oil level INFINITI QX56 2013 Owner's Manual

SIC4374
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 0 (Empty) after
the ignition switch is pushed to the OFF
position.
Refill the fuel tank before the gauge
registers “0”(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 convenient, preferably before the gauge
reaches
“0”. There will be a small reserve
of fuel in the tank when the fuel gauge
needle reaches “0”.
The
indicates that the fuel-filler door is
located on the driver’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 “Mal-
function Indicator Light (MIL)” later in
this section.SIC4375
ENGINE OIL PRESSURE GAUGE
The gauge indicates the engine lubrication
system oil pressure while the engine is
running. When the engine speed is high,
the engine oil pressure is also high. When
it is low, the gauge indicates the low (L) oil
pressure.
The engine oil pressure is normal when the
gauge needle points within the zone
*1
shown in the illustration.
Instruments and controls2-9

2-10Instruments and controls
CAUTION
.This gauge is not designed to indicate
low engine oil level. Use the dipstick to
check the oil level. (See “Engine oil”in
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.)
. If the gauge needle does not move with
the proper amount of engine oil, have
the vehicle checked by an INFINITI
retailer. Continued vehicle operation in
such a condition could cause serious
damage to the engine.
SIC4376
VOLTMETER
When the ignition switch is pushed to the
ON position, the volt meter indicates the
battery voltage. When the engine is run-
ning, it indicates the generator voltage.
While cranking the engine, the volt drop
below the normal range. If the needle is
not in the normal range (10.5 to 15.5 volt)
while the engine is running, it may indicate
that the charging system is not functioning
properly. Have the system checked by an
INFINITI retailer.
METER/RING ILLUMINATION AND
NEEDLE SWEEP
The ring illumination surrounding meters
and gauges illuminates when the driver’s
door is closed after getting into the vehicle
with the Intelligent Key carried in.
When the engine is started, the indicator
needles will sweep in the speedometer and
tachometer and the ring illumination will
be brightened gradually. This function can
be turned off. (See “Trip computer”later in
this section.)

2-14Instruments and controls
.If the brake fluid level is below the
minimum or MIN mark on the brake fluid
reservoir, do not drive until the brake
system has been checked at an INFINITI
retailer.
Charge warning light
If the light comes on while the engine is
running, it may indicate the charging
system is not functioning properly. Turn
the engine off and check the alternator
belt. If the belt is loose, broken, missing or
if the light remains on, see an INFINITI
retailer immediately.
CAUTION
Do not continue driving if the alternator belt
is loose, broken or missing.
Distance Control Assist (DCA)
system warning light (orange; if so
equipped)
This light comes on if there is a malfunc-
tion in the Distance Control Assist (DCA)
system. If the warning light illuminates, park the
vehicle in a safe place. Turn the engine off,
restart the engine, resume driving and turn
on the DCA system again.
If it is not possible to turn on the system
or the warning light stays on, it may
indicate that the system is malfunctioning.
Although the vehicle is still driveable
under normal conditions, have the vehicle
checked at an INFINITI retailer.
See
“Distance Control Assist (DCA) system”
in the “5. Starting and driving” section.
Engine oil pressure warning
light
This light warns of low engine oil pressure.
If the light flickers or comes on during
normal driving, pull off the road in a safe
area, stop the engine immediatelyand call
an INFINITI retailer or other authorized
repair shop.
The engine oil pressure warning light is
not designed to indicate a low oil level.
Use the dipstick to check the oil level. (See
“Engine oil” in the“8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.)
CAUTION
Running the engine with the engine oil
pressure warning light on could cause
serious damage to the engine almost
immediately. Such damage is not covered
by warranty. Turn off the engine as soon as
it is safe to do so.
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) warn-
ing light (4WD models)
Thewarning light comes on when the
ignition switch is pushed to ON. It turns off
soon after the engine is started.
If the 4WD system malfunctions, or the
diameter of the front and the rear wheels
are different, the warning light will either
remain illuminated or blink. (See “INFINITI
all-mode 4WD
®” in the “5. Starting and
driving” section.)
CAUTION
.If the warning light comes on while
driving there may be a malfunction in
the 4WD system. Reduce the vehicle
speed and have your vehicle checked by

WASHER OPERATION
To operate the washer, pull the lever
toward the back of the vehicle
*5until
the desired amount of washer fluid is
spread on the windshield. The wiper will
automatically operate several times.
The headlight washer (if so equipped) will
also operate with operation of the wind-
shield washer. (See “Headlight washer”
later in this section.)
Wiper drip wipe system:
The wiper will also operate once about 3
seconds after the washer and wiper are
operated. This operation is to wipe washer
fluid that has dripped on the windshield.
SIC4258
RAIN-SENSING AUTO WIPER SYS-
TEM
The rain-sensing auto wiper system can
automatically turn on the wipers and
adjust the wiper speed depending on the
rainfall and the vehicle speed by using the
rain sensor located on the upper part of
the windshield.
To set the rain-sensing auto wiper system,
push the lever down to the AUTO position
*1. The wiper will sweep once while the
ignition switch is in the ON position.
The rain sensor sensitivity level can be
adjusted by turning the knob toward the front
*2(High) or toward the rear*3
(Low).
.
High —High sensitive operation
. Low —Low sensitive operation
To turn the rain-sensing auto wiper system
off, push up the lever to the OFF position,
or pull down the lever to the LO or HI
position.
CAUTION
Do not touch the rain sensor and around it
when the wiper switch is in the AUTO
position and the ignition switch is in the
ON position. The wipers may operate un-
expectedly and cause to an injury or a wiper
damage.
. The rain-sensing auto wipers are in-
tended for use during rain. If the switch
is left in the AUTO position, the wipers
may operate unexpectedly when dirt,
fingerprints, oil film or insects are
stuck on or around the sensor. The
wipers may also operate when exhaust
gas or moisture affect the rain sensor.
. The rain-sensing auto wipers may not
operate if rain does not hit the rain
Instruments and controls2-35

5-14Starting and driving
4. Push the ignition switch while depres-sing the brake pedal within 10 seconds
after the chime sounds. The engine will
start.
After step 3 is performed, when the
ignition switch is pushed without depres-
sing the brake pedal, the ignition switch
position will change to ACC.
NOTE:
. When the ignition switch is pushed to
the ACC or ON position or the engine is
started by the above procedures, the
Intelligent Key battery discharge indi-
cator appears on the dot matrix liquid
crystal display even if the Intelligent
Key is inside the vehicle. This is not a
malfunction. To turn off the Intelligent
Key battery discharge indicator, touch
the ignition switch with the Intelligent
Key again.
. If the Intelligent Key battery discharge
indicator appears, replace the battery
as soon as possible. (See “Battery”in
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-your-
self” section.) .
Make sure the area around the vehicle
is clear.
. Check fluid levels such as engine oil,
coolant, brake fluid and window
washer fluid as frequently as possible,
or at least whenever you refuel.
. Check that all windows and lights are
clean.
. Visually inspect tires for their appear-
ance and condition. Also check tires for
proper inflation.
. Lock all doors.
. Position seat and adjust head re-
straints/headrests.
. Adjust inside and outside mirrors.
. Fasten seat belts and ask all passen-
gers to do likewise.
. Check the operation of warning lights
when the ignition switch is pushed to
the ON position. (See “Warning/indica-
tor lights and audible reminders” in the
“2. Instruments and controls” section.)1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Move the shift lever to the P (Park) or N
(Neutral) position. (P is recommended.)
The starter is designed not to operate
unless the shift lever is in either of the
above positions.
3. Push the ignition switch to the ON position. Depress the brake pedal and
push the ignition switch to start the
engine.
To start the engine immediately, push
and release the ignition switch while
depressing the brake pedal with the
ignition switch in any position.
.If the engine is very hard to start inextremely cold weather or when
restarting, depress the accelerator
pedal a little (approximately 1/3 to
the floor) and while holding, crank
the engine. Release the accelerator
pedal when the engine starts.
.If the engine is very hard to startbecause it is flooded, depress the
accelerator pedal all the way to the
floor and hold it. Push the ignition
switch to the ON position to start
cranking the engine. After 5 or 6
seconds, stop cranking by pushing
the ignition switch to OFF. After
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE

5-16Starting and driving
ENGINE PROTECTION MODE
The engine has an engine protection mode
to reduce the chance of damage if the
coolant temperature becomes too high (for
example, when climbing steep grades in
high temperature with heavy loads, such
as when towing a trailer).
When the engine temperature reaches a
certain level:
.The engine coolant temperature gauge
will move toward the H position.
. Engine power may be reduced.
. The air conditioning cooling function
may be automatically turned OFF for a
short time (the blower will continue to
operate).
Engine power and, under some conditions,
vehicle speed will decrease. Vehicle speed
can be controlled with the accelerator
pedal, but the vehicle may not accelerate
at the desired speed. The transmission will
downshift or upshift as it reaches pre-
scribed shift points. You can also shift
manually.
As driving conditions change and engine
coolant temperature is reduced, vehicle
speed can be increased using the accel-
erator pedal, and air conditioning cooling function will automatically be turned back
ON.
If:
1. The engine coolant temperature is not
reduced.
2. The air conditioning cooling function does not turn back ON.
3. The engine oil pressure warning light
illuminates or engine coolant
temperature gauge does not return to
the normal range from the H position,
this may indicate a malfunction. Move
the vehicle off the road to a safe area
and allow the engine to cool. If after
checking the oil and coolant, the
remains on or engine coolant tempera-
ture does not return to the normal
range, do not continue to drive and
contact an INFINITI retailer.
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
may also come ON. You do not need to
have your vehicle towed, unless it remains
on, but have it inspected soon by an
INFINITI retailer. See “Warning/indicator
lights and audible reminders” in the“2.
Instruments and controls” section.
WARNING
Overheating can result in reduced engine
power and vehicle speed. The reduced speed
may be lower than other traffic, which could
increase the chance of a collision. Be
especially careful when driving. If the
vehicle cannot maintain a safe driving
speed, pull to the side of the road in a safe
area. Allow the engine to cool and return to
normal operation. See“If your vehicle over-
heats” in the“6. In case of emergency”
section.
CAUTION
Running the engine with the engine oil
pressure warning light on could cause
serious damage to the engine almost
immediately. Such damage is not covered
by warranty. Turn off the engine as soon as
it is safe to do so.
DRIVING THE VEHICLE

6-10In case of emergency
seconds. To reset the auto-leveling sus-
pension, cycle the ignition switch ON/OFF
one time.
SCE0910
Installing the spare tire
The full-size temporary use only spare tire
(if so equipped) is designed for emergency
use. (See specific instructions under the
heading“Wheels and tires” in the“8.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.)
1. Clean any mud or dirt from the surface between the wheel and hub.
2. Carefully put the spare tire on and tighten the wheel nuts finger tight.
3. With the wheel nut wrench, tighten wheel nuts alternately and evenly in the
sequence as illustrated (
*1,*2,*3,
*4,*5,*6) until they are tight. 4. Lower the vehicle slowly until the tire
touches the ground. Then, with the
wheel nut wrench, tighten the wheel
nuts securely in the sequence as
illustrated. Lower the vehicle comple-
tely.
WARNING
. Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tigh-
tened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to
become loose or come off. This could
cause an accident.
. Do not use oil or grease on the wheel
studs or nuts. This could cause the nuts
to become loose.
. Retighten the wheel nuts when the
vehicle has been driven for 600 miles
(1,000 km) (also in cases of a flat tire,
etc.).
.As soon as possible, tighten the
wheel nuts to the specified torque
with a torque wrench.
Wheel nut tightening torque: 98 ft-lb (133 N·m)
The wheel nuts must be kept tigh-
tened to specification at all times. It

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 VK56VD engine model ..................................... 8-7
Engine cooling system ......................................... 8-8
Checking engine coolant level ......................... 8-9
Changing engine coolant ................................. 8-9
Engine oil .......................................................... 8-10
Checking engine oil level............................... 8-10
Changing engine oil and filter ....................... 8-10
Automatic transmission fluid ............................. 8-12
Power steering fluid........................................... 8-13
Brake fluid......................................................... 8-13 Brake fluid .................................................... 8-14
Window washer fluid ......................................... 8-15
Battery .............................................................. 8-16 Jump starting ................................................ 8-17
Variable voltage control system ......................... 8-17
Drive belts ......................................................... 8-18 Spark plugs ...................................................... 8-18
Replacing spark plugs ................................. 8-19
Air cleaner ........................................................ 8-19
Windshield wiper blades ................................... 8-20 Cleaning ...................................................... 8-20
Replacing..................................................... 8-21
Rear window wiper blades ................................ 8-22
Brakes .............................................................. 8-22 Self-adjusting brakes ................................... 8-22
Brake pad wear warning .............................. 8-22
Brake booster .............................................. 8-22
Fuses ................................................................ 8-23 Engine compartment .................................... 8-23
Passenger compartment............................... 8-24
Intelligent Key battery replacement ................... 8-25
Lights................................................................ 8-28
Headlights ................................................... 8-29
Exterior and interior lights ........................... 8-29
Wheels and tires ............................................... 8-31 Tire pressure ............................................... 8-31
Tire labeling ................................................ 8-35
Types of tires............................................... 8-37
Tire chains ................................................... 8-38
Changing wheels and tires........................... 8-38

8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
fraying, wear or damage.
Seats:Check seat position controls such as
seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to
ensure they operate smoothly and that all
latches lock securely in every position.
Check that the head restraints/headrests
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
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”
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 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.

8-10Maintenance and do-it-yourself
SDI2531
CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface andapply the parking brake.
2. Run the engine until it reaches operat- ing 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.
6. Recheck oil level with the dipstick.
It is normal to add some oil between oil
maintenance intervals or during the break-
in period, depending on the severity of
operating conditions.
CAUTION
Oil level should be checked regularly.
Operating the engine with an insufficient
amount of oil can damage the engine, and
such damage is not covered by warranty.
CHANGING ENGINE OIL AND FILTER
Vehicle set-up
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Run the engine until it reaches operat- ing temperature.
3. Turn the engine off and wait more than 15 minutes.
4. Raise and support the vehicle using a suitable floor jack and safety jack
stands.
.Place the safety jack stands underthe vehicle jack-up points.
.A suitable adapter should be at-tached to the jack stand saddle.
5. Remove the engine undercover.
.Remove the bolts that hold the
undercover in place.
CAUTION
Make sure the correct lifting and support
points are used to avoid vehicle damage.
ENGINE OIL