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2002 INFINITI I35

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By Research the Car 2 min read

2002 INFINITI I35

Overview

The 2002 INFINITI I35, a luxury sedan, generally offers a solid ownership experience with a focus on comfort and performance. Built on a reliable platform, it shares many components with its Nissan counterparts, contributing to its overall dependability. While no vehicle is entirely free from potential issues, the I35 is known for its robust powertrain and well-built interior. Owners often praise its smooth ride and upscale amenities for its model year. However, like any vehicle of this age, proactive maintenance and awareness of common, albeit infrequent, problem areas are key to ensuring long-term reliability and satisfaction.

Engine

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

Timing Chain Tensioner Wear

  • Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup or at idle.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain tensioners and guides.
  • Cost: $800 - $1500

Oil Leaks (Valve Covers/Rear Main Seal)

  • Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets or rear main seal.
  • Cost: $300 - $700 (Valve Covers), $600 - $1200 (Rear Main Seal)

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (RE5R05A)

Harsh Shifting/Slipping

  • Symptoms: Delayed engagement, rough shifts between gears, or slipping sensation.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild.
  • Cost: $200 - $500 (Fluid/Filter), $400 - $800 (Solenoids), $2000 - $4000 (Rebuild)

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No Major Issues

  • Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
  • Solution: No widespread issues reported.
  • Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Electrical

General Electrical System

Window Motor Failure

  • Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow operation, or unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and regulator assembly.
  • Cost: $200 - $400 per window

Instrument Cluster Issues

  • Symptoms: Flickering gauges, dead pixels on displays, or complete failure of the cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Cost: $500 - $1000

Exterior

Body and Trim

No Major Issues

  • Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
  • Solution: No widespread issues reported.
  • Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Interior

Cabin Components

HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure

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

Seat Heater Malfunction

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

Summary Verdict

The 2002 INFINITI I35 is a generally reliable luxury sedan, particularly noted for its strong V6 engine and comfortable ride. The most common concerns revolve around the engine’s timing chain tensioners and potential oil leaks, as well as occasional transmission issues like harsh shifting. Electrical components, such as window motors and instrument clusters, can also present problems. Interior comfort features like the HVAC blower motor resistor and seat heaters are also areas where minor issues can arise. Despite these points, with regular maintenance and addressing potential problems promptly, the I35 can provide dependable service for its owners.

INFINITI, I35
INFINITI I35 2002
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