2003 INFINITI I35

The 2003 INFINITI I35 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliable performance. It was offered with a single engine option, the 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine, which produced around 255 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the I35 for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and upscale features. Some disliked its somewhat bland styling and less sporty handling compared to some competitors.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall, run rough, or experience reduced power. The check engine light may illuminate with codes related to the camshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the camshaft position sensor failure, this can cause stalling, rough running, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, potentially causing a burning smell and oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip between gears, shift harshly, or fail to shift at all. This can be caused by worn clutches, low fluid, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may help in minor cases, but more severe cases may require a valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and noise when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts/shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Poor handling and alignment issues may also occur.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting, and a dead battery. The battery light may illuminate on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the failing alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that are slow to roll up/down, or don’t operate at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control fan only works on certain settings, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Housing Cracking/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights become cloudy or yellowed, reducing visibility at night. Cracks may also appear in the plastic housing.
  • Solution: Polish the headlight lenses, or replace the entire headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (polishing kit) - $400+ per headlight (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rust on Underbody/Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the undercarriage of the vehicle, especially in areas exposed to salt and moisture. This can weaken structural components over time.
  • Solution: Treat surface rust with rust converter and protective coating. For severe rust, welding or component replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening/closing properly or becoming stuck.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or track.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Automatic Climate Control Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature output, failure to adjust settings, or display malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace faulty climate control components, such as sensors, actuators, or the control unit itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 INFINITI I35 is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners can expect to encounter some common issues related to its age. Engine issues like camshaft and crankshaft position sensor failures and valve cover leaks are relatively common and can be moderately expensive to fix. Transmission problems, while less frequent, can be significantly more costly, potentially requiring a full rebuild or replacement. Suspension and electrical issues are also possibilities. The severity and cost of repairs will vary depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage. Regular maintenance can help prevent some of these issues.