Post
Research the Car Logo

1990 INFINITI M30

1990 INFINITI M30

The 1990 INFINITI M30 is a luxury sedan that was offered with a single engine and transmission option. The M30 is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The M30 is known for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. However, it is also known for having a number of potential problems.

Engine

3.0L V6

  • Oil Leaks: The M30’s V6 engine is known for developing oil leaks. The leaks can occur from a variety of sources, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms of an oil leak include a drop in oil level, a burning smell, and blue smoke from the exhaust. The cost to fix an oil leak can vary depending on the source of the leak.
  • Timing Belt Failure: The M30’s timing belt is a critical component that should be replaced every 60,000 miles. Failure to replace the timing belt can result in catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms of a failing timing belt include a ticking noise from the engine, a decrease in engine power, and a rough idle. The cost to replace a timing belt is typically around $500.

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission Slipping: The M30’s 4-speed automatic transmission can develop problems with slipping. Slipping occurs when the transmission cannot properly engage the gears, resulting in a loss of power. Symptoms of transmission slipping include a delay in acceleration, a jerking motion when shifting gears, and a whining noise from the transmission. The cost to fix a slipping transmission can vary depending on the severity of the problem.

Suspension

  • Front Suspension Noise: The M30’s front suspension can develop a number of noises, including clunking, rattling, and squeaking. The noises can be caused by a variety of problems, including worn ball joints, tie rods, or struts. The cost to fix front suspension noise can vary depending on the source of the noise.
  • Rear Suspension Sagging: The M30’s rear suspension can sag over time, resulting in a decrease in ride height. Sagging can be caused by a variety of problems, including worn springs or shocks. The cost to fix rear suspension sagging can vary depending on the source of the problem.

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure: The M30’s alternator can fail, resulting in a loss of electrical power. Symptoms of alternator failure include a dimming of the headlights, a loss of power to the accessories, and a dead battery. The cost to replace an alternator is typically around $500.
  • Battery Drain: The M30’s battery can drain over time, resulting in a dead battery. Battery drain can be caused by a variety of problems, including a parasitic draw or a faulty alternator. The cost to fix a battery drain can vary depending on the source of the problem.

Exterior

  • Rust: The M30’s body panels are prone to rust. Rust can occur on a variety of areas, including the fenders, doors, and trunk lid. The cost to repair rust damage can vary depending on the severity of the damage.

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking: The M30’s dashboard can crack over time. Dashboard cracking is a common problem on many vehicles of this era. The cost to replace a dashboard can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
  • Seat Adjustment Failure: The M30’s power seat adjustment system can fail. The failure can result in the seat being unable to move forward, backward, or recline. The cost to repair a seat adjustment system can vary depending on the source of the problem.

Summary

The 1990 INFINITI M30 is a reliable and luxurious vehicle. However, it is also known for having a number of potential problems. The most common problems include oil leaks, timing belt failure, transmission slipping, front suspension noise, rear suspension sagging, alternator failure, battery drain, rust, dashboard cracking, and seat adjustment failure. The severity and cost of these problems can vary depending on the specific issue.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.