hot day, run the engine
at a fast idle (approximately 1,500 rpm)
until the temperature gauge indication
returns to normal.
5. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for steam or coolant escaping from the radia-
tor before opening the hood. (If steam or
coolant is escaping, turn off the engine.)
Do not open the hood further until no
steam or coolant can be seen.
6. Open the engine hood.
WARNING
If steam or water is coming from the engine,
stand clear to prevent getting burned.
7. Visually check the drive belt for damage or looseness. Also check if the cooling fan
is running. The radiator hoses and radia-
tor should not leak water. If coolant is
leaking or the cooling fan does not run,
stop the engine.
WARNING
Be careful not to allow your hands, hair, jewelry
or clothing to come into contact with, or get
caught in, engine belts or the engine cooling
fan. The engine cooling fan can start at any
time.
8. After the engine cools down, check the coolant level in the reservoir with the
engine running. Add coolant to the reser-
voir if necessary. Have your vehicle re-
paired at the nearest INFINITI retailer.
If needed, Roadside Assistance is available.
Please see your Warranty Information Booklet
or Roadside Assistance I.D. Card for the toll-free
number to call (U.S.) or Warranty & Roadside
Assistance Information Booklet (Canada). When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial
in Canada) 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 familiar with the appli-
cable laws and procedures for towing. To assure
proper towing and to prevent accidental dam-
age to your vehicle, INFINITI recommends that
you have a service operator tow your vehicle. It
is advisable to have the service operator care-
fully 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 drivetrain
are in working condition. If any unit is dam-
aged, dollies must be used.
● Always attach safety chains before towing.
TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
6-20In case of emergency
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The engine cooling system is filled at the factory
with a high-quality, year-round, anti-freeze
coolant solution. The antifreeze solution con-
tains rust and corrosion inhibitors, therefore
additional cooling system additives are not
necessary.
WARNING
●Never remove the radiator cap when the en-
gine is hot. Wait until the engine and radia-
tor cool down. Serious burns could be
caused by high pressure fluid escaping from
the radiator. See precautions in “IF YOUR
VEHICLE OVERHEATS” in the “6. In case of
emergency” section of this manual.
● The radiator is equipped with a pressure
type radiator cap. To prevent engine dam-
age, use only a genuine NISSAN radiator cap.
CAUTION
When adding or replacing coolant, be sure to
use only a Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent with
the proper mixture ratio of 50% antifreeze and
50% demineralized or distilled water. 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 expectancy of the factory-fill
coolant. Refer to the Infiniti Service and Main-
tenance Guide for more details. The use of
other types of coolant solutions may damage
the engine cooling system.
Outside
temperature down to Antifreeze Demineral-
ized water
or distilled water
°F °C
30 35 50% 50%
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
2, open the reservoir cap and add
coolant up to the MAX level
1. If the reservoir
is empty, check the coolant level in the radiator
when the engine is cold. If there is insufficient
coolant in the radiator, fill the radiator with
coolant up to the filler opening and also add it
to the reservoir up to the MAX level
1.
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 expectancy of the factory-fill
SDI2043
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-7
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coolant. Refer to the INFINITI Service and Main-
tenance Guide for more details.
Tighten the cap securely after adding engine
coolant.
If the cooling system frequently requires cool-
ant, have it checked by an INFINITI retailer.
CHANGING ENGINE COOLANT
Major cooling system repairs should be per-
formed by an INFINITI retailer. The service pro-
cedures can be found in the appropriate 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 engine is hot.
● Never remove the radiator cap when the en-
gine is hot. Serious burns could be caused by
high pressure fluid escaping from the
radiator.
● Avoid direct skin contact with used coolant.
If skin contact is made, wash thoroughly
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. Run the engine until it reaches operating temperature.
3. Turn off the engine. Wait more than 15
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 within the range
1.
If the oil level is below
2, remove the oil
filler cap and pour recommended oil
through the opening. Do not overfill
3.
SDI2045
ENGINE OIL
8-8Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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