2008 INFINITI G35

The 2008 INFINITI G35 is a popular luxury sport sedan known for its performance and sleek design. It came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine (VQ35HR) producing 306 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. This engine could be paired with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. Owners generally praise the G35 for its responsive handling, powerful engine, and comfortable interior. Some common complaints include higher than average fuel consumption, some electrical issues, and concerns about certain mechanical components as the car ages.

Engine

3.5L VQ35HR V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between changes. This can manifest as low oil level warnings, and potentially engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Regular monitoring of oil levels and potential repairs such as valve cover gasket replacement, piston ring replacement (more involved and expensive), or PCV valve replacement to address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the cause and repair.
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially in colder weather. This is due to the timing chain tensioner not maintaining proper tension on the timing chain.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration, especially at lower speeds. This is often caused by wear and tear on the torque converter.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter or a complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, or a burning smell. This indicates the clutch disc is worn and needs replacement.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing. Resurfacing or replacement of the flywheel is also recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Can also lead to imprecise steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front lower control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, excessive bouncing, and visible fluid leaks from the rear shocks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel gauge showing inaccurate readings, either higher or lower than the actual fuel level in the tank.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fuel level sending unit (part of the fuel pump assembly).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to actuate with the key fob or interior switch, or producing a clicking sound but not locking or unlocking the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses becoming cloudy or yellowed, reducing headlight output and visibility.
  • Solution: Polishing the headlight lenses, or replacement of the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on method.

Interior

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen becoming unresponsive, flickering, or completely failing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
• Audio Amplifier Failure (Bose Systems)
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of sound from some or all speakers in vehicles equipped with the Bose audio system.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the Bose amplifier.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Recalls:

• None Found

In summary, the 2008 INFINITI G35 is a generally reliable vehicle but it is not without its issues. Common problems include oil consumption, timing chain tensioner issues, torque converter problems with the automatic transmission, suspension wear, and some electrical glitches. While some of these issues can be relatively inexpensive to fix, others, like engine oil consumption, can lead to more significant repair costs. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic before purchasing.