INFINITI Service

Frequently Asked Questions

general
When should I have vehicle maintenance performed?

Answer:

Your vehicle’s maintenance needs vary according to mileage and driving conditions. Please refer to our Maintenance Schedules for more details, or speak to one of your INFINITI Retailer’s trained experts.

View Maintenance Schedules

How can I help maximize my fuel economy?

Answer:

Make sure tires are properly inflated to INFINITI’s recommendations. The best way to determine the correct pressure is to refer to your Owner's Manual or the label on the driver’s side door sill.

At highway speed, drive with your windows closed. Even with the air conditioner running, the fuel savings are significant.

Use your cruise control when conditions permit.

Replace your vehicle's air filter more frequently if you drive in dusty conditions.

What is a drive belt, and why does it need replacement?

Answer:

Drive belts, once called fan belts or alternator belts, play an essential 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, and the power steering pump, which provides power assist to the steering system. Should a drive belt fail, these systems will cease to function and the steering will immediately become stiff. It is recommended that you contact your INFINITI Retailer immediately to arrange for the installation of a Genuine INFINITI Drive Belt.
How do I check if my INFINITI has open recalls?

Answer:

You can quickly find out if there are any recalls specific to your vehicle by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) here.

battery & electrical systems
What kind of preventative maintenance can I perform for my battery?

Answer:

Typical modern batteries are maintenance free. Your INFINITI Retailer has the latest battery and electrical system testing equipment should you want to have the health of your battery checked.

What are the main causes of battery failure?

Answer:

Batteries wear out over time, but there are also issues that impact battery failure. For example, infrequent start-up and prolonged exposure to excessive heat or cold may potentially affect the lifespan of your battery.

Do I need to charge my battery after I jump-start my vehicle?

Answer:

In most instances, normal driving will recharge the battery unless there is an issue with the vehicle. If your vehicle does not start after driving it, it’s recommended that you take your vehicle to your INFINITI Retailer to have a diagnosis performed.

brakes
How do I know when I need new brake pads?

Answer:

Brake pads are equipped with wear indicators that produce a squeaking noise when the brakes are almost worn out. The noise may be present with or without the brake pedal applied, but when noise is heard from the wear indicator, the brake pads should be replaced as soon as possible. Wear indicators are set to create noise when there is around 2 mm of brake pad friction material thickness remaining. In the case of assessing pad wear through inspection, pads should be replaced at or before 2 mm of thickness is reached.


Your Retailer will perform a MPI (Multi-Point Inspection) on the vehicle during routine maintenance visits so you are aware of how much brake pad material is remaining.

How do I know when I need new brake rotors?

Answer:

Brake rotors are marked with a “minimum thickness” on the casting (usually 2 mm to 3 mm less than the new rotor thickness). Rotors should be replaced before they reach this minimum thickness and should not be “turned” (machine refinished) below this.


For more information or to have your brakes thoroughly inspected by an INFINITI technician, please contact your local Retailer to schedule an appointment.


Must I always turn or replace my rotors when changing my pads?

Answer:

Because every INFINITI vehicle is unique, we'd recommend scheduling an appointment with your local Retailer to have your brakes thoroughly inspected by one of our factory-trained technicians.

Why does my brake pedal pulse?

Answer:

Brake-pedal pulsation and other conditions such as steering-wheel shaking while braking are caused by thickness variation in the brake rotor. When a thicker spot of the rotor rotates through the caliper, it pushes back against brake fluid, which can be felt at the brake pedal. The brake fluid and pedal then relax again as the thick spot exits the caliper. This process produces pedal pulsation and “brake torque variation,” which can shake the steering wheel and seats. Brake pulsation is not caused by warping of the disc. However, distortion of the disc due to excessive temperatures or improper installation and torquing of the wheels can lead to brake rotor thickness variation over time. Brake-pedal pulsation is corrected by turning and/or replacing the brake rotors to eliminate the thickness variation.

Why do I hear a noise when I apply the brakes?

Answer:

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 Retailer to have the vehicle's brake system thoroughly inspected. INFINITI recommends that you have your brakes inspected at least every six months.
My brake pads are very dusty. Are all pads dusty?

Answer:

Brake dust can occur to some extent on most brake systems, but it is significantly more noticeable with metallic pads and on high-performance brake systems. Brake dust is a mix of debris from the brake rotor and debris from the brake pads. Pad materials that wear the rotor more aggressively will cause more dust.

Are all brake rotors the same?

Answer:

No. There are often significant differences between Genuine INFINITI and aftermarket brake rotors. While brake rotors designed to fit the same vehicle will often be similar in appearance and dimensions, there can be differences in internal cooling vane design, thickness of the brake plates (against which the brake pad rubs), and the grade and material specification of the cast iron. For Genuine INFINITI Brake Rotors , significant analysis and testing go into determining the right geometry to minimize thermal distortion and squeal noise and to maximize cooling. Similar rigor is put into the material selection.
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engine oil, filters and lubrication
Why do you need to replace the oil filter with every oil change?

Answer:

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 saturated with these contaminants and its filtering capability is significantly reduced. If the oil filter is not replaced at the recommended intervals, contaminated oil will continue to flow through the engine and cause excessive wear, which will reduce performance and ultimately shorten the life of the engine. We recommend always choosing a Genuine INFINITI Oil Filter for optimum engine performance.
How can I be sure to get the correct type of oil for my vehicle?

Answer:

Consult your Owner’s Manual or visit your INFINITI Retailer to be sure you get the proper oil for your vehicle.
What are the benefits of using synthetic oil?

Answer:

Synthetic oil provides protection beyond conventional oil products and in many cases is the factory fill and recommended oil for INFINITI vehicles. It helps extend engine life and protects against sludge, engine rust and corrosion while allowing easy starting and rapid oil circulation to protect critical parts during cold starts.

How often should I change the oil when using synthetic oil?

Answer:

We recommend that you follow the oil change frequencies shown in your Owner's Manual .

Can I use synthetic oil in older vehicles with high mileage?

Answer:

Yes, synthetic motor oil can be used in older vehicles with high mileage. Consult your INFINITI Retailer or the Owner's Manual to choose the proper grade.

Do you need to allow a break-in period before using synthetic oil in a new vehicle?

Answer:

This is a common myth. The truth is that no break-in period is required. Synthetic motor oils can be used in new vehicles starting at any time. Most new model INFINITI vehicles are filled at the factory with synthetic oils.

What is INFINITI-approved oil? Why does INFINITI recommend this for my vehicle?

Answer:

INFINITI-approved synthetic 0W-20 and 5W-30 engine oil meets the specific engineering requirements of your INFINITI engine and is the factory fill on most models. With today’s engines and technology, the proper grade of oil is essential to obtaining maximum performance. Failure to use INFINITI-recommended engine oil grades, where advised, could result in serious engine damage.

tires
When should I get the tires on my vehicle rotated?

Answer:

Please refer to your Owner's Manual .

Why is tire rotation so important?

Answer:

Tires in different positions on a vehicle perform different tasks. Regular rotation helps tires to wear evenly and maximize tread life. Plus, tires can be replaced in sets of four, which is preferable.

Why is tire pressure important?

Answer:

Proper tire inflation helps prevent accelerated wear that leads to premature tire replacement, and it has an important safety aspect as well. 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 overinflated tire will result in harsh ride quality and will cause uneven tire wear.

How often should I check my tire pressure?

Answer:

Checking your tire pressure once a month is a best practice. Be sure the tires are cold (resting for at least three hours or driven less than one mile), and don’t forget to check your spare tire. You should always use a good-quality tire gauge to check pressure – don’t ever try to “eyeball” tires because they can look fine even when they are underinflated. Remember that tires can lose air pressure in cold weather.

How will I know when I need new tires?

Answer:

When your tread has a depth of less than 1.5 mm (1/16 in.), it’s time for new tires. The best measure is to use a tire tread depth gauge. There are a number of additional indicators that will tell you when you are ready for new tires. You’ll definitely need new tires if the tread-wear indicators – called wear bars –appear. These wear bars look like narrow strips of smooth rubber across the tread and appear when it’s time to replace the tires. You should replace the tires if you can see three or more tread-wear indicators around the tire. Urgent indicators of tire wear include:

  • Cord or fabric showing through the rubber;
  • Cracks or cuts in the tread or sidewall deep enough to show cord or fabric;
  • Bulges or splits in the tire;
  • Punctures or damage that cannot be repaired correctly.
If you have questions about whether your tires need replacing, see your INFINITI Retailer for helpful advice, expert guidance and a full selection of replacement tires.
There are a lot of places that sell tires. Where should I go to get the right tires for my car at the right price?

Answer:

Your INFINITI Retailer can recommend tires that are right for your vehicle, your driving habits, and your budget. INFINITI offers a wide selection of tire brands. With our Tire Price Match Program + 5%, bring in an eligible competitor quote and we will match the price and provide an additional 5% credit on select eligible tires.*

*Eligible tires only. Client must present a printed or digital lower-priced quote on an identical tire dated within 30 days of purchase from a tire retailer and installer within 100 miles of Retailer location. Internet quotes are only valid for competitors with a physical retail sales and installation location within the 100-mile radius. Bonus, bundled, free, or special offers; coupons, rebates, or promotions; clearance or closeout prices; used tires; ancillary parts; labor or other charges; typographical errors; competitor prices that result from a price match; quotes from other automotive dealerships; quotes located with INFINITI Retailer assistance; and internal repair orders are not eligible. Void where prohibited by law. Additional terms and restrictions may apply. See your Retailer for full program details. Offer is subject to change at any time and/or is subject to termination without notice.

wiper blades
How do I know when my wiper blades need to be changed?

Answer:

A wiper blade’s natural rubber deteriorates after about six months, which is why it’s recommended that you replace your blades on a semi-annual basis. Streaking, squeaking, chattering, skipping, cracks, tears, splits, bent or broken frame, worn rubber, and rounded wiping edge are some common signs that your blades need to be changed.

Even though one of my wiper blades is more worn than the other, should I replace both of my wiper blades?

Answer:

Yes, it is recommended that you replace both. This will help ensure your windshield is clear and help provide a safer view when driving.

Is there anything I can do to make my blades last longer?
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Answer:

The biggest enemy of wiper blades is exposure to sunlight and ozone. There is little that can be done to reduce ozone exposure, but limiting the amount of time your blades are exposed to direct sunlight will help prolong the life of the wiper blades. Clean your windshield and the rubber element of your wiper regularly. Use an ice scraper and defroster to clear ice from your windshield, not your wipers. Pull your wipers away from the windshield in winter to prevent ice buildup from sticking to the windshield.

What can be used to clean wiper blades?

Answer:

It is recommended to use hot, soapy water or another nonabrasive liquid.

Why is my wiper blade streaking?

Answer:

Streaking is caused by worn blades. A blade’s natural rubber deteriorates after about six months.

How easy is it to replace wipers?

Answer:

Wiper replacement is easy, and instructions are typically included with your wipers or can be found in your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual. Your INFINITI Retailer offers the right blades for your vehicle and can install them for you.