2006 INFINITI FX35

The 2006 INFINITI FX35 is a luxury crossover SUV known for its sporty handling and distinctive styling. It came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine (VQ35DE) producing 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. A more powerful FX45 model was also available with a 4.5-liter V8. Owners often praised the FX35’s performance, comfortable ride, and upscale interior, while some common complaints included higher than average fuel consumption, some electrical glitches, and the need for premium fuel.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Potential fixes range from replacing valve stem seals to piston rings, depending on the severity of the issue. In severe cases, engine replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise, especially upon startup, indicating a worn or failing timing chain tensioner. This can lead to timing chain slack and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner, often along with the timing chain and related components (guides, sprockets).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or harsh/abrupt shifts. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. Fluid replacement, valve body repair/replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut/Shock Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, particularly when driving over bumps. Visual inspection may reveal a cracked or damaged strut/shock mount.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected front strut/shock mount(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a few days of being parked, even with a relatively new battery. This can be due to a parasitic draw from a faulty electrical component.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw by systematically testing circuits. Potential culprits include faulty relays, modules, or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power door locks will not function on one or more doors. The door may not lock or unlock with the power locks.
  • Solution: Replace the door actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust along the bottom of the doors, wheel wells, and quarter panels
  • Solution: Removal of rust and repainting panels or replacement of rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console LCD Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The LCD screen in the center console will have dead pixels or fully stop working
  • Solution: Replacement of LCD screen, or aftermarket LCD screen replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 INFINITI FX35, while generally a reliable vehicle, does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine-related problems like oil consumption and timing chain tensioner failure can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins and suspension issues can also arise. The severity and cost of these issues can vary significantly, but potential buyers should factor these concerns into their purchasing decision and budget. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.