Thinking about purchasing a 99 Q45 with little over 100K - what should I know?

[greenwar]

I have been driving crappy 4cylinder motored vehicles for years. I consider myself an auto enthusiast and am pretty upset with the blend vehicles I had been driving even though many of them had 5-spd manuals.

I have read a lot about the 2nd Gen Q and am wondering what are the common issues with this vehicle?

- does it use a timing belt or a chain. if it uses timing belt is the 4.1 an interference engine?- does it have the in-famous nissan coil failing issues- does it have the in-famous nissan fuel injector failing issue- Reliability wise what is your opinion- is the transmission a dog like many of the first gen Q45s

I am leaning towards getting an ES300 or a GS300 due to their reliability. How would you guys rate the Q45 amongsts these two in terms of reliability. I don't want to end up spending 2-3 grand a year just to keep the vehicle running.

Also please post your average gas mileage in city driving. I am not expecting much 18-19 in city driving is perfectly fine as I live within 5 miles of work.

Also please point me to a link or post things which I should pay good attention to before buying a 99 Q45.

I hope to hear from you guys.. Thanks in advance.

[maxnix]

I have read a lot about the 2nd Gen Q and am wondering what are the common issues with this vehicle?

1.) - does it use a timing belt or a chain. if it uses timing belt is the 4.1 an interference engine?2.) - does it have the in-famous nissan coil failing issues3.) - does it have the in-famous nissan fuel injector failing issue4,) - Reliability wise what is your opinion5.) - is the transmission a dog like many of the first gen Q45s

6.) I am leaning towards getting an ES300 or a GS300 due to their reliability. How would you guys rate the Q45 amongsts these two in terms of reliability. I don't want to end up spending 2-3 grand a year just to keep the vehicle running.

7.) Also please post your average gas mileage in city driving. I am not expecting much 18-19 in city driving is perfectly fine as I live within 5 miles of work.

8.) Also please point me to a link or post things which I should pay good attention to before buying a 99 Q45.

1.) All Infiniti VH and VK V8 use chain. They are interference engines as they must be to attain high performance.

2.) Coilpack issues are usually infrequent. Didn't know other Nissan had them.

3.) Depends on maintenance, fuel used, drivng habits. Generally as good or better.

4.) Bulletproof if not abused and maintained per Q45tech regimen.

5.) Same one, but it is not a dog if maintained and serviced correctly. AT near two tons dry with a 4.1L engine, it is not a drag car.

6.) Better. Belts blow. So glad I didn't get an GS300. The ES is a camry in drag, after all. Not comparable when it comes to vehicle dynamics. Remember, the discounted price you pay now is reflective of the deferred maintenance. How are the shocks? t model? They will cost more to replace. How do the fluids appear? If not fresh, things can get expensive quickly......on any car. Plan on $0.12 -$0.15 after you get it back to as new OEM condition.

7.) Urban exclusively, well that is a function of idle time, fuel, temperature, so I'd guess 13 -16 mpg. Could be better or worse. Remember, idle = 0 mpg. Not a car if you want hybrid type numbers and would be satisfied with that type of performance. Imported luxury V8 are not for those who fear Premium Tier 1 gasoline.

8.) Read the sticky post on how to buy a G50. First, obtain the Infiniti dealer performed service history. If that is satisfactory, then inspect the car yourself. If it is still looking good, then have it inspected by a Senior Infiniti Technician.

[greenwar]

5.) Same one, but it is not a dog if maintained and serviced correctly. AT near two tons dry with a 4.1L engine, it is not a drag car.

I know G50s had an issue with transmission overheating. Does the FY33 have adequate cooling for the transmission? Ofcourse I don't plan on racing it.

6.) Better. Belts blow. So glad I didn't get an GS300. The ES is a camry in drag, after all. Not comparable when it comes to vehicle dynamics. Remember, the discounted price you pay now is reflective of the deferred maintenance. How are the shocks? t model? They will cost more to replace. How do the fluids appear? If not fresh, things can get expensive quickly......on any car. Plan on $0.12 -$0.15 after you get it back to as new OEM condition.

Didnt quite understand this. Are you saying plan on spending 1.2 to 1.5 grand after acquiring to bring everything upto OEM condition?

8.) Read the sticky post on how to buy a G50. First, obtain the Infiniti dealer performed service history. If that is satisfactory, then inspect the car yourself. If it is still looking good, then have it inspected by a Senior Infiniti Technician.

I went to the dealer to ask if they do any pre-purchase inspection. The manager told me they only do visual inspection (he says it is comprehensive which I doubt) for $70.00. Any suggestion on how I should go about getting a senior technician to do an inspection?

Thanks again. Appreciate your prompt response.
Modified by greenwar at 11:55 PM 8/30/2006

[bullittandy]

If my experience is any indicator then the reliability of these cars is outstanding. I bought mine with 194,XXX miles and now have 220,XXX miles with one failure (knock sensors).

This seems to be a common repair and costs alot of money if you pay somebody to fix them, maybe $1000. However, the symptoms were sluggish performance that does not require instantaneous attention.

The transmissions appear stout, ceratinly compared to the early Q's.

I also replaced the entire front suspension which I discovered afterwards was likely unnecessary as ride and handling were the same. Any car that rides as well as mine did, with 210,000 miles, is okay in my book.

I should also say that my car has almost all highway miles which may be worth 1/2 as much of city miles.

In my opinion, you should definitely buy a 97+ Q if you don't buy this one.

[maxnix]

1.) I know G50s had an issue with transmission overheating. Does the FY33 have adequate cooling for the transmission? Ofcourse I don't plan on racing it.

2.) Didn't quite understand this. Are you saying plan on spending 1.2 to 1.5 grand after acquiring to bring everything up to OEM condition?

3.) I went to the dealer to ask if they do any pre-purchase inspection. The manager told me they only do visual inspection (he says it is comprehensive which I doubt) for $70.00. Any suggestion on how I should go about getting a senior technician to do an inspection?

1.) Only on pre 1994, and it was not overheating per se, rather inadequate heat exchangers. The FY33 is worse in that regard, and all Q45 are recommended to have auxiliary ATF coolers (B&M 70268 or 70264) installed. Read Skibane's excellent post on by-passing the FY33 coke can in the bottom tank OEM heat exchanger and subsequent fluid pressure measurement.

2.) Probably, maybe more. Why the inspection is critical.

3.) Where was it serviced? Get the service history print out from the dealer. It is trivial for him to produce it. You maust pay the senior Infiniti tech at the dealer to go as deep as you want. Have you inspected the fluids? Service history will tell you a lot of where you need to look. Plugs? Struts? Differential? ATF fluid exchange (not just drain and fill)? PS fluid? Brakes?
Modified by maxnix at 10:15 AM 8/31/2006

[Q_SHIP]

I pound the snot out of mine with 176k on it. It takes it.

[QBaller]

I have one for sale…

zerothread/194259

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/willyt_nj

[elwesso]

I basically mirror the thoughts of above.....

Y33 Qs are gonna be cheaper to own simply because you dont have to replace the timing belt..... However, do you think the "lexus guys" maintain as hardcore as we do? I doubt it, since lexus are known for their "reliability" thus you dont have to replace the wear items!!!!!

as soon as you take delivery, PLAN ON REPLACING: Tires, EVERY DROP OF FLUID, brakes, shocks, suspension rubber. Those really are the only things that wear out on the car..... If you have DOCUMENTED EVIDENCE that certain things were done in that they wont require maintenance, then thats a bonus.....

I like to put a lot of money up front on the car (assuming it turns out good) so that I start clean and know where I stand.....

[Falkdesigns]

^ very good description, not much to add to what's been written above already. Got mine with 76k on it, in 30 months I've put 22k on it and loved every one of those miles.

[Jesda]

The ES isnt in the same league, and competes more with the I35, Millenia, and previous TL.

Part of the Lexus reliability reputation comes from original owners, generally automotive know-nothings with a great deal of money, who have no qualms about spending excessively at the dealership. Lexus dealerships are top notch, making customers more willing to pay extra. Infiniti owners, for whatever reason, have a tighter grip on their wallets.

I favor the original GS, designed by G. Giugiaro in Italy. I'd be proud to own one, but it doesnt top the Q'41' in size, comfort, power, speed, or cost of ownership. It does, however, have an Italian body and a gorgeous interior.

So in conclusion, buy the 99 Q.

[maxnix]

Lexus V8 have a nice little trick where the PS pump will leak and take out the alternator beneath it. And don't even go for air suspension.

I think Wes is right. Spend a little more for a car that is up to snuff and with fewer unknown variables. You should still have a cash kitty on the side for that deferred maintenance.

Qballer's car looks nice, and isn't from the rust belt. Might be worth investigating.
Modified by maxnix at 12:15 AM 9/1/2006

[greenwar]

Lot of great posts. Thanks guys. I am pretty sold. Only thing that worries me is the 13-16 mpg thing. I don't drive much, but in future if gas price reaches $5 per gallon, I may be just walking to work.... The way its going $5 a gallon may not be too far.

I will do my best to secure the Q provided everything checks out. The specimen I am looking get has lots of lots of parts replaced at the local infiniti dealership. I will post details if I get the vehicle.

I am still however considering an Acura RL and a GS300 - both v6 ofcourse..

[maxnix]

I am still however considering an Acura RL and a GS300 - both v6 ofcourse..

The GS is a staright six, iron block, and a bit underpowered.

The RL is the world's best FWD Buick. I also own a first generation Legend.

Both have cogged timing belts.

[Warspite]

Gang-

I recently picked up a '94 G50, with 211K on the odo. Other than some interior wear (a couple of tears, and worn armrests) and the usual sunroof malady, the car drives as smooth as any 29,000 vehicle I've owned! Original Black paint job looks great when buffed out! Only missing BBS wheel cap detracts from the appearance. This car seems to have been maintained very well, by some good hands folks.

Now, I may have overpaid for such a high mileage car (2 grand), this one looked like a 4 year-old, rather than a 12 year old. This Q will ge going to T3 servicing (Thanks for the reference, NICO!!!!) for probably another grand of proactive maiintenance. No runs, drips, or errors (on the ECU), and in that PATHETIC Atlanta traffic (currently ranked WORST in the nation), I've averaged 19.79MPG, in limited hwy driving...more stop than go.

But, I get to do it in CLASS and COMFORT!!!

Bottom line - If the car passes muster, grab it!

Best Regards!

[greenwar]

I got the dealer service history for the vehicle. Over 5grand worth of preventive repairs done on the vehicle including new struts shocks suspension joints and sensors - new tires - all fluid changed in february. Service manager was surprised that owner was selling the car. He mentioned at least 5 times that the car has every possible thing changed. However, the report says vehicle has a slightly bent subframe - this is mentioned when the vehicle was sent to a shop (sub-contracted by the dealer) to do the alignment after shock replacement.

What do you guys suggest? should I walk away? Or is there anything I can check to ensure its running fine. I drove the car, its in immaculate condition. I made an offer, seller agreed. Then I found this in the service history when I when through every line.

Please post some replies with ideas.

[bullittandy]

"Slightly bent subframe" doesn't sound like a deal breaker to me. Could it be aligned? When was it bent? If the guy just bent it and is selling it then it sounds like a bad idea but if the guy didn't know it was bent then that's different.My 97 has a bent front strut but there are no noticible handling or ride quirks so I've ignored it. Maybe my tires will wear out 5000 miles earlier but I don't care.

Offer $500 lower than your previous offer for the damage and see what he says.

[greenwar]

The record mentioned that the third party aligned the vehicle as best as they could.

I dont think the owner knew about it or the dealer probably told him its not a big deal. The owner after that incident and changed both his HID lamps - high low and got the AC clutch and idle pulley changed just because they were making noise.

Vehicle is no doubt well taken care of. I will talk to the owner and see what he says.

[bullittandy]

Jump on it!!

[greenwar]

OK Secured my Q45 today. Its a 1999 Q45T silver with black interior - with 107,000 miles approx.

Here is what was done to it:

1) All drops of fluid was changed by dealer at 102,xxx.

2) struts, shocks, springs, tension rod, ... every worn suspension part has been replaced - thats what dealer record says - $3700 job

3) AC idle pulley, ac clutch has been replaced..

4) Fuel filter replaced - fuel induction system entirely serviced - dealer record says - I am assuming it means everything has been cleaned including injectors.

5) Read O2 sensor replaced

6) Engine and other rubber mountings and bushings has been changed - not sure what that means... I will confess

7) Brand new 4 Bridgestone turanza LS-v 225/50 17 tires with 4K miles

8) Door rubber seals replaced

9) All head lamps has been replaced by the dealer

10) Everything inside seems to work except from the rear motorized sunshade

Most of these were done at 102,xxx miles.. O2 sensor was changed at 70K. Vehicle has almost no scratches - there are some slight bumber marks

Dealers senior technician was there when I went to pick up the history - he mentioned that there is nothing needed in the car. Car was at the dealer right before I took it for a test drive to get the headlamps and ac clutch etc changed. Dealer service manager was also very positive about the upkeep of the vehicle.. So I decided not to get the senior tech inspection..

Seems like a great car. So I decided to purchase it.

Looking at all the service histories - wouldnt you guys say that I don't need to get anything done on it? Just fill up and drive??

If you guys got any suggestions, I will appreciate it.

[Jesda]

We want pics!

[bullittandy]

OK Secured my Q45 today. Its a 1999 Q45T silver with black interior - with 107,000 miles approx.

Here is what was done to it:

1) All drops of fluid was changed by dealer at 102,xxx.

2) struts, shocks, springs, tension rod, ... every worn suspension part has been replaced - thats what dealer record says - $3700 job

3) AC idle pulley, ac clutch has been replaced..

4) Fuel filter replaced - fuel induction system entirely serviced - dealer record says - I am assuming it means everything has been cleaned including injectors.

5) Read O2 sensor replaced

6) Engine and other rubber mountings and bushings has been changed - not sure what that means... I will confess

7) Brand new 4 Bridgestone turanza LS-v 225/50 17 tires with 4K miles

8) Door rubber seals replaced

9) All head lamps has been replaced by the dealer

10) Everything inside seems to work except from the rear motorized sunshade

Most of these were done at 102,xxx miles.. O2 sensor was changed at 70K. Vehicle has almost no scratches - there are some slight bumber marks

Dealers senior technician was there when I went to pick up the history - he mentioned that there is nothing needed in the car. Car was at the dealer right before I took it for a test drive to get the headlamps and ac clutch etc changed. Dealer service manager was also very positive about the upkeep of the vehicle.. So I decided not to get the senior tech inspection..

Seems like a great car. So I decided to purchase it.

Looking at all the service histories - wouldnt you guys say that I don't need to get anything done on it? Just fill up and drive??

If you guys got any suggestions, I will appreciate it.

Doesn't sound like there's anything left to replace!!Price and pics.

[greenwar]

Hehe, haven't gotten the car yet. Probably this tuesday or wednesday it will be in my hands.

I will definately post some pics...

Thanks for the help guys - truely appreciate you guys guiding me through the purcahse process..

Forgot to mention the price: 10K straight. Its a little higher than book value, but with all these repairs done, I figured I have already saved 2k.

[maxnix]

"Slightly bent subframe" doesn't sound like a deal breaker to me.

"Member's standards vary." - Q45tech

Beware of advice that is free but costs you a lot of money!

Which subframe? The rear is pretty expensive to replace. How was it bent? There may be addtional collateral damage.

[maxnix]

Forgot to mention the price: 10K straight. Its a little higher than book value, but with all these repairs done, I figured I have already saved 2k.

Was transmission fluid mechanically exchanged? Or just drain and fill?

Rear shade is an $800 item. Insist on dealer getting it operating.

Bent rear subframe could be a couple of thousand easily. Don't buy it if it doesn't meet specifications. I owuld buy it unless it could be set perfectly.

The way I figure it, you may be $2800 to $4000 down in the deal with these issues unresolved.

[greenwar]

Was transmission fluid mechanically exchanged? Or just drain and fill?

No clue, I will ask the dealer service manager. Quote »Rear shade is an $800 item. Insist on dealer getting it operating.[/quote]This item is highly unimportant to me. I am a single guy and will have only front seat passengers. The thing works, but makes some noise.

Quote »Bent rear subframe could be a couple of thousand easily. Don't buy it if it doesn't meet specifications. I owuld buy it unless it could be set perfectly.[/quote]This is a worrying issue, I went again yesterday and drove the vehicle once more at highway cruising speed - vehicle run very straight and no hint of pulling or steering deviating to any side.

I checked tracking as well, seems to be straight. Just to be on the safe side I will talk to the service manager and get an idea..

Quote »The way I figure it, you may be $2800 to $4000 down in the deal with these issues unresolved.[/quote]Not sure how you came to those numbers - but if you say so ... I won't be debating it..

[maxnix]

This is a worrying issue, I went again yesterday and drove the vehicle once more at highway cruising speed - vehicle run very straight and no hint of pulling or steering deviating to any side.

I checked tracking as well, seems to be straight. Just to be on the safe side I will talk to the service manager and get an idea...

What you feed is a four wheel alignment print out from a Hunter alignment machine.

[greenwar]

What you feed is a four wheel alignment print out from a Hunter alignment machine.

Thats what I expect from an experienced Q45(s) owner. Thanks Maxnix. I will get that before going forward any further.

Appreciate your input.

[bullittandy]

Thats what I expect from an experienced Q45(s) owner. Thanks Maxnix. I will get that before going forward any further.

Appreciate your input.

Don't worry, you won't for long.