maintenance INFINITI QX50 2014 Owner's Guide

5-34Starting and driving
SSD1155
SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
The two radar sensor units*Afor the BSW
system are located near the rear bumper.
Always keep the area near the radar
sensors clean. Do not attach stickers
(including 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.
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
conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interfer- ence 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 equip-
ment. Such modifications could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
PRECAUTIONS ON CRUISE CONTROL
. If the cruise control system malfunc-
tions, it will cancel automatically. The
SET indicator on the dot matrix liquid
crystal display will then blink to warn
the driver.
. If the engine coolant temperature be-
comes excessively high, the cruise
control system will be canceled auto-
matically.
. 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 ACCELER-
ATE/RESUME, COAST/SET or CANCEL
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
under the following conditions:
. when it is not possible to keep the
vehicle at a set speed
CRUISE CONTROL

5-54Starting and driving
SSD0621
Condition C:
When the ICC system is not operating
properly, the chime sounds and the system
warning light (orange) will come on.
Action to take:
If the warning light comes on, park the
vehicle in a safe place. Turn the engine off,
restart the engine, resume driving and set
the ICC system again.
If it is not possible to set the system or the
indicator stays on, it may indicate that the
system is malfunctioning. Although the
vehicle is still driveable under normal
conditions, have the vehicle checked atan INFINITI retailer.
SSD0701
Sensor maintenance
The sensor for the ICC system*Ais located
below the front bumper.
To keep the ICC system operating properly,
be sure to observe the following:
. Always keep the sensor clean. Wipe
with a soft cloth carefully so as not to
damage the sensor.
. Do not strike or damage the areas
around the sensor. Do not touch or
remove the screw located on the
sensor. Doing so could cause failure
or malfunction. If the sensor is da-
maged due to an accident, contact an

conditions, have the vehicle checked at an
INFINITI retailer.
Sensor maintenance
How to handle the sensor:
The sensor for the DCA system is common
with Intelligent Cruise Control and is
located below the front bumper.
To handle the sensor, see“Intelligent
Cruise Control (ICC) system (FULL SPEED
RANGE)” (P.5-36). The Forward Collision Warning (FCW) sys-
tem will warn the driver by a warning light
and chime when your vehicle is getting
close to the vehicle ahead in the traveling
lane.
The FCW system will function when your
vehicle is driven at speeds of approxi-
mately 10 MPH (15 km/h) and above.
SSD0701
SSD0749
Vehicle ahead detection light
Starting and driving5-71
FORWARD COLLISION WARNING (FCW)
SYSTEM (if so equipped)

5-74Starting and driving
SSD1156
Warning systems switch
FCW system operation
The FCW system will function at speeds of
approximately 10 MPH (15 km/h) and
above, when the system turns on.
The FCW system has an automatic setting
mode and a manual setting mode to turn
the system on. The setting mode can be
changed. In the automatic setting mode,
the FCW system is automatically turned on
when the ignition switch is pushed to the
ON position. When the FCW system is on,
the warning systems ON indicator light
*1
on the warning systems switch illuminates.
To cancel the FCW system, push thewarning systems switch. The warning
systems ON indicator light will turn off. To
turn on the system, push the warning
systems switch again.
When the warning systems switch is
pushed, the LDW and BSW systems will
also turn on or off simultaneously. See
“Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system”
(P.5-20) and
“Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
system” (P.5-27).
In the manual setting mode, you need to
push the warning systems switch to turn
on the system after the ignition switch is
pushed to the ON position.
The setting mode can be changed using
the warning systems switch. To change the
setting mode, push and hold the warning
systems switch for more than 4 seconds
when the warning systems ON indicator is
off. When the mode is changed, a chime
sounds and the lane departure warning
light (orange) flashes.
For the sensor maintenance, see “Intelli-
gent Cruise Control (ICC) system (FULL
SPEED RANGE)” (P.5-36). The Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) system
warns the driver by a warning light and
chime when there is a risk of a collision
with the vehicle ahead in the traveling lane
and the driver must take avoidance action
immediately. The system helps reduce the
rear-end collision speed by applying the
brakes when the system judges that the
collision cannot be prevented.
The IBA system will function when your
vehicle is driven at speeds of approxi-
mately 10 MPH (15 km/h) and above, and
when your vehicle is driven at speeds
approximately 10 MPH (15 km/h) faster
than the vehicle ahead.
INTELLIGENT BRAKE ASSIST (IBA) SYSTEM
(if so equipped)

5-78Starting and driving
pushed again, the system will turn on and
the IBA OFF indicator light will turn off.
The IBA system will remain in the last ON
or OFF state it was left in until it is
manually changed by pressing the IBA
OFF switch.
Illumination of the IBA OFF indicator light
without the warning chime sound is an
indication that the IBA system is tempora-
rily unavailable. It will occur under the
following conditions:
.When driving into a strong light (for
example, sunlight)
The IBA OFF indicator light will turn off
when the system returns to its normal
operating conditions.
For the sensor maintenance, see “Intelli-
gent Cruise Control (ICC) system (FULL
SPEED RANGE)” (P.5-36).
CAUTION
During the first 1,200 miles (2,000 km),
follow these recommendations to obtain
maximum engine performance and ensure
the future reliability and economy of your
new vehicle.
Failure to follow these recommendations
may result in shortened engine life and
reduced engine performance.
.Avoid driving for long periods at con-
stant speed, either fast or slow. Do not
run the engine over 4,000 rpm.
. Do not accelerate at full throttle in any
gear.
. Avoid quick starts.
. Avoid hard braking as much as possi-
ble. Follow these easy-to-use Fuel Efficient
Driving Tips to help you achieve the most
fuel economy from your vehicle.
1. Use smooth accelerator and brake
pedal application.
.Avoid rapid starts and stops..Use smooth, gentle accelerator andbrake application whenever possi-
ble.
.Maintain constant speed while com-muting and coast whenever possi-
ble.
2. Maintain constant speed.
.Look ahead to try and anticipate and minimize stops.
.Synchronizing your speed with traf-fic lights allows you to reduce your
number of stops.
.Maintaining a steady speed can
minimize red light stops and im-
prove fuel efficiency.
3. Use air conditioning (A/C) at higher vehicle speeds.
.Below 40 MPH (64 km/h), it is moreefficient to open windows to cool the
vehicle due to reduced engine load.
.Above 40 MPH (64 km/h), it is moreefficient to use A/C to cool the
vehicle due to increased aerody-
BREAK-IN SCHEDULE FUEL EFFICIENT DRIVING TIPS

5-80Starting and driving
.Keep your engine tuned up.
. Follow the recommended scheduled
maintenance.
. Keep the tires inflated to the correct
pressure. Low tire pressure increases
tire wear and lowers fuel economy.
. Keep the wheels in correct alignment.
Improper alignment increases tire wear
and lowers fuel economy.
. Use the recommended viscosity engine
oil. (See “Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation” (P.9-5).)
SSD0336
The AWD warning light is located in the
meter.
The AWD warning light comes on when the
ignition switch is pushed to the ON
position. It turns off soon after the engine
is started. If any malfunction occurs in the AWD
system while the engine is running, the
warning light will come on.
The warning light may blink rapidly (about
twice per second) while trying to free a
stuck vehicle due to high power train oil
temperature. The driving mode may change
to two-wheel drive. If the warning light
blinks rapidly during operation, stop the
vehicle with the engine idling in a safe
place immediately. Then if the light goes
off after a while, you can continue driving.
A large difference between the diameters
of front and rear wheels will make the
warning light blink slowly (about once per
two seconds). Pull off the road in a safe
area, and idle the engine. Check that all
tire sizes are the same, tire pressure is
correct and tires are not worn.
If the warning light is blinking after the
above operation, have your vehicle
checked by an INFINITI retailer as soon as
possible.
WARNING
.
For AWD equipped vehicles, do not
attempt to raise two wheels off the
INCREASING FUEL ECONOMY ALL-WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) (if so equipped)

8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirement .................................... 8-2Scheduled maintenance .................................. 8-2
General maintenance....................................... 8-2
Where to go for service ................................... 8-2
General maintenance ........................................... 8-2 Explanation of maintenance items ................... 8-2
Maintenance precautions ..................................... 8-5
Engine compartment check locations ................... 8-7 VQ37VHR engine ............................................. 8-7
Engine cooling system ......................................... 8-7
Checking engine coolant level ......................... 8-8
Changing engine coolant ................................. 8-9
Engine oil ............................................................ 8-9
Checking engine oil level................................. 8-9
Changing engine oil and filter ....................... 8-10
Automatic transmission fluid ............................. 8-12
Power steering fluid........................................... 8-12
Brake fluid......................................................... 8-13
Window washer fluid ......................................... 8-14
Battery .............................................................. 8-15
Jump starting ................................................ 8-16
Variable voltage control system ......................... 8-16
Drive belts ......................................................... 8-17 Spark plugs ...................................................... 8-17
Replacing spark plugs ................................. 8-18
Air cleaner ........................................................ 8-18
Windshield wiper blades ................................... 8-20 Cleaning ...................................................... 8-20
Replacing..................................................... 8-20
Rear window wiper blades ................................ 8-21
Brakes .............................................................. 8-21 Self-adjusting brakes ................................... 8-21
Brake pad wear warning .............................. 8-21
Fuses ................................................................ 8-22 Engine compartment .................................... 8-22
Passenger compartment............................... 8-23
Intelligent Key battery replacement ................... 8-24
Lights................................................................ 8-26 Headlights ................................................... 8-26
Exterior and interior lights ........................... 8-28
Wheels and tires ............................................... 8-30 Tire pressure ............................................... 8-30
Tire labeling ................................................ 8-34
Types of tires............................................... 8-36
Tire chains ................................................... 8-37
Changing wheels and tires........................... 8-37

8-2Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Some day-to-day and regular maintenance
is essential to maintain your vehicle good
mechanical condition, as well as its emis-
sion and engine performance.
It is the owner’s responsibility to make
sure that the scheduled maintenance, as
well as general maintenance, is performed.
As the vehicle owner, you are the only one
who can ensure that your vehicle receives
the proper maintenance care. You are a
vital link in the maintenance chain.
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
For your convenience, both required and
optional scheduled maintenance items are
described and listed in your“INFINITI
Service and Maintenance Guide”. You must
refer to that guide to ensure that necessary
maintenance is performed on your vehicle
at regular intervals.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
General maintenance includes those items
which should be checked during normal
day-to-day operation. They are essential for
proper vehicle operation. It is your respon-
sibility to perform these procedures reg-
ularly as prescribed.
Performing general maintenance checks requires minimal mechanical skill and only
a few general automotive tools.
These checks or inspections can be done
by yourself, a qualified technician or, if you
prefer, an INFINITI retailer.
WHERE TO GO FOR SERVICE
If maintenance service is required or your
vehicle appears to malfunction, have the
systems checked and serviced by an
INFINITI retailer.
INFINITI technicians are well-trained spe-
cialists and are kept up to date with the
latest service information through techni-
cal bulletins, service tips, and in-retailer-
ship information systems. They are
completely qualified to work on INFINITI
vehicles
beforework begins.
You can be confident that an INFINITI
retailer’s service department performs the
best job to meet the maintenance require-
ments on your vehicle. During the normal day-to-day operation of
the vehicle, general maintenance should
be performed regularly as prescribed in
this section. If you detect any unusual
sounds, vibrations or smell, be sure to
check for the cause or have an INFINITI
retailer do it promptly. In addition, you
should notify an INFINITI retailer if you
think that repairs are required.
When performing any checks or mainte-
nance work, see
“Maintenance precau-
tions” (P.8-5).
EXPLANATION OF MAINTENANCE
ITEMS
Additional information on the following
items with “*” is found later in this
section.
Outside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should
be performed from time to time, unless
otherwise specified.
Doors and engine hood: Check that all
doors and the engine hood, operate
properly. Also ensure that all latches lock
securely. Lubricate hinges, latches, latch
pins, rollers and links if necessary. Make
sure that the secondary latch keeps the
hood from opening when the primary latch
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENT GENERAL MAINTENANCE

is released.
When driving in areas using road salt or
other corrosive materials, check lubrication
frequently.
Lights*:Clean the headlights on a regular
basis. Make sure that the headlights, stop
lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and
other lights are all operating properly and
installed securely. Also check headlight
aim.
Road wheel nuts (lug nuts)*: When check-
ing the tires, make sure no wheel nuts are
missing, and check for any loose wheel
nuts. Tighten if necessary.
Tire rotation*: Tires should be rotated
every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Tires*: Check the pressure with a gauge
often and always prior to long distance
trips. If necessary, adjust the pressure in
all tires, including the spare, to the
pressure specified. Check carefully for
damage, cuts or excessive wear.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
transmitter components: Replace the TPMS
transmitter grommet seal, valve core and
cap when the tires are replaced due to
wear or age.
Tire, wheel alignment and balance: If thevehicle should pull to either side while
driving on a straight and level road, or if
you detect uneven or abnormal tire wear,
there may be a need for wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at
normal highway speeds, wheel balancing
may be needed.
For additional information regarding tires,
refer to
“Important Tire Safety Information”
(US) or “Tire Safety Information” (Canada)
in the INFINITI Warranty Information Book-
let.
Windshield: Clean the windshield on a
regular basis. Check the windshield at
least every six months for cracks or other
damage. Have a damaged windshield
repaired by a qualified repair facility.
Windshield wiper blades*: Check for
cracks or wear if they do not wipe properly.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked on a regular basis, such as
when performing periodic maintenance,
cleaning the vehicle, etc.
Accelerator pedal: Check the pedal for
smooth operation and make sure the pedal
does not catch or require uneven effort. Keep the floor mat away from the pedal.
Automatic transmission P (Park) mechan-
ism:
On a fairly steep hill, check that your
vehicle is held securely with the shift lever
in the P (Park) position without applying
any brakes.
Brake pedal: Check the pedal for smooth
operation. If the brake pedal suddenly
goes down further than normal, the pedal
feels spongy or the vehicle seems to take
longer to stop, see an INFINITI retailer
immediately. Keep the floor mat away from
the pedal.
Brakes: Check that the brakes do not pull
the vehicle to one side when applied.
Parking brake: Check the parking brake
operation regularly. The vehicle should be
securely held on a fairly steep hill with only
the parking brake applied. If the parking
brake needs adjusted, see an INFINITI
retailer.
Seat belts: Check that all parts of the seat
belt system (for example, buckles, an-
chors, adjuster 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
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-3

8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to
ensure they operate smoothly and that all
latches lock securely in every position.
Check that the head restraint/headrest
moves up and down smoothly and that
the locks (if so equipped) hold securely in
all latched positions.
Steering wheel:Check for changes in the
steering 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
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*: Check the fluid level in each cell.
It should be between the MAX and MIN
lines. Vehicles operated in high tempera- tures or under severe condition require
frequent checks of the battery fluid level.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery dis-
charge and potential no-start conditions
such as:
1.
Installation or extended use of electro-
nic 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 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, im-
mediately have the exhaust system in-
spected by an INFINITI retailer. (See
“Precautions when starting and driving”
(P.5-3) 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 fuel fumes are evident, check for the
cause and have it corrected 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
exposed to corrosive substances such as
those used on icy roads or to control dust.