2006 INFINITI M35

The 2006 Infiniti M35 is a mid-size luxury sedan that offered a blend of performance, comfort, and style. Engine options included a 3.5L V6 (VQ35DE) producing approximately 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque and a 4.5L V8 (VK45DE) producing approximately 335 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally liked the M35’s attractive styling, comfortable interior, and responsive handling. Common dislikes included the car’s fuel economy, some reported reliability issues, and the dated infotainment system.

Engine

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust may also be present.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, potential solutions range from using a thicker grade of oil to replacing valve stem seals or piston rings. In severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (thicker oil) - $3000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may stall or not start, rough idling, and/or the check engine light may illuminate with codes related to the camshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

4.5L V8 (VK45DE)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the V6, some owners have reported excessive oil consumption with the V8 engine. Blue smoke from the exhaust may also be present.
  • Solution: Potential solutions range from using a thicker grade of oil to replacing valve stem seals or piston rings. In severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (thicker oil) - $3000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Steering may feel loose or imprecise. Premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front lower control arms, as the bushings are typically not sold separately.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Intelligent Key System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized by the car, difficulty starting the engine, or the car not unlocking/locking with the key fob.
  • Solution: Replacing the key fob battery, reprogramming the key, or replacing a faulty Intelligent Key control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may freeze, become unresponsive, or display incorrect information.
  • Solution: Replacing the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Removal of the headlight assembly and resealing or replacing the headlight.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise, or fail to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, replacing faulty sunroof motor or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2006 Infiniti M35 can be a rewarding vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine oil consumption and valve body issues in the transmission are notable concerns that can lead to costly repairs. Suspension and electrical problems are less severe but should still be inspected. Overall, pre-purchase inspections are crucial, and budgeting for potential repairs is advisable.