2000 INFINITI I30

2000 INFINITI I30

Overview

The 2000 Infiniti I30, a luxury sedan based on the Nissan Maxima, was generally considered a reliable vehicle for its era. It offered a comfortable ride, a potent V6 engine, and a well-appointed interior. While most owners reported a positive ownership experience with few major mechanical woes, like any vehicle, some common areas of concern have been noted over time. These tend to be related to age and mileage, particularly with certain electrical components and the aging of rubber suspension parts. However, the core powertrain and drivetrain have demonstrated good durability when properly maintained.

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Engine

3.0L VQ30DE V6

Timing Belt Replacement

• Symptoms: Engine misfires, loss of power, potential catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
• Solution: Scheduled replacement every 60,000-90,000 miles is crucial. Includes tensioners and idler pulleys.
• Cost: $600 - $1000

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, sweet smell of coolant, rough idle.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Camshaft Position Sensor Failure

• Symptoms: Check Engine Light, stalling, difficulty starting, rough idle.
• Solution: Replacement of the camshaft position sensor.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (RE4F04A)

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Delayed engagement, rough gear changes, slipping between gears, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild in severe cases.
• Cost: $300 - $3000+

Suspension

Standard Independent Suspension

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Leaking Struts/Shocks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, reduced handling stability, visible fluid leaks on shock bodies.
• Solution: Replacement of worn struts or shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Electrical

General Electrical System

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window movement, grinding noises from door panel.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
• Cost: $200 - $400

HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure

• Symptoms: HVAC fan only works on highest setting or not at all.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $100 - $250

Instrument Cluster Issues

• Symptoms: Dim or non-functional gauges, flickering lights, intermittent power loss to cluster.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Exterior

Body and Trim

Clear Coat Peeling

• Symptoms: Paint fading, peeling, or delaminating, especially on horizontal surfaces.
• Solution: Repainting affected areas.
• Cost: $500 - $2000+

Headlight Haze/Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced visibility at night, dull appearance of headlights.
• Solution: Restoration kits or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $50 - $300

Interior

Cabin Components

Seat Heater Failure

• Symptoms: Heated seats not working.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of seat heating elements or switches.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Door Panel Trim Separation

• Symptoms: Plastic trim pieces on door panels becoming loose or separating.
• Solution: Re-adhesion or replacement of trim pieces.
• Cost: $100 - $300

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Summary Verdict

The 2000 Infiniti I30 is a solid choice for a used luxury sedan, offering good value and generally dependable performance. Its VQ30DE engine is known for its robustness, though routine maintenance like timing belt replacement is critical. Common issues are primarily related to age, such as aging suspension components, electrical gremlins like window regulators and HVAC resistors, and cosmetic wear like clear coat peeling. Transmission issues can arise but are often manageable with timely fluid changes. Overall, with diligent maintenance and addressing age-related wear, the I30 can provide many more miles of comfortable service.