Infiniti FX45 Infiniti FX35

cheerioboy26

I believe that is a repost of Infiniti internal communications to their dealers. That text was posted by a reliable dealer who frequents another forum.

petewat3

thanks.

clpurnell

I agree I am gonna gracefully bow out. have been tackful to this point and want to leave it that way.

stever

Those other guys are, er, enthusiastic :-). Since I drive that brand, I best leave it at that, lol.

Steve, Host

petew4

lol.....couldn't resist stirring the pot over there after I read some of the posts.

kdshapiro

It doesn't take much to stir the pot. All you have to do is say my vehicle is better than a Subaru. (He now slinks back in the mudpit)

clpurnell

us and kdshapiro on the same side. never thought I would agree with a bmw fanatic :-)

rollbar

Someone asked about changing the oil for the first time at 1000 miles. Absolutely. Get the metal out of that crankcase as soon as you can. As for synthetic vs. petroleum I would normally go synthetic but the recommended change interval is only 3750 miles so I'm going with a petroleum product.

I'm thinking about getting a radar/laser detector. I have not bought one in years. I am leaning toward wireless but open to solid suggestions. If I go wired, I will probably try to hard wire it so I don't have a cord hanging down. Will the grille work over the rear view mirror affect performance? Should I move it down under the mirror? I don't mind spending $300 or $400 to get a good device. Looking for some quality feedback and thank you in advance.

I am also looking into the modified air plenum now available for the FX35. They say is opens breathing in the higher RPM’s and adds some HP. Not cheap, I think they are asking $400 or $500 with a $200 core refund on the old plenum. Anyone have any experience with this? Any other performance enhancers you’ve tried?

They also sell the drilled aluminum pedals. Factory parts apparently. For about $69. I did not get the sport pkg, (didn’t want 20 inch wheels). But did like the pedals so I will probably get them.

Roll

aggie76

My 2 cents is go with Valentine and hard wire. I've had one for 6 years, with upgrades, and it's is beyond a doubt paid for itself any number of times. I've had others over the years, wired and wireless, but none consistently perform like the V1. Mine sits next the rear mirror and has no problem with rear, side or front vision nor does it interfere with my sight lines either. Hard wired I never forget to turn it on or off, works with the ignition circuit. I can't tell you the number of times my heavy foot has been saved due to it.

arhfx45

I have V1's in 5 of my vehicles & they are superb. One downside in the FX is the laser cruise/braking will cause the V1 to false in the FX. Other detectors don't seem to have this problem with falsing. The reason is simple of course, the V1 works. If I had a detector that didn't report the laser reflection from the FX I'd toss it & choose something else. I turn my Laser sensing off on the FX's V1 around town & it works perfectly. If I go out on the highway I simply reset the V1 to sense Laser, takes less than a minute to change once you become familiar with the simple procedure. OK, you mentioned going with a wireless Detector, good luck. I've got an Escort Solo S2 that I carry when using a rental car & it's better than no protection, but is not even remotely in the V1's class.

texasfx35

Would like to get additional input on whether the full title and artist name can be seen on the lcd screen of an FX equipped with a navigation system and XM satellite radio. I can only see 10 characters for either the artist or title. The dealer and Infiniti Tech Service still not sure if that is how all field units operate or not as this is apparently not a common option combo. Any input or suggestions would be appreciated.

jpiatchek

Enthusiastic? You say TOMAATO, I say TOMATO. LOL

rollbar

If you’re like me, you asked the dealer what the heck that funny looking plastic piece is that you probably found in your glove box. It almost looks like it goes with a seat belt in some way. My dealer said, “We have no idea, it comes with every FX, 35 or 45. We think they remove it at the port of entry but don’t have a clue where it goes or if it’s even important.”

Someone on this board gave me a clue and well….I hope you still have it ‘cause it is important. 

It’s designed to protect the threads in the tow hook receptacle on the front of the vehicle. You may have to remove the front plate, (if you have one), and the base the front plate attaches to. Almost directly behind the front license plate is the threaded receptacle for the tow hook. The threads are exposed to road dirt, weather and loose debris. This plastic piece covers the receptacle from the front with each of the two ribbed plugs fitting in the threaded hole; one from the front and one from the back. When you see where it goes, you’ll know how to install it.

I can’t believe the dealer didn’t know. It’s obviously intended to keep the threaded hole clean and free of debris should you ever need to use the tow hook.

About radar detectors: Thanks for the input. I’ll look for a V1 and see what kind of deal I can get. I’ll plan to hard wire it, I’ve done it before; usually running the wire down the inside of the front window pillar trim and into the fuse box.

Thanks again.

Roll

arhfx45

I had no idea what you were talking about as my FX didn't have this piece in it. After your explanation I looked & evidently my dealer had figured it out & installed it before I took delivery. Thanks for the "Heads Up" anyway.

drew52

Ordered new fx45 with tech package. Drove BMW x5 4.4, Porsche, VW, SRX and just kept going back to the 45. I love the way it feels around me, the power, the sound of the exhaust tone. Had trouble deciding between 35 and 45 due to ride. The power of the 45 just too intoxicating, I'm still a bit worried about the ride. I want to thank everybody as I have been reading your messages for the past 1.5 months. You've all been very helpful.

petew4

congrats....don't worry about the ride. That was a non-issue in no time to me. It's actually close to perfectly matched to the vehicle's performance characteristics. Enjoy it! I've had a 45tech for almost 7 months & have never regretted it.

clpurnell

ditto what pete said. welcome to the club.

stupidme

Did anybody know if it is possible to revise the system and allow to watch DVD movies on Nav system while it is running on DVD player for the rear passengers. Also Power FX35 vs any 6 cylinder SUV. I heard it is 280hp and 270torque, but it is around 4800 RPM, who needs it ther anyway. You move for 0 to 60 at low RPMs anyway.

clpurnell

check out www.avelectronics.com they sell a unit called nav-tv. Many FX owners have used this to do what you are suggesting.

The FX is the fastest V6 SUV on the market. The only V6 that comes close is the Murano the CVT keeps the engine in the sweet spot and makess up for the hp difference in the murano and. There are only 4 SUV's faster than a V6 FX. Those are the Cayenne Turbo, FX45, X5 4.6is (haven't seennew 4.4 or 4.8 numbers) and the Forester XT. The murano is even or behind .1 - .3 next closest are the MDX/RX330/X3 3.0 at +.5 - 1.0

rollbar

I continue to be impressed with the "lift-off" torque of the FX 35. Stop light to stop light, it performs very well. I can leave traffic behind in a handful of seconds if I want. I've driven a supercharged Boxster for 4 years and although it will certainly outrun the FX, I am still impressed at how gutsy this V6 is. The FX is not the fastest vehicle on the road but it's quick and it's fun.

Roll

crbox

Hello from London,England
TheFX 35/45 and the Infiniti brand are virtually unknown here in the UK. Despite this I am very interested in importing and example as it seems an interesting alternative to the BMW X5/Cayenne/M.B. M Series.In fact it seems a styling and engineering tour de force.
 However anyone considering doing what I'm doing would need his head examined as there will no warranty support as the brand is not represented ans servicing will be difficult. Also fuel is about $7 a UK gallon or I suppose about $6 a US gallon.It had better be worth it!
 So heres a few questions if you don't object.
1) Is it especially reliable from the point of warranty claims?
2) Will a driver 6'2" fit under the roof?
3) Does Infiniti supply a special Tow Hitch?
4) I am expecting mileage of 15/16 US gallons. Is this about right?
5) The FX 35 is cheaper, but is it really underpowered.
6) The benchmark 4X4 in the UK is the BMW X% Sport. Would you say that you prefer the Infiniti and for what reason. It's important as they will cost me about the same. That's £38,000 (pounds)
Thanks for your help.
If you want any euro. car questions answer, just ask.

texasfx35

Just a quick comment. Don't know about other states, but in Texas, as of September 2003, it is illegal to have a video screen visible from the driver's seat.

petew4

You would be well served to take a trip to the states and drive both the 35 & 45 to make a choice - the 35 is by no means underpowered but the 45 is sooooo much fun. I can't imagine importing one without dealer support for parts & mechanical expertise. I've had one minor warranty visit for an intelligent key door button that didn't sit quite right in it's casing- very minor. But there have been a couple of recalls, how would you deal with those? The consensus from these boards is that tall folks are comfortable in the FX - I wouldn't know at 5'9". Tow hitch is an option - check the Infiniti home page for details, I think it's rated at 3500lbs. Gas mileage?....depends on a lot of variables I guess but I average about 17 with a 45 and I enjoy the acceleration frequently. And finally, the X5 - my choice came down to the Cayenne S, the X5, and the FX. The Porsche was too expensive if outfitted like the FX45tech and I'd just have to have the turbo if I went with the Cayenne & that's 100K. The X5 lacked in several areas: the FX is faster, more reliable- much, the aesthetics of the FX design are better inside and out, at the time - July 03- the X5 didn't have intelligent all wheel drive & the FX did, & last but not least, a roll-up - the total package of performance, engineering, and design is such a gas to drive!
Good luck with your choice.

crbox

Thanks for the helpful info. You're right importing an unknown is scary, and the novelty might soon wear off when it's broken in the wilderness. I think I could find a specialist to help, it just might take longer.
 A more fundamental issue is depreciation.I suspect that when it's 3 years old, I might regret it.
 In my experience however I've always had an easier time selling on rare cars.
 I think I'll keep you posted

wibble

On the FX35 AWD, people here (in So. Cal.) are seeing around 18-20 mpg in everyday usage. That's around 24 to 27 mpg in Imperial gallons. Servicing shouldn't be a problem but check on the availibility of brake pads and tyres. AFAIK, all FX's are LHD. BTW, unless things have changed drastically in the last 2 years, I don't recall the X5 being the benchmark anything.

billyperks

How is the cargo space working out for you Home Owners on those weekends Home Depot pick ups?

 I would serioulsy like to know this from a Home Owner.

crbox

The X5 is considered here as the nearest thing to a car-like driving experience in a 4x4.That's why its the benchmark. Press praise is universal on this conspicuous motor.
 I have a couple of hours ago tested the Benz 2.7L CDI turbo diesel 4x4. I think this car is US built.
 It was well built and diesel clatter was well muted in all but max. acceleration.It rolled excessivley in the corners but ride is excellent. Mid range acceleration was passable (170bhp)
 I felt I was hauling a very rigid box around and my interest in the MB ended there unfortunately.
 I am asuming that with the FX, as apparrently roll is minimal, feels more like a car despite it's size............
 I think I need to pop over to NY and drive one at a dealer.

stanny1

Was just there this morning. I find the trunk space superior to the G35 in that it is taller.
The FX is great for bulky items but I think the difficulty is transporting even small amounts of lumber, although I was able to put a 10 foot piece of 3/4' galvanized pipe between the front and rear windows (be sure to pad each end before accelerating).
I leave the big stuff to my 96 Volvo 960 wagon. With the second row of seats lowered, I can transport full sheets of drywall and plywood and the rear door closes almost all the way.
Try that in your Ranger or S-10.
All in all, the FX can do more than most people think. You could always get the cross bars for the roof rails and get even more serious!

billyperks

Thanks.
I will pop over the Infiniti Dealer and check it out when the climate warms up.

I have a TLS now and I want to depreciate it some more before I trade or sell it.

But I am stress for those Home Depot runs- I keep borrowing my inlaws SUV- I think their patience is running out.

daschtick

Funny you mention the home depot runs. I've actually amazed many people with the amount of stuff I've fit into my Celica hatch. I too have hauled several 10 foot sticks of conduit completely inside (hatch closed) the car by running it from the top of the passenger side footwell, thru the left side folding rear seat, to the back of the hatch. I also brought home (6) 2x4x8' boards at the same time. And to top it off, my daughter was with me in her car seat located behind the passenger seat!

billyperks

Do you think I am going to load all that stuff in my TLS-no waaaay.

I am very picky with my cars.

I need cargo space.

ncvol

Speaking of space. I've got two small kids in car seats, and a 70lb dog that travels with us when we go to my parents house for the weekend (about a 2 hr drive). Anyone able to comment on whether such a combo would work with the cargo room in a FX? For longer trips (with more stuff) the dog would be boarded. I'm going to test drive tomorrow.

After about a year of window shopping, I'm getting ready to pull the trigger and I'm down to this and a used Mercedes E320 Wagon. I love them both, and it's come down to the cavernous size of the MB wagon vs. the reliability/maintenance peace of mind from the Infiniti.

vsroman

I have also considered the vehicles you mentioned..have you looked at the BMW X3, it has more space than the FX with similar perfomance, etc.

Also, when I attempted to rent an FX last week while on vaca, I got "stuck" with a Murano. I was WAY IMPRESSED with it. I have been driving BMWs for 8 years now and was very impressed with the Murano and it's premium feel. It is similar in many ways to the FX but with much better cargo room. If you're thinkin' FX but concerned with the space, you owe it to yourself to go test out a loaded Murano.

I too have yet to make up my mind...good luck!

kcrudup

Where do you rent from where you can choose between FXen and Muranos?!

vsroman

I never rented from them before but I had heard that they had FXs. You really have to call around as one Enterprise office will swear no-one has the FX and then you call two towns over and they will have them in their Fleet. When I asked Enterprise about this they indicated that you have a better chance if you pick an Enterprise office located near an Infiti Dealer, because each office owns their cars and needs to get them serviced locally. Unfortunately, in southern FL, they would not guarantee me an FX and I got the Murano instead. My local Ent office here in CT will guarantee me the FX for a weekend and I may take em up. Good Luck!

vsroman

I noticed there is no "problem" board for the FX...is anyone out there having issues?

My research is not turning up anything...I know it is a great SUV but it can't be perfect...can it?

ncvol

Well, I went ahead today and made the deal. They had exactly what I wanted on the lot - a FX35 AWD with Touring Package, in Diamond Graphite/Graphite. Got them to add cargo roof rails (cause I'm gonna need the roof carrier), and I'm having them install the XM radio as well. Total MSRP was $40,200 and I got it for $38,250. I probably could have got it for the $38k even I had offered, but the finance manager literally begged me to put a little extra on it. With the financing at 2.9% for 48 months, the payments ended up right where I had budgeted them.

Ultimately the reliability of a brand new Infiniti was worth the extra couple of thousand I paid over the 2000 E-Class Wagon, my wife wasn't thrilled about the Mercedes, but loves the FX and everytime the Mercedes would have had to go to the shop, I would have caught hell for it. It's definitely worth it for the peace of mind, and its a great car in the bargain.

ncvol

From my reading of this board over the last year, it seems as if there were some problems with a defect in the hatch, as well as the driver seat rocking back some while driving. It's my understanding that these have been worked out for the 2004 year (at least I hope they have been). Otherwise, I think it's been pretty trouble-free, which is consistent with Infiniti's reputation, as well as the fact that it's only a year old.

vsroman

if I decide to buy, it'll be the same color as you choose. Did you see a Graphite with Willow interior...I wonder how that combo looks...btw, did you go for the Sport Pkg, lastly, how close did the MSRP match edmunds and did u get hit with adv fee?

Thanks...I'm getting ready to go for it!

ncvol

I saw a brilliant silver with the willow interior, and it looked very nice. I liked the willow better than I thought I would. I'm sure it will be cooler in the summer.

I didn't get the sport package, I'm coming off a Ford Explorer, so the handling on this vehicle feels like I'm driving a corvette even on the 18 inch wheels. I figured I'd save the money and not know what I'm missing. I didn't have any complaints about the supposedly harsh/firm ride at all.

The Edmunds TMV for my area was identical to the MSRP, and the dealer was certainly willing to go below that. I ended up about $2k off what the MSRP said. If you're willing to fight a little more, I'm sure you could save a little bit more than that, assuming they aren't in high demand in your area. I didn't have any advertising fee.

jgq1

I love performance, and just test drove FX 35 AWD and fell in love. I've been a fan of the FX since it was just a concept. However, I keep reading GREAT reviews on the G35 (never test drove it) and they are making me hesitant. I could save few thousand with the G35..... Any advice?

daschtick

I was "G" shopping myself when I stumbled across an FX35. I had previously driven a G35 Coupe, and I came away very impressed. Unfortunately, I realized that I would need more room, as I really needed a family hauler, so the salesperson suggested that I just try the FX35, and she insisted that I would not be disappointed.

Well, she was right! The FX, although heavier, felt very similar to the G35. The handling and braking dynamics were truly amazing, and that VQ engine is a responsive gem.

If you can live with the size of the G35, that's the car, but if you need a little more room, you won't feel like you compromised by selecting an FX.

vsroman

Are all of the leather options of similar quality? I'm leaning towards Willow/Black but some posts indicate it may be less durable.

Any willow owners out there care to comment on the quality and if it is very hard to keep it clean. I've got an 8 month old riding in the back and fear what ever it is that he may drop back there over the next few years!

petew4

I've had my 45tech for 7 mo. & 20K and it's been relatively problem free. Two recalls and a couple of technical bulletins - none of which had caused any problems prior to getting them taken care of. I knew Infiniti had a rep for reliability but I had concerns about purchasing a first year model & they proved unfounded. 'knock on wood' it's been great.

ncvol

jgq1 - I've got a loaner G35 right now until my FX is ready tonight, and it is a lot of fun. I'd echo what daschtick said - it's a great car, but if you need the space of the FX, you should probably get that. I certainly couldn't get by on a midsize sedan, but if you've only got one kid and no big dogs, it might work for you.

vsroman - from what I've read on other boards, there has been some issues with the leather in the seats of all colors bunching or "bubbling," but the rate of occurence seems to be somewhat more for the graphite. To my eyes, the brick interior seems to have a little higher quality leather in it (you can really see the grain), but to get it, you have to get the tech package which adds several thousand to the price.

huma2

hi all been looking at a 2003 fx45. is it a bad idea to get a 2003 dealer is offering about $7500 off, brings the price down to about 40,000. lease offered was 599/month no money down for 39 months. what do you all think thanks in advance for your help

vsroman

as long as the passenger seat isn't a problem for you. It is not adjustible so if the passenger is about 5'5" or smaller, they can barely see out the window!

huma2

thanks what kind of monthly payments have any of you gotten? what do you think a good coounter offer would be? $475?

stanny1

You didn't mention if that monthly payment was for a 45 Tech.
The 45 Tech I leased in June from Grubbs has a lease payment of $735 for 39 months and 15k/yr.
So $599 a month doesn't sound so bad for a non-tech.
But just to be sure, E-mail Grubbs and see what their lease payment might be.
Good Luck!

huma2

thanks, i e- mailed them this morning i will see what they have to say.