INFINITI QX80 2021 Owner's Manual

8-38Do-it-yourself
WARNING
.The full-size temporary use only
spare tire should be used for emer-
gency use. It should be replaced with
the standard tire at the first oppor-
tunity to avoid possible tire or differ-
ential damage
. Drive carefully while the spare tire is
installed. Avoid sharp turns and
abrupt braking while driving. The
vehicle driving performance may be
affected when driving on wet or
snow covered roads.
. When the spare tire is installed, the
following systems may not work
correctly.
— Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
— Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) System
. Periodically check spare tire inflation
pressure. Always keep the spare tire
inflated to the pressure specification
shown on the Tire and Loading
Information label. For Tire and Load-
ing Information label location, see
“Tire and Loading Information label”
in the index of this manual. .
With the spare tire installed do not
drive your vehicle at speeds faster
than 70 MPH (112 km/h).
. When driving on roads covered with
snow or ice, the spare tire should be
used on the front wheels and original
tire used on the rear wheels (drive
wheels). Use tire chains only on the
two rear original tires.
. Do not use the spare tire on other
vehicles.
. Do not use more than one spare tire
at the same time.
CAUTION
Do not use tire chains on the spare tire.
Tire chains will not fit properly and may
cause damage to the vehicle.

9 Maintenance and schedules
Maintenance requirement .............................................. 9-2General maintenance ................................................. 9-2
Scheduled maintenance ............................................. 9-2
Where to go for service ............................................ 9-2
General maintenance ....................................................... 9-2 Explanation of maintenance items ......................... 9-2 Explanation of scheduled maintenance items ......... 9-5
Emission control system maintenance ................ 9-5
Chassis and body maintenance ............................. 9-5
Maintenance schedules .................................................. 9-6 Additional maintenance items for severe
operating conditions ................................................ 9-6
Standard maintenance .................................................... 9-7

9-2Maintenance and schedules
Some day-to-day and regular maintenance
is essential to maintain your vehicle’s good
mechanical condition, as well as its emission
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. You are a vital link
in the maintenance chain.
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 regularly
as prescribed.
Performing general maintenance checks re-
quires 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.
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
The maintenance items listed in this section
are required to be serviced at regular inter-
vals. However, under severe driving condi-
tions, additional or more frequent
maintenance will be required.
WHERE TO GO FOR SERVICE
If maintenance service is required or your
vehicle appears to malfunction, have the
systems checked and serviced. It is recom-
mended you visit an INFINITI retailer for this
service.
INFINITI technicians are well-trained spe-
cialists and are kept up to date with the
latest service information through technical
bulletins, service tips, and training programs.
They are completely qualified to work on
INFINITI vehiclesbeforework begins.
If your vehicle is involved in a collision, it is
recommended that you ask your INFINITI
retailer where the nearest INFINITI Certified
Collision Center is located, or go to http://
collision.infinitiusa.com.
You can be confident that an INFINITI
retailer’s service department can perform
the service needed to meet the maintenance
requirements 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 smells, be sure to check for the
cause and have it checked promptly. It is
recommended to have an INFINITI retailer
do it promptly. In addition, it is recom-
mended you visit an INFINITI retailer if you
think that repairs are required.
When performing any checks or mainte-
nance work, closely observe “Maintenance
precautions” (P.8-2).
EXPLANATION OF MAINTE-
NANCE ITEMS
Additional information on the following
items with “*” is found in the “8. Do-it
yourself” section of this manual.
Outside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
performed from time to time, unless other-
wise specified.
Doors and engine hood:
Check that all doors
and the engine hood, operate properly. Also
ensure that all latches lock securely. Lubri-
cate hinges, latches, latch pins, rollers and
links if necessary. Make sure that the
secondary latch keeps the hood from open-
ing when the primary latch is released.
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENT GENERAL MAINTENANCE

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 checking
the tires, make sure no wheel nuts are
missing, and check for any loose wheel nuts.
Tighten if necessary.
Tire rotation*: Rotate tires at the specified
interval shown in the maintenance schedule.
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 speci-
fied. 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.
Wheel alignment and balance: If the vehicle
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 Booklet.
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. It is recommended
that you have a damaged windshield re-
paired by an INFINITI retailer, or an INFINITI
Certified Collision Center. To locate a colli-
sion center in your area, refer to http://
collision.infinitiusa.com.
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, have your vehicle checked immediately.
It is recommended you visit an INFINITI
retailer for this service. 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, it is recommended you
visit an INFINITI retailer for this service.
Seat belts: Check that all parts of the seat
belt system (for example, buckles, anchors,
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
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
Maintenance and schedules9-3

9-4Maintenance and schedules
equipped) hold securely in all latched posi-
tions.
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 temperatures 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 discharge
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 belt*: 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. It is recom-
mended you visit an INFINITI retailer for this
service. (See “Precautions when starting and
driving” (P.5-4) 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, defor-
mation, rot or loose connections.
Underbody: The underbody is frequently
exposed to corrosive substances such as
those used on icy roads or to control dust. It
is very important to remove these sub-
stances, otherwise rust will form on the
floor pan, frame, fuel lines and around the
exhaust system. At the end of winter, the
underbody should be thoroughly flushed
with plain water, being careful to clean
those areas where mud and dirt may accu-
mulate. For additional information, see
“Cleaning exterior” (P.7-2).
Windshield washer fluid*: Check that there
is adequate fluid in the reservoir.

The following descriptions are provided to
give you a better understanding of the
scheduled maintenance items that should
be regularly checked or replaced. The main-
tenance schedule indicates at which mile-
age/time intervals each item requires
service.
In addition to scheduled maintenance, your
vehicle requires that some items be checked
during normal day-to-day operation. Refer
to “General maintenance” (P.9-2).
Items marked with “*” are recommended by
INFINITI for reliable vehicle operation. You
are not required to perform maintenance on
these items in order to maintain the warran-
ties which come with your vehicle. Other
maintenance items and intervals are re-
quired.
When applicable, additional information can
be found in the “8. Do-it yourself” section of
this manual.
NOTE:
INFINITI does not advocate the use of non-
OEM approved aftermarket flushing sys-
tems and strongly advises against perform-
ing these services on an INFINITI product.
Many of the aftermarket flushing systems
use non-OEM approved chemicals or sol-
vents, the use of which has not been
validated by INFINITI.
For recommended fuel, lubricants, fluids,grease, and refrigerant, refer to “Capacities
and recommended fluids/lubricants” (P.10-
2) of this manual.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE
Drive belt*:
Check engine drive belt for wear, fraying or
cracking and for proper tension. Replace any
damaged drive belt.
Engine air filter:
Replace at specified intervals. When driving
for prolonged periods in dusty conditions,
check/replace the filter more frequently.
Engine coolant*
Replace coolant at the specified interval.
When adding or replacing coolant, be sure to
use only Genuine NISSAN Long Life Anti-
freeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent with the
proper mixture. (Refer to “Engine cooling
system” (P.8-4) to determine the proper
mixture for your area.)
NOTE:
Mixing any other type of coolant or the use
of non-distilled water may reduce the
recommended service interval of the cool-
ant.
Engine oil and oil filter:
Replace engine oil and oil filter at the
specified intervals. For recommended oil
grade and viscosity refer to “Capacities and
recommended fluids/lubricants” (P.10-2).
Engine valve clearance*:
Inspect only if valve noise increases. Adjust
valve clearance if necessary.
Evaporative emissions control vapor lines*:
Check vapor lines for leaks or looseness.
Tighten connections or replace parts as
necessary.
Fuel lines*:
Check the fuel hoses, piping and connections
for leaks, looseness, or deterioration. Tight-
en connections or replace parts as necessary.
Spark plugs:
Replace at specified intervals. Install new
plugs of the type as originally equipped.
CHASSIS AND BODY MAINTE-
NANCE
Brake lines and cables:
Visually inspect for proper installation.
Check for chafing, cracks, deterioration,
and signs of leaking. Replace any deterio-
rated or damaged parts immediately.
Maintenance and schedules9-5
EXPLANATION OF SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE ITEMS

9-6Maintenance and schedules
Brake pads and rotors:
Check for wear, deterioration and fluid
leaks. Replace any deteriorated or damaged
parts immediately.
Exhaust system:
Visually inspect the exhaust pipes, muffler
and hangers for leaks, cracks, deterioration,
and damage. Tighten connections or replace
parts as necessary.
In-cabin microfilter:
Replace at specified intervals. When driving
for prolonged periods in dusty conditions,
replace the filter more frequently.
Propeller shaft(s):
Check for damage, looseness, and grease
leakage. (4WD/RWD)
Steering gear and linkage, axle and suspen-
sion parts, drive shaft boots:
Check for damage, looseness, and leakage
of oil or grease. Under severe driving condi-
tions, inspect more frequently.
Tire rotation:
Rotate tires at the specified interval. When
rotating tires, check for damage and uneven
wear. Replace if necessary.
Transmission fluid/oil, differential oil and
transfer case oil:
Visually inspect for signs of leakage at
specified intervals.To help ensure smooth, safe and economical
driving, INFINITI provides two maintenance
schedules that may be used, depending upon
the conditions in which you usually drive.
These schedules contain both distance and
time intervals, up to 120,000 miles
(192,000 km)/96 months. For most people,
the odometer reading will indicate when
service is needed. However, if you drive very
little, your vehicle should be serviced at the
regular time intervals shown in the schedule.
After 120,000 miles (192,000 km)/96
months, continue maintenance at the same
mileage/time intervals.
ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE
ITEMS FOR SEVERE OPERATING
CONDITIONS
Additional maintenance items for severe
operating conditions;
should be performed
on vehicles that are driven under especially
demanding conditions. Additional mainte-
nance items should be performed if you
primarily operate your vehicle under the
following conditions:
. Repeated short trips of less than 5 miles
(8 km).
. Repeated short trips of less than 10 miles
(16 km) with outside temperatures re-
maining below freezing. .
Operating in hot weather in stop-and-go
“rush hour” traffic.
. Extensive idling and/or low speed driving
for long distances, such as police, taxi or
door-to-door delivery use.
. Driving in dusty conditions.
. Driving on rough, muddy or salt spread
roads.
. Towing a trailer, using a camper or car-
top carrier.
If your vehicle is mainly operated under the
severe conditions, follow the severe main-
tenance intervals shown in the maintenance
schedule.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

The following shows the maintenance schedule.
Choose the maintenance schedule needed based on your vehicle driving conditions.
After 120,000 miles (192,000 km)/96 months, continue maintenance at the same mileage/time interval.
5,000 Miles/6 Months/8,000 KmStandard maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval.
Severe maintenance:
.Inspect brake pads and rotors.Inspect steering gear and linkage.Inspect axle and suspension parts.Inspect propeller shaft (4WD models).Inspect drive shaft boots (4WD models).Inspect exhaust system.Replace engine oil and filter
7,500 Miles/6 Months/12,000 KmStandard maintenance:.Replace engine oil and filter.Perform tire rotation
Severe maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval.
10,000 Miles/12 Months/16,000
Km
Standard maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval.
Severe maintenance:
.Inspect brake pads and rotors.Inspect steering gear and linkage.Inspect axle and suspension parts.Inspect propeller shaft (4WD models).Inspect drive shaft boots (4WD models).Inspect exhaust system.Replace engine oil and filter.Replace brake fluid
Maintenance and schedules9-7
STANDARD MAINTENANCE

9-8Maintenance and schedules
15,000 Miles/12 Months/24,000
Km
Standard maintenance:.Inspect brake lines and cables.Inspect brake pads and rotors.Replace differential gear oil.Inspect propeller shaft (4WD models).Inspect transfer case oil (4WD models).Inspect drive shaft boots (4WD models).Replace engine oil and filter.Replace in-cabin microfilter.Perform tire rotation.Lubricate propeller shaft grease (4WD models)
Severe maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval.
15,000 Miles/18 Months/24,000
Km
Standard maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval.
Severe maintenance:
.Inspect brake pads and rotors.Inspect steering gear and linkage.Inspect axle and suspension parts.Inspect propeller shaft (4WD models).Inspect drive shaft boots (4WD models).Inspect exhaust system.Replace engine oil and filter
20,000 Miles/24 Months/32,000
Km
Standard maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval.
Severe maintenance:
.Inspect brake pads and rotors.Inspect steering gear and linkage.Inspect axle and suspension parts.Inspect propeller shaft (4WD models).Inspect drive shaft boots (4WD models).Inspect exhaust system.Replace engine oil and filter.Replace brake fluid.Replace differential gear oil.Replace transfer case oil (4WD models)

22,500 Miles/18 Months/36,000
Km
Standard maintenance:.Inspect Intelligent key battery.Replace engine oil and filter.Perform tire rotation
Severe maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval.
25,000 Miles/30 Months/40,000
Km
Standard maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval.
Severe maintenance:
.Inspect brake pads and rotors.Inspect steering gear and linkage.Inspect axle and suspension parts.Inspect propeller shaft (4WD models).Inspect drive shaft boots (4WD models).Inspect exhaust system.Replace engine oil and filter
30,000 Miles/24 Months/48,000
Km
Standard maintenance:.Inspect brake lines and cables.Inspect brake pads and rotors.Inspect fuel tank vapor vent system hoses.Inspect fuel lines/connections.Inspect exhaust system.Inspect steering gear and linkage.Inspect axle and suspension parts.Replace differential gear oil.Inspect propeller shaft (4WD models).Inspect transfer case oil (4WD models).Inspect drive shaft boots (4WD models).Replace engine oil and filter.Replace engine air filter (1).Replace brake fluid.Replace in-cabin microfilter.Perform tire rotation.Lubricate propeller shaft grease (4WD models)
Severe maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval.
(1) If operating mainly in dusty conditions, more
frequent maintenance may be required.
Maintenance and schedules9-9