Infinity I30 buyer checklist?

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tmagic
Posts: 1
Joined: Thu Nov 12, 2009 9:11 pm
Car: 2005 Nissan Z
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I didn't a quick search but didn't find much.

I'm about to buy a 01 I30 with 88k miles and I wanted to see what should be checked out...

My 4th Nissan!!


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loystock
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Joined: Sun Sep 21, 2003 9:12 pm
Car: 10 Honda Pilot
97 Infiniti Q45
03 Infiniti Q45
97 Infiniti I30
06 Infiniti M35 Sports
04 G35 & 99 I30-RIP
Location: San Jose, CA

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You are buying an INFINITI (not Infinity). The I30 is a reliable car, provided previous owner(s) has maintained it properly and did not abuse it.

First, you must have a copy of CarFax report and if possible, a maintenance history of the car. Watch out for flood damaged cars. Passing a Smog check is mandatory in most states prior to car sale. Brake pads should be 50% or better when buying from a dealership.

CarFax reports only what is available to them so it's really up to you as a buyer to be methodical with your car inspection. Check the body/paint for signs of collision repair. If equipped with sunroof, check for sign of water leak. Check the fluids - engine oil, transmission fluid (pinkish red when new), brake fluid, etc and the general condition of the engine compartment. Check all the lights, airconditioning and sound system. Test drive the car on city streets and listen for noise/rattles indicative of problems with suspension, engine mounts, exhaust mounts, bearing failure etc. Take it to the highway and check for basic alignment, unusual noise, vibration/shimmy at certain speed and when SAFE, do a high speed braking (>45 MPH) to check for any warped rotor or defective pads.

Transmission flush (Nissan Matic-D preferred but Dexron III and the newer Dexron VI should work) is highly recommended to keep the transmission life longer. However, some shops may refuse to do a flush beyond 85K if it is a first time flush (liability issue). After the flush, add a bottle of LubeGard Red (not black) ATF Protectant, available from Napa and the likes @ $14.

nzelinsky
Posts: 8
Joined: Fri Nov 13, 2009 10:31 am
Car: 2002 Maxima SE 3.5L V6

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^+1 what he said.

I would check all the fluids, suspension, cv joints. Also, make sure you get one with leather, unless you prefer otherwise.

Also, just take it for a good rip. See how it feels at full throttle dont be afraid to get those rpms up. You have to put it through its paces to get a feel if it is a strong car. Also try high speed breaking to see if there are any problems with the braking system (just make sure you have plenty of room in case there is a problem lol).



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