New Infiniti Owner, 1997 Q45 Black/Tan, Some Questions

[davesmystery]

Hi everyone, My name is David and tomorrow morning I'm going to purchase a 1997 Q45 with 126,000 miles. Everything seems to be in perfect condition. The current owner says no major repairs have been done; since the car is pushing 130k, what are the things I should watch out for with this car? Any preventative measures I can take? Second is when the car starts up, the cassette deck acts like it has a cassette in it and runs the little cassette motor for about 30 seconds, how can I remedy this? (Besides turning the stereo up) Other than that, the car runs awesome and everything works perfect. My uncle swears by infiniti so I thought I might see just how good they are.

[Chrisfrend]

I also have a 97. They are generally very reliable. Look out for oil leak from transmission, could be turbine sensor. Check fluids for dirtiness that may be some indication of how it has been maintained; a dealer can also give you a service history if you supply a VIN. If you buy the car, replace all the fluids. If the shocks have not ever been replaced, plan on replacing them. Good luck!

[maxnix]

Review theh service records. Infiniti dealer performed service history can be obtained from your friendly Infiniti service writer by submitting the VIN. Look for 3750 OCI and regular fluid exchanges, especiallly mechanical ones for the ATF and PS. Brakes and rear end every 30K miles, at least.

Look at all fluids carefully. Don't buy if burnt or brown unless heavily discounted.

Have it inspected by a senior Infiniti technician at the dealer. Examine for expired rubber and leaks while it is on the rack.

[Q451990]

By the way... OCI = Oil Change Interval

Good luck!

Heath

[bullittandy]

There don't appear to be any major common issues with the 97+.

Knock sensors go and cause sluggish performance and the turbine sensor as stated above leaks but I have 223,000 miles on mine and its runs perfect. I've spent $1000-$2000 on replacement parts, (engine tune, new front suspension) but I did it because I'm anal not because it was needed.You should love the car. Post pics when you get it.

BTW, the oil change interval on my car averages to about 6000 miles and it does not burn any oil.