I'm considering getting an FX45 and I'd like to hear about maintenance and reliability problems. I already know it's a great car, so to save everyone's bandwidth you don't have to tell me how great it is or that you haven't had any problems. I'm really interested in learning what the biggest problems are that people have had with it. Thanks.
Has anyone heard what Infiniti's MP3 strategy is, or if they even have one? Any plans to offer a sound system that can read MP3 CDs or, ideally, has a front-panel aux jack you can plug an iPod into? Thanks.
Mechanically(power train), the car has been perfect. There is a persistent problem with the OEM XM radio dropping the signal, which can be remedied only by shutting down the car and restarting. Dealer has been unable to diagnose and not willing to replace. Driver side rear-view mirror is currently not operable. Not sure if it is the switch or the motor, but I will get the dealer to fix it when I take my '04 FX35 in soon for its 30K service. A few rattles have also been fixed by the dealer. Basically, I think it has be quite good.
My wife and I just picked up our new FX35 3 days ago and now have 350 miles on it. Today the check engine light came on and has yet to go out. We did read in the owners manual to check the gas cap, which seemed fine. I drove it around tonight putting about 12 miles on it and the light is still on steady. The dealer mentioned the gas cap sometimes causes this and that it may take awhile to go out. Has anybody ever experienced this or heard of a story like this? If
In my opinion the FX has the worst blind spots of any vehicle I've owned. Its not backing up to park that is an issue in my opinion (you'll get used to that) its lane changing on the streets. With the FX make sure you turn and look when lane changing.
With properly adjusted side mirrors and rearview mirror, I have no blind spots on our FX. I have no need to turn and look when lane changing.
I have to agree about blind spots. I have nearly pushed a couple of drivers off the road changing lanes. The mirrors show a clear lane then ooops....sorry fella.
By setting the mirrors out wide you could probably avoid the problem but I like to use the side mirrors to see back so I turn my head when changing lanes.
As for backing up I have no problem whatsoever. The combo of rear camera, mirrors and turning my head suits me fine. I get in closer and back in deeper with the camera than any other car I've had.
Roll (36,000 miles....Original tires and third set of brakes)
My mirrors are properly adjusted and I do not like the rear visibility in the FX at all; it is the poorest of any vehicle I have owned.
So far, I've never cut off anyone on the road, even motorcycle riders (and there's a lot of them in Central FL). I'm so used to setting my mirrors in such a way that once a vehicle leaves my rearview mirror sight, the side mirrors immediately pick them up. Once the vehicle leaves the side mirrors' sight, they're immediately next to me. I always know that they're there.
Some folks are used to turning and looking over their shoulder and that's perfectly fine, whatever works for you. But, I've experienced that this isn't as safe as it seems to be, especially if you're too close to the vehicle in front of you (that's right, gotta leave a good distance always). Turning your eyes off the road in front of you, for even a second, can lead to catastrophic results. Different strokes for different folks...
Now backing up is a different issue altogether on the FX. I do agree, though, that those massive pillars obstruct the view so much that it is the vehicle with the poorest rear visibility that I've ever owned. But it's something I can live with so that I can drive this wonderful machine.
By setting the mirrors out wide you could probably avoid the problem but I like to use the side mirrors to see back so I turn my head when changing lanes.
Yeah, I use the side mirrors for the blind spots so they're out wide and use the rearview mirror to see what's behind me. So far, so good...
Amen, works for me too. It requires a few trials and errors to adjust properly (which means a few scares), but once they are set right, you are good to go. Out of an abundance of caution, however, I never make quick lane changes in heavy traffic and give people behind me plenty of notice with my blinkers that I am planning to change lanes. Backing up is a pleasure with the rear view camera. A must in this car. Jon B.
I just took an fx-45 for a test drive yesterday. blind spots arent that bad but one needs to pay attention when changing lanes. it is a sweet suv, and i did not find the ride very bumpy at all to be honest. does anyone know a good online salesperson? not sure if i am going to buy or lease an 05 and the dealer near my home (RI) was not taking anything off the sticker price. i have read in the past, but did not write down any dealers names. so if anyone can give me some insight on where to look/call please email me cue93@aol.com, also would it be better to wait to purchase over the next few months since the 06's should be rolloing in? thanks
I hope to purchase the FX35 very soon. Are there going to be any changes made? Everyone complains about cargo space,third row seating,blind spots,etc. Just wanted to know about any possible surprise changes soon.
Your message 2422 said you had steering wheel shakes at 65 - 70 mph. What did they do to cure it?? I just picked up my new 2005 Beryllium AWD Brick/Black Friday and on the way home experienced the exactly the same thing. Going back to dealer and wanted to be armed. Thanks for any help.
No announcements yet on new design or changes...if at all, I hope the interior gets refreshed based on the new M interior. It is likely, though, that 3rd row seating will not be available on this current architecture -- I just don't see how anyone can sit in a 3rd row with the sloping roof that the FX has.
There have been rumours about a smaller SUV to slot under the FX, i.e. CX25/35, and this might mean that the FX will grow in size for its next generation. And I think it will because it might need to be competitive against the upcoming Audi Q7 and Lexus LF-S, both of which offer 3rd row seating. The downside is that performance will likely take a hit.
I am sorry you got the same problem that I did. Well, what they did is they grind the rotors and I think the also replaced the brake pads, if I remember it correctly. All free of charge of course. However, I still have the rattling noises which still occur, but I managed to tune it out 90% of the time. Good luck.
Purchased an FX35 with Tech and Touring last Thursday. Considering an extended warranty. Dealer offering about 850 off the normal price of "Infiniti Elite package". THe FX's havent been out that long so reliability and longevity reports on the tech/basic systems are almost non exeistant.
With so many computer based systems in this platform I'm strongly considering it. Any thoughts and experiences with the FX and other infinitis using similar packages would be appreciated.
I researched this a few months ago and just started looking again recently.
Pacific Audio and Blitzsafe both make make adapters that connect an Ipod or MP3 player into an FX35's factory radio. They have a kit that provides two aux in jacks which are selected through the SAT/Radio button. I'm thinking of purchasing one of these units but have not yet.
Monster's Ipod Icruze does not yet have an FX35 adapter. It turns out one of my local (northern california) monster reps drives an FX35, and he assures that an FX35 module will be out in the next 6 months. This seems like a cool solution, since you can select songs through the steering wheel buttons.
for responding. I noticed in past discussions your car had sat on the lot for quite a while. Mine was manufactured 4/05, which is not too long ago. I am hoping it's something simple like flat spots on the tires. I go in tomorrow to see what it's all about and to (hopefully) pick up my Intelligent Keys which the car dealer in Phoenix from which my dealer in Tucson got the car, lost somewhere in transit. Thanks again!
Nissan is widely known for the weakest brakes on the planet. Just plan on relining them frequently, and replacing the rotors from time to time. My last two Nissans needed brakes every 7,000 miles or so.
This is the first time I've heard of that on this forum, I think. After going through the Lexus RX330 forum and seeing all their problems with the transmission, road noise through the windows, rattles, etc. I thought the Infiniti was a better bet. Although brake pads and rotors are not the big deal as is a transmission. Here in Tucson there is only one Infiniti dealer and one Lexus dealer so if you get poor service you're up the river. I'm keeping my fingers crossed, I love the look of the FX and really like the Brick/Black interior.
That is a good combination of colors, except I would pick the Berrylium and Brick interior since black would be more difficult for me to keep clean and I would just feel like I am in an oven here in California driving in a black car. Then again, there are plenty of people in California driving black cars. Don't get me wrong Black/Brick is a very nice color combination. However, they did not have my number one color choice, Berrylium/Brik, at the time when I purchased. By the way, does the Berrylium (exterior color) comes in V6?
Maybe the SUVs are different; my '99 Quest has 105k and is on its 2nd set of pads and I replaced the rotors once. I suppose I should check the rear drums one of these years.
does anyone know where to get 20"chrome rims from. just purchased fx45 yesterday dealer did not have any 20"chrome rims on lot. said it would be cheaper and easier to look elsewhere. any thoughts.
That is wierd - do you ever use your brakes Steve? I had an 01 Quest that literally, needed pads every 7,000 miles! At least, my dealer said it did......
Well, I don't jackrabbit from light to light and try to time the lights against the crosswalk signals. But if I had an FX instead of a minivan I might be tempted, LOL. You certainly aren't the only one complaining about the brakes in here.
After paying around $200 for the front pads and an oil change back in 2001 (~50k), I decided to do the pads and the rotors myself in '03 (~80k). That was $108. So if you are hard on your brakes (or maybe the pads are just are soft?), it would be worth it to do the pads and rotors yourself.
And remember that there's a TSB out there for the brakes on one (both?) of the FX's.
The car is Beryllium exterior. It is a V6 FX35 AWD. The interior is Black dash with brick leather etc. I love it. I usually go with silver exteriors but wanted a change. I agree that a black car in Cal. or Arizona (where I live) is a heat box and not the best choice if it is going to be left out all day. By the way I ordered the Stillen Strut Bar, as it got such great reviews from other FX owners on this forum. The dealer I purchased the car from is making me a new set of Intelligent Keys to replace the ones the other dealer lost. So if they ever do show up I'll have 4 sets of keys.
Have an FX 45, 2003: Black Tailgate trim at top of tailgate has expanded from sun and 90 degree temp. In puckered at the top and dented the sheet metal roof when I opened the tailgate. This is totally a mufact. poor choice of plastic that is unstable in hot weather. Anyone else have this problem?
Have an FX 45, 2003: Black Tailgate trim at top of tailgate has expanded from sun and 90 degree temp. In puckered at the top and dented the sheet metal roof when I opened the tailgate. This is totally a mufact. poor choice of plastic that is unstable in hot weather. Anyone else have this problem?
Sorry to hear this...There was a recall on this, basically all 2003 models (and possibly some 2004s, I'm not sure since it was a while ago) had this issue. Please call your dealership and schedule an appointment ASAP. They will replace your whole tailgate piece and fix the dent on the roof. Good Luck.
Yup, that is the color combination I am talking about. You made a great choice. Beryllium is a unique color as well. I have only seen it two times here in California, one was on the road close to my parents' house and the other was at the dealership over the past year.
Please keep me update on your Stillen Strut Bar and tell me can you tell me if you can tell the difference in handling. I guess give me your inputs after the installation.
Congratulation on your purchase again and enjoy your car.
Got the strut bar today. Plan on installing Sunday. I'll let you know. The dealer got rid of the shakes this morning. Wheels just needed balancing. What a relief. Drives like a dream now. Although I find myself speeding and looking for twisty roads. Finally got the Intelligent Keys, Dealer in Phoenix sent only one set so my sales rep took one from another FX and had it programmed to my car and now I have the proper two sets of keys. My dealer here in Tucson has been excellent so far.
My wifes FX 35 is less then 2 weeks old and the service engine soon light has come on for a third time now and stays on for close to 100 miles. The dealer has told us this is just related to the gas cap not being tight. This light has come on several days after filling it with gas, and the cap is always tight when I check it. Has anybody had to go through with this? We have less then 1000 miles on the car.
My OEM rear pads lasted around 35,000 miles, the second set only about 50... Did a track day in the FX, and started the day on my original rear pads, which survived almost through the first two 20-minute sessions. Swapped in new pads (standard street compound - hadn't been able to get hold of good high-performance ones in time), and they were trashed by the end of the day (3 more sessions). Tried to avoid braking on the drive home for fear I'd go metal-on-metal... I replaced the front pads with a high-performance street compound before I went to the track, and they survived the entire event, although I don't think they'd make it through another.
I live in Canada, just found out that infiniti (in Toronto) seems to not carry running board for FX35 anymore?Any suggestion on where & which type of running board good for FX35? will after market installation void corrosion warranty? Thanks a bunch,
I can't believe how easy it was to do. Took less than 15 min. Plan to take it out today for long test drive to see if I can tell a difference in the ride. Took it out for short test around town and thought the steering felt tighter. We'll see. I'm thinking of installing the clear tail lights. Saw a black FX with clear and it looked great. Has anyone had experience with that? I thought clear was standard on all 2005 models but apparently not.
I live in Canada, just found out that infiniti (in Toronto) seems to not carry running board for FX35 anymore?Any suggestion on where & which type of running board good for FX35? will after market installation void corrosion warranty? Thanks a bunch
On my recent annual visit to Toronto, I actually saw an FX there that had chrome tubular running boards. I'm certain the FX was registered in Ontario. I'm not so sure that it's a good idea to put running boards on the FX since it really does not have a high ground clearance. Also, I think that it lessens the visual appeal of the vehicle.
Our 2003 FX35 has heated side view mirrors, so I'm certain 2004s have those, especially Canadian models.
A trick I found out about right after getting my FX35. When tightening the cap, make sure it clicks twice. If it doesn't you are apt to get the check engine light. This is what the dealership told me to do when mine had the same issue.
For any of those out there still trying to decide if they should really give into their desires for an FX35, I say "go fot it"!!! I have had my FX since last November and still love it each time I start it!
The clear light is not standard on the 2005 models. It only comes with the sport package. I ask the salesman when I purchase mine. By the way, from what I read it sounded like the strut bar is working out quite well for you. I am glad.
Really? I find that when I use regular on mine, it causes a hesitation when I accelerate. Doesn't this happen to you? or maybe it's all in my head. I don't blame you using regular, I do the same here now and then since the gas price relief is no where in sight.
I too have been running 87 (some 89) in my FX35 for a while now. I can not detect any performance loss at all. Its even possible my gas mileage went up :shades: My FX35 has a little over 12,000 miles on it now and for the first 10,000 miles (mostly 93 octane) I averaged about 17.5 mpg. For the past 2000+ miles (mostly 87 octane) I've averaged 18.5 mpg.
I have had my FX/35 AWD (2004) for a full year now (15,077 miles). I love the FX and it never ceases to amaze me. Here is a summary of my unbiased observations (pluses and minuses) over the last year:
(1) Superb engine and transmission ( I get 21.1 miles per gallon, mostly highway driving, octane 87), (2) highly reliable car, (3) Quite a few squeakes (and at least one rattle, which I hear any time outside temperatures are below 50 degrees F, i.e. Winter-months and especailly over rough roads of northern chicago suburbs I hear this one rattle; even after FOUR attempts by dealear to solve the issue - well, I changed my dealer). (4) The Suspension is great on smooth highways (18 inch wheels, non-sport supspension, although in all honesty for majority of people out there it might still be a bit stiff on especially rough roads; I however love mine), (5) Superb handling on both wet and snowy roads (only with 18 inch wheels, but not the 20's, which slip and slide on snow and slush) (5) Relatively Limited cargo space as compared to other comaprably sized SUV/Cross overs.
I have the 20s with the sport suspension. Otherwise, same car and agree with your observations. Phenomenal engine. Great sound and plenty of power. When you need to hustle, just switch to manumatic and feel the sling shot power kick in. Agree that cargo space is limited but when you put the rear seats down it is quite cavernous.
The 20s have plenty of grip on dry, wet and slushy roads. On deep snow, not so good. In that case, either buy snow tires for the winter months or drive a Volvo XC70 like my wife's when you face a snow storm!
The only real bummer is the interior. A bit bland, not very upscale and several minor squeeks from the driver's middle arm rest which also functions as a storage bin. It seems to rattle quite a bit.
I also receive rattling from the center arm console. I tried tightening the screws and it helped a little. Also, after I hit a rough spot in the road, a "clicking" sound comes from the front passenger side air vent. It goes away then comes back. I guess thats the trade off for the sport suspension. I can live with it however. Do you know if the radio is satellite ready ?
I bought the Tech Package and they told me it was pre-wired for satelite radio. Didn't opt for it as do not use car for commuting but recreation on weekends.
Hi I'm new to the forum. I just bought my FX45 brand new. I want to hook it up with an Orion sound system, 22 inch chrome rims(debating bewtween Giovanna and Gianelle), etc. I want to get hyper white lights for it, but I dont know whats compatiable for it, any ideas anyone? Also, can I run a 5,450w sound system in this or do I need to purchase an alternet power source?
I've had my FX45 for about a year now and have always noticed a rattle toward the front of the sunroof. It only does this when closed. I also notice squeaking coming from the front brakes. I've taken it in twice to have these items fixed with no luck. Has anyone else experienced similiar problems?
Face it jfo1, I have many rattles and squeaks even in the first week of ownership of the FX. I learn to cope with it by drown out the annoying sounds. They don't make cars like they used to. This is very sad, but true. I also have rattles in my 2004 Honda Pilot EX-L as well. The rattling still exist in both cars as I am typing away to you.
Comments
With properly adjusted side mirrors and rearview mirror, I have no blind spots on our FX. I have no need to turn and look when lane changing.
Motorcyclists beware :surprise: :confuse:
My mirrors are properly adjusted and I do not like the rear visibility in the FX at all; it is the poorest of any vehicle I have owned.
By setting the mirrors out wide you could probably avoid the problem but I like to use the side mirrors to see back so I turn my head when changing lanes.
As for backing up I have no problem whatsoever. The combo of rear camera, mirrors and turning my head suits me fine. I get in closer and back in deeper with the camera than any other car I've had.
Roll (36,000 miles....Original tires and third set of brakes)
My mirrors are properly adjusted and I do not like the rear visibility in the FX at all; it is the poorest of any vehicle I have owned.
So far, I've never cut off anyone on the road, even motorcycle riders (and there's a lot of them in Central FL). I'm so used to setting my mirrors in such a way that once a vehicle leaves my rearview mirror sight, the side mirrors immediately pick them up. Once the vehicle leaves the side mirrors' sight, they're immediately next to me. I always know that they're there.
Some folks are used to turning and looking over their shoulder and that's perfectly fine, whatever works for you. But, I've experienced that this isn't as safe as it seems to be, especially if you're too close to the vehicle in front of you (that's right, gotta leave a good distance always). Turning your eyes off the road in front of you, for even a second, can lead to catastrophic results. Different strokes for different folks...
Now backing up is a different issue altogether on the FX. I do agree, though, that those massive pillars obstruct the view so much that it is the vehicle with the poorest rear visibility that I've ever owned. But it's something I can live with so that I can drive this wonderful machine.
Just my 2 cents.
Yeah, I use the side mirrors for the blind spots so they're out wide and use the rearview mirror to see what's behind me. So far, so good...
thanks
There have been rumours about a smaller SUV to slot under the FX, i.e. CX25/35, and this might mean that the FX will grow in size for its next generation. And I think it will because it might need to be competitive against the upcoming Audi Q7 and Lexus LF-S, both of which offer 3rd row seating. The downside is that performance will likely take a hit.
Purchased an FX35 with Tech and Touring last Thursday. Considering an extended warranty. Dealer offering about 850 off the normal price of "Infiniti Elite package". THe FX's havent been out that long so reliability and longevity reports on the tech/basic systems are almost non exeistant.
With so many computer based systems in this platform I'm strongly considering it. Any thoughts and experiences with the FX and other infinitis using similar packages would be appreciated.
bd
Pacific Audio and Blitzsafe both make make adapters that connect an Ipod or MP3 player into an FX35's factory radio. They have a kit that provides two aux in jacks which are selected through the SAT/Radio button. I'm thinking of purchasing one of these units but have not yet.
Monster's Ipod Icruze does not yet have an FX35 adapter. It turns out one of my local (northern california) monster reps drives an FX35, and he assures that an FX35 module will be out in the next 6 months. This seems like a cool solution, since you can select songs through the steering wheel buttons.
However, they did not have my number one color choice, Berrylium/Brik, at the time when I purchased. By the way, does the Berrylium (exterior color) comes in V6?
Steve, Host
After paying around $200 for the front pads and an oil change back in 2001 (~50k), I decided to do the pads and the rotors myself in '03 (~80k). That was $108. So if you are hard on your brakes (or maybe the pads are just are soft?), it would be worth it to do the pads and rotors yourself.
And remember that there's a TSB out there for the brakes on one (both?) of the FX's.
Steve, Host
Sorry to hear this...There was a recall on this, basically all 2003 models (and possibly some 2004s, I'm not sure since it was a while ago) had this issue. Please call your dealership and schedule an appointment ASAP. They will replace your whole tailgate piece and fix the dent on the roof. Good Luck.
Please keep me update on your Stillen Strut Bar and tell me can you tell me if you can tell the difference in handling. I guess give me your inputs after the installation.
Congratulation on your purchase again and enjoy your car.
Did a track day in the FX, and started the day on my original rear pads, which survived almost through the first two 20-minute sessions. Swapped in new pads (standard street compound - hadn't been able to get hold of good high-performance ones in time), and they were trashed by the end of the day (3 more sessions). Tried to avoid braking on the drive home for fear I'd go metal-on-metal...
I replaced the front pads with a high-performance street compound before I went to the track, and they survived the entire event, although I don't think they'd make it through another.
I live in Canada, just found out that infiniti (in Toronto) seems to not carry running board for FX35 anymore?Any suggestion on where & which type of running board good for FX35? will after market installation void corrosion warranty? Thanks a bunch,
Mrlover
BTW, does 2004 FX35 have heated side view mirror?
On my recent annual visit to Toronto, I actually saw an FX there that had chrome tubular running boards. I'm certain the FX was registered in Ontario. I'm not so sure that it's a good idea to put running boards on the FX since it really does not have a high ground clearance. Also, I think that it lessens the visual appeal of the vehicle.
Our 2003 FX35 has heated side view mirrors, so I'm certain 2004s have those, especially Canadian models.
The clear light is not standard on the 2005 models. It only comes with the sport package. I ask the salesman when I purchase mine. By the way, from what I read it sounded like the strut bar is working out quite well for you. I am glad.
(1) Superb engine and transmission ( I get 21.1 miles per gallon, mostly highway driving, octane 87),
(2) highly reliable car,
(3) Quite a few squeakes (and at least one rattle, which I hear any time outside temperatures are below 50 degrees F, i.e. Winter-months and especailly over rough roads of northern chicago suburbs I hear this one rattle; even after FOUR attempts by dealear to solve the issue - well, I changed my dealer).
(4) The Suspension is great on smooth highways (18 inch wheels, non-sport supspension, although in all honesty for majority of people out there it might still be a bit stiff on especially rough roads; I however love mine),
(5) Superb handling on both wet and snowy roads (only with 18 inch wheels, but not the 20's, which slip and slide on snow and slush)
(5) Relatively Limited cargo space as compared to other comaprably sized SUV/Cross overs.
Enjoy it responsibly.
The 20s have plenty of grip on dry, wet and slushy roads. On deep snow, not so good. In that case, either buy snow tires for the winter months or drive a Volvo XC70 like my wife's when you face a snow storm!
The only real bummer is the interior. A bit bland, not very upscale and several minor squeeks from the driver's middle arm rest which also functions as a storage bin. It seems to rattle quite a bit.
Otherwise, this car is AWESOME! Jon B.
Do you know if the radio is satellite ready ?
Has anyone else experienced similiar problems?