2004 INFINITI M45

2004 INFINITI M45

The 2004 INFINITI M45 is a luxury sedan equipped with a 4.5-liter V8 engine delivering 340 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission and offers a smooth and comfortable ride. The M45 is praised for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and responsive handling. However, it also has some notable issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

4.5L V8

Timing Chain Guide Failure

• Description/Symptoms: The timing chain guides in the engine can fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break. Symptoms may include a rattling noise, loss of power, and check engine light illumination.
• Solution: Replace the timing chain guides and tensioners.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Throttle Body Failure

• Description/Symptoms: The throttle body can fail, causing idling issues, poor acceleration, and engine stalling. Symptoms may also include a check engine light illumination.
• Solution: Replace the throttle body.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Recalls: None Found

Intake Manifold Gasket Leak

• Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can leak, causing a vacuum leak and affecting engine performance. Symptoms may include rough idling, poor fuel economy, and check engine light illumination.
• Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

Shift Solenoid Failure

• Description/Symptoms: The shift solenoids in the transmission can fail, causing shifting problems, delayed engagement, and check engine light illumination.
• Solution: Replace the shift solenoids.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission Fluid Leaks

• Description/Symptoms: The transmission may develop fluid leaks from the pan, seals, or hoses. Symptoms may include fluid spots under the vehicle, slipping gears, and check engine light illumination.
• Solution: Inspect and repair the source of the leak.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Recalls: None Found

Suspension

Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear

• Description/Symptoms: The front lower control arm bushings can wear out prematurely, causing excessive play and suspension noises. Symptoms may include clunking sounds, vibrations, and difficulty maintaining alignment.
• Solution: Replace the worn bushings.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

Battery Drain

• Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain prematurely, causing the vehicle to fail to start. Symptoms may include a weak battery, dim lights, and electrical system malfunctions.
• Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain, which may include a faulty alternator, parasitic draw, or faulty components.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the underlying cause
• Recalls: None Found

Body Control Module Failure

• Description/Symptoms: The body control module (BCM) can fail, causing various electrical system malfunctions. Symptoms may include inoperative lights, windows, locks, and other convenience features.
• Solution: Replace the BCM.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Headlight Condensation

• Description/Symptoms: Moisture may accumulate inside the headlight assemblies, causing condensation or fogging.
• Solution: Inspect and reseal the headlights to prevent moisture intrusion.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

Satellite Navigation System Malfunction

• Description/Symptoms: The satellite navigation system may malfunction, displaying inaccurate information or freezing. Symptoms may include an unresponsive screen, garbled voice commands, and incorrect route guidance.
• Solution: Update or replace the navigation software or hardware components.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Recalls: None Found

Instrument Cluster Failure

• Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster may fail, causing inaccurate readings, flickering, or complete failure. Symptoms may include incorrect speedometer, fuel gauge, and tachometer readings.
• Solution: Repair or replace the faulty cluster or instrument panel.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 INFINITI M45 has some potential issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. The timing chain guide failure can be costly to repair, while other issues such as throttle body failure and shift solenoid failure are less severe. The suspension and electrical systems also have their fair share of problems, but the majority of issues are minor and can be fixed at a reasonable cost. Overall, the M45 remains a reliable and luxurious sedan, but potential owners should be aware of these potential issues before making a purchase decision.