2003-2007 Infiniti Repair Manual M45 and M35

Common Issues with the 2007 Infiniti M35

1. Oil Consumption

• Issue: Some owners report higher-than-expected oil consumption, although less prevalent than in the M45’s V8 engine.
• Symptoms: Frequent need to top off oil levels or oil warning light appearing.
• Solution: Regularly monitor oil levels and perform timely oil changes. If excessive oil consumption persists, it may indicate worn piston rings or valve seals.

2. Timing Chain Guide Wear

• Issue: The timing chain and its guides may wear out over time, causing noise and potential engine issues.
• Symptoms: Rattling noise at startup or while the engine is running.
• Solution: Replace the timing chain and guides if wear is detected. Ignoring the issue can lead to more severe engine problems.

3. Transmission Issues

• Issue: The 5-speed automatic transmission may exhibit hard shifting or delayed engagement, particularly in high-mileage vehicles.
• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, hesitation, or failure to shift gears smoothly.
• Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and software update. Severe issues might require a rebuild or replacement.

4. Cooling System Problems

• Issue: Radiators, hoses, and water pumps are known to develop leaks, which can lead to engine overheating.
• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, or low coolant levels.
• Solution: Inspect the cooling system and replace any faulty components. Regular maintenance, including coolant flushes, can prevent problems.

5. Steering and Suspension Issues

• Issue: Suspension components, such as control arms, bushings, and struts, are prone to wear over time, leading to noise or uneven ride quality.
• Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises, uneven tire wear, or poor handling.
• Solution: Replace worn suspension components and check for proper alignment.

6. Brake Rotor and Pad Wear

• Issue: Premature wear of brake pads and rotors is a common complaint, leading to noise or reduced braking performance.
• Symptoms: Squealing, vibration during braking, or decreased stopping power.
• Solution: Use high-quality aftermarket or OEM brake components and replace them when necessary.

7. Dashboard Cracking

• Issue: The dashboard material is prone to cracking and peeling, particularly in vehicles exposed to prolonged sunlight.
• Symptoms: Visible cracks or bubbling on the dashboard surface.
• Solution: Protect the dashboard with sunshades and conditioning products. Replacement of the dashboard may be required for severe damage.

8. Infotainment System Malfunctions

• Issue: The navigation system, Bluetooth, or audio controls may freeze or fail intermittently.
• Symptoms: Touchscreen lag, unresponsive buttons, or connectivity issues.
• Solution: Perform software updates for the infotainment system or replace malfunctioning components.

9. Fuel Economy Complaints

• Issue: Some owners report that the M35’s fuel economy is lower than expected, especially in city driving.
• Symptoms: Frequent refueling or lower-than-advertised miles per gallon.
• Solution: Ensure proper maintenance, such as replacing air filters, cleaning the throttle body, and keeping tires properly inflated. Aggressive driving can also affect fuel efficiency.

10. Battery Drain

• Issue: Electrical components, such as interior lights or the infotainment system, may fail to shut off, causing parasitic battery drain.
• Symptoms: Dead battery or difficulty starting the vehicle after being parked for a while.
• Solution: Inspect for parasitic drains and address faulty wiring or components. Replacing the battery with a higher-capacity one can help.

11. Headlight Fogging or Moisture

• Issue: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility and potentially damaging bulbs.
• Symptoms: Foggy or dim headlights.
• Solution: Inspect and reseal headlight housings. In severe cases, replacement may be necessary.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure your 2007 Infiniti M35 performs well:

• Follow a strict maintenance schedule for oil changes, coolant flushes, and transmission services.
• Monitor suspension and brake components, as they are prone to wear.
• Address any dashboard or electrical issues promptly to avoid further damage.

Summary

The 2007 Infiniti M35 is a comfortable and powerful luxury sedan with advanced features for its time. While it has some reported issues, regular maintenance and proactive care can help minimize problems. If you’re considering purchasing a used M35, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and review of service history are highly recommended.

Common Issues with the 2007 Infiniti M45

1. Excessive Oil Consumption

• Issue: The 4.5L V8 engine is known for consuming oil at a higher rate, especially as the engine accumulates mileage.
• Symptoms: Frequent need to top off oil, oil warning light, or low oil levels between oil changes.
• Solution: Regularly monitor and top off oil. If the issue persists, it may require engine repairs, such as replacing piston rings or valve seals.

2. Timing Chain and Guides Wear

• Issue: The timing chain and its guides can wear prematurely, leading to noise and potential engine issues.
• Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, poor engine performance, or illuminated check engine light.
• Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioners to prevent further damage.

3. Transmission Problems

• Issue: The 5-speed automatic transmission may exhibit hard shifting, delayed engagement, or slipping.
• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, hesitation when shifting, or inability to shift smoothly.
• Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and software update. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be required.

4. Cooling System Leaks

• Issue: Radiators, hoses, and water pumps are prone to leaks, which can lead to engine overheating.
• Symptoms: Low coolant levels, visible leaks, or overheating.
• Solution: Inspect the cooling system and replace any leaking components. Regular coolant flushes can help prevent problems.

5. Suspension Issues

• Issue: The suspension components, such as bushings, control arms, and shocks, are prone to wear, especially in high-mileage vehicles.
• Symptoms: Clunking noises, uneven tire wear, or poor handling.
• Solution: Replace worn suspension parts and ensure proper alignment for improved ride quality.

6. Brake Rotor and Pad Wear

• Issue: Brake pads and rotors may wear out quickly, especially with aggressive driving or frequent braking.
• Symptoms: Squealing or grinding noises, vibration during braking, or reduced braking performance.
• Solution: Use high-quality aftermarket or OEM brake components and replace them as needed.

7. Dashboard Cracking

• Issue: The dashboard material is prone to cracking or bubbling, particularly in vehicles exposed to prolonged sunlight.
• Symptoms: Visible cracks or damage on the dashboard surface.
• Solution: Use sunshades and conditioning products to protect the dashboard. In severe cases, the dashboard may need to be replaced.

8. Infotainment System Problems

• Issue: The navigation system, Bluetooth, or audio controls may malfunction intermittently.
• Symptoms: Unresponsive touchscreen, freezing, or Bluetooth connectivity issues.
• Solution: Perform software updates for the infotainment system or replace faulty components.

9. Power Steering Leaks

• Issue: The power steering system is prone to leaks, particularly in the hoses and seals.
• Symptoms: Whining noise when turning, difficulty steering, or visible fluid leaks.
• Solution: Replace leaking hoses, seals, or the power steering pump as needed.

10. Headlight Fogging or Moisture

• Issue: Moisture can build up inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility and potentially damaging bulbs.
• Symptoms: Foggy or dim headlights, or bulbs burning out prematurely.
• Solution: Reseal or replace headlight housings. For minor fogging, use silica gel packs to absorb moisture.

11. Fuel Pump and Sensor Issues

• Issue: The fuel pump or sensors may fail, leading to reduced engine performance or difficulty starting.
• Symptoms: Engine hesitation, poor fuel economy, or trouble starting the car.
• Solution: Replace the faulty fuel pump or sensors as necessary.

12. Battery Drain

• Issue: Electrical components like interior lights, infotainment systems, or faulty relays may cause parasitic battery drain.
• Symptoms: Dead battery after the vehicle is parked for a while or difficulty starting.
• Solution: Inspect for parasitic drains and repair any faulty electrical components.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your 2007 Infiniti M45 running smoothly:

• Regularly check and top off oil levels.
• Stay up-to-date with scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, coolant flushes, and brake inspections.
• Address suspension and transmission issues promptly to avoid further damage.
• Protect the dashboard from sun damage and ensure all recalls are completed.

Summary

The 2007 Infiniti M45 offers a powerful and luxurious driving experience, but it does come with some known issues, particularly related to oil consumption and timing chain wear. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent major problems. If you’re considering purchasing a used M45, a pre-purchase inspection and a review of its service history are highly recommended to ensure you’re getting a well-maintained vehicle.