Owning an Infiniti G35x sedan gives you rear-wheel-drive dynamics paired with a capable ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system, all driven by the iconic VQ35 engine. While these sport sedans pack durable engineering, high mileage brings predictable mechanical and electrical wear. If you're hunting for a used model or trying to sort out an annoying dashboard warning light, knowing what breaks first saves you time and money.
Common trouble spots span from oil leaks and failing camshaft sensors to fragile interior trim pieces and AWD transfer case quirks. Tackling these issues early keeps your sedan on the road instead of stranded in the driveway.
Engine Mechanical and Oil Management
The heart of the G35x is the VQ35 series engine, celebrated for its high-revving nature and raw output. However, it has specific weak points that require regular checks.
Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
As these cars age, the factory rubber valve cover gaskets harden and crack. Oil seeps into the spark plug tube wells, leading to misfires, rough idling, and a faint burning oil smell under the hood.
- The Fix: Swap out the gaskets using a high-quality aftermarket replacement kit. Because the factory gaskets are baked by engine heat, you'll need to clean the mating surfaces thoroughly and apply a small dab of high-temp RTV silicone to the corners during reassembly.
Camshaft and Crankshaft Position Sensors
A sudden long crank time, engine stalling while driving, or limp mode usually points to failing OEM sensors. Nissan and Infiniti engines from this era are notoriously sensitive to aftermarket sensors, often rejecting non-OEM parts entirely.
- The Fix: Always source genuine OEM Nissan sensors when replacing a failing crankshaft or camshaft sensor. Clear the diagnostic trouble codes with an OBD2 scanner immediately after installation.
Oil Consumption
Early VQ35DE engines, particularly the non-RevUp variants found in many G35x models, can consume moderate amounts of oil between changes. Ignoring this drops oil levels below safe operating pressures, risking bearing damage.
- The Fix: Check your oil level every other fuel fill-up. Switching to a heavy-duty full synthetic oil can reduce consumption rates if caught early.
AWD System and Drivetrain Maintenance
The 'x' in G35x designates the ATTESA all-wheel-drive system. While robust, it requires periodic fluid changes that many owners overlook.
Front Axle Seals and CV Boots
The front driveshafts pass through tight spaces near the oil pan, and the rubber CV boots dry out, tear, and fling grease across the undercarriage. Front differential and transfer case seals also weep fluid over time.
- The Fix: Inspect the inner and outer CV boots during every oil change. If you spot a torn boot, replace it immediately before grit destroys the joint. Change the front differential and transfer case gear oils every 60,000 miles to prevent premature gear whine.
Propeller Shaft Center Support Bearing
A low-frequency humming noise or vibration underneath the center console during acceleration usually means the driveshaft center support bearing has worn out.
- The Fix: Inspect the rubber bushing around the bearing. If it sags or tears, replace the carrier bearing assembly to restore smooth power delivery.
Electrical Gremlins and Interior Wear
Cabin electronics and plastic trim components take a beating as these vehicles age past the decade mark.
Window Regulators and Door Lock Actuators
Power windows that suddenly drop into the door panel or fail to roll up are a staple issue for mid-2000s Nissan and Infiniti vehicles. Door lock actuators also quit responding to key fobs.
- The Fix: Remove the interior door card and replace the faulty window regulator motor assembly. For door locks, replacing the internal electric motor inside the latch assembly is cheaper than buying a whole new OEM latch unit.
Dash Material and Center Console Scratches
The soft-touch center console plastic scratches easily, exposing the hard black plastic underneath. Additionally, dashboard bubbles can form near the passenger airbag on vehicles exposed to intense sunlight.
- The Fix: Wrap scratched console trim pieces in vinyl or real carbon fiber overlay. For sticky or worn dash panels, specialized interior restoration kits offer a clean matte finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the G35x engine different from the regular G35 RWD?
The core VQ35 engine block is identical, but the G35x features an oil pan uniquely shaped with a pass-through tunnel to accommodate the front axle shaft required for all-wheel drive.
How many miles can an Infiniti G35x last?
With religious oil changes and prompt replacement of wear items, a well-maintained G35x easily crosses 200,000 miles without major engine or transmission overhauls.
What fuel octane does the G35x require?
The high-compression VQ35 engine is engineered exclusively for 91 octane or higher premium gasoline. Running regular fuel triggers engine knock and forces the ECU to pull timing, reducing power and fuel efficiency.
Does the G35x have timing belts or chains?
The engine uses a metal timing chain rather than a rubber belt. While designed to last the lifetime of the engine, high-mileage cars can experience chain guide wear if oil maintenance was neglected. Read more about vehicle care standards via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
