2006 INFINITI FX45

The 2006 INFINITI FX45 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV known for its sporty handling and powerful V8 engine. Other engine options for this year include the 3.5L V6 found in the FX35. The FX45’s 4.5L V8 produces 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Many owners appreciate the FX45’s aggressive styling, strong acceleration, and comfortable interior. Common complaints include relatively poor fuel economy and some reliability issues as the vehicle ages.

Engine

4.5L VK45DE V8

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption. This can manifest as needing to add oil between changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, or oil fouling spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replacing valve stem seals or piston rings may be required to remedy this issue, depending on the severity. An engine rebuild may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup that goes away after a few seconds. This indicates the timing chain tensioner is not holding tension properly. Untreated, this can lead to timing chain failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioners, guides, and potentially the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (RE5R05A)

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift. Can be intermittent.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve body or rebuilding the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibration, or stalling, especially during acceleration.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Self-Leveling Rear Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear suspension sagging, especially when loaded. Can lead to a rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shocks with the self leveling feature or converting to a standard shock set up.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the lower control arms or pressing in new bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery frequently dies, especially after the car sits for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the parasitic drain (often caused by a faulty door actuator, amplifier, or other module) and repairing or replacing the offending component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen flickering, dimming, or completely failing.
  • Solution: Replacing the navigation screen unit or sending it out for repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, replacing the sunroof motor, or repairing the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC system blowing hot air on one side and cold on the other, or failing to regulate temperature properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator(s) or diagnosing and repairing the climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats failing to move in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Replacing the seat motor(s) or repairing the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 INFINITI FX45, while offering a powerful engine and sporty driving experience, is prone to certain common issues due to its age. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption and timing chain tensioner failure can be costly to address. Transmission issues with the valve body are also a common concern. Electrical issues, particularly battery drain and navigation screen failure, can also arise. While some of these issues can be relatively minor, others can be quite expensive to repair.