2010 INFINITI M45

2010 INFINITI M45

Overview

The 2010 INFINITI M45, a luxury sedan known for its potent V8 engine and refined interior, generally offers a solid ownership experience. While not immune to the occasional issue, its overall reliability is considered good for its class and age. Owners often praise its performance and comfort. However, like many vehicles of this era, certain components may require attention over time. This report details common areas of concern, focusing on specific engine and transmission variants, as well as other key systems such as suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior.

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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)

Harsh Shifting / Delayed Engagement

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, potential valve body or solenoid replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Bushings / Ball Joints

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn bushings and ball joints.
• Cost: $400 - $900

Electrical

Infotainment System

Navigation System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, incorrect map data.
• Solution: Software update, potential head unit replacement.
• Cost: $200 - $1500

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Faults

• Symptoms: Various warning lights illuminating, power window malfunctions, door lock issues.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

Exterior

Paint and Body Panels

No Major Issues

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

Interior

Leather Upholstery

Cracking / Wear

• Symptoms: Visible cracks or excessive wear on seats, especially driver’s side.
• Solution: Leather conditioning, repair kits, or professional reconditioning/replacement.
• Cost: $100 - $700

Climate Control System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), air only coming from certain vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
• Cost: $200 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2010 INFINITI M45 is a generally reliable luxury sedan, particularly praised for its robust 4.5L V8 engine. The most commonly reported issues tend to be related to the 5-speed automatic transmission, specifically concerning shifting quality, and potential wear in suspension components like bushings and ball joints. Electrical gremlins, often tied to the infotainment system or the Body Control Module, can also arise. Interior wear on leather upholstery and issues with the climate control’s blend door actuators are also noted. Despite these potential concerns, with regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly, the M45 can provide a dependable and enjoyable driving experience.