1999 INFINITI Q45
Introduction
The 1999 INFINITI Q45 is a full-size luxury sedan known for its spacious interior, powerful engine, and advanced technology. It was available with two engine options: a 300 horsepower 4.1L V8 and a 340 horsepower 4.5L V8. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Q45 was praised for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and luxurious amenities. However, it also had some reported issues.
Engine
4.1L V8
Intake Manifold Gaskets Leak Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, engine overheating, reduced performance Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 97V132014, INFINITI Campaign ID: 97C
Camshaft Position Sensor Failure Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, engine misfires, rough idle Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
4.5L V8
Oil Consumption Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust Solution: Replace piston rings or engine rebuild Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+ Recalls: None Found
Secondary Air Injection System Failure Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced performance, increased emissions Solution: Replace air pump, check valve, or relay Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Slips or Hesitates Description/Symptoms: Delayed shifting, slipping gears, hard shifts Solution: Flush transmission fluid, replace filters and solenoids Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission Fluid Leaks Description/Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid, slipping gears, overheating Solution: Replace leaking seals or gaskets Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Strut/Shock Absorber Failure Description/Symptoms: Worn struts/shocks, bumpy ride, reduced handling Solution: Replace struts/shock absorbers Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
Control Arm Bushings Worn Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, unstable handling, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace control arm bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Battery Drain Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting, parasitic draw Solution: Find and fix source of parasitic draw Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on source of issue Recalls: None Found
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical accessories malfunctioning, dead battery Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Headlight Lenses Fogging Description/Symptoms: Foggy or cloudy headlight lenses, reduced visibility Solution: Polish or replace headlight lenses Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Windshield Washer Pump Failure Description/Symptoms: No windshield washer fluid spraying Solution: Replace windshield washer pump Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found
Interior
Climate Control Malfunction Description/Symptoms: AC or heater not working, temperature fluctuations Solution: Replace actuator, blend door, or climate control unit Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ Recalls: None Found
Power Seat Motor Failure Description/Symptoms: Power seats not moving or moving intermittently Solution: Replace power seat motor Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1999 INFINITI Q45 is a well-regarded luxury sedan, but it does have some potential issues. The most common engine problems are intake manifold gasket leaks and camshaft position sensor failure. The transmission may experience slipping or hesitation and fluid leaks. Suspension components can wear out, leading to a bumpy ride and reduced handling. Electrical issues can include battery drain and alternator failure. Exterior concerns include fogged headlight lenses and a faulty windshield washer pump. Interior problems may arise with climate control malfunction and power seat motor failure. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some can be significant and may require professional repairs.