2008 INFINITI M45

2008 INFINITI M45

Overview

The 2008 INFINITI M45, a luxury sedan, is generally regarded as a reliable vehicle, particularly for its powertrain. It was offered with a potent V8 engine known for its smooth power delivery and durability. While most owners report a positive ownership experience with minimal unexpected repairs, like any vehicle of this age, some common areas can experience issues. These tend to be related to age and mileage rather than inherent design flaws. Addressing potential problems proactively can ensure the M45 continues to offer a comfortable and dependable driving experience.

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Engine

4.5L V8 (VK45DE)

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (RE5R05A)

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Front Suspension Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front end, especially over bumps; uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn suspension bushings.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Rear Shock Absorbers

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, reduced handling stability, visible leaks from shock absorbers.
• Solution: Replacement of rear shock absorbers.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

• Symptoms: Various electrical components malfunctioning intermittently (e.g., power windows, interior lights, infotainment system).
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

Infotainment System

Navigation System Glitches

• Symptoms: Navigation screen freezing, inaccurate GPS location, or system unresponsiveness.
• Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
• Cost: $600 - $1500

Exterior

Paint and Body

Clear Coat Peeling

• Symptoms: Peeling or delaminating clear coat, particularly on horizontal surfaces like the roof and hood.
• Solution: Repainting affected areas.
• Cost: $500 - $2000+

Headlight Lenses

Headlight Haze/Yellowing

• Symptoms: Cloudy or yellowed headlight lenses reducing light output and visibility.
• Solution: Restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $100 - $500

Interior

Leather Upholstery

Seat Wear and Cracking

• Symptoms: Cracking or excessive wear on leather seat surfaces, especially on the driver’s seat bolsters.
• Solution: Leather repair and conditioning, or replacement of seat covers.
• Cost: $200 - $800

Climate Control System

HVAC Blower Motor Resistor

• Symptoms: HVAC fan only working on certain speeds or not at all.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $150 - $300

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Summary Verdict

The 2008 INFINITI M45 is a solid choice for a used luxury sedan, with its powerful V8 engine and robust transmission being major strengths. Reliability is generally good, with most reported issues stemming from age-related wear on suspension components and some electrical quirks common in vehicles of this era. Exterior paint and interior leather can also show signs of age. Proactive maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly can help maintain the M45’s luxury feel and dependable performance.