2008 INFINITI M35

The 2008 Infiniti M35 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. It offered two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 275 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.5-liter V8. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the M35’s stylish design, comfortable ride, and responsive handling. Some common complaints include higher fuel consumption than expected, electrical issues, and some reliability concerns with certain components as the car ages.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially in colder weather. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Car stalls or idles rough. Check engine light comes on. Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0340 or related codes are present.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

4.5L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent topping off. Blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In severe cases, engine rebuild or replacement may be necessary. In less severe cases, using a higher viscosity oil or replacing valve stem seals might help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (valve stem seals) - $5000+ (engine rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Steering feels loose or vague. Uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front lower control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Intelligent Key (Keyless Entry) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Key fob stops working intermittently or completely. Difficult to start the car or unlock doors using the key fob.
  • Solution: Replace the key fob battery, reprogram the key fob, or replace the key fob entirely. In some cases, the issue may be with the car’s receiver module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5 - $400+ (depending on the solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen goes blank, freezes, or becomes unresponsive. The system may not recognize GPS signals.
  • Solution: Replacing the navigation unit or the GPS antenna.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth connectivity issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Bluetooth connectivity is spotty or nonexistant, and devices have difficulty syncing.
  • Solution: Replacing the bluetooth module in the car.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Remove the headlight and dry it out, reseal the headlight housing, or replace the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor fails, sunroof gets stuck, or sunroof leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor, repair the sunroof tracks, or replace the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Infiniti M35, while a luxurious and enjoyable vehicle, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine issues, particularly timing chain tensioner failure in the V6 and oil consumption in the V8, can be costly to repair. Electrical problems, especially with the intelligent key and navigation system, are also common. Suspension components like the front lower control arm bushings can wear out, leading to handling issues and requiring replacement. Overall, while the M35 offers a compelling package, it’s important to thoroughly inspect the car and be prepared for potential repair costs, which can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for major engine or transmission repairs.