Drive belts, once called fan belts or alternator belts, play a vital role in the operation of the engine.
While the engine is running, power is transmitted through one or more drive belts to a number of vital external engine components.
Among the systems that depend on drive belts for power are
• The alternator, which supplies the entire vehicle with its electrical requirements
• The power steering pump, which provides power assist to the steering system
• The water pump which provides coolant flow for cooling
• Should a drive belt fail, these systems will cease to function, and the steering will immediately become stiff.
• A battery warning lamp on the instrument panel immediately alerts the driver about the failure and the vehicle can still be safely driven for a short period of time. There is no warning lamp for the power steering or water pump belt.
If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by an extremely high temperature gauge reading), pull over to a safe place, and stop the vehicle as soon as possible. Do not continue to drive your vehicle. Doing so could cause engine damage or a vehicle fire (consult your Owner’s Manual). It is recommended that you contact your INFINITI Dealership immediately to arrange for the installation of a Genuine INFINITI Drive Belt.
Why is it important to have the timing belt replaced when recommended?
Your INFINITI’s engine may be equipped with either a steel timing chain or a synthetic rubber timing belt-check your owner’s manual to be sure.
The timing chain is maintenance-free. The timing belt is prone to wear and deterioration as the vehicle ages.
Because the timing belt is under a protective cover, it is impossible to perform a visual inspection to determine its condition. It is recommended that the timing belt be replaced as a part of a long-term maintenance program – usually between 96,000 km and 168,000 km.
The timing belt is a vital engine component that coordinates the internal operation of the engine. Should the timing belt fail, this internal coordination, or timing, is destroyed. The result may be that the intake and exhaust valves interfere with the proper functioning of the pistons and cause severe engine damage that could cost thousands of dollars to repair.
Replacement of the timing belt at the recommended interval is one of the most important maintenance items to perform.
Why do you need to replace the oil filter with every oil change?
Modern engine oils do more than lubricate; they help remove harmful engine deposits and contaminants as you drive.
The oil suspends these contaminants and carries them to the oil filter where they are trapped and held. Eventually, the oil filter becomes so saturated with these contaminants that its filtering capability is significantly reduced or made totally ineffective.
If the oil filter is not replaced at the recommended intervals, unfiltered oil will continue to flow through the engine and cause excessive wear, which will reduce performance and ultimately shorten the life of the engine.
Why is maintaining proper tire pressure important?
Proper tire inflation helps prevent accelerated wear that leads to premature tire replacement and is also important to safety.
Tires that are driven under-inflated generate excessively high heat levels that can weaken the tire to the point of failure.
At high speed, a rapidly deflating tire can cause loss of vehicle control.
An over-inflated tire will result in harsh ride quality and will cause uneven tire wear.
Where can I find the recommended tire pressures for my INFINITI vehicle?
The tire pressures recommended for a INFINITI vehicle are shown on a sticker (tire placard) situated on the (B or C) pillar between the front and rear doors, on the driver's side.
Alternatively you can check your Owner's Manual.
How can I maximize my fuel economy?
There are several ways you can maximize your fuel economy:
1. Make sure tires are properly inflated to manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. At highway speed, drive with your windows closed. Even with the air conditioner running, the fuel savings can be significant.
3. Use your cruise control when conditions permit.
4. Keep your engine tuned up, follow the recommended periodic maintenance schedule.
5. Replace your vehicle’s air filter more frequently if you drive in dusty conditions.
6. Keep the wheels in correct alignment. Improper alignment increases tire wear and lowers fuel economy.
7. Don’t let your vehicle idle excessively during warm-up.
8. Accelerate slowly and smoothly, maintain cruising speeds with a constant accelerator position.
9. Drive at moderate speeds on the highway. Driving at high speed lowers fuel economy.
10. Avoid unnecessary stopping and braking. Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.
How can I maximize my fuel economy?
There are several ways you can maximize your fuel economy:
1. Make sure tires are properly inflated to manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. At highway speed, drive with your windows closed. Even with the air conditioner running, the fuel savings can be significant.
3. Use your cruise control when conditions permit.
4. Keep your engine tuned up, follow the recommended periodic maintenance schedule.
5. Replace your vehicle’s air filter more frequently if you drive in dusty conditions.
6. Keep the wheels in correct alignment. Improper alignment increases tire wear and lowers fuel economy.
7. Don’t let your vehicle idle excessively during warm-up.
8. Accelerate slowly and smoothly, maintain cruising speeds with a constant accelerator position.
9. Drive at moderate speeds on the highway. Driving at high speed lowers fuel economy.
10. Avoid unnecessary stopping and braking. Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.
Why do my brakes squeak and groan?
Depending on driving conditions, a certain amount of brake noise is normal. However, brake noise is often an indicator of potential problems and should be assessed as soon as possible.
All INFINITI brake pads have a sensor that makes a high-pitched squeal when the brake friction materials are nearing the end of their life span. If this squeal is heard, it is recommended that you make arrangements with your INFINITI Dealership to have the vehicle’s brake system thoroughly inspected.
INFINITI recommends that you have your brakes inspected at least every six months.
What should I do if I think my INFINITI vehicle needs service?
You should always contact your INFINITI servicing dealer, even if you aren't sure that your vehicle requires service. A simple call could help you avoid bigger costs and inconvenience later.
What should I do to repair my vehicle after a collision?
Contact your servicing dealer if you have one. We recommend you insist on Genuine INFINITI collision parts.
If you want your vehicle to be restored to its original condition – to last and be safe – and if you want to help it hold its resale value, the solution is simple: tell your insurance agent and your repair shop to use only Genuine INFINITI collision parts.
How can I obtain the key code for my vehicle?
Your servicing dealer can provide you with a duplicate key at your request.
How can I obtain an Owner’s Manual for my INFINITI vehicle?
The INFINITI Owner’s Manual has valuable model-specific details on the day-to-day use and care of your car.
If you've lost or misplaced your manual you may order a replacement through your servicing dealer or download from INFINITI.ca.
Why do I get static electrical shocks from my vehicle, and how do I avoid this
Static electrical shocks from motor vehicles are caused by the friction between your clothes and the car's seat fabrics.
When you climb out of the car, you connect its bodywork to the ground, and the static electricity runs through you to "earth.” This affects all manufacturers' vehicles and is impossible to prevent.
You can lessen the effect by holding on to a metal part of the car, for example the edge of the door, as you get out. This allows the vehicle's bodywork to absorb the static gradually, and prevents the sudden discharge to earth, which causes the shock.
