2008 INFINITI EX35

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2008 INFINITI EX35, categorized as requested.

The 2008 INFINITI EX35 is a compact luxury crossover known for its sporty handling and stylish design. It came standard with a 3.5-liter VQ35HR V6 engine, producing 297 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This engine is praised for its smooth power delivery and responsiveness. Owners often appreciate the EX35’s comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. However, common complaints include limited rear passenger space, a relatively small cargo area, and some reported issues with reliability, particularly concerning electrical components.

Engine

3.5L VQ35HR V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when the engine is cold. The noise may disappear after the engine warms up. In severe cases, can lead to engine misfires and reduced performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioners, guides, and possibly the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than average oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. This can be caused by worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Solution: Depending on the cause, solutions range from using a higher viscosity oil and monitoring levels to more extensive engine repairs involving piston ring or valve stem seal replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300+ (for higher viscosity oil) - $2,000+ (for engine work)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift properly. Can trigger the “Service Engine Soon” light.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body with updated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises from the front suspension, bouncy ride, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts/shock absorbers and potentially the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (for a pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System Failure/Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may freeze, become unresponsive, display incorrect information, or fail completely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit or sending it in for repair. In some cases, a software update might resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Software Update) - $500+ (Unit Repair/Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate fuel level readings, where the gauge may read empty or full when it is not.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fuel level sensor or the fuel pump assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck open or closed.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 INFINITI EX35, while offering a luxurious and sporty driving experience, can be prone to certain issues as it ages. The most concerning are potential engine problems like timing chain tensioner failure and oil consumption, which can lead to significant repair costs. Transmission issues like valve body problems can also be costly to address. Electrical gremlins with the navigation system and fuel gauge are other areas to be aware of. The severity of these issues ranges from annoying inconveniences to potentially major repairs. When considering a purchase, a thorough inspection is highly recommended, paying close attention to engine noises, transmission performance, and the functionality of electrical components.