2002 INFINITI I35

The 2002 INFINITI I35 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride and reliability. It came standard with a 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine producing 255 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the smooth power delivery and comfortable interior. Common complaints revolve around age-related issues, such as parts wearing out and the occasional electrical gremlin.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, check engine light illumination with codes P0340 or P0345.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, check engine light with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency (P0420, P0430).
  • Solution: Replace the faulty catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per converter
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover area, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine consumes more oil than normal, requiring frequent top-offs. This can be exacerbated by worn piston rings or valve stem seals due to age.
  • Solution: In minor cases, switching to a heavier weight oil may help. In severe cases, engine repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (oil change) to $3000+ (engine rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifts, failure to shift at all. This is commonly caused by worn-out clutch packs or a failing valve body.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration, and/or stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, leaking fluid from the strut/shock.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per axle (pair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, slow or erratic window movement.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, warning lights on the dashboard, engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor idling, stalling, poor acceleration, check engine light with MAF sensor code.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio/Audio System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Radio not working, speakers cutting out, malfunctioning CD player.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the radio/audio system. Aftermarket options are often pursued due to cost.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on repair vs. replacement and aftermarket options)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replace sunroof motor, tracks, or entire assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC system blowing only hot or cold air, blend door actuator failure, inability to change temperature settings.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator or other faulty HVAC components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2002 INFINITI I35 is generally a reliable vehicle, but age-related issues are common. The most significant potential expenses are related to transmission problems and catalytic converter failure. Electrical issues are also a concern. Overall, while these problems can be frustrating, they are not uncommon for a vehicle of this age, and careful maintenance can mitigate many of them. The severity and cost depend greatly on the specific issue and how well the vehicle has been maintained.