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2000 INFINITI I30

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2000 INFINITI I30 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, smooth performance, and well-appointed interior. It was only offered with one engine option: the 3.0L VQ30DE V6 engine, producing 227 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. It also only came with one transmission option: a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s reliability, comfortable interior, and smooth ride. Some common complaints revolve around the age of the vehicle, leading to increased maintenance and potential repairs related to aging components, as well as its dated technology.

Engine

3.0L VQ30DE V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Thoroughly cleaning the engine to identify the exact source of the leak.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft position sensor may fail, leading to rough idling, stalling, and a check engine light with codes P0340 and P0345.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft position sensor(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The IAC valve can become dirty or malfunction, causing erratic idling, stalling, or high idle speed.
    • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the IAC valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The MAF sensor can fail over time, resulting in poor fuel economy, rough running, stalling, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty MAF sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Shifting Problems/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh shifting, or failure to shift properly. Often noticed as the vehicle ages.
    • Solution: A transmission flush and fluid change may help. In more severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush) / $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can lead to shuddering at low speeds, stalling, and poor acceleration.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn struts and shocks can cause a bouncy ride, poor handling, and increased braking distance.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn struts and/or shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Control Arm Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises, vibrations, and poor alignment.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per control arm
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating slowly.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty power window motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting, or complete electrical failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight or within a few days, making it difficult to start the car.
    • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty relay, aftermarket accessory, etc.).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust, especially in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure (wheel wells, rocker panels, undercarriage).
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing rusted panels. Applying rust preventative coatings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on severity, $200 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, making noises during operation, or leaking.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Climate Control Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning failing to blow cold air, heater blowing only hot or cold air, or climate control not responding to adjustments.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the climate control system (e.g., refrigerant recharge, replacing compressor, blend door actuator, etc.).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 INFINITI I30, while generally reliable, is prone to certain issues due to its age. Engine oil leaks and electrical problems are relatively common and can range in severity and cost. Suspension and transmission issues can also arise, especially with higher mileage, and can be more costly to repair. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for signs of these common problems and factor in the potential cost of repairs when considering a purchase.

INFINITI, I30
INFINITI I30 2000
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