Northwest Herald Dr. Gizmo Column Dated March 23, 2012

"Dr. Gizmo"

By Phil Arendt

Concern Over Oil Consumption

Question 1

Recently, I purchased a 1996 Saturn for my daughter.  It has 193,000 miles on it.  When I start the engine there are no puffs of smoke, it does not leak any oil and it runs great.  The trouble is that it uses one pint of oil every 750 miles.

Can you tell me what’s going on? H.D., Bruce, Wis.

Answer 1

It is normal for an engine to consume some oil between oil and filter changes.  When your Saturn was new it was normal for it to consume a quart in 2,000 miles.  For it to consume a quart in 1,500 miles at 193,000 miles is not unusual.  After all, the engine has undergone wear and tear over the last 16 model years.  Also, it is not unusual for engines to consume a little more oil during winter.

 

At this point it is not necessary to do any repairs.  Once wear increases to the stage where the engine consumes a quart or more oil every 1,000 miles it will be time to consider renewing the cylinder head.  Until then check the oil level twice a month.  The best time to check is in the morning before the car is put in service for the day.  In order to get a fairly accurate reading after the car is put into service, the engine should be at operating temperature and the level should be checked at least five minutes after the engine has been shut off to allow oil to return to the oil pan.

When the level drops to the add mark on the dipstick add the factory recommended oil to the full mark.  And of course, change the oil and filter every 3,000 miles.

Swapped Hoses Turn On Check Engine Light 

Question 2

The check engine light is on my 2001 Kia Rio with a 1.5-liter engine and 119,000 miles.  There was an oil leak.  I took the car to a shop to have it repaired.  After the repair I was on my way home when the check engine light turned on and I noticed the engine did not idle as smoothly.

I returned to the repair shop where a mechanic did some tests.  He found the engine was running lean.  He thought something was wrong with the new gasket he had just replaced so he gave me a loaner car and I went home.

When the repair was completed I returned to the shop and drove home.  After driving a few miles the light came back on.  I called my repair shop.  The manager apologized for all the trouble and asked me to return the car for more tests.

 

My repair shop has been servicing and repairing our family cars for many cars.  I trust them but this issue has me a little upset.  This has never happened before.  Do you have any suggestions that might return my car to normal?  R.R., e-mail

Answer 2

This might be a simple fix.  I’m guessing the valve cover gasket needed replacement as it appears the oil leak was a quick repair.  If this is true, ask your technician to check the routing of the positive crankcase ventilation and breather hoses.  It is possible that during reassembly the hoses were inadvertently swapped.  It’s happened to many technicians.  This misstep triggers the check engine light and causes a poor engine idle.  

Explorer Whistles Upon Initial Start

Question 3

On the initial start of the day, I hear a whistling sound coming from the 4.6-liter engine of my 2007 Ford Explorer.  It has 77,000 miles.  The noise occurs during the winter and lasts 5 to 10 minutes depending upon how cold it is.  During warm months I don’t hear the noise at all.

I’ve taken the vehicle to my repair shop but by the time I get there the noise is gone.  One time I left the car for a few hours but when the mechanic started the engine the noise only lasted for a minute or so.  It wasn’t making the noise long enough for him to determine the cause.

I’d like to get this fixed but with warm weather coming I’d like to know if you have any idea what causes the sound?  E.C., e-mail

Answer 3

The best thing to do is leave the SUV at your repair shop overnight so a technician can hear the sound in the morning.  Before you leave the vehicle at the shop make sure weather conditions are ideal for the sound to occur. 

If the noise is coming from the front of the engine the cause might be a faulty idler pulley.   Once a technician determines the noise is from the front he should consider removing the serpentine belt.  Once the engine is restarted, if the noise is gone with the belt removed, the pulley more than likely needs replacement.  If so, Ford Motor Company engineers have designed an upgraded replacement part that should eliminate the sound for perhaps the remaining service life of the vehicle.

Alternator Not Up To The Task

Question 4

Last fall three times my 2004 Honda Civic needed a jump to start.  I took the car to a local shop where the battery and charging system were tested.  The mechanic found that the alternator was not charging the battery.  He installed a new alternator but after double checking his work he found the newly installed alternator failed tests, too.  He checked the circuits and replaced a relay.  This did not cure the trouble.  After more work checking circuits he thought the problem was in the engine computer.  He suggested that I take the car to a dealer to have the computer reprogrammed.

I took the vehicle to a dealership where after many tests they replaced the computer.  The trouble was fixed.

This past month I had to jump the battery.  I returned to my local shop where a mechanic determined that the newly installed alternator was not charging the battery.  Tests showed the engine computer was the trouble.  I returned to the dealer where testing suggested that the computer was fine and the alternator was the trouble.  They told me I needed to install an alternator from Honda.  I did not have them do the work.  I returned to my local shop and told them what my dealership recommended.  The mechanic tested the alternator and did find that it charges fine when the engine is idling but at higher engine speeds it stops charging.  He thinks the trouble is caused by the computer, same as before.

Now I’m stuck.  My dealer blames the trouble on my local shop’s alternator and my local shop blames the trouble on my dealer’s computer.  Can you help?  L.T., e-mail

Answer 4

The simple solution is to drive at idle speed at all times.  All kidding aside, the fact that the alternator passes tests at an idle and not at higher speed indicates trouble in the computer.  Unfortunately, it is possible the alternator and computer are not compatible.  Dealer personnel suggested installation of a factory original equipment alternator.  This is a strong indication that your local shop installed an aftermarket alternator.  Since you are in a situation where both parties blame the other ask your local shop technician to install a factory original equipment part from Honda.  In a situation such as this installation of a factory original part often cures this type of trouble.  If the installation resolves your car’s condition, this saga will come to an end.  If not, both shops have misdiagnosed the trouble.  Let’s hope a factory original alternator does the trick.

Engine Takes Hourly Break

Question 5

I have a 2003 Chrysler Town and Country with a 3.8-liter engine and 26,000 miles.  I have owned it since it was new and have not had any problems with it until now.  I take great care of the vehicle with oil and filter changes every three to four months.  It looks and drives as good as new.

The trouble is that I can’t drive more than an hour straight.  If I do the engine suddenly quits without any warning or indication on the dash.  When it quits I can restart and drive a mile or so before it quits again.

I have taken the van to two shops.  Both shops performed tests on the engine and fuel pump.  They also drove the vehicle extensively around town but neither shop found any problems.  Both shops suggest that I wait until the trouble is worse. 

It happens every time my drive exceeds an hour.  It’s almost like a time clock.  I can almost count on the engine stalling 61 minutes after I start my drive.  I have to be driving for the problem to surface.  If I leave the car in my driveway running for hours it will not stall.  Do you have any suggestions?  N.L., e-mail

Answer 5

Dump it.  I’m just kidding.  With only 26,000 miles it is not even broken in.

This condition is consistent with a failing crankshaft or camshaft sensor.  To find out for sure which sensor is causing trouble a technician might consider testing the sensors when the engine falters.  This can be accomplished while driving the vehicle under the conditions that cause the issue.

Make prior arrangements with your favorite shop.  Consider driving the vehicle close to an hour and make your destination the shop awarded the repair.  Do not shut off the engine when you arrive.  A technician should drive the vehicle from the shop with test equipment ready to monitor sensors and modules.  When the engine fails your technician should monitor data streams and perform individual tests of the sensors.  A fault should occur in the data stream when the engine falters.  Individual test results of the sensors should confirm which sensor has a fault and needs replacement.

Power Steering Quit, Pump Rattles

Question 6

Last fall I purchased a 2001 Hyundai XG with 144,000 miles.  The car is in great condition and the previous owner gave me copies of all the repairs and service he had done on the car since he purchased it new.  It runs great.

There is one problem.  Two weeks ago the power steering quit.  I’m an engineer who tinkers with cars.  I am pretty good at fixing them.  The steering system in this car is hydraulic and not electric.  When I turn the steering wheel all the way in either direction the power steering pump makes a rattling sound.  I removed the reservoir and inspected a filter screen but did not find any metal fragments or glitter in the fluid or screen. 

I don’t have a gauge to determine hydraulic pressure so I’m not sure if the pump is the cause of the problem or if there is another problem.  Do you think installing a new pump will resolve the trouble?  T., e-mail

Answer 6

Your vehicle is known around the world.  Here in the United States 18,000 2001 XGs (AKA the Grandeur and Azera) were sold.  Since it was first introduced about 1998 sales have been consistently between 15,000 to 18,000 units per year.  Once the Genesis came on line, sales of the XG rapidly dropped. 

As you are aware without actually testing the pump’s hydraulic pressure it is a gamble that replacing it will fix the trouble.  Be this as it may, chances are high that a new pump will return full function to the system.  

More than likely a replacement pump will not have a reservoir so be careful not to damage the old reservoir or throw it away.  You will need to install it on the replacement.

Also, as clean as the fluid may be don’t reuse any old fluid.  Fill the system with fresh, clean fluid and buy additional fluid so that you can flush the system after installing the pump.

Additionally, if you don’t want to flush the system in your garage consider having it flushed at your favorite repair shop.  This will ensure removal of any debris in the system and bleed trapped air that can cause noise and reduced power steering assist.  Good luck with your project!                           

Thanks for all of your great questions.  Dr. Gizmo can’t wait to answer more.

Phil Arendt is a columnist, consultant and A.S.E.-Certified Master Technician.  Readers may send questions to Dr. Gizmo at P.O. Box 548, Cary, IL. 60013 or e-mail address drgizmo@drgizmo.ws.   ® DR. GIZMO © 1989-2012

2013 Infiniti JX Delivers Inspired Style, Performance, Roominess and Innovation

– All-New Luxury Crossover Challenges Current Segment Conventions with Roomy 3-Row Seating, Luxurious Versatility and Advanced Technology Features –

The 2013 Infiniti JX will shake up the status quo when the innovative 7-passenger luxury crossover joins the Infiniti lineup in spring 2012. As a fresh, bold alternative to the many flavors of vanilla currently dominating the luxury crossover segment, the all-new Infiniti JX is designed to excel in the areas that luxury crossover buyers desire most – interior flexibility and roominess, safety, and advanced hospitality features. The JX offers real 3-row utility, plus all the premium features, performance and innovations that Infiniti has become known for worldwide.

“The all-new Infiniti JX embraces family customers in a way no luxury crossover has done before – recognizing their need to grow up, but without growing old,” said Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore. “Responsibility should come as a reward, rather than as a restriction on the things and activities you enjoyed as a single person or a couple.”

Key features of the 2013 Infiniti JX include:

• Emotive styling and craftsmanship, featuring the new Infiniti design language direction initiated with the Essence concept
• Segment-leading overall passenger volume
• Segment-leading rear cargo volume (3rd row seats folded, 2nd row seats in forward-most slide position)
• More 2nd and 3rd row legroom than a Cadillac Escalade
• Access to 3rd row without removing a 2nd row child seat
• Infiniti Connection with Google Calendar™, Drive Zone/Speed Alert and Infiniti Personal Assistant
• Around View™ Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection
• Extensive safety and security technologies, including available world’s first Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) system
• Available Bose® Cabin Surround® 15-speaker sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and a new Acoustic Waveguide subwoofer

“Every element of the Infiniti JX is designed to connect the driver and passengers to the world, rather than shield them from it as many luxury crossovers try to do. Our goal is to heighten awareness of your surroundings, so you can get more out of every day,” added Poore. “Saying ‘no’ to boring luxury starts right here, right now with the inspired design and advanced technology of the 2013 Infiniti JX.”

A Bold New Expression of 7-Passenger Luxury
The demarcation line between the Infiniti JX and other 3-row luxury crossovers starts with the idea that 7-passenger seating should actually and easily welcome all seven passengers. Utilization of a flat platform floor not only enhances 3rd row roominess and provides a long 2nd row total adjustment of 5.5-inches fore and aft for versatile roominess and cargo carrying capacity, it also allows use of a more dramatic styling approach.

With a long wheelbase and short overhangs, as well as a low roofline that doesn’t compromise interior headroom, the platform provides the benefits of a large family passenger vehicle without the usual exterior styling restrictions. The aerodynamic shape of the new JX, with a coefficient of drag of 0.34, not only enhances fuel economy but also adds to its emotive styling. A front underbody spoiler, integrated rear spoiler and rear tire deflectors also help contribute to its zero front and rear lift for enhanced road holding.

Combining modern design with a touch of warmth, the new JX exterior is highlighted by the dramatic, double-arch front grille/headlight shape, double-wave hood, and crescent-cut D-pillar and greenhouse design.

Automatic on/off High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with manual levelizers are standard, along with fog lights. Large LED taillights add a distinctive touch to the rear, while a standard power rear liftgate enhances utility. 

The JX advances the Infiniti design language, sharing signature styling cues of the Infiniti Essence concept, yet interprets those elements in ways suitable to the needs of a family luxury crossover. It stands out without trying to be something it’s not, with good visibility from every seat, easy entry to and exit from all rows and practical access to the cargo area.

Other JX exterior features include flat blade variable intermittent front windshield wipers, available rain-sensing front windshield wipers, rear window intermittent wiper and defroster with timer, power folding heated outside mirrors with available reverse tilt-down feature, front door handle courtesy lights, and UV-reducing solar glass and rear privacy glass.

A power sliding tinted glass moonroof with one-touch open/close, tilt feature and sliding sunshade is standard, while an available panoramic moonroof with power rear sunshade adds an open, airy feeling for rear passengers. The special JX exterior color palette includes exclusive colors Emerald Graphite, Glacial Mist and Diamond Slate, along with Liquid Platinum, Black Obsidian, Midnight Garnet and Moonlight White (colors that are available on other Infiniti models).

Unsurpassed Luxury and 2nd Row Flexibility
Beyond its stunning exterior, the new JX clearly sets a new standard for both space and hospitality. Equally important to active families is JX’s unique flexibility, which starts with nearly six inches of 2nd row seat travel – allowing legroom and cargo space to be conveniently adjusted between the 2nd and 3rd rows as needed. The 3rd row isn’t the typical penalty box either, with ample headroom and knee room for adults or children. And there are two more unexpected aspects of JX’s 2nd and 3rd row design – access to the 3rd row is surprisingly easy due to the wide door openings and long forward slide of the 2nd row seat. Plus, the multi-mode 2nd row seat’s unique forward movement function overcomes the typical problem of having to remove a 2nd row child seat for entry or exit. 

The installed child seat moves forward with the 2nd row seat (40 percent side of 60/40 split-folding seat) without limiting 3rd row access. In addition, both 2nd and 3rd row seats are split folding (60/40 2nd row, 50/50 3rd row) and recline for greater occupant comfort.

“With the new JX, you are able to leave a child seat securely latched to the 2nd row while getting in or out of the 3rd row – just another example of the vehicle’s inspired flexibility and versatility,” added Poore. “It might seem like a small detail, unless you’ve ever tried to use a 3rd row in a vehicle with child seats, and then it’s ‘why didn’t someone think of this before?’”

Beyond the practical innovations, the JX’s interior design combines elegance and fine craftsmanship. Key design features include the signature driver-oriented cockpit, thin chrome accents, and an interior color palette that provides an elegant color harmony – Wheat, Graphite or Java leather appointments with Kasane Washi trim or available Maple trim accents.

Along with its wave-like flow, the JX instrument panel is highlighted by a new Infiniti Intelligent-View display in the center meter cluster, along with large, easy-to-read Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges, and standard 7-inch color vehicle information display. 

Leather-appointed seating is standard, along with heated front seats with 8-way power driver’s seat and 6-way power front passenger’s seat. Climate-controlled front seats (heating and cooling) are optionally available, as well as heated 2nd row outboard seats and heated steering wheel. Also offered is a dual occupant memory system for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors. An Enhanced Intelligent Key that stores an occupant memory position and last-used audio, climate control and navigation settings is also available (an Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition is standard). Keeping all occupants comfortable regardless of the temperature outside are a Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control system with microfilter, rear-seat heater ducts under the 1st and 2nd row seats, and rear console-mounted and 3rd row side trim air vents. 

Available as part of the Deluxe Touring Package is an Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with Plasmacluster™ air purifier, Grape Polyphenol filter and auto recirculation.

Other interior comfort and convenience items include RearView Monitor®, sequential welcome lighting illuminated entry system, eight cupholders and six bottle holders, front and 2nd row armrests with storage, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, USB Connection Port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), power windows with one-touch up/down with auto-reverse feature, power door locks with automatic locking feature, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and much more.

A Connection with a Human Touch
The 2013 Infiniti JX also offer technologies designed to make owners’ lives a bit easier and more efficient, such as a 15-speaker Bose® Cabin Surround® sound system with Acoustic Waveguide bass technology and an innovative Infiniti Connection telematics system that can provide navigation guidance to appointments and automatically synch the owner’s schedule through Google Calendar™. 

The Infiniti JX is the first vehicle in the lineup to offer Infiniti Connection and Infiniti Connection Plus services, which will be added to other Infiniti navigation-equipped models in the near future. Infiniti Connection services include 24-hour Automatic Crash Notification, Emergency Call, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, stolen vehicle reporting, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Alarm Notification, Maintenance Alert, Scheduled Maintenance Notification and My Schedule (via Google Calendar™). 

The system also allows owners to set up Drive Zone boundaries and Speed Alert, which parents will find useful in monitoring young drivers’ vehicle usage. Infiniti Connection will send a notification via text, e-mail or phone if the boundary has been crossed or the speed exceeded. In addition, owners can route road trips with a Journey Planner and personalize news, sports and stock reports via Mobile Information Services. Both Infiniti Connection and Infiniti Connection Plus are included complimentary for the first year of ownership.

And, like all current Infiniti new model purchases, the new JX will also feature the Infiniti Personal Assistant, Infiniti’s personal concierge service with 24-hour access to a live team of professional assistants. The Infiniti Personal Assistant benefit is offered free-of-charge for four years with every 2012 Infiniti. It allows owners to make reservations, get directions, find points of interest, make dinner reservations, access gift services, answer trivia questions, and receive a wide variety of other services at the touch of a button from inside the vehicle or through the owner’s mobile or home phone. On vehicles equipped with Infiniti Connection, owners can have their Infiniti Personal Assistant find a restaurant, make the reservation, and have directions sent directly to their JX’s Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System.

“We believe the JX’s special combination of connected services adds convenience and confidence – and is completely flexible depending on the situation, task, request or just for times when you’d rather have a human connection instead of an electronic one,” said Poore. “And for parents with teenage drivers, the ability to set boundaries or maximum speeds through the Drive Zone/Speed Alert function can be priceless.”

The World’s Only Backup Collision Intervention
The Infiniti JX continues Infiniti’s tradition of developing world’s first technologies, adding a new feature, Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), to the currently available Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system. 

With this technology, when the transmission is in reverse, the JX will help the driver detect crossing vehicles and objects behind the JX, and, if necessary, the system can automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision. 

“This innovative Backup Collision Intervention system can detect vehicles approaching from either side when you back up. If a vehicle appears to be entering your path, it provides three layers of warning – visual, audio and gas pedal force feedback – and ultimately can apply brake pressure to help you avoid a collision if you don’t take action yourself,” said Poore. “It’s just one of many ‘tomorrow’s technologies’ that Infiniti is proud to lead the industry on today, and one of the many ways Infiniti sees the world differently.” 

Another advanced system utilized as part of the all-around protection philosophy is the Around View™ Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD). Building on the capabilities of the AVM system, which shows the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the JX, the new MOD function helps enhance the driver’s situational awareness by providing visual and audible warnings (front or back range object detection) if the system detects moving objects (such as anther vehicle) within the displayed image in situations such as when pulling out of a parking space. Using sophisticated image processing technology, the system detects moving objects within the “top view” (when the vehicle is in Park). When starting off or backing up, it detects moving objects crossing within the front or rear views.

The addition of BCI is the latest of nine technologies that comprise the “All-around Safety Shield” of the new JX. Other available technology includes both Infiniti’s Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems. The LDW and LDP systems use a small camera installed behind the windshield to detect lane markers in front of the vehicle, calculate its position relative to those lane markers and help warn the driver of a potential unintended lane departure with a visual indicator and audible buzzer. If the driver does not return the vehicle back toward the center of the travel lane, the LDP system assists the driver with a gentle application of the brakes on the opposite side of the drift. 

A Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system is also available. It illuminates an indicator light if another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area. If the driver then activates the turn signal, the indicator flashes and an audible warning sounds. In addition, the available Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system provides selective braking if the vehicle approaches an adjacent lane while another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area to help the driver return the vehicle back toward the center of the lane of travel. (BSI only activates if another vehicle is detected and the driver uses a turn signal in that direction.)

The new JX also offers an advanced Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), which, using a combination of laser sensors, throttle and brake actuators and the JX’s braking system, measures the distance to the vehicle ahead and automatically adjusts the vehicle speed to help maintain a pre-selected following distance. 

Distance Control Assist (DCA), which intuitively prompts the driver to release the throttle and applies the brakes in slowing traffic, is also offered – along with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and front Pre-Crash Seat Belts.

The Infiniti JX’s extensive list of standard safety features includes an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for outboard occupant head protection for all three rows; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, load limiters and seat belt reminder; 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants (including center position); LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and steel side-door guard beams. 

The standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) includes an individual tire pressure display and Tire Inflation Indicator. Maintaining proper tire pressure helps to maintain handling performance, achieve good fuel economy and long tire life. The Tire Inflation Indicator provides both visual and audible signals to help owners conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge. While the owner inflates the tire, the hazard lights flash letting the customer know to continue filling the tire. When the tire reaches the appropriate pressure, the horn will sound letting the owner know to stop filling the tire. Drivers can also monitor individual tire pressures from the interior display.

The Infiniti JX also offers a Remote Engine Start System, which allows the owner the option of starting the JX remotely using the remote keyless entry system. The system is ideal for warming or cooling the interior, prior to driving, as desired. 

A Powerful and Efficient Drivetrain
Offered in both front-wheel drive and with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the JX addresses the growing desire among luxury crossover drivers to have both responsive performance and good fuel efficiency.

The standard 3.5-liter DOHC V6 is mated to a sport-tuned Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to provide high responsiveness and seamless, efficient shifting feel – the first Infiniti to utilize a fuel-efficient CVT. The transmission can mimic a step transmission when the Sport mode of the Infiniti drive selector is engaged. The CVT design also features a wide gear ratio and low friction design. 

The engine is rated at 265 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm. The design includes a variable induction control system to improve volumetric efficiency at low and middle speed ranges, while an efficient belt layout improves maintenance and fuel economy. Fuel economy is rated at 24 mpg Highway, 18 mpg City and a real-world 21 mpg Combined for the FWD model and 23 mpg Highway, 18 mpg City and 20 mpg Combined for the AWD model – while still offering the power to carry a full load or passengers and cargo. 

“While many ‘people movers’ drive more like a van or bus, we heard from potential buyers that they didn’t want to give up the driving feel of their previous sports sedans just because they have growing families,” explained Poore. “For the JX, we again focused on applying advanced technology, such as the sport CVT, to meet the demand for better fuel economy without sacrificing driving pleasure.”

Another welcome feature of the new JX is the Infiniti Drive Mode Selector, technology exclusive to Infiniti vehicles. Using a rotary switch mounted in the center console, the driver can choose between four drive modes – Standard, Sport, Eco and Snow – depending on road and climate conditions. The system varies throttle response and shift schedules to optimize performance.

Responsive handling and flat ride comfort is provided by an independent strut front and multi-link rear suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars – which combine with the high stiffness/low vibration sensitivity body to help create a quiet, comfortable interior environment for all occupant. Linear, easy-to-operate steering comes from the vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering system. The available Active Trace Control system utilizes the JX’s standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to help improve cornering feel, such as at freeway speeds, by automatically applying the brakes or smoothing engine torque characteristics while accelerating.

The JX’s braking system is a 4-wheel vented disc design with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.

Stylish 18-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/65R18 T-rated all-season tires are standard on every JX, with 20-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 H-rated all-season tires available. Polished 20-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels are also available. 

Choose to Be Inspired
The all-new Infiniti JX is offered in two models, the JX35 FWD and JX35 AWD and with five available equipment packages – allowing customers to custom-equip their vehicles to precisely meet their family driving and budget needs. 

The Premium Package includes an Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with 8-inch WVGA color touch-screen display, Infiniti Voice Recognition, XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information, XM NavWeather™ with Real-Time Weather and 3-day forecast (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Zagat Survey® Restaurant Guide, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, Infiniti Connection, Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection and front and rear sonar sensors, and Bose® 13-speaker Premium sound system with Acoustic Waveguide bass technology

The Premium Package also includes a dual occupant memory system front driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors, entry/exit assist for driver’s seat and steering wheel, Enhanced Intelligent Key, outside mirrors with reverse tilt-down feature, Maple interior accents and auto-dimming inside mirror with HomeLink® Universal Transceiver. The Deluxe Touring Package adds Bose® Cabin Surround® 15-speaker sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and Acoustic Waveguide bass technology, 20-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 tires, panoramic moonroof with power rear sunshade, Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with auto recirculation, Plasmacluster™ air purifier and Grape Polyphenol Filter, climate-controlled front seats, and heated 2nd row outboard seats.

The Theater Package includes dual 7-inch color monitors, two wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary audio/video input jacks, 120V power outlet and rear headphone jacks with volume control.

Also offered is the Driver Assistance Package with Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system, Distance Control Assistance (DCA), Active Trace Control, Eco Pedal, heated steering wheel and remote engine start.

Finally, the Technology Package includes all of the features of the Driver Assistance Package, as well as Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems, Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system and front Pre-Crash Seatbelts. 

“The all-new 2013 Infiniti JX, as Infiniti’s first venture into the 3-row luxury crossover segment, is true to both the Infiniti brand and to Infiniti design,” concluded Poore. “Infiniti has always been about standing out from the crowd, combining intelligent technology, refined performance, and sophisticated craftsmanship. That’s exactly what this new JX achieves.”

2013 Infinity JX Pricing

Toyota's Canadian Manufacturing Operation to Increase RAV4 Volume

CAMBRIDGE, Ontario (March 28, 2012) – Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. (TMMC) will increase RAV4 production at its Woodstock, Ontario assembly plant from 150,000 annual capacity to 200,000 vehicles. Ultimately, this $80 million [CAD] investment will result in about 400 new jobs between now and implementation in early 2013.

TMMC Chairman Ray Tanguay said, “We are optimistic that the market is coming back and we’re grateful for the strong sales of the RAV4 in the North American market, which has created this increase in production and jobs.”

TMMC currently manufactures the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Matrix, Toyota RAV4, and
the Lexus RX 350 vehicles in its plants in Cambridge, ON and one plant in Woodstock, ON.
The company currently employs approximately 6,500. 

 

Brian Krinock, President of TMMC, gave credit to TMMC employees for their strong focus. He said, “From the moment TMMC opened the Woodstock plant, Team Members have consistently built quality in to each and every RAV4. Our customers recognize and appreciate their skill.”

Lexus Oil Leak, Oh My

For those of you piloting a 2008 Lexus LX 570 along the highways with oil dripping on your driveway and garage floor, there is hope.  It's possible there is a damaged oil pan or leaky oil pan gasket.  However, some leaky 570s have a failed seal around the oil dipstick tube.

If you are so inclined, head to your dealer or favorite independent repair shop.  If a technician verifies the leak is indeed caused by a failed oil dipstick tube "O" ring, Lexus engineers have developed an updated "O" ring that should cure the menacing leak.      

FOR THE REALLY SERIOUS DIYER OR PRO TECHNICIAN PHOENIX SYSTEMS INTRODUCES AIR ASSASSIN AUTOMATED FLUID PUMP

New Product Eliminates Air Bubbles in Brake, Hydraulic Lines


ST. GEORGE, Utah - The new Air Assassin from Phoenix Systems is a fully automated fluid pump developed to eliminate air bubbles in brake and all hydraulic lines.

Designed to utilize the patented reverse brake bleeding technology found in Phoenix's line of one-man brake bleeding products, the Air Assassin can also be used for pressure bleeding, bench bleeding and cross bleeding methods.  It helps improve the supply of fluid to the brake/hydraulic system, increasing efficiency in bleeding applications and decreasing the likelihood of having air in the system when finished.

"We created the Air Assassin to give users the ability to control the amount and speed of fluid going through the machine to the hydraulic system," said Jon Petty, CEO of Phoenix Systems.  "The new tool attaches to and can be used in conjunction with common pressure bleeder machines already found in many automotive shops.  Plus, its automated process requires no pumping."
     
For more information about the Air Assassin fluid pump, visit www.brakebleeder.com. 

Eclectic Mix Helps Engineers Perfect the Sound Stage Inside the All-New Ford Escape

This is what they did...

• Ford audio engineers listened to snippets of music – from classical piano to rock to rap – to tune the audio system in the all-new Ford Escape
• The acoustics inside the vehicle strive for concert-hall quality
• Rihanna, Johnny Cash, Lou Reed, PJ Harvey and Eminem make the playlist for Escape

DEARBORN, Mich., March 21, 2012 – What do Stevie Ray Vaughn’s tube amp, Suzanne Vega’s lip smack and Rihanna’s voice have in common? Recordings of these sounds were all used to help audio engineers set the sound stage inside the all-new Ford Escape.

The “buzz” in Stevie Ray Vaughn’s cover of the Jimi Hendrix classic “Little Wing” is from a single-coil pickup amplified by tubes. Ford audio engineers used this recording to evaluate tonal balance, ensure quality in the bass region, and to make sure there is a wide sound stage in the new Escape’s audio system. The lip smack in Suzanne Vega’s a cappella hit “Tom’s Diner” is used to check the center staging of the sound system, while Rihanna’s “S.O.S.” helps evaluate clean bass mixed with vocals and ensure there is nothing shrill in the tweeters.

“We tuned the audio system so that it sounds natural – as if you’re listening to music inside a theater rather than in your vehicle,” said Christine Templin, one of the audio engineers who tuned the Escape’s sound system.

Templin, who enjoys attending concerts in her free time, said the audio engineering team listens to everything from “rap to classical” to bring concert-like sound into Ford vehicles.

The audio engineers’ work is twofold: the objective portion, monitoring sound wave files on laptop computers hooked up to speakers within the vehicle; and the subjective portion, relying on human ears to fine-tune the quality of the system.

Templin explained how Jennifer Warnes’ recording of Leonard Cohen’s “Famous Blue Raincoat” should give the listener a specific feeling.

“You should feel like you have been transported to a gloomy environment,” she said.

PJ Harvey’s “Electric Light” was used to make sure the instruments don’t modulate the vocals and the bass doesn’t shake the doors, Templin noted.

The Escape, which will be available to customers this spring, has three available audio systems: the standard six-speaker system, a nine-speaker system and a SONY^®-branded 10-speaker system.

 

A ‘Best of’ Escape playlist

1.    ZZ Top “La Grange” – Listen for the clean snare drum clicks, left and right rhythm guitars and strong bass guitar

2.    Yello “The Race–Listen for a sensation of the car racing from right to left, and left to right. “It should sound spacious with transients of doors slamming,” Templin says”

3.    Lou Reed “Walk on the Wild Side” – Listen for backup singers to move from far to near, testing image depth. Check for tonal balance and loud dynamics

4.    Kenny Chesney “Summertime” – Listen for clean vocals, instruments should be clearly defined

5.    Eminem “Remember Me” – Listen for loud dynamics, bass extension

6.    Rihanna “S.O.S.” – Listen for tonal balance, clean bass, nothing shrill in the tweeters

7.    Beyonce featuring Jay Z “Déjà Vu” – Listen for bass to be clean and even. Vocals should not break up or sound overly bright

8.    Peter, Paul and Mary “I Have a Song to Sing O” – This is an old recording with vocals panned left-center-right in order to test staging and imaging. Voices should retain a natural timbre

9.    Johnny Cash “Bird on a Wire” – This intimate recording (as if Cash were in his living room) tests tonal balance and spatial qualities. Vocals show a close-mike effect

10. Bruno Giuranna Mozart Piano Quartets 1 & 2,“Allegretto– Listen for a natural piano tone. Strings should be forward”

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About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 164,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.