New guy here, debating on which Infiniti to buy...

[ntwrkguy1]

Hi All,

I'm in the process of planning my next automotive purchase. Yes, I'm one of those types that takes a few months and REALLY researches things, and I figured that the Infiniti forum would be the best place to start.

For starters, I probably will have the wherewithal to purchase a CPO Infiniti, probably in the 2003-2005 range. Now, here's my first dilemma: Do I shoot for the Q? The G? or the M? I know I need a sedan, so unfortunately the G coupe is out. I REALLY like the Q's that I have been tracking on eBay. Is there a huge difference between the Q and the M? And as far as maintenance goes, is there anything I should be on the lookout for?

And while we're on the maintenance topic, am I correct in assuming that the CPO program is really the best way to buy an Infiniti? From all that I have read, they truly are rolling technological pieces. I'd like a little peace of mind when I pull the trigger!

Feel free to give me any other input you think I might find relevant. I'm looking forward to being on this forum. Most of my Internet forum experience is on auto detailing forums, so hopefully I will be able to add my 2 cents in occasionally!

Thanks in advance -- mods, if this post needs to be elsewhere, feel free to move it.

-Ntwrkguy1

[Mark Linkous]

Hello, Welcome. While C.P.O is more expensive (usually), you usually get a good car. As long as whichever car has been checked out and eligible for Infiniti's extended warrantees, go for the best price I suppose. I purchased my car C.P.O and have been quite pleased. I paid 3-4k more than ebay or the trader , but, the Elite warranty was included. The Infiniti Elite warranty is the way to go. The best part being that there is zero deductible after the original warranty expires. Furthermore, the Nav and audio system are covered after the original warranty ends. The base C.P.O warranty does not offer this. If not purchasing a C.P.O, the expensive services are the 30,000 and 60,000 mile ones. If buying one near these mileages, make sure to ask and or get the vin and call your local Infiniti dealer to see if the services are up to date. Also if not buying C.P.O, getting it looked at by either a Infiniti specialist or the dealer is a safe call. If you live anywhere near Atlanta, T3 Automotive is highly recommended. Otherwise, if you do not have a local, independent Infiniti specialist, go to the dealer. The cars are obviously subjective. To state the obvious, driving each is what it comes down to. The G is radically different than the M/Q of the model years you are looking at. The G is on the now ubitqitious FM platform which underpins all Infiniti's sans the QX56. Better handling at the cost of luxury compared to the M/Q. The fit and finish of the M and Q is much higher. As befits the price difference. The M/Q both offer some truly high tech stuff. At the top would be the I.C.C or intelligent cruise control. I do not use mine that much because the following distances in traffic are a bit much. What can you expect in such a litigious society though. Heated and cooled seats are great as well. All three offer Navigation when equipped. The V8 in the M/Q is smooth and powerful. You might want to search the site about the VK45 oil consumption issue. It affects some engines. I have had no issues, but, some have. The big difference between the M and Q in day to day use lies in the back seat accomodations. The Q has a very roomy and luxurious back seat. Especially when equipped with the premium package. The M back seat suffers from a lack of legroom comparatively.The other difference is in styling. While on very similar platforms, the two cars could not look more different. Matter of what floats your boat. When I purchased my M, it was between it and a brand new 06 G35 6MT. Same price out the door. Honestly went back and fourth for days. The G corners better. Handles better in the twisties. Also loved the idea of having a manual as well. However, I simply loved the V8 in the M. Also the styling and the bird's eye maple finish in the interior. As well as the myriad of gadgets. Also loved just how few 03-04 M's you see on the road. Same with Q's. G's are popular. With good reason. The driving dynamics are great. I just did not like the interior on the Gen.1 G. The new ones are another story. Drive all three and trust your gut, Mark

[ntwrkguy1]

Mark,

Good info! I was not aware of the Elite warranty, but will definitely make it a point to request it. You're right -- I do see prices a few $k less on eBay/Trader, but to me, it's worth the extra bucks to buy a CPO. I have driven a G, and while I like it, I actually like the styling of the M/Q from those years, and definitely like the options. I tend to favor luxury over sport, and living in North Carolina, I can truly appreciate both the heated AND the cooled seats!

I'll do some research on the VK45 oil consumption issue -- other than that, they seem to be very reliable. What makes the 30k and 60k service so expensive? And will that be the case for the 90k and 120k service? I definitely plan to keep this car for a pretty good while. Also, what are the terms of the Elite warranty? Does it extend things to 100k?

-David

[Mark Linkous]

Hello,The 30/60 intervals involve replacing the drive belts and flushing the radiator and transmission. Along with lots of other stuff. Expensive but not BMW expensive. (<1000.00) The Elite warranty goes to 100k. If you are buying C.P.O, it usually just adds a couple hundred dollars. Without it already having a C.P.O warranty, it is between 1,500 and 2000 dollars I believe. The Elite warranty adds travel interruption benefits and lots of other incedentials. The big thing is the nav system being covered after the original warranty lapses and zero deductible on repairs. It think C.P.O it is still under 100.00 for the deductible.Cheers,Mark