Infiniti FX45 Infiniti FX35

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Comments

  • jjce1bjjce1b Member Posts: 6
    Hi everyone,

    I am considering purchasing a 06 FX35 or a 06 Limited 4runner. Yesterday I was leaning towards a 4runner, today I am leaning towards a FX. Any comments aboout both would be greatly appreciated. What kind of mileage are people averaging with the 35?

    Also, would love to get the Infiniti nav, but am hesitant about the "lane departure system". Those that have it, do you like it or do you find it annoying? Any way to turn it off?

    Thanks
  • audreymaudreym Member Posts: 103
    You can turn the Land Departure System off. I was test-driving the 06 FX alone and couldn't figure out what the beeping was - really confusing. At a stoplight I found the switch. If I recall its by the "Snow" button. The drive back to the dealer was much quieter :)

    We haven't purchased yet, but had test driven the 4Runner as well.. I couldn't really find a comfortable seat position which I am sure I would with time. The steering was much "squishier" than the Fx, and had much more of a truck feel. What are your pros/cons? Just curious because I am debating if I want to test drive the 4Runner again or not.

    Thanks!
    AudreyM
  • jjce1bjjce1b Member Posts: 6
    Thanks for the info. Cons of the 4runner: I get that feeling in the 4runners of sitting on the floor. I also found my knees almost into my chin sitting in the back seat. It's not really that good looking of a vehicle. Weird lines. I find the HVAC controls a little hokey, too. Limited's are somewhat hard to find so dealers a little more reluctant to deal. Pros: It's a Toyota. Value retention. Awesome offroad capability. Motorized rear window. Good sized cargo area. Perfect sized vehicle.

    The thing I keep asking my self is...I never get offroad. Maybe some snow at Tahoe once or twice a year. So why not get the better road vehicle? The FX. :)
  • twarden1twarden1 Member Posts: 6
    You didn't rile me, I'd just hate for some women to miss out on this phenomenal vehicle. :shades: Plus this car is WAY sexier than the RX in my opinion.

    Signed:
    Single female (mother of 2), $75k/yr, non-college graduate, 38 years old. =)
  • twarden1twarden1 Member Posts: 6
    Well, that's what I think too (that something is actually wrong), as well as every guy who drives it. But the dealership insists they checked the system out throroughly and no problems were found. What I find irritating is that they won't at least admit it's so soft. I didn't get a chance to take it BACK in last weekend, but have an appt. to do so tomorrow. I'll let you know what comes of it. I'd like to hear from others too. (And thanks for your comments on my other post. ;) ) By the way, the dealership says there are no adjustments to the braking system that can be made to make the brakes more like what I'm expecting. I find that hard to believe. Anyone know enough about these modern braking systems that can arm me with some suggestions for when I go in tomorrow? Thanks all!
  • audreymaudreym Member Posts: 103
    Maybe ask to test drive one on the lot to compare? If a different vehicle feels the same then maybe nothing is wrong. If they feel different, ask the tech to drive them one after another and explain why there is a difference.

    Just a suggestion.
  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    I had this issue before and it seemed to have been fixed after the dealership replaced the rear brakes for a Technical Service Bulletin. I believe that they bled the whole system and since then, the brakes have a very progressive feel.

    When I had that issue, I also felt that the brakes were not confidence-inspiring. But when I happened to come upon a situation that required emergency braking, those things stopped like you would not believe. They are awesome. Since then, I feel good knowing that the FX has one of the best brakes of any vehicle currently in the market.

    The TSB that I raised with the dealership had something to do with squealing brakes. Try browsing infinitihelp.com and see if you can find it.
  • jmezzjmezz Member Posts: 36
    my fx35 has 5,000 miles on it now and i have used super and also tried regular. i have not seen any difference in terms of performance or mpg. has anyone else seen a difference? also, this car is great as it handles better than my 03 525I and is way more fun to drive. my wife just got an mdx and is is nice but it is also completely different. the seats in the fx are so much more comfortable with more padding and seems to fit like a glove.
  • twarden1twarden1 Member Posts: 6
    Excellent! Thank you so much for your response!
  • twarden1twarden1 Member Posts: 6
    Just wanted to thank you again, I found the brakes Bulletin you referred to and my brakes DO indeed squeal horribly when backing out of my driveway! So I told the dealership and they're fixing that problem per the bulletin. I'm encouraged that the issue will finally be resolved after this. Since my car was already in the shop today when I saw your response, finding this info. today was extraordinarily helpful. Thanks again!
  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    No problem, glad to help. Hopefully, your FX experience will be all pleasant from here on in. Ours have been, no squeaks, no rattles, just loving the drive. I have not been to the dealership in ages, even for maintenance as I take ours to a buddy who has a shop.

    I was quoted $1000 for the 30K service. Unbelievable. Part of it is replacing belts??? Since when did a $40K+ vehicle require changing belts at 30K? Dealerships can be absolute bloodsuckers sometimes.
  • hariawtanihariawtani Member Posts: 1
    I am planing to buy n Infiniti fx35 this week, but i have heard the new fx35(2007) will be a completely new thing, new shape, engine etc... and if this was true, would be driving an old car in a few months, and that would "HURT" a lot.
    If anyone would knows this for a fact, I would really appreciate the information. THANKS...">
  • thebunkthebunk Member Posts: 6
    Question about the Fx Brake Problem Bulletin
    How can I find the Bulletin? I hope to see if it may apply to my FX.
    Thanks :)
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    TSB summaries are available in the Edmunds Maintenance Guide.

    Full text of a TSB can occasionally be found at the NHTSA.com site or you can buy it from Alldata.com. Or ask your friendly service writer for a copy.

    Steve, Host
  • audreymaudreym Member Posts: 103
    I haven't heard any of the roumors yet, but if they were doing a complete redesign I wonder why they would have bothered doing a refresh for 06?
  • dpincadpinca Member Posts: 2
    1st thanks for all the good posted info on brake issues with the FX35.

    I too have the squealing brakes in reverse issue. So far the dealer replaced the pads and I think turned the rotors (I hope not).
    I could not find the details of TSB 04040 on hydraulic brakes, but assume that is the TSB referred to in message 3080?
    Will my dealer recognize that number? or will I need to spoon feed the info on how to correct this?
    Is everyone having luck getting this corrected in warranty?

    dP
  • dpincadpinca Member Posts: 2
    Thanks for all of your comments on this brake problem. I could not find the full text of the TSB on the NHTSA.com site (I couldn't find anything on the TSB on that site for that matter).

    Do you think my dealer recognize the TSB or NHTSA number (I assume you meant TSB 04040, NHTSA 10009182)?

    thanks
    dP
  • nascarqueen24nascarqueen24 Member Posts: 25
    A very good afternoon:

    I would appreciate your kind assistance in informing me on this magnificant vehicle!

    My husband and I wish to purchase a "midlife crisis vehicle" and we are considering the FX45. This would be a big step for my husband and I as we currently drive a 1988 Mazda (best car ever) and a 2000 Pontiac Miniwagon!!!!!!!!!!!

    I have no background with Infinity products, so would you knowledgable people let me know of the merits of this vehicle.

    Reliability is key for us.

    1) From what I can figure out, the FX45 is similar to the 35, except a larger engine which is new for 2006. Am I right on this?
    2) Are there any systemic, recurring, reliability issues or quirks?
    3) How does this FX45 stack up against the Audi Q7, Lexus 330, Caddilac SRX, the Acura MDX?
    4) I need to seat 5 comfortably and have room in the back for 2 sets of golf clubs - is this possible with the FX45?

    Anything you kind folks could offer would be gratefully accepted!

    Thank you in advance

    :confuse: NascarQueen24
  • cruzdavecruzdave Member Posts: 7
    My 2004 FX35 has intermitent A/C problems. Driver side vent sometimes gets much warmer air than passenger. Sometimes both sides way too warm for setting requested. Sometimes, on very cold days, heat will not come on unless set at 83 degrees or higher.

    My dealer has told me for over a year that the A/c is working "as designed". Anyone had similar problems?
  • everett2everett2 Member Posts: 2
    Number 4 makes me wonder if a nice a6 3.2 wouldn't out do all of these vehicles. (seats 5 very comfortably, and has a massive trunk)

    I too am in the market for either a fx45, a6, mdx, q7, or maybe even a tribeca.

    A6 gets my vote , taler gets wifes vote...maybe the q7 can make both happy.

    Lou
  • ferrari99ferrari99 Member Posts: 15
    I have an FX45. I would say seating 5 Adults is difficult. I think the middle seat area has a shoulder belt which comes out of the ceiling which is cool, but probably tells you it is mainly for 4 adults in the car. A couple of kids is probably more like it with one adult in the back. I think the MDX seats five fully as well as the SRX. Not sure if the Audi you mention is the new small one or the bigger one. Never see any SRX's around here, probably a short shelf life for that model. FX45's are still somewhat rare and turn heads wherever they go. I especially like the new gold/sand color and the dark blue. 2 sets of clubs should fit ok. FX45 has always had a larger engine then the 35, now it is up to 320 HP, my 2003 has 315hp. Very sweet engine and faster for sure than all of those models except possibly the SRX- Not sure if they had a high perf option on that. Good luck. Drive them all.
  • krodrenkrodren Member Posts: 31
    I have an '03 fx45 with 27K miles. Other than routine oil changes, are there any other advisable service procedures? Owner's manual seems to just call for fluid and other visual checks.
  • proudmomproudmom Member Posts: 1
    I read a consumer opinion in Consumer Reports where the person complained about huge blind spots (might as well break off right side view mirror) and rear visiblity being terrible. He did have a 2003. I am wanting to buy a 2006 FX35 and would like to know if anyone has experienced these problems with a 2006 model.
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    I don't know if the visability is any better in the '06's or not, but I will say that I had no difficulty adjusting to my '03. The rear window is smaller than many others, but if you take a little extra care making sure the rear view mirror is properly set, you can see out the back just fine. Same with the side mirrors - you should be able to adjust those so that blind spots are all but eliminated. But of course as is the case with any car, a quick look before changing lanes is always a good idea.
  • dantedante Member Posts: 92
    and buy the tech option as the rear view camera is a must when backing up... Jon.
  • sphere99sphere99 Member Posts: 36
    I have a 05 FX35 with touring pkg. Overall (sadly) I am not over impressed with this vehicle. Have had it to the dealer twice for the brakes squeal issue and they still squeal, and they tell me sorry that's how they are. so I paid almost $40k for a luxury vehicle that my neighbors stare at in the mornings while backing out and even in stores, etc. I have also had it in twice for the gas tank problem, apparently on some the little thing inside sticks and it won't accept gas, it keeps shutting off the gas pump :S that is fixed now at least. The leather on the front driver seat looks about two years old all wrinkled and such I am afraid its going to tear soon but the dealer didn't care. the front seatbelts hit the plastic casing on the door and has majorly scratched it and looks terrible. I wanted to love this car, I really did! However, I would never repurchase this car. I did all my research and hadn't read any of these things before buying mine, so just an fyi for those of you out there.
  • sphere99sphere99 Member Posts: 36
    I get between 16.2 and 16.8 in the city and between 20-25 highway depending on terrain. I have a 35 rwd.
  • dantedante Member Posts: 92
    I am really sorry to hear that. I have a 2004 FX35 AWD. Have had a few squeaky brake problems but only when really cold. Leather looks fine, no gas tank problem, and no seatbelt scratching. Then, again, I only have 9,000 miles as strictly a weekend car. I love the car and am sorry your experience was different. Jon.
  • cyruscyrus Member Posts: 25
    I also own a 2004 FX/35 AWD with approximately 25000 - trouble FREE miles. I'm sorry too that you are having some problems with your FX . Nonethess, my fx has been "highly reliable" (not suprising especially if you would chek the consumer reports that gave the FX some of the highest reliability scores for any Mid-size Luxury cross-over).
    In my case, other than one annoying rattle and/or a couple of sqeeks here and/or there (i.e, plasticky dash) I have had no problems. (I posted a note a while back about the rattle in my car, NO fix so far after 5 attempts by two different dealers ). Regarding the leather, I do religously take care of the leather in my FX ( i condition it almost monthly with a premium conditioner).

    Overall, if I were to fault the FX for anything that happens "consistently" (after having read these columns for the last 3 years or so as well as on-line or published literature ) it would be as follows:
    (1) NO FRESH Air vent (it is heated by the engine)!
    (2) Leather appears "used" early on (mine looks ok after 25000 miles)
    (3) When backing out of the garage in the morning, a quick squeek from the breaks ( I have no problem with this - it is OK and perfectly normal on some cars due to break pad materials).
    (4) depsite its sports (or quasi-sports) car heritage, it still has a bit of a stiff suspension (drive it on bumpy roads and you will see what I mean).

    Other than the above noted, and perhaps the blind spots (which anyone can easily get used to), the FX, especially in the 35 version, is a thoughtful melding of design and function. It is one of only two luxury crossovers that I would recommend to my family, the other being a lexus.
  • cruzdavecruzdave Member Posts: 7
    Engine heat is not the cause of the hot fresh air.
    My wife has an 04 FX35 with 24k miles.
    I have the hot fresh air problem also but it is intermittent even when the engine is hot. Been trying for a year to get it fixed. Infinity Engineers forbid my dealer from changing anything such as sensors. I also have to vary the temp control from 73 to 84 degrees on hot days with compressor on to get a comfortable cabin temp. This is also intermittent.
  • fx35awdfx35awd Member Posts: 218
    I think Cyrus meant to say hot air would come out when you turn on the fan only, not AC. If hot air comes out of your vent when you turn on your AC, then you should have the dealer look at your AC system. I, too do have this problem with my '04 Infiniti FX35. Also, the same problem also occurred in one of my old cars I used to own and that was the Lexus IS300.
  • cruzdavecruzdave Member Posts: 7
    Thanks for the input. But we do have an intermittent hot air problem with the compressor off both in recirc and outside air modes. Sometimes one side is cool and the other is hot at the same temp. setting. There is definitely something wrong. It makes no sense to be forced to use the compressor on a 50 degree day. This added unwanted heat also makes the A/C less efficient in the summer. Since it is intermittent, I think it's a sensor problem. Wish I could get it fixed. If enough of us would insist on a solution, maybe Infinity would address the problem.
  • fx35awdfx35awd Member Posts: 218
    Cruzdave, I apologize for being slow on my part, but did you have the AC on while you encountered this problem or you just have the fan on. Either way, I agree with you on making it known to Infinity so possibly they can do a recall and fix this problem. I find it extremely annoying to have to turn on the AC in order cool myself down. This is very inefficient. I mean in my Honda Pilot, if it is not too hot, I just turn on the fan and it pours in cool air from the outside and it is simple as that. I say we should start a petition. :)
  • cruzdavecruzdave Member Posts: 7
    FX35AWD,
    Glad to see your response. Any ideas on how to get a petition going?

    The hot air problem is most noticable with the AC compressor off and fan on but the hot air problem makes the AC less efficient when needed in hot weather.
  • dm8182dm8182 Member Posts: 4
    Greetings. I just purchased a new 2005 FX35 (leftover). Love the vehicle but I'm "so/so" on the interior vs. other crossovers like the Lexus. Has anyone purchased any of the interior dash kits (burlwood or chrome)that overlay over the existing "plastic" look to improve the interior look/feel? I'm curious. Here's a link to one site I found, there are others like this out there & wondering if anyone has done this? Thx!
    d

    http://www.rernetworking.com/infinity_fx45_dash_kits.htm
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    It hasn't been active for a while, but you may find some working links in the Wood/carbon fibre/aluminum trim dash kits discussion.

    Steve, Host
  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    At 30K (this is likely in the manual, btw):

    oil change
    rotate and balance tires
    replace differential fluid
    replace auto tranny fluid
    replace air filter
    replace in-cabin microfilter (if u have one)
    check alignment and adjust, if applicable
    visual checks on drive belts

    optional(if you intend to keep the vehicle):
    auto tranny flush
    brake flush

    My dealership was charging me $995 for this service, but it included replacing drive belts, which is totally absurd for a $40K+ vehicle at 30K miles. At 60K miles, yes. But not at 30K.

    I, fortunately, have a friend who is a Master Mechanic (ASE certified) and he performed the service for me which included all the optional items. Total cost was approximately $520 taxes included.

    It was only supposed to be $330, but the Nissan ATF Matic J (auto tranny fluid) was $11/quart and the flush needed about 18 quarts. Of course, my buddy gave me a bit of a discount. ;) Nissan strongly recommends using the Nissan ATF Matic J, it is the only fluid specifically stated in the manual. I did ask a Nissan Tech about this and he stated that when Nissan switched to the Jatco 5-speed auto trannies, they also developed a special ATF that has better slip/stick characteristics. He says that you can use other stuff that may be closer to the ATF blend, but he advised to stick with the Nissan ATF for warranty purposes. He did say it was good stuff.
  • nascarqueen24nascarqueen24 Member Posts: 25
    Hi There Crikey

    I am in Toronto - where are you?

    I am very interested in the FX, however, I am not impressed with the 30K service requirement you note above.

    Many vehicles are designed to go 100K without major service - what in Gods name justifies this 30K requirement.

    I am totally put off this.

    Could you enlighten me please and thanks in advance

    NascarQueen24
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    You can find out the manufacturer's service requirements with the Edmunds Maintenance Guide. Sometimes (usually?) the dealer recommends more be done than the manufacturer requires or recommends.

    Steve, Host
  • nascarqueen24nascarqueen24 Member Posts: 25
    Dear Mr. Host

    I thank you very much for pointing me to the Maintenance site.

    Re: Dealers - I am the daughter of a mechanic and very well know what the dealers try to do!

    However, I am considering an FX (which is simply the most stunning vehicle ever) - but I am a bit put off at the potential costs for maintaining this vehicle VS my wonderful mini-wagon.

    If there are any other posters who can tell me about their cost for maintenace, - I would appreciate it!

    NascarQueen24
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    Check out the True Cost to Own tool while waiting for real world responses.

    Steve, Host
  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    Hey there, nascarqueen24.

    I'm a Canuck currently living in Orlando, FL. But I used to live and frequently visit Toronto and Mississauga.

    The 30K *miles* service is stated in the owner's manual of the US-spec FX, which will likely translate to the 48K *km* service for the Canuck-spec FX.

    I choose to follow the manufacturer's recommended schedule to keep the warranty valid. Also, I plan on keeping the FX for a long time, so taking care of it only helps its longevity.

    The FX is a wonderful vehicle. But IMO, owning one of these 18mpg vehicles, these days, is a real luxury due to the high cost of fuel. It is really a performance crossover vehicle, not meant to haul too many people or stuff. But, for what it was designed for, it does a phenomenal job.

    If I were in your position, I might wait a little while and see how the upcoming crossovers, like the Acura RDX, 2007 Acura MDX, Mazda CX-7, and the Mazda CX-9, are going to be like. The Acura RDX and Mazda CX-7 should be more fuel-efficient along with close-enough performance. If at all, new competition should drive prices down.
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    "Many vehicles are designed to go 100K without major service - what in Gods name justifies this 30K requirement."

    Which vehicles are those? I think you may be confusing not having to do "tune-ups" (change spark plugs, etc) with routine servicing, like changing fluids. I don't think what Infiniti is specifying at 30,000 miles is anything unusual.
  • audreymaudreym Member Posts: 103
    Nascarqueen24,

    on the FX35 there are 3 levels of service listed in the owners manual: Premium, Schedule 1, and Schedule 2. (being most frivolous to least frivolous order)

    Premium is basically the works every 3500 miles, it actually seems pretty extreme. Truly for the *%!@# retentive owners. (sorry, just my opinion)

    Schedule 1 is listed for harsh driving conditions, like many frequent trips under 10 miles each, or severe weather conditions. Schedule 1 lists services every 3500 miles and includes a few items that schedule 2 does not.

    Schedule 2 is very standard, being every 7500 miles. A majority of these service intervals are simply an oil change and tire rotation. From paging though the book, the first "replacement" item was spark plugs at 105000 miles. I am sure there was a fluid flush & replacement in there sometime before that, but I do not recall the service interval.

    Since all 3 are clearly listed in the maintenance guide from the manufacturer I would think all would be considered "safe", and would keep your warranty valid. Everyone has their own comfort levels, so pick your poison.

    One other thing to consider, I know that some people bring their FX to a Nissan dealer for some of the more routine things. I have yet to check on this, but I am under the impression that this would be a bit cheaper. Since most of the parts are shared with the Z350 I would tend to trust Nissan trained technicians for things like oil changes (an added bonus, there is a Nissan dealer much closer to my house).

    Hope this helps,
    AudreyM
  • nascarqueen24nascarqueen24 Member Posts: 25
    A good afternoon AudreyM

    I thank you so very much for your profile of the service levels. This helps to determine the operating cost of the FX.

    My husband and I are poised to purchase one - so I wanted to be sure that it is not a cash pit to service.

    There is no Infiniti dealer near us - so will be using the Nissan dealer close by - and Yes, I will ensure they use the correct tranny oil!

    Thanks to you and all

    NascarQueen24
  • audreymaudreym Member Posts: 103
    I just picked mine up last week. Speaking as someone who usually suffers from buyers remorse, I have NONE. I LOVE everything about it.

    It seems as though the services aren't too bad, but if something breaks it can be VERY expensive to fix. We are strongly considering going back and purchasing the factory offered extended warranty. The fact that it covers the replacement of the HID headlamps is what convinced me, I think. Anyway, food for thought.

    Does anyone else have any feedback (+ or -) about the extended warranty?
  • taftagtaftag Member Posts: 1
    My FX is in the shop for a routine oil change and for the recall on the fuel hose. They just called me and said that despite the fact that the tread on my tires is fine, the rubber is dry rotting for lack of use and I need 4 new tires. I don't drive it every day because I travel for work and it sits at the airport a couple of days most weeks, but this seems really strange. Anybody heard of such a thing?
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    I would say "thanks for letting me know" and then have an independent tire shop evaluate them. If they confirm the tires are toast then you can get them a LOT cheaper if you shop around. I had a flat on one of my original Goodyear's even though it had some good tread left, and I ended up getting four replacement tires from TireRack.com. I did not go with the Gooyears again!
  • sphere99sphere99 Member Posts: 36
    If the extended warranty covers the headlamps does the regular warranty as well or does it pick up additional items?
  • dans2dans2 Member Posts: 9
    I have a 2004 FX45 and need to replace the rear wiper blade. I am not near a dealer. I bought wiper blades (ANCO) at the local auto parts store, but only the fronts seem to fit. I broke the orig rear wiper blade trying to remove it.

    Now I am in search of a rear wiper blade that works. Any advice?

    Thanks
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