2005 INFINITI Q45

The 2005 Infiniti Q45 is a luxury sedan known for its powerful engine and comfortable ride. It came equipped with a 4.5-liter V8 engine producing 340 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised its smooth acceleration, spacious interior, and upscale features. Common dislikes included its somewhat bland styling compared to competitors and potential reliability concerns associated with its advanced technology for the time.

Engine

4.5L VK45DE V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption. This can manifest as needing to add oil between scheduled oil changes, or low oil level warnings illuminating on the dash.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels regularly, using the correct viscosity oil, and potentially replacing valve stem seals or piston rings if the consumption is excessive.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the cause. Valve stem seals: $800 - $1500+. Piston rings: $3000 - $5000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Illuminated check engine light with codes related to catalytic converter inefficiency. This can lead to decreased fuel economy and potential failure of emissions testing.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per converter, depending on aftermarket or OEM parts.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifts, or a general lack of smoothness during gear changes.
  • Solution: A transmission flush and fluid replacement might resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Transmission flush $150 - $300. Valve body replacement: $800 - $1500+. Transmission rebuild: $2500 - $4500+. Transmission replacement: $3500 - $6000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, if equipped, is prone to leaks and failures, resulting in a sagging vehicle, a harsh ride, or a non-functional suspension system. Warning lights on the dash.
  • Solution: Replacing leaking air struts, air compressor, or ride height sensors. Conversion to a conventional coil spring suspension is also an option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air strut replacement: $500 - $1500+ per strut. Air compressor replacement: $400 - $800+. Coil spring conversion: $1500 - $3000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, even when the car is not in use.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the parasitic drain. This may involve testing individual circuits to pinpoint the source of the drain. Common culprits include faulty modules or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System/Infotainment Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may freeze, malfunction, or display inaccurate information. The infotainment screen may also fail to turn on or exhibit other issues.
  • Solution: Resetting or reprogramming the system, replacing the navigation unit, or repairing faulty wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Hazing/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight lenses become hazy or yellowed over time, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Polishing the headlight lenses or replacing the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Headlight polishing: $50 - $150. Headlight assembly replacement: $300 - $1000+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may get stuck, fail to open or close properly, or leak.
  • Solution: Lubricating the sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, or replacing damaged seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Infiniti Q45, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, can suffer from several common issues as it ages. Engine oil consumption and catalytic converter failures are potential problems, along with transmission issues such as slipping and harsh shifting. The air suspension system, if equipped, can also be a source of concern. Electrical issues such as battery drain and navigation system failures are also reported. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be costly to repair, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing a used model. Overall, the severity of the issues varies, but the potential cost of repairs should be considered.