power steering INFINITI Q50 HYBRID 2018 User Guide

3-32Pre-driving checks and adjustments
Linking log-in function to a stored
memory position
The log-in function can be linked to a stored
memory position with the following proce-
dure.
1. Place the ignition switch in the ONposition while carrying an Intelligent
Key that was registered to the vehicle
with the log-in function. For more de-
tails, see “Log-in function” (P.3-15).
2. Adjust the position of the driver’s seat, steering column and outside mirrors
manually. See “Seats” (P.1-2), “Tilt/tele-
scopic steering” (P.3-27) and “Outside
mirrors” (P.3-29).
3. Place the ignition switch in the OFF position.
The next time you log in (selecting the user
on the display) after placing the ignition
switch in the ON position while carrying the
Intelligent Key, the system will automatically
adjust to the memorized driving position.
SYSTEM OPERATION
The automatic drive positioner system will
not work or will stop operating under the
following conditions:
. When the vehicle speed is above 0 MPH
(0 km/h) or 4 MPH (7 km/h) for some
limited functions such linking an Intelli- gent Key to the vehicle when the power
source is turned on from off or during the
Exit function.
. When any of the memory switches are
pushed while the automatic drive posi-
tioner is operating.
. When the adjusting switch for the dri-
ver’s seat and steering column is turned
on while the automatic drive positioner is
operating.
. When the seat has already been moved
to the memorized position.
. When no seat position is stored in the
memory switch.
. When the shift lever is moved from the P
(Park) position to any other position.

System maintenance .............................................. 5-120
Break-in schedule .......................................................... 5-121
Fuel Efficient Driving Tips .......................................... 5-121
Increasing fuel economy .............................................. 5-122
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) (if
so equipped) .................................................................... 5-123
Parking/parking on hills .............................................. 5-125
Power steering ............................................................... 5-126 Direct Adaptive Steering type .............................. 5-126
Brake system ................................................................. 5-128 Braking precautions ............................................... 5-128
Parking brake break-in ........................................... 5-129
Brake assist ..................................................................... 5-129 Brake assist ............................................................... 5-129
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) .......................... 5-129
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system ................ 5-130 Rise-up and build-up .............................................. 5-131
Brake force distribution ......................................... 5-131 Active trace control ...................................................... 5-132
Hill Start Assist system .............................................. 5-134
Chassis control ............................................................. 5-134
Cold weather driving ................................................... 5-135
Freeing a frozen door lock .................................. 5-135
Antifreeze ................................................................. 5-135
12-volt Battery ....................................................... 5-135
Draining of coolant water ................................... 5-135
Tire equipment ........................................................ 5-135
Special winter equipment .................................... 5-135
Driving on snow or ice .......................................... 5-135
Engine block heater (if so equipped) ............... 5-136
Active noise cancellation/Active
sound enhancement ..................................................... 5-137
Active noise cancellation ..................................... 5-137
Active sound enhancement ................................. 5-137

5-126Starting and driving
the road so the vehicle will move away
from the center of the road if it
moves.
4. Push the ignition switch to the OFF position.DIRECT ADAPTIVE STEERING
TYPE
WARNING
.When the power steering warning
light illuminates with the INFINITI
Direct Response Hybrid
®System run-
ning, the power assist for the steer-
ing 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 illumi-
nate.
. Do not modify the vehicle’s suspen-
sion. If suspension parts such as
shock absorbers, struts, springs, sta-
bilizer bars, bushings and wheels are
not INFINITI recommended for your
vehicle or are extremely deteriorated,
Direct Adaptive Steering may not
operate properly and the power
steering warning light may illumi-
nate.
. Do not modify the vehicle’s steering.
If steering parts are not INFINITI recommended for your vehicle or are
extremely deteriorated, Direct Adap-
tive Steering may not operate prop-
erly and the power steering warning
light may illuminate.
. If the VDC warning light illuminates,
the power steering warning light may
also illuminate at the same time. Stop
the vehicle in a safe location, turn the
hybrid system off and restart the
hybrid system. If the power steering
warning light continues to illuminate,
have the system checked. It is recom-
mended you visit an INFINITI retailer
for this service. For the VDC system,
see “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
system” (P.5-130).
CAUTION
.Do not place the ignition switch is in
the ON position while the steering
wheel or a tire is removed.
. Do not turn the steering wheel as
much as possible while the ignition
switch is in any position other than
the ON position.
. Installing an accessory on the steer-
ing wheel, or changing the steering
POWER STEERING

wheel, may reduce the steering per-
formance.
Direct Adaptive Steering is designed to
control the steering force and steering angle
according to the vehicle speed and amount
of turning of the steering wheel.
The steering characteristic can be selected
using the INFINITI Drive Mode Selector. See
“INFINITI Drive Mode Selector” (P.5-21).
If the VDC system is turned off, the setting
of steering becomes Standard mode.
If the power steering warning light illumi-
nates while the hybrid system is running, it
may indicate that Direct Adaptive Steering is
not functioning properly and may need
servicing. It is recommended you have the
system checked by an INFINITI retailer. (See
“Power steering warning light” (P.2-14).)
When the power steering warning light
illuminates with the hybrid system running,
the power assist for the steering will cease
operation. You will still have control of the
vehicle. However, greater steering effort will
be needed, especially in sharp turns and at
low speeds.
If Direct Adaptive Steering is malfunction-
ing, the steering wheel may turn slightly even
when driving on a straight road.
Under the following conditions, the steering wheel may turn slightly even when driving on
a straight road. This is due to a protection
mechanism for Direct Adaptive Steering. The
steering wheel will return to the normal
position after the protection mechanism is
deactivated.
Condition A
.
When the engine is stalled or likely to be
stalled
. When the steering wheel is held in the full
lock position or when the front tire
touches an obstruction.
. When the battery is discharged
To return the steering wheel to the normal
position, stop the vehicle in a safe location
and stop operating the steering wheel. Then
drive the vehicle for a short period of time.
Condition B
. When the steering wheel is operated
repeatedly or continuously while parking
or driving at a very low speed. In this
case, the power assist for the steering
wheel will be reduced.
To return the steering wheel to the normal
position, stop the vehicle in a safe location
and wait for a period of time, without
operating the steering wheel, until the
temperature of Direct Adaptive Steering
cools down. Avoid repeated steering wheel
operations that could cause Direct Adaptive
Steering to overheat. When the vehicle is tested on the 2-wheel
dynamometer, the power steering warning
light may illuminate. To turn off the power
steering warning light, stop the vehicle in a
safe location, turn the hybrid system off,
restart the hybrid system, and then drive the
vehicle for a period of time.
The following conditions do not indicate a
malfunction of Direct Adaptive Steering.
.
You may notice wider steering play when
the ignition switch is in the OFF or ACC
position compared to when it is in the
ON position.
. After the hybrid system is started, the
steering wheel may turn slightly even
when driving on a straight road. To
return to the normal position, drive the
vehicle on a straight road for a period of
time.
. After the hybrid system is started, the
steering wheel may move if the steering
wheel was turned to the fully locked
position while the ignition switch was in
the OFF position.
. After the vehicle is tested on the 4-wheel
dynamometer, the steering wheel may
turn slightly even when driving on a
straight road. To return the steering
wheel to the normal position, drive the
vehicle on a straight road for a period of
time.
Starting and driving5-127

5-128Starting and driving
You may hear a noise under the following
conditions. However, this is not a malfunc-
tion.
.When the hybrid system is started or
stopped.
. When the steering wheel is turned in the
full lock position.BRAKING PRECAUTIONS
This vehicle is equipped with two braking
systems.
. Hydraulic brake system
. Regenerative brake system
Hydraulic brake system
The brake system has two separate hydrau-
lic circuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you
will still have braking at two wheels.
Regenerative brake system
See “Regenerative brake” (P.Hybrid System-
8).
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 careful when braking, accelerating
or downshifting. Abrupt braking or
accelerating could cause the wheels
to skid and result in an accident.
. If the INFINITI Direct Response Hy-
brid
®System is not running or is
turned off while driving, the power
assist for the brakes will be limited.
Braking will be harder.
CAUTION
You may hear a operational noise when
the brake pedal is depressed. This is not a
malfunction.
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 brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe
speed while lightly tapping the brake pedal
BRAKE SYSTEM

5-130Starting and driving
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
ABS will operate to prevent 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 dis-
tances.
Self-test feature
The 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 hybrid system 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 mal-
function, it switches the ABS off and
illuminates the ABS warning light on the
instrument panel. The brake system then
operates normally, but without anti-lock
assistance.If the ABS warning light illuminates during
the self-test or while driving, have the
vehicle checked. It is recommended you visit
an INFINITI retailer for this service.
Normal operation
The ABS operates at speeds above 3 to 6
MPH (5 to 10 km/h).
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
properly. However, the pulsation may indi-
cate that road conditions are hazardous and
extra care is required while driving.
The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system
uses various sensors to monitor driver inputs
and vehicle motion. Under certain driving
conditions, the VDC system helps to perform
the following functions.
.
Controls brake pressure to reduce wheel
slip on one slipping drive wheel so power
is transferred to a non slipping drive
wheel on the same axle.
. Controls brake pressure and engine or
motor output to reduce drive wheel slip
based on vehicle speed (traction control
function).
. Controls brake pressure at individual
wheels and engine or motor output to
help the driver maintain control of the
vehicle in the following conditions:
— understeer (vehicle tends to not follow the steered path despite increased
steering input)
— oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due to certain road or driving conditions).
The VDC system can help the driver to
maintain control of the vehicle, but it cannot
prevent loss of vehicle control in all driving
situations.
When the VDC system operates, the VDC
warning light
in the instrument panel
flashes so note the following:
. The road may be slippery or the system
may determine some action is required to
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL
(VDC) SYSTEM

help keep the vehicle on the steered path.
. You may feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal and hear a noise or vibration from
under the hood. This is normal and
indicates that the VDC system is working
properly.
. Adjust your speed and driving to the road
conditions.
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warn-
ing light” (P.2-15).
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
VDC warning light
illuminates in the
instrument panel. The VDC system automa-
tically turns off.
The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the
VDC system. The VDC off indicator light
illuminates to indicate the VDC system is off.
When the VDC switch is used to turn off the
system, the VDC system still operates to
prevent one drive wheel from slipping by
transferring power to a non slipping drive
wheel. The VDC warning light
flashes if
this occurs. All other VDC functions are off,
except for rise-up and build-up, and brake
force distribution, and the VDC warning
light
will not flash. The VDC system is
automatically reset to on when the ignition
switch is placed in the off position then back
to the on position.
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warn-
ing light” (P.2-15) and “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off indicator light” (P.2-17).
The computer has a built-in diagnostic
feature that tests the system each time you
start the INFINITI Direct Response Hybrid
®
System and move the vehicle forward or in
reverse at a slow speed. When the self-test
occurs, you may hear a “clunk” noise and/or
feel a pulsation in the brake pedal. This is
normal and is not an indication of a mal-
function.
RISE-UP AND BUILD-UP
The system gradually adjusts braking power
during normal braking to help provide an
enhanced brake feel.
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
the driver maintain stability 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.
. The rise-up and build-up, and brake
force distribution system may not be
effective depending on the driving
condition. Always drive carefully and
attentively.
. Do not modify the vehicle’s suspen-
sion. If suspension parts such as
shock absorbers, struts, springs, sta-
bilizer bars, bushings and wheels are
not INFINITI recommended for your
vehicle or are extremely deteriorated,
the VDC system may not operate
properly. This could adversely affect
vehicle handling performance, and
the VDC warning light
may
illuminate.
. If brake related parts such as brake
pads, rotors and calipers are not
INFINITI recommended or are extre-
mely deteriorated, the VDC system
may not operate properly and the
VDC warning light
may illumi-
nate.
. If engine control related parts are not
INFINITI recommended or are extre-
mely deteriorated, the VDC warning
light
may illuminate.
. When driving on extremely inclined
surfaces such as higher banked cor-
Starting and driving5-131

When towing your vehicle, all State (Pro-
vincial in Canada) and local regulations for
towing must be followed. Incorrect towing
equipment could damage your vehicle. Tow-
ing instructions are available from an
INFINITI retailer. Local service operators
are familiar with the applicable laws and
procedures for towing. To assure proper
towing and to prevent accidental damage 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
transmission, axles, steering system
and powertrain are in working con-
dition. If any unit is damaged, dollies
must be used.
. Always attach safety chains before towing.
For information about towing your vehicle
behind a recreational vehicle (RV), see “Flat
towing” (P.10-18).
In case of emergency6-9
TOWING YOUR VEHICLE

EV mode odometer and twin
trip odometer ........................................................ 2-27
Event Data Recorders (EDR) ......................... 10-21
Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide) ........................ 5-4
Explanation of scheduled
maintenance items ................................................. 9-5
F
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label .... 10-11
FilterAir cleaner housing filter ............................. 8-16
Changing engine oil and oil filter ............. 8-10
Flashers (See hazard warning
flasher switch) ......................................................... 6-2
Flat tire ...................................................................... 6-3
Flat Tire - Visit dealer warning ....................... 2-22
Flat towing ......................................................... 10-18
Floor mat cleaning ................................................. 7-6
Floor mat installation ............................................ 7-7
Fluid Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) ....... 8-12
Brake fluid ....................................................... 8-12
Capacities and
recommended fluids/lubricants ................. 10-2
Engine coolant .................................................. 8-5
Engine oil ........................................................... 8-9
Window washer fluid ................................... 8-13
Fog light switch ................................................... 2-43
Forward Emergency Braking (FEB) ............ 5-104
Forward Emergency Braking (FEB) system
warning light .......................................................... 2-11 Front passenger air bag and status light ..... 1-45
Front power seat adjustment ............................. 1-3
Front seat
Front seat adjustment .................................... 1-3
Fuel Capacities and
recommended fluids/lubricants ................. 10-2
Fuel economy ............................................... 5-122
Fuel octane rating ........................................ 10-4
Fuel recommendation .................................. 10-4
Fuel-filler cap .................................................. 3-24
Fuel-filler door ............................................... 3-24
Gauge ................................................................... 2-7
Fuel economy history .................. Hybrid System-7
Fuel Efficient Driving Tips .............................. 5-121
Fuses ....................................................................... 8-19
Fusible links ........................................................... 8-20
G
Garage door opener HomeLink®Universal Transceiver ............ 2-59
Gas cap ................................................................... 3-24
Gauge ........................................................................\
. 2-5 Engine coolant temperature gauge .......... 2-29
Fuel gauge .......................................................... 2-7
Odometer ........................................................... 2-6
Speedometer ..................................................... 2-6
Tachometer ........................................................ 2-7
Trip computer ................................................. 2-27
General maintenance ............................................. 9-2
Glove box ............................................................... 2-49
H
Hazard warning flasher switch ........................... 6-2
Head restraints/headrests .................................. 1-5
Headlights
Aiming control (See Adaptive Front
lighting System (AFS)) ................................. 2-41
Headlight switch ............................................ 2-36
Heated seats ......................................................... 2-44
Heated steering wheel ....................................... 2-45
Heater Engine block heater ................................... 5-136
High beam assist ................................................. 2-38
High temperature warning ............................... 2-22
High voltage cautions ................. Hybrid System-2
High voltage components ....... Hybrid System-10
Hill start assist system ..................................... 5-134
HomeLink
®Universal Transceiver .................. 2-59
Hood release ......................................................... 3-21
Hook Coat hooks ...................................................... 2-51
Trunk hooks .................................................... 2-51
Horn ........................................................................\
. 2-43
Hybrid system over heat warning .................. 2-22
Hybrid system start operation indicator ....... 2-20
Hybrid
vehicle characteristics ............... Hybrid System-11
Hybrid vehicle precautions ...... Hybrid System-10
11-3

Locking with mechanical key ............................. 3-4
Log-in function .................................................... 3-15
Loose Fuel Cap warning ....................... 2-21, 3-26
Low fuel warning light ....................................... 2-12
Low outside temperature warning ................. 2-23
Low tire pressure warning light ...................... 2-12
Low tire pressure warning system (See Tire
Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS)) ................................ 5-5, 6-3, 8-28
M
MaintenanceBattery .............................................................. 8-14
General maintenance ...................................... 9-2
HEV Li-ion battery
replacement record ....................................... 9-14
Indicators for maintenance (vehicle
information display) ...................................... 2-25
Inside the vehicle ............................................. 9-3
Maintenance log ............................................ 9-16
Maintenance precautions .............................. 8-2
Maintenance requirements ........................... 9-2
Maintenance schedules ................................. 9-6
Maintenance under severe
driving conditions .......................................... 9-13
Outside the vehicle ......................................... 9-2
Seat belt maintenance ................................. 1-15
Standard maintenance .................................... 9-7
Under the hood and vehicle ......................... 9-4
Maintenance schedules ........................................ 9-6
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) .................. 2-16 Map lights .............................................................. 2-56
Master warning light .......................................... 2-13
Mechanical key (Intelligent Key system) .......... 3-3
Memory storage
Automatic drive positioner ......................... 3-31
Meter Trip computer ................................................. 2-27
Meters and gauges ................................................ 2-5 Instrument brightness control ................... 2-42
Mirror
Inside mirror .................................................... 3-28
Outside mirrors .............................................. 3-29
Vanity mirror .................................................. 3-30
Moonroof ............................................................... 2-54
N
NAVI Shift Control .............................................. 5-19
New vehicle break-in ........................................ 5-121
Noise and vibration .................... Hybrid System-12
O
Odometer .................................................................. 2-6
Off-road recovery .................................................. 5-9
Oil Capacities and
recommended fluids/lubricants ................. 10-2
Changing engine oil and oil filter ............. 8-10
Checking engine oil level ............................... 8-9
Engine oil ........................................................... 8-9
Engine oil viscosity ........................................ 10-7 One touch unlock sensor (See Intelligent
Key system) .............................................................. 3-9
Operation
Indicators for operation ............................... 2-20
Operation of the INFINITI Direct
Response Hybrid
®System ......... Hybrid System-4
Outside mirrors .................................................... 3-29
Overheat, If your vehicle overheats ................. 6-8
Owner’s Manual/Service Manual
order information ............................................. 10-22
P
Panic alarm ............................................................ 3-17
Parking
Parking brake operation ............................. 5-20
Parking on hills ............................................. 5-125
Parking brake break-in .................................... 5-129
Personal lights ...................................................... 2-57
PERSONAL mode ............................................... 5-23
Phone Car phone or CB radio ................................... 4-3
Power Power door lock ............................................... 3-4
Power outlet ................................................... 2-46
Power steering system .............................. 5-126
Power windows ............................................. 2-52
Power moonroof ................................................. 2-54
Power steering warning light ........................... 2-14
Precautions Braking precautions ................................... 5-128
Child restraints ............................................... 1-18
11-5