2008 INFINITI M45

The 2008 INFINITI M45 is a mid-size luxury sedan that offered a blend of performance and comfort. This model year came with two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 275 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque and a 4.5-liter V8 generating 325 horsepower and 336 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the M45 for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and upscale interior. Some common dislikes include its fuel economy and potentially costly repairs due to its age and luxury status.

Engine

4.5L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil more frequently than expected between oil changes. Symptoms may include low oil level warnings and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. In severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to a rattling noise upon startup, especially when the engine is cold. If left unaddressed, this can lead to more significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation while shifting, rough shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all. The transmission may enter limp mode.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Air Struts Leaking (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sagging, especially after sitting overnight. The air compressor may run excessively or fail entirely.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500 per strut
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Steering may feel loose or unstable.
  • Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings or the entire lower control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate fuel level readings on the fuel gauge. The gauge may read empty even when the tank is not, or vice versa.
  • Solution: Replacing the fuel sending unit or the fuel pump assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen going blank, freezing, or displaying error messages. The navigation system may become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Replacing the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies frequently, especially when the car sits for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the parasitic draw and addressing the faulty component. Common culprits include aftermarket electronics, faulty door lock actuators, and the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause; $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the headlight bulbs.
  • Solution: Resealing the headlight housing or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800 per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure causing difficulty or inability to open or close the sunroof. The sunroof may also leak.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor or reseal the sunroof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 INFINITI M45 can present several issues common for vehicles of its age and luxury segment. Engine issues like oil consumption and timing chain tensioner failure (V8 models) can be costly, while transmission problems like valve body malfunctions are also relatively common. Suspension issues, especially air strut leaks, and electrical problems, such as fuel gauge inaccuracies and navigation system failures, further contribute to the potential ownership costs. Overall, while the M45 offers a luxurious and powerful driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential repair costs. The severity of these issues ranges from moderate to severe, and the associated costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the specific problem and repair required.