2003 INFINITI QX4

The 2003 INFINITI QX4 is a luxurious SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and off-road capabilities. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 240 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, the QX4 offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. It was only available with one engine and transmission configuration, so there are no different drivetrain configurations. Many owners appreciate the QX4’s reliability and build quality, but some common complaints include issues related to suspension components, electrical glitches, and interior trim pieces.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially upon startup. Can eventually lead to timing belt slippage and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing belt tensioner, along with the timing belt, water pump, and other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak locations include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per gasket
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, or slipping during acceleration. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change, repairing or replacing the valve body, or rebuilding/replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+ depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, clunking noises when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, air compressor constantly running, “Service Air Suspension” light illuminating on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Inspecting and repairing air leaks, replacing the air compressor, or replacing the air springs with conventional coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Can also cause vibrations or wandering.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down, or only moving intermittently. Can be caused by a faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminating on the dashboard, ABS system not functioning properly during braking.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the frame, suspension components, or exhaust system.
  • Solution: Cleaning and sealing the rust, replacing severely rusted components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC not blowing hot or cold air, temperature control not working, mode selection not functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the HVAC system, including replacing the blend door actuator, heater core, or AC compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close, or only moving intermittently. Can be caused by a faulty motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sunroof motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 INFINITI QX4, while a capable and comfortable SUV, does have some common issues that owners should be aware of. Engine-related issues like timing belt tensioner failure and oil leaks can be costly if neglected. The suspension system, particularly the rear air suspension, can also present maintenance challenges. Electrical issues such as power window failure and ABS sensor malfunctions are also common. Overall, while most of these repairs aren’t extremely expensive, some of them could cost you some money to fix, so be sure to look for these issues while shopping for your QX4!