coolant temperature INFINITI M 2011 Owners Manual

1. Tachometer (P. 2-7)
2. Warning/Indicator lights (P. 2-9)
3. Speedometer (P. 2-6)
4. Engine coolant temperature gauge(P. 2-7) 5. Dot matrix liquid crystal display/
Odometer/twin trip odometer (P. 2-19)
6. Fuel gauge (P. 2-8)
SIC4317
METERS AND GAUGES
Illustrated table of contents0-9
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2 Instruments and controls
Cockpit........................................... 2-2
Instrument panel .................................. 2-4
Meters and gauges ................................ 2-5
Speedometer and odometer ..................... 2-6
Tachometer .................................... 2-7
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............... 2-7
Fuel gauge ..................................... 2-8
Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders ...... 2-9
Checking bulbs ............................... 2-10
Warning lights ................................ 2-10
Indicator lights ................................. 2-15
Audible reminders ............................. 2-18
Dot matrix liquid crystal display ...................2-19
Indicators for operation ........................ 2-21
Indicators for maintenance .....................2-23
Trip computer ................................. 2-24
Security systems ................................. 2-27
Vehicle security system ........................ 2-27
INFINITI Vehicle Immobilizer System ............2-29
Windshield wiper and washer switch ...............2-30
Rain-sensing auto wiper system ................2-31
Rear window and outside mirror defroster switch . . . 2-32
Headlight and turn signal switch ..................2-32Xenon headlights
............................. 2-32
Headlight switch .............................. 2-33
Turn signal switch ............................. 2-37
Fog light switch ............................... 2-37
Hazard warning flasher switch .....................2-37
Heated steering wheel (if so equipped) .............2-38
Horn ............................................ 2-39
Heated seats (if so equipped) .....................2-39
Climate controlled seats (if so equipped) ...........2-40
Warning systems switch (if so equipped) ...........2-41
Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) OFF switch (if so
equipped) ....................................... 2-42
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF switch ..........2-43
Clock ............................................ 2-43
Adjusting the time ............................. 2-43
Power outlet ..................................... 2-44
Cigarette
lighter and ashtrays ..................... 2-44
Front ......................................... 2-44
Rear ......................................... 2-45
Storage ......................................... 2-45
Cup holders .................................. 2-45
Sunglasses holder ............................. 2-46
Glove box .................................... 2-47
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1. Tachometer (P. 2-7)
2. Warning/Indicator lights (P. 2-9)
3. Speedometer (P. 2-6)
4. Engine coolant temperature gauge(P. 2-7) 5. Dot matrix liquid crystal display/
Odometer/twin trip odometer (P. 2-19)
6. Fuel gauge (P. 2-8)
*: The needle indicators in the speedometer, ta- chometer, engine coolant temperature gauge
and fuel gauge may move slightly after the ignition switch is pushed to the LOCK posi-
tion. This is not a malfunction.
SIC4317
METERS AND GAUGES
Instruments and controls2-5
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TACHOMETER
The tachometer indicates engine speed in revo-
lutions per minute (RPM).Do not rev the engine
into the red zone
1.
The scale length and the red zone vary with the
engine model.
CAUTION
When engine speed approaches the red zone,
shift to a higher gear or reduce engine speed.
Operating the engine in the red zone may cause
serious engine damage.
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE
GAUGE
The gauge indicates the engine coolant tem-
perature.
The engine coolant temperature is within the
normal range when the gauge needle points
within the zone
1shown in the illustration.
The engine coolant temperature varies with the
outside air temperature and driving conditions.
CAUTION
If the gauge indicates the engine coolant tem-
perature is near the hot (H) end of the normal
range, reduce vehicle speed to decrease the
temperature. If the gauge is over the normal
range, stop the vehicle as soon as safely pos-
sible and let the engine idle. If the engine is
overheated, continued operation of the vehicle
may seriously damage the engine. See “IF
YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS” in the “6. In case of
emergency” section for immediate action
required.
SIC4320SIC4321
Instruments and controls2-7
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OPERATING TIPS
When the engine coolant temperature and out-
side air temperature are low, the air flow from
the foot outlets may not operate. This is not a
malfunction. After the coolant temperature
warms up, air will flow normally from the foot
outlets.The sensors
AandBon the instrument panel
helps maintain a constant temperature. Do not
put anything on or around this sensor.
Linking Intelligent Key:
The climate control system settings can be
memorized for each Intelligent Key. For more
details, see SETTING MEMORY FUNCTION in the
3. Pre-driving checks and adjustments section.
IN-CABIN MICROFILTER
Without Forest Air™ system
The climate control system is equipped with an
in-cabin microfilter which collects pollen, dirt
and dust, etc. To make sure that the air condi-
tioner heats, defogs, and ventilates efficiently,
replace the filter in accordance with the main-
tenance schedule in the INFINITI Service and
Maintenance Guide. To replace the filter, con-
tact an INFINITI retailer.
The filter should be replaced if the air flow de-
creases significantly or if windows fog up easily
when operating the heater or air conditioner.
With Forest Air™ system
The climate control system is equipped with a
natural grape seed polyphenol filter which col-
lects and neutralizes dirt, pollen, dust, etc. To
make sure that the air conditioner heats, defogs
and ventilates efficiently, replace the filter in
SIC2768
SAA3438
Monitor, climate, audio, phone and voice recognition systems4-43
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SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
●The two radar sensor units1for the BSW
and BSI systems are located near the rear
bumper. Always keep the area near the radar
sensors clean. Do not attach stickers (includ-
ing transparent material), install accessories
or apply additional paint near the radar
sensors. Do not strike or damage the area
around the radar sensors. Consult an
INFINITI retailer if the area around the radar
sensors is damaged due to a collision.
● The BSI system uses the same camera
2
that is used by the LDW/LDP system located
in front of the inside mirror. For maintenance of the camera, see “LANE
DEPARTURE WARNING (LDW) SYSTEM/LANE DE-
PARTURE PREVENTION (LDP) SYSTEM” earlier in
this section.
Radio frequency statement
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
Rules and RSS-310 of Industry Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two con-
ditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful inter-
ference.
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Frequency of operation: 24.05GHz — 24.25GHz
Field Strength: Not greater than 2.5V/m peak
(0.25V/m average) at a distance of 3 m
The manufacturer is not responsible for any
radio or TV interference caused by unauthorized
modifications to this equipment. Such modifi-
cations could void the user’s authority to oper-
ate the equipment.
PRECAUTIONS ON CRUISE CONTROL
●If the cruise control system malfunctions, it
will cancel automatically. The SET indicator
on the dot matrix crystal display will then
blink to warn the driver.
● If the engine coolant temperature becomes
excessively high, the cruise control system
will be canceled automatically.
● If the SET indicator blinks, turn the cruise
control main switch off and have the system
checked by your INFINITI retailer.
● The SET indicator may sometimes blink
when the cruise control main switch is
turned ON while pushing the
RESUME/ACCELERATE, SET/COAST or CAN-
CEL switch. To properly set the cruise control
system, perform the steps below in the order
indicated.
WARNING
Do not use the cruise control when driving un-
der the following conditions:
● when it is not possible to keep the vehicle at
a set speed
● in heavy traffic or in traffic that varies in
speed
● on winding or hilly roads
SSD1027
CRUISE CONTROL
Starting and driving5-39
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●The steering wheel is forcibly turned beyond
its operation limits.
● The battery voltage is reduced.
Repeated steering maneuvers that may activate
the protection mechanism will damage the
4WAS system.
WARNING
The 4WAS system, although a sophisticated
device, cannot prevent accidents resulting
from careless or dangerous driving techniques.
Ultimately the responsibility for safety of self
and others rests in the hands of the driver.
Therefore only through attentive and careful
driving methods can the 4WAS system be fully
appreciated and safety optimized.
FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK
To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply
deicer through the key hole. If the lock becomes
frozen, heat the key before inserting it into the
key hole or use the Intelligent Key system.
ANTIFREEZE
In the winter when it is anticipated that the
outside temperature will drop below 32°F (0°C),
check antifreeze to assure proper winter protec-
tion. For additional information, see “ENGINE
COOLING SYSTEM” in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.
BATTERY
If the battery is not fully charged during ex-
tremely cold weather conditions, the battery
fluid may freeze and damage the battery. To
maintain maximum efficiency, the battery
should be checked regularly. For additional
information, see “BATTERY” in the “8. Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section.
DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER
If the vehicle is to be left outside without
antifreeze, drain the cooling system, including
the engine block. Refill before operating the
vehicle. For details, see “ENGINE COOLING SYS-
TEM” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.
TIRE EQUIPMENT
SUMMER tires have a tread designed to provide
superior performance on dry pavement. How-
ever, the performance of these tires will be
substantially reduced in snowy and icy condi-
tions. If you operate your vehicle on snowy or
icy roads, INFINITI recommends the use of MUD
& SNOW or ALL SEASON tires on all four wheels.
Consult an INFINITI retailer for the tire type,
size, speed rating and availability information.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some U.S. states
and Canadian provinces prohibit their use.
Check local, state and provincial laws before
installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow
tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be poorer than
that of non-studded snow tires.
Tire chains may be used. For details, see “TIRE
CHAINS” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section of this manual.
For all-wheel drive
If you install snow tires, they must also be the
same size, brand, construction and tread pat-
tern on all four wheels.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
5-92Starting and driving
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SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT
It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
●A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.
● A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.
● A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snowdrifts.
● Extra window washer fluid to refill the reser-
voir tank.
DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING
● Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain), very
cold snow or ice can be slick and very hard to
drive on. The vehicle will have much less
traction or “grip” under these conditions.
Try to avoid driving on wet ice until the road
is salted or sanded.
● Whatever the condition, drive with caution.
Accelerate and slow down with care. If accel-
erating or downshifting too fast, the drive
wheels will lose even more traction. ●
Allow more stopping distance under these
conditions. Braking should be started
sooner than on dry pavement.
● Allow greater following distances on slip-
pery roads.
● Watch for slippery spots (glare ice). These
may appear on an otherwise clear road in
shaded areas. If a patch of ice is seen ahead,
brake before reaching it. Try not to brake
while on the ice, and avoid any sudden steer-
ing maneuvers.
● Do not use the cruise control on slippery
roads.
● Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gases un-
der your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the ex-
haust pipe and from around your vehicle.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if so
equipped)
Engine block heaters are used to assist in cold
temperature starting.
The engine block heater should be used when
the outside temperature is 20°F (7°C) or
lower.
To use the engine block heater
1. Turn the engine off.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the engine
block heater cord.
3. Plug the engine block heater cord into a grounded 3-wire, 3-pronged extension
cord.
4. Plug the extension cord into a Ground Fault Interrupt (GFI) protected, grounded
110-volt AC (VAC) outlet.
5. The engine block heater must be plugged in for at least2-4hours, depending on
outside temperatures, to properly warm
the engine coolant. Use an appropriate
timer to turn the engine block heater on.
6. Before starting the engine, unplug and properly store the cord to keep it away
from moving parts.
WARNING
●Do not use your engine block heater with an
ungrounded electrical system or a
2-pronged adapter. You can be seriously in-
jured by an electrical shock if you use an
ungrounded connection.
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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 and move the selector
lever to the P (Park) position.
Do not stop the engine.
2. Turn off the climate control. Open all the windows, move the heater or air condi-
tioner temperature control to maximum
hot and fan control to high speed. 3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Open the engine hood.
WARNING
If steam or water is coming from the engine,
stand clear to prevent getting burned.
6. Visually check drive belts for damage or looseness. Also check if the cooling fan is
running. The radiator hoses and radiator
should not leak water. If coolant is leak-
ing 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.
7. After the engine cools down, check thecoolant level in the reservoir tank with the
engine running. Add coolant to the reser-
voir tank if necessary. Have your vehicle
repaired 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).
IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS
In case of emergency6-11
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restraints move up and down smoothly and that
the locks (if so equipped) hold securely in all
latched positions.
Steering wheel:Check for changes in the steer-
ing conditions, such as excessive free play,
hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure that all
warning lights and chimes are operating prop-
erly.
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*: Check the fluid level in each cell. It
should be between the MAX and MIN lines.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or un-
der severe condition require frequent checks of
the battery fluid level. 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 belts*: Make sure that no belt is
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 by an INFINITI retailer. (See
“PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING AND DRIVING”
in the “5. Starting and driving” section for
exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide).)
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. If you
should notice any leaks or if gasoline fumes are
evident, check for the cause and have it cor-
rected immediately. Power steering fluid level* and lines:
Check the
level when the fluid is cold, with the engine off.
Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, etc.
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, other-
wise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and around the exhaust system. At the
end of winter, the underbody should be thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, being careful
to clean those areas where mud and dirt may
accumulate. For additional information, see
“CLEANING EXTERIOR” in the “7. Appearance
and care” section.
Windshield washer fluid*: Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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