2000 INFINITI Q45

The 2000 Infiniti Q45 is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride and smooth performance. It’s powered by a 4.1-liter V8 engine producing 266 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the Q45’s spacious interior and sophisticated styling, while others find its dated technology and relatively poor fuel economy to be drawbacks. Common complaints revolve around maintenance costs associated with a luxury vehicle of this age and potential issues with specific components.

Engine

4.1L V8 (VH41DE)

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon cold start, especially at higher mileage. Can eventually lead to engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, often resulting in burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or erratic shifting between gears, often accompanied by a noticeable “clunk” or “jerk.”
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush (if issue is minor), valve body repair/replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, failure to maintain proper ride height, compressor not functioning.
  • Solution: Replacement of air struts with coil springs, replacement of air compressor, replacement of air struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
• Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Illumination Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or non-functioning instrument cluster lights, making it difficult to read gauges.
  • Solution: Replacement of burnt-out bulbs, repair of circuit board connections, or replacement of the entire instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moving slowly or not at all, motor making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses becoming cloudy or yellowed, reducing visibility at night.
  • Solution: Headlight lens restoration kit or replacement of the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 (DIY kit) - $500+ (replacement)

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Lubrication of sunroof tracks, repair/replacement of sunroof motor or switch, or adjustment of sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+

Recalls:

• None Found

Summary:

The 2000 Infiniti Q45, while offering luxury and performance, is prone to certain age-related issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly regarding timing chain tensioners and shifting smoothness, can be costly to repair. Suspension issues, notably with the air suspension system, also contribute to the overall maintenance burden. Electrical problems, such as instrument cluster illumination and power window failures, are relatively common but generally less expensive to fix. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and factor in potential repair costs when making a purchase decision.