Is it sensible to keep my 2013 M37?

[tiersaribo]

I would like to apologize in advance for this question, which I could likely answer by researching the forum. I am hoping someone knowledgeable about these cars will check the thread and graciously let me know their thoughts. I would be very grateful.

8 months ago I bought a 2013 M37 RWD from the most reputable large volume used car dealer I could find. I purchased the car with 58,000 miles.
It has had no major issues thus far, but there are a few things about it which make me nervous...and I know Infiniti parts are not cheap.

1. When starting the car in the morning, I feel a decent bit of a jolt...It is not as pronounced if I start it after it has been driven later in the day
2. There is a low knocking sound from the drivers side front wheel...it is most pronounced at low speeds...sway bar?
3. When moving from park to drive/drive to park there is an audible thunk sometimes, accompanied by a bit of a jolt...parking pawl?
4. When the car moves from 3rd to 4th gear under acceleration, there is a hint of roughness to the shift. Interestingly, if I take my foot off the gas a bit right when it is about to shift, the shift is smooth.

I am thankfully in the position where trading it in and taking a hit may be possible...I would rather that then face some sort of major issue in another 6 months. Are any of these things pointing to trouble?

[Yoda's Master]

I think you should have a professional mechanic or infiniti perform an inspection first. To me, sounds like maybe the ball joint is shot and you might need to rebuild the trans. Both are probably cheaper than the hit you're going to take when trading in. I think you should ask yourself if you like the car before you decide.

[EdBwoy]

I agree with having a professional mechanic or suspension shop to evaluate it. It doesn't sound too horrible to me. Some suspension wear, worn/broken drivetrain mounts, and a transmission reprogram away from enjoying your car again.

However, I think it is important to start with some introspection.
Do I like this car today, as compared to 8 months ago?

1. If the answer is no, nothing matters. Just prepare your exit plan.
2. If the answer is yes, then you can go down the path of diagnosis to decide whether you want to spend the time/money to get it running in tip top shape.
3. You might find that although you like it, it just doesn't make sense for you to hold on to it. But again, that depends on what the diagnosis shows.

If I may ask, is your M37 a sport model or a base model?