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To pathy57: I posted earlier regarding transmission problems. Let me start off by saying the I30 is a great car. The transmission can be a little quirky, but it is a minor problem. I guess the best way to find out is to go test drive it yourself if you have not already. I assume you are comparing the I30 to the maxima. I feel for a few thousand more, you are getting much more in the I30.
To rawpower101: I have just passed the 10000 mile mark on my 2000 I30. The only thing I have done to the car is change the oil, but not at the dealership. It cost $20 for a change. I need to have the tires rotated, which I will do soon. But that is it! In my opinion a dealership is going to charge a very high fee, for doing a lot of unnecessary work.
To pathy57: Look closely at the 2001 I30 before you leap. Like I said earlier, the manufacturer is aware of the wind noise problem, but doesn't know how to resolve it at this point. There may have to recall some cars. Make sure you listen closely when you test drive one. Don't have the radio or A/C on during the drive. Check out the security system as well. The security system shouldn't activate with the door's unlocked. My car is at the shop right now for this problem. This is the third trip in for servicing that problem
To rawpoer101: Check with a Nissan dealership for the tire rotation and oil change. There was a major difference ($$$) in my Infiniti dealership doing the work and the Nissan dealership down the road doing the work. The Nissan dealership is certified to do that kind of work as well and won't charge a arm and a leg.
djrunner - thanks for the reply. I am still wondering if anyone else has this problem. To put this question differently - can someone please respond that their 01 I30 doesn't have this wind noise problem. I don't see how everone doesn't have this problem on the new I30s. If I can get a few people to respond it will really help in the diagnosis.
I posted the wind noise problem on the Maxima - Part 11 board and got a lot of response. I expected this as both cars are identical in the rear door area where I hear the noise coming from. I plan on finding a fix for this. Please post any info you have on this subject or contact me directly at redbaretta@aol.com
From what I have heard, the I30 and Maxima do not share a single piece of sheetmetal. I can understand this totally, seeing that both cars have deviated with regard to styling in response to consumers/magazines who claimed the previous generation I30/Maxima were too similar. This is NOT to say that the I30 and Maxima do not share the same components either...they obviously have the same engine, same interior components, and share many other things. However, from what I understand, if there is some sort of plastic insulation causing problems on an I30, it may be different shapes or fit when compared to the Maxima, thereby introducing differences in wind noises etc. From all the cars I have ever owned, I have never had any wind noise problems...our vehicles have been plagued with other problems with engines, stereos or other things. I can totally understand how wind noise can be annoying, esp. in a car worth over 30K. Dont let the dealers "trick" you into thinking its normal...tech people with Nissan/Infiniti seem to be VERY lazy and VERY unwilling to help the consumer on after-sales services (at least, this is what MY experience has been with my I30).
I own a 2000y2k max gle with 31000 trouble free miles on it. The only thing i had replaced was the tcm. I had the sloppy slip over rev shift problem from first to second gear. I have to believe that the transmission is the same in the I30. If it is all of you would be wise to have the tcm changed. The difference is night and day. All you have to do to test your car is floor it from a stand still, if you get a delay in shifting from first to second you have the problem.
Unfortunatly Service is more a result of individual dealerships than Infiniti as an entity. Infiniti takes their reputation for service very seriously. If you have a legitimate complaint about a particular Infiniti dealership the card in your owners manual provides the phone number for consumer affairs.
In the mean time. I have not had anyone who bought an I30 in the last year complain about either the trans issue or excessive windnoise. If you are considering an I30 or GLE maxima by all means buy the I30. It is better looking has a better warrenty, and several other significant advantages.
I have just celebrated one year ownership of my 2000 I30 L. 18,000 miles with absolutely no problems, including wind noises or rougfh shifting. I have, however, noticed slightly less fuel economy of late.....about 20 MPG combo of city/highway. Last summer and fall was getting 22-23 average. I live in SE Wisconsin, and we have had abnormally cold winter....can this adversely affect mileage?
I also installed a K & N air filter in May.....did not improve mileage, but did seem to improve power slightly.
A great car all in all, and I would highly recommend to anyone considering!
I have just celebrated one year ownership of my 2000 I30 L. 18,000 miles with absolutely no problems, including wind noises or rougfh shifting. I have, however, noticed slightly less fuel economy of late.....about 20 MPG combo of city/highway. Last summer and fall was getting 22-23 average. I live in SE Wisconsin, and we have had abnormally cold winter....can this adversely affect mileage? Have only used 93 octane premium fuel, per manufacturer recommendation.
I also installed a K & N air filter in May.....did not improve mileage, but did seem to improve power slightly.
A great car all in all, and I would highly recommend to anyone considering!
I have also completed 13 months with the car. Have 10K miles on it. It has been a great car. Had to get used to the quirky transmission. Only issue with it is that it tends to hunt gears driving between 45-55mph. A five speed auto would be great! Coming from a manual tranny took some getting used to. I did have a creaking/popping noise in the drivers seat, took three visits to get it fixed. But I found the best service tech so I am happy about that. Infiniti could improve this car by making the glass thicker or increase insulation, too much road noise comes thru the car. I am totally impressed with Infiniti. Makes the Acura people look like morons.
It is my understanding from reading the posts here and on the Maxima board that they have issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) about the transmission control module, and that they will replace the TCM under warranty...if reminded about the TSB...for both the I30 and Maxima. None of the posts I have read over the last several months, to the best of my recollection, have criticized the TCM in the 2001 models, however, so maybe it has been fixed for 2001.
In my new 2001 I30L, I haven't noticed any excessive wind noise. In Dec. when deciding on which car to purchase, I test drove the TL and borrowed the I30L. I found the wind noise in the I30 to be less than that in the TL, and haven't had problems so far (1200 miles).
Many of the roads near my home have a speed limit of 40 MPH and while using cruise control at that speed, I do find that the transmission hunts gears, although the RPM is stable at 1100. Maybe it isn't hunting for the right gear, but there are slight jerks that are definitely not due to road irregularities.
From my experience so far with service, it's been great. I have no complaints. I think that those who aren't having problems just don't post as often, and those of us that have slightly defective I30s just speak up more. Probably many of those who aren't having problems aren't even reading this board.
Still no responses to my post 439. What octane level of gas do you use in your I30?
Went to the car show here in San Jose today and was most impressed with the I30t. I noticed the Edmunds TMV for the touring edition to be around $29k, which seems quite reasonable for a car in this class.
Can anyone share a recent purchasing experience and what kind of deal they got?
Has anyone noticed with their 2000/01 I30 that if you shift into D or R as soon as you start the car when it is cold (sitting over night) that it will almost stall for a few seconds and then the RPM go back up? I found a TSB on this. Has anyone had this happen and did they take it to the dealer? Was it fixed, how? STEVE
as far as I remember, the TSB for cold starting applies to all I30s built after the 96 model. The TSB didnt address any particular fix for the problem, but it made a few suggestions to prevent the stalling. If your car is hard to start because of the cold weather, you should push the accelerator half way and then try to crank. Dont crank for MORE than 10 seconds at a time. Keep doing this until it finally starts.
If you have the R or D problem, the TSB recommended that the car be warmed up for at least a minute, and then shifted into either R or D. I would recommend this with ANY car anyway, cold or warm weather. I never shift straight into R or D with a car...if you ever did do that and start driving, the engine sounds horrible! So the best way to go is to let the car warm up for about a minute, then shift. Hope this helps...
I am considering leasing an I30 Luxury model and would like to know what kind of deals on leases others have obtained? I know that the monthly payment on a lease deal can vary greatly based on a number of factors (i.e., mileage, term, down payment, options), but hearing about some representative deals would be helpful.
My dad has a 2000 I30L with heated seats(a must in cold weather states), traction control and sunroof. His lease is for 3 years, 54,000 miles with $0 downand he pays $572 a month. It isnt a bad deal considering he paid $630/month for a 95 Aurora w/o heated seats and $600/month for a 97 Aurora w/ heated seats.
Redskin, did I see you driving your dad's Aurora? I saw a guy driving a dark blue (maybe black) Aurora and wearing a white hat...all while blasting music down the street?? Was that you?
Do you have a copy of the TSB for the cold starting problem when shifting into D or R? Did you actually get to see the TSB and there is no "fix" other than Nissan's advice to warm up the car first? (If so, then no reason to have my dealer look at it)
nope, although i wish i was driving that. My dad traded in his 97 for the I30. Sometimes you may see me driving it, its Millenium Jade. the rest of the winter though youll see me in my red chevette with the tinted windows... in the summer i have a black Monte SS with t-tops.
Hey, I thought others might benefit from my research in comparing the two cars I wanted. I truly believe would have been happy with either car. I ended up with the Infiniti I30 Luxury in the end, and am very happy with my choice.
Results of my research comparing the Acura 3.2TL and Infiniti I30 Luxury:
***Acura +s: Heated Seats Standard Traction Control Standard Xenon Headlights Standard Sport Shift Transmission Engine (5 Speed VTEC compared to 4 speed on Infiniti – Faster 0-anything acceleration) Rear AC/Heat Vents Insurance costs less (YMMV – your mileage may vary) Front Suspension (Independent Wishbone compared to Independent Strut on Infiniti) Rear Suspension (Rear Muli-link Wishbone compared to Rear Multi-link Beam on Infiniti) Maintenance Interval Indicator Greater Residual Value
***Close Calls… but Acura wins slightly: Dual Map Lights Cell Phone Power Outlet Inside Center Console Mileage slightly better (19/28 compared with 19/26 on Infiniti) Higher Ground Clearance (5.9 inches compared with 5.5 on Infiniti)
***Infiniti +s: Fog Lights Cornering Lights Power Rear Shade Lockable Fold Down 40:60 Rear Seats Roomy Trunk, wider opening Roomy Rear Seats 200 Watt 7 Speaker Audio Longer Warranty Infiniti Service (YMMV) Side Airbags much larger Active Headrests protect from whiplash Braking Distance – 131ft compared to 164 ft on TL (Daniel Heraud @ MSN Carpoint) Full Size Spare Compass on rearview mirror Auto Entry/Exit System for driver’s seat Cargo Net included Extra Beverage Holder for passenger
***Close Calls… but Infiniti wins slightly: Battery with Rundown protection One Touch Auto Open/Close Sunroof Adjustable Rear Headrests Both Driver and Passenger 1-touch auto windows Armrest slides up and forward (only forward on TL) Turning Radius – 35.4 ft compared to 36.8 ft on TL Horsepower (2 more on Infiniti) Locking trunk for Valet is much more convenient on Infiniti
I bought an I30 2001 Luxury model with Heated seat, Traction Control, Splash Guard, and CD changer at 28K (including Destination Charge). Is it a good price or I pay too much?
"260 HP 3.5L V6 is coming soon to an I30 near you "
Where did you hear this? Did you also hear a "when"?
I've been sitting on the sidelines waiting to buy this car... Everything looks/sounds perfect except for the abysmal (in my opinion only) 0-60 time... Upping the displacement/hp of the engine (and preserving current weight) would open my wallet in a second...
I am searching for a 1998 Infiniti I30t with a 5 speed manual transmission. I realize that in America you are not supposed to try and combine luxury and sport in a 4 door manual transmission but to hell with the rules (unless you are a premium ($$$)european manufacturer). Why can't I have a family car that is a hoot to drive? My choices are limited to VW Passat and Maxima SE within my budget. I like the looks and exclusivity of the Infiniti. According to Infiniti, whom I e-mailed approx. 3% of 97-98 I30 were imported with manuals. (None made after 99)The good news is that demand is low, so if I find one the price should be very reasonable. The bad news is dealers don't want to carry them on their lots because of low demand. Was curious if anyone has seen one out there? I am willing to travel to get it , but I may have to go to Maxima SE. My hesitation (the SE 5speed is much easier to find) is the styling, while more impressive than Camry and Accord is not outstanding. The 2000 is an improvement and I estimate a used 00 SE is going to be around $20K with some hard negotiating. The newspapers here are offering $4k off a new leftover 00 so they will obviously go lower. Passat is nice looking car and great reviews, but demand is high and consequently so are the prices new and used. I view the I30t as a good used car value. As to why I want a manual, it's simply F-U-N and I like looking forward to driving.
HEHE NOT GONNA BE DONE........DON'T KNOW WHERE YOU COMPLIED THAT DATA......BUT YOU ARE MISINFORMED AS WELL AS MISINFORMING THE REST OF THE (NOW EXCITED AND ANGRY) I-30 DRIVERS AND POTENTIAL BUYERS.
FIRST OFF THE VQ ENGINE IS ONE OF THE INFINITI (NISSAN) HIGH POINTS. POSSIBLY THE BEST V-6 (HAVING OWNED A ZX I FEEL THAT IT "IS" THE BEST V-6)
SECONDLY NISSAN HAS SPENT MILLIONS OF DOLLARS REFINING AND RETUNING THE VQ ENGINE TO GET THE OUTPUT IT CURRENTLY HAS. (REMEMBER SAME 3 LITER DISPLACEMENT ENGINE)...37 BHP INCREASE
THIRD OFF YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT A .5 LITERS MORE DISPLACEMENT.....FOR 33 MORE HORSES....HMM (PERHAPS NISSAN HAS LOST ITS TOUCH) HEHE. NOW I KNOW SOME PEOPLE MIGHT ARGUE THAT MORE DISPLACEMENT=MORE TORQUE.....HOWEVER HAVE YOU GUYS HEARD OF A THING CALLED TORQUE STEER??? (YOU WOULDN'T WANT 240+ LBS OF TORQUE ON A FRONT WHEEL DRIVE CAR.) I MEAN THE 217 ITS GOT CURRENTLY TENDS TO PULL AT TIMES.
PEOPLE ARE COMPLAINING ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE OF THE I-30. WELL LEMME BREAK IT TO YOU NICELY. THE PERFORMANCE FLAW IS NOT IN THE ENGINE....NOT ON THE WEIGHT....BUT THE TRANNY ON THE CAR. LETS FACE IT. IT SUCKS. I SELDOM COME OFF THE GAS PEDAL ON MY I-30. I'VE GOT FREE GAS FOR A YEAR (HEHE THANKS UNOCAL 76) SO I DONT MIND TANKING THE CAR EVERY 3 DAYS. WITH THAT BEING SAID I'LL PRETTY MUCH THROW IT DOWN RED LIGHT TO RED WITH ANY CAR IN MY CLASS. BUT TOO OFTEN I'VE BEEN BLOWN AWAY WHEN MY TRANNY DECIDES TO MAKE DINNER BETWEEN THE FIRST AND SECOND SHIFT. MY INFINITI SERVICE GUYS REMIND ME OF LAURAL AND HARDY. SO MY PROBLEMS ARE NEVER FIXED.
BY THE WAY....EVERYONE SAY GOODBYE TO THE G-20 =( HEHE
I'm looking at getting a 2001 I30L, and wondering if the Navigation system is more than just a toy for those of us with a reasonable sense of direction. Any pros/cons out there? Thanks.
Hello -- I'm looking to buy an I30 in West Central FL. Does anyone have any info on dealers in FL? I'm close to Tamp/ St. Pete dealers and not too far from Sarasota.
If I buy from one dealer, will I still get the loner car for service at another dealer?
Thanks in advance, I've read back a few months and learned a lot!
Yes, you are able to bring it to other Infiniti dealers and get the rental car as usual _with_appointment_. They may favor you more if you'd purchased it from that dealer or have brought your car to that dealer and have a history of work with them.
Interesting opinion. The Acura CL-S (and upcoming TL-S) both have more than 260hp going to the front wheels, and Honda seems to have done pretty well overcoming the torque-steer problem.
Also, the hp/liter ratio for the I30 right now is 227/3.0 = ~75hp/liter. And this is with their variable intake technology. Squeezing 33hp out of another .5liters of displacement isn't anything to be embarrassed about in that case.
dont know what source to believe...however, I have seen this probable 260hp upgrade comming to the VQ engine in a model matrix, and some other internet sources. from what I know, nissan is not as secretive as acura/honda, and therefore, the matrix may very well be correct. However, the matrix (there was a news story with it) described the engine being fitted into a 2002 Maxima, special edition SE model (which will probably inherit the current 20th AE Maxima features such as body kit, carbon fiber, etc.).
I dont have the link to the actual TSB, but whatever I had posted was basically what the TSB said. As i mentioned before, they dont put out TSBs only for parts that need to be replaced...they obviously put them out when they receive enough customer complaints about a similar problem. For the cold start issue, there must really be nothing wrong except for the fact that Nissan simply recommends that the engine be run for 1-2 minutes before shutting the car off again...meaning, if your car is cold and has been sitting around for a few hours, and you want to simply move it to another spot in your driveway for example, they recommend that you warm the engine for AT LEAST 1-2 minutes BEFORE moving it, and before shutting the vehicle off in order to prevent the hard starting you may experience the next time you attempt to start the engine. Good luck! Hope this all helps!
Last week I spoke to the Sales Mgr at Crest Infinity and he said the 2002 I 30 WILL have a 260 HP v6 engine, there will also be some cosmetic changes to the front and rear of the car. He also said that Infinity is coming out with a NEW 2002 model car that will be positioned between the G20 and I30. It will be rear wheel drive and have a 250 HP v6. It will compete against the Lexus IS300 and 3 series BMW. He said it would likely be in show rooms in late Sept. or early Oct.
I heard this too from Sewell Infiniti in Dallas. They used it on me when I was interested in purchasing to say that the I30 will uphold its residual value better because it will be viewed as one of the more expensive Infiniti models.
what dave220 means is that the new car will be located on Infiniti's line between where the G20 WAS (whe the small, 4 cylinder luxury sedan is discontinued) and where the I30 currently is.
However, I have NOT heard of this car being placed where dave said it would. I have heard the following: The I30/Maxima will actually be stopped, and upgraded to a more luxurious, more expensive vehicle. The current "stencil" of this new vehicle has been selling in Japan already...called the "Nissan Gloria." This new car will compete with the Lexus GS300...it will be a luxury car priced around 35,000-42,000 dollars. They may later introduce a V8...who knows. So again, the I30 will move up to the higher 30s, early 40s mark in price and associated luxury.
There were also plans to introduce a sports coupe based on the Skyline in Japan...but I believe those plans are destroyed now.
Now that I think about it...that DOES leave a perfect spot for Infiniti to introduce a 200-something hp car to compete against the BMW 3 and Lexus IS. The refaced I30 with 260hp engine will compete against the new and much anticipated Lexus ES300. And, with the upgrade of the Q to "super-luxury" sedan, Infiniti is seriously trying to position themselves ahead a notch to where Lexus now resides. Seems like Infiniti has always been lagging behind...following around Lexus even from the start (when the Q was introduced after the LS400 when in fact, it was supposed to be introduced BEFORE the LS).
Remember, this is NOT what I have heard personally from a dealer...this is what I read out of a model matrix off some website. It will obviously all take place over a course of 3-4 years...and I wouldnt always trust the dealer's word either!
Quite some interesting facts you presented. Now if they ever decide to do that skyline concept infiniti.....just tell me who to make the check out to. hehe But let me clairify something...being an owner of a gs400 and now gs430....I don't think there is anyyyyyyyy way infiniti can compete with the GS series. (I'f you've driven one you'll know what I'm talking about). Also numerous times I've recieved a gs300 as a loaner car, and boy that v-6 amazes me. And once they refresh the GS for the new model year.....boy I hope Infiniti's got a secret weapon up their sleeves. I cant believe how people are still wasting their money on the present Q's when the gs is sooooooooo much more of an all around car. Besides it would be a waste to drop the i30 since nissan has spent so much time and money producing and marketing it as "the best entry level car money can buy" (at least that's the message i interpret from their ads)
The coming of upgraded I30 has been presented to dealers by Tom Orbe, V.P. & GM of the Infiniti Division of Nissan. It will be announced to the public around the time the redesigned 4.5L, 340hp 2002, Q45 is announced. The Q45 will start appearing in dealer's lots in March/April -- depending on where you live. Infiniti says the new 2002 I30 will arrive on dealer lots sometime in the summer. RC
The XVL will not be a replacement for the G20. For pictures try to find coverage from last years detroit auto show. It will most likely price right about the same range as the I30 much like the IS300 and ES300. It will be introduces as a sedan then a coupe, converable, and possibly a sport wagon will be added. The G20 will continue untill the end of its current model life. Typically around five years at which point it will not be replaced.
Incidentally the GS300 is an inline 6 iirc not a V6 and its a nice car and all except for the trunk (HAHA looks like an old J30 trunk). But if Infiniti chooses to compete against it with a version of the new generation skyline I think it will be in for one hell of a fight.
My mother-in-law(soon to be)is looking at a 98 I30(touring, I believe) with 23K miles. The car seems to be in excellent shape - body/ motor/ ride/handling, but I was wondering if anyone could give some advice on pros/cons of buying one? I've heard resale is a little on the low side, but dependability and maintenance-wise, how are they? Any help is appreciated.
I have been thinking of buying I30 for last 3 months but what is holding me is the newer engine and some redesign of the car.
I have read on several websites that these modifications are coming for 2002 model but when I checked with the local Infiniti dealership they are denying it(as it explains why because they want you to buy the current model).
I also phoned Infiniti twice but they denied to confirm if there will be a new engine.
What I would like to know from the users who have posted regarding this item is if the information they got is also from the websites or from some solid source. Also, why we have not heard about this in Motortrend, Car and Driver or Road and Track magazines? It would be nice if we have solid information for this rather than speculation as it will be good for people who are in the market for buying I30 but holding it just for these reasons.
I am an Infiniti salesman in the NE. My information comes to me from update video tapes and intradivisional memos sent to us from Infiniti. As we are all going to Texas to drive and famiarize ourselves with the Q45 and the I30 Info comes to us from the same source and at the same time as the Q45 info, I assume the I30 info is accurate. Of course production schedules can always be disrupted for any number of reasons, so we all have to wait and see to some degree. But I look forward to selling both of these upgraded cars in the very near future.
As for the trade magazines, I can only assume that Infiniti wants to make the announcement themselves without being scooped and are not willing to confirm or deny anything until THEY are ready.
As an aside, I do know for a fact that almost all the I30s we are sent have "in trunk" CD changers because Infiniti is getting rid of their inventory -- 2002 I30s will have "in dash" CD changers standard. That's not an engine, but in speaks of changes to come. RC
Had Infiniti adjust the ECU following the TSB ITB 00-006B and the problem is gone. Now when I start after sitting overnight and shift into gear the RPMs don't drop to 200 but stay at 900 preventing the stall.
I am in total agreement with rawpower. I used to work valet parking and i drove both the Q45 and the GS 430. Infiniti cant hold a candle to that car. The GS(2001, w/ only 200+ mi.) was smooth, quiet, FAST, and more refined. And it looked beautiful. If i had $50k to waste, id pick the GS over any competitor. Competitors being the Q45 and 740i. Drive it and you'll understand.
Glad to hear they actually solved your problems in one visit! I got a couple of questions for you: 1.) I checked the list of titles for the 2000 I30, and didnt see reference # 00-006B. I only saw 00-006A, of which the title did mention the low or no idle situation. How did you determine that the problem was solved with TSB 00-006B? Did the dealer automatically initiate this, or did you suggest to the dealer to look to the TSB collection? How much time did the dealer spend with the car?
2.) Do you know any of the details about what they actually did to the ECU so that the idle remains consistent? I think the idle on my car is screwy...especially since it jumps and lowers all the time, and is NEVER constant. My dealer has adjusted my idle up to 750 (50 RPMs above the Nissan recommended range of 700 RPMs). However, if I'm driving around town, and if I stop at a light for instance, the idle tends to jump up or lower for no apparent reason! Just wondering if they actually replaced your ECU, and if the ECU would be the only or most probable cause of idle problems.
The only idle problem I had before the fix was that if the car sat for ~8 hrs in the cold it would start fine, but as soon as I shifted into D or R the RPM would drop to almost zero then quickly shoot up to where it should be (the usual fast idle since car is cold) This would cause a near stall.
I told the dealer the problem and asked them to pull that TSB and apply the fix. (At first they were reluctant and said they would have to keep the car overnight to see the problem first hand.
They were not happy and alittle curt when we insisted they fix it based on my observations. (my wife actually dropped it off and gave then a typed note from me explaning the problem and a copy of the page listing the TSB heading)
When I received the car back the work order said "Followed Bulletin ITB 00-006B Reprogramed the ECM". So it looks like the settings were change and the ECM was NOT replaced.
Works fine now, like a normal car when I shift into gear on cold starts the RPMS don't drop like a rock.
Hope this helps.
STEVE
ps. seems the dealers still don't like when the customer tells them whats wrong and suggest the fix. They need to understand that we are not stupid, we live with the car, and with the Web can research a problem. They shoud be happy when a customer takes the time and effort to solve a problem and not get all bent out of shape!
Comments
I posted earlier regarding transmission problems. Let me start off by saying the I30 is a great car. The transmission can be a little quirky, but it is a minor problem. I guess the best way to find out is to go test drive it yourself if you have not already. I assume you are comparing the I30 to the maxima. I feel for a few thousand more, you are getting much more in the I30.
To rawpower101:
I have just passed the 10000 mile mark on my 2000 I30. The only thing I have done to the car is change the oil, but not at the dealership. It cost $20 for a change. I need to have the tires rotated, which I will do soon. But that is it! In my opinion a dealership is going to charge a very high fee, for doing a lot of unnecessary work.
To rawpoer101: Check with a Nissan dealership for the tire rotation and oil change. There was a major difference ($$$) in my Infiniti dealership doing the work and the Nissan dealership down the road doing the work. The Nissan dealership is certified to do that kind of work as well and won't charge a arm and a leg.
In the mean time. I have not had anyone who bought an I30 in the last year complain about either the trans issue or excessive windnoise. If you are considering an I30 or GLE maxima by all means buy the I30. It is better looking has a better warrenty, and several other significant advantages.
I also installed a K & N air filter in May.....did not improve mileage, but did seem to improve power slightly.
A great car all in all, and I would highly recommend to anyone considering!
I also installed a K & N air filter in May.....did not improve mileage, but did seem to improve power slightly.
A great car all in all, and I would highly recommend to anyone considering!
-umpopa
Many of the roads near my home have a speed limit of 40 MPH and while using cruise control at that speed, I do find that the transmission hunts gears, although the RPM is stable at 1100. Maybe it isn't hunting for the right gear, but there are slight jerks that are definitely not due to road irregularities.
From my experience so far with service, it's been great. I have no complaints. I think that those who aren't having problems just don't post as often, and those of us that have slightly defective I30s just speak up more. Probably many of those who aren't having problems aren't even reading this board.
Still no responses to my post 439. What octane level of gas do you use in your I30?
i believe the cruise must be set at at least 30 or 40 mph for it to kick in. maybe that is why it is jerky.
I noticed the Edmunds TMV for the touring edition to be around $29k, which seems
quite reasonable for a car in this class.
Can anyone share a recent purchasing experience and what kind of deal they got?
STEVE
If you have the R or D problem, the TSB recommended that the car be warmed up for at least a minute, and then shifted into either R or D. I would recommend this with ANY car anyway, cold or warm weather. I never shift straight into R or D with a car...if you ever did do that and start driving, the engine sounds horrible! So the best way to go is to let the car warm up for about a minute, then shift. Hope this helps...
STEVE
One fix for the cold start problem, is to move down to a warmer climate. I know of a house for sale down my street. What do you say?
To umpopa:
I check for a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) about the TCM, and there was not one listed. Where did you see it?
Thanks.
I found a link to the TSB for the TCM on the Maxima board, Part 11, message #793.
Good luck with it!
-umpopa
Results of my research comparing the Acura 3.2TL and Infiniti I30 Luxury:
***Acura +s:
Heated Seats Standard
Traction Control Standard
Xenon Headlights Standard
Sport Shift Transmission
Engine (5 Speed VTEC compared to 4 speed on Infiniti – Faster 0-anything acceleration)
Rear AC/Heat Vents
Insurance costs less (YMMV – your mileage may vary)
Front Suspension (Independent Wishbone compared to Independent Strut on Infiniti)
Rear Suspension (Rear Muli-link Wishbone compared to Rear Multi-link Beam on Infiniti)
Maintenance Interval Indicator
Greater Residual Value
***Close Calls… but Acura wins slightly:
Dual Map Lights
Cell Phone Power Outlet Inside Center Console
Mileage slightly better (19/28 compared with 19/26 on Infiniti)
Higher Ground Clearance (5.9 inches compared with 5.5 on Infiniti)
***Infiniti +s:
Fog Lights
Cornering Lights
Power Rear Shade
Lockable Fold Down 40:60 Rear Seats
Roomy Trunk, wider opening
Roomy Rear Seats
200 Watt 7 Speaker Audio
Longer Warranty
Infiniti Service (YMMV)
Side Airbags much larger
Active Headrests protect from whiplash
Braking Distance – 131ft compared to 164 ft on TL (Daniel Heraud @ MSN Carpoint)
Full Size Spare
Compass on rearview mirror
Auto Entry/Exit System for driver’s seat
Cargo Net included
Extra Beverage Holder for passenger
***Close Calls… but Infiniti wins slightly:
Battery with Rundown protection
One Touch Auto Open/Close Sunroof
Adjustable Rear Headrests
Both Driver and Passenger 1-touch auto windows
Armrest slides up and forward (only forward on TL)
Turning Radius – 35.4 ft compared to 36.8 ft on TL
Horsepower (2 more on Infiniti)
Locking trunk for Valet is much more convenient on Infiniti
"260 HP 3.5L V6 is coming soon to an I30 near you
"
Where did you hear this? Did you also hear a "when"?
I've been sitting on the sidelines waiting to buy this car... Everything looks/sounds perfect except for the abysmal (in my opinion only) 0-60 time... Upping the displacement/hp of the engine (and preserving current weight) would open my wallet in a second...
FIRST OFF THE VQ ENGINE IS ONE OF THE INFINITI (NISSAN) HIGH POINTS. POSSIBLY THE BEST V-6 (HAVING OWNED A ZX I FEEL THAT IT "IS" THE BEST V-6)
SECONDLY NISSAN HAS SPENT MILLIONS OF DOLLARS REFINING AND RETUNING THE VQ ENGINE TO GET THE OUTPUT IT CURRENTLY HAS. (REMEMBER SAME 3 LITER DISPLACEMENT ENGINE)...37 BHP INCREASE
THIRD OFF YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT A .5 LITERS MORE DISPLACEMENT.....FOR 33 MORE HORSES....HMM (PERHAPS NISSAN HAS LOST ITS TOUCH) HEHE. NOW I KNOW SOME PEOPLE MIGHT ARGUE THAT MORE DISPLACEMENT=MORE TORQUE.....HOWEVER HAVE YOU GUYS HEARD OF A THING CALLED TORQUE STEER??? (YOU WOULDN'T WANT 240+ LBS OF TORQUE ON A FRONT WHEEL DRIVE CAR.) I MEAN THE 217 ITS GOT CURRENTLY TENDS TO PULL AT TIMES.
PEOPLE ARE COMPLAINING ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE OF THE I-30. WELL LEMME BREAK IT TO YOU NICELY. THE PERFORMANCE FLAW IS NOT IN THE ENGINE....NOT ON THE WEIGHT....BUT THE TRANNY ON THE CAR. LETS FACE IT. IT SUCKS.
I SELDOM COME OFF THE GAS PEDAL ON MY I-30. I'VE GOT FREE GAS FOR A YEAR (HEHE THANKS UNOCAL 76) SO I DONT MIND TANKING THE CAR EVERY 3 DAYS. WITH THAT BEING SAID I'LL PRETTY MUCH THROW IT DOWN RED LIGHT TO RED WITH ANY CAR IN MY CLASS. BUT TOO OFTEN I'VE BEEN BLOWN AWAY WHEN MY TRANNY DECIDES TO MAKE DINNER BETWEEN THE FIRST AND SECOND SHIFT.
MY INFINITI SERVICE GUYS REMIND ME OF LAURAL AND HARDY. SO MY PROBLEMS ARE NEVER FIXED.
BY THE WAY....EVERYONE SAY GOODBYE TO THE G-20 =(
HEHE
if the Navigation system is more than just a toy
for those of us with a reasonable sense of direction. Any pros/cons out there? Thanks.
If I buy from one dealer, will I still get the loner car for service at another dealer?
Thanks in advance, I've read back a few months and learned a lot!
Also, the hp/liter ratio for the I30 right now is 227/3.0 = ~75hp/liter. And this is with their variable intake technology. Squeezing 33hp out of another .5liters of displacement isn't anything to be embarrassed about in that case.
260 HP v6 engine, there will also be some cosmetic
changes to the front and rear of the car. He also said that Infinity is coming out with a NEW
2002 model car that will be positioned between the
G20 and I30. It will be rear wheel drive and have a 250 HP v6. It will compete against the
Lexus IS300 and 3 series BMW. He said it would likely be in show rooms in late Sept. or early Oct.
However, I have NOT heard of this car being placed where dave said it would. I have heard the following:
The I30/Maxima will actually be stopped, and upgraded to a more luxurious, more expensive vehicle. The current "stencil" of this new vehicle has been selling in Japan already...called the "Nissan Gloria." This new car will compete with the Lexus GS300...it will be a luxury car priced around 35,000-42,000 dollars. They may later introduce a V8...who knows. So again, the I30 will move up to the higher 30s, early 40s mark in price and associated luxury.
There were also plans to introduce a sports coupe based on the Skyline in Japan...but I believe those plans are destroyed now.
Now that I think about it...that DOES leave a perfect spot for Infiniti to introduce a 200-something hp car to compete against the BMW 3 and Lexus IS. The refaced I30 with 260hp engine will compete against the new and much anticipated Lexus ES300. And, with the upgrade of the Q to "super-luxury" sedan, Infiniti is seriously trying to position themselves ahead a notch to where Lexus now resides. Seems like Infiniti has always been lagging behind...following around Lexus even from the start (when the Q was introduced after the LS400 when in fact, it was supposed to be introduced BEFORE the LS).
Remember, this is NOT what I have heard personally from a dealer...this is what I read out of a model matrix off some website. It will obviously all take place over a course of 3-4 years...and I wouldnt always trust the dealer's word either!
But let me clairify something...being an owner of a gs400 and now gs430....I don't think there is anyyyyyyyy way infiniti can compete with the GS series. (I'f you've driven one you'll know what I'm talking about).
Also numerous times I've recieved a gs300 as a loaner car, and boy that v-6 amazes me. And once they refresh the GS for the new model year.....boy I hope Infiniti's got a secret weapon up their sleeves.
I cant believe how people are still wasting their money on the present Q's when the gs is sooooooooo much more of an all around car.
Besides it would be a waste to drop the i30 since nissan has spent so much time and money producing and marketing it as "the best entry level car money can buy" (at least that's the message i interpret from their ads)
RC
Incidentally the GS300 is an inline 6 iirc not a V6 and its a nice car and all except for the trunk (HAHA looks like an old J30 trunk). But if Infiniti chooses to compete against it with a version of the new generation skyline I think it will be in for one hell of a fight.
I've heard resale is a little on the low side, but dependability and maintenance-wise, how are they? Any help is appreciated.
Thanks
I have read on several websites that these modifications are coming for 2002 model but when I checked with the local Infiniti dealership they are denying it(as it explains why because they want you to buy the current model).
I also phoned Infiniti twice but they denied to confirm if there will be a new engine.
What I would like to know from the users who have posted regarding this item is if the information they got is also from the websites or from some solid source. Also, why we have not heard about this in Motortrend, Car and Driver or Road and Track magazines? It would be nice if we have solid information for this rather than speculation as it will be good for people who are in the market for buying I30 but holding it just for these reasons.
As for the trade magazines, I can only assume that Infiniti wants to make the announcement themselves without being scooped and are not willing to confirm or deny anything until THEY are ready.
As an aside, I do know for a fact that almost all the I30s we are sent have "in trunk" CD changers because Infiniti is getting rid of their inventory -- 2002 I30s will have "in dash" CD changers standard. That's not an engine, but in speaks of changes to come.
RC
ITB 00-006B and the problem is gone. Now when I start after sitting overnight and shift into gear the RPMs don't drop to 200 but stay at 900 preventing the stall.
1.) I checked the list of titles for the 2000 I30, and didnt see reference # 00-006B. I only saw 00-006A, of which the title did mention the low or no idle situation. How did you determine that the problem was solved with TSB 00-006B? Did the dealer automatically initiate this, or did you suggest to the dealer to look to the TSB collection? How much time did the dealer spend with the car?
2.) Do you know any of the details about what they actually did to the ECU so that the idle remains consistent? I think the idle on my car is screwy...especially since it jumps and lowers all the time, and is NEVER constant. My dealer has adjusted my idle up to 750 (50 RPMs above the Nissan recommended range of 700 RPMs). However, if I'm driving around town, and if I stop at a light for instance, the idle tends to jump up or lower for no apparent reason! Just wondering if they actually replaced your ECU, and if the ECU would be the only or most probable cause of idle problems.
Thanks in advance!
I looked for a TSB on the NHTSB site http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/tsb/servicemmy1.cfm and found one listed as ITB00006 listing "low or no idle when shifting into D or R on cold starts"
I told the dealer the problem and asked them to pull that TSB and apply the fix. (At first they were reluctant and said they would have to keep the car overnight to see the problem first hand.
They were not happy and alittle curt when we insisted they fix it based on my observations. (my wife actually dropped it off and gave then a typed note from me explaning the problem and a copy of the page listing the TSB heading)
When I received the car back the work order said "Followed Bulletin ITB 00-006B Reprogramed the ECM". So it looks like the settings were change and the ECM was NOT replaced.
Works fine now, like a normal car when I shift into gear on cold starts the RPMS don't drop like a rock.
Hope this helps.
STEVE
ps. seems the dealers still don't like when the customer tells them whats wrong and suggest the fix. They need to understand that we are not stupid, we live with the car, and with the Web can research a problem. They shoud be happy when a customer takes the time and effort to solve a problem and not get all bent out of shape!