1997 INFINITI Q45

Introduction

The 1997 INFINITI Q45 is a full-size luxury sedan known for its powerful engine, sophisticated interior, and refined driving experience. It offers a single engine and transmission option:

• Engine: 4.1L V8, 266 hp, 278 lb-ft of torque

People appreciate the Q45’s elegant styling, comfortable cabin, and impressive performance. However, it also has some drawbacks, including high maintenance costs and a small trunk.

Engine

4.1L V8

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of oil requiring frequent top-ups, blue smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Piston ring replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Loss Under Heavy Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stumbles or loses power when pushing hard on the accelerator
  • Solution: Fuel filter replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic engine damage (if the belt snaps)
  • Solution: Regular timing belt replacement as per maintenance schedule
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises over bumps, poor handling
  • Solution: Strut replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Shock absorber replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, dead battery, warning lights on dash
  • Solution: Alternator replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows stuck or moving slowly
  • Solution: Window motor replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking/unlocking properly
  • Solution: Door lock actuator replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: AC/Heater not working properly
  • Solution: Sensor replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Headliner fabric separates from the roof
  • Solution: Headliner replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1997 INFINITI Q45 is a reliable vehicle, but it is not without some common issues. The engine and suspension can be particularly problematic, and electrical and interior issues also arise occasionally. The cost of repairs can be high, so it is important to factor this into ownership considerations.