Are you a current Michigan-based car shopper? A reporter would like to speak with you about your experience; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com by 7/2 for details.
Looks like you caught them by surprise...they had no good excuse to delay or try to make you believe another reason for the problem. The technicians/service managers are definately arrogant...they DO think the consumers are stupid and dont know anything about cars. They definately dont understand that we live with the car. Is it some sort of Infiniti service policy that the TECHNICIANS themselves must diagnose the problem and never believe the customer? It seems like we have to prove the problem to them, they cant take our word for it...as if they never believe us. I call that ridiculous!
I just picked up a 2001 I30 Luxury yesterday morning. Who else has had problems with the wind noise from the rear window? Has anyone gotten a dealer and/or Infiniti to own up to it? Better yet, has anyone gotten their "windtunnel" fixed? I did not hear the wind noise from the rear window on my earlier test drive of another I30. And no, the Bose wasn't cranking at the time, either. It's not bad for under $29,000, but Infiniti could do some minor upgrades to really make this car stand out, like a five-speed auto tranny and standard Xenon headlights on the luxury model. But first, fix the rear window roar!
exlegend - I bought an I30L a month ago and I am confused about this issue. Does I30 have "windtunnel" problem and I have to take it back to the dealer and complain about it? Help me here. Thanks
Does anyone have the number for the TCM service bulletin. I am in the process of purchasing a used 2000 I30t w/20k for $26,900. I feel like it is a overall good deal. The car is in great condition and drives superb. I also own a 91 Q45 w/140K and it still runs like a dream. Love that 278 V8 Horsepower. The only major work I have had to do to the Q was a timing chain at 95K miles. Which was my choice. I'm planning on driving the Q until the wheels fall off. Any info on the service bulletin# or where to find it would be appreciated. Also, I agreee, most service writers don't like you to tell them what is wrong with a vehicle, but since I'm paying for the service, they will just have to get over it. I have found that if you are demanding up front and are knowledgable about what you are requesting and know the right questions to ask you usually get what you want, granted they may not like you for it but they now what to expect.
That's all well and good, but those cars you mentioned are not the GS430's competition. The BMW would be the 540i (and you can get a manual tranny - not available on the GS). Infiniti does not really have any direct competitor for the GS. Mercedes has the E430. Audi has the A6 2.7T and the A6 4.2 (both have quattro AWD and the 2.7T has a manual tranny available as well). Those cars are the true competition for the GS430, not the Q45 and 740il.
After having ordered an I30L, I read in this forum (somewhere) several complaints about an air leak or high volume wind noise around the rear window. As I stated earlier, I did not hear it when I test drove an I30L. When I took delivery of mine last Saturday, I could hear a loud wind noise from the rear window, as if one of the side rear windows was partially opened. I checked both the rear side windows via the window buttons, as well as visually. They were closed tightly. However, anytime I reach 50 mph or higher, the noise is so noticeable that it sounds like a wind tunnel behind me. Several people have written stating they had the same problem with their I30. I was trying to find out if Infiniti came up with a solution for this problem, or if anyone has solved it on their own (without using a large amount of volume from the Bose to mask the noise).
If you re not noticing the noise, you don't have a complaint. Enjoy.
thanks for the motor trend webpage...it made me remember the details of the webpage I saw. The page I did see had the XVL, and also talked about some sort of modification to the I30 (I previously mentioned the Nissan Gloria introduction). I dont know what the story is about that...but anyway, here are some links:
I have found the model matrix again, scroll 3/4 of the way down to see the Infiniti models, it briefly mentions the Infiniti "QE" which was the GS400 equivelant I mentioned before:
Ahh, I found some more info...cant really guarantee the validity of this info however, but it sounds like a good idea! I have copied and pasted the "description" of the proposed Infiniti QE:
A few of you were upset when we confirmed that the 2002 Q45 would not look like the beautifully chiseled Japanese market Cedric and Gloria twins. Those people, and a lot more, were excited when we reported on March 20th, that Infiniti is working on a fire breather of it's own to challenge the Lexus GS400 and BMW 540i. Well, you will be surprised and overjoyed by what we have to say...
According to our source, apparently Infiniti has given the green light to a large sports sedan code-named "QE." The car is basically an aggressive version of Nissan's well received Japanese market Gloria that will slot just under the new Q45. According to our source, the concept shown looks exactly like the Gloria with the exception of the prerequisite Infiniti logos and badges. Powering it will be a 4.5L V-8 with an estimated 330 bhp!
Infiniti's car line-up is sure going to grow with the "QE" and don't forget the other sedan that will be based on the XVL. Speaking of the XVL, word is that, at the New York Auto Show, Infiniti will enlighten us as to what will be the future of the car in the US. We of course. are counting the days.
AND...just in case you guys were wondering what the current Japanese market Gloria or Cedric even look like, here are links to some pictures:
First of all, thanks to everyone who have been posting all the information about the future models.
Like I mentioned in my earlier post, I have been in the market for I30 for about 3 months. When I test drove I30t I heard lot of wind and tire noise(even more than my 1995 Chrysler Cirrus). I have no other complains about I30t other than the wind/tire noise.
What is holding me to buy 2001 I30t model is it's wind/tire noise and speculative future changes to it like --> 5-speed transmission, more HP and interior/exterior design changes for 2002.
As with any car buyer, no body likes to buy a car that will have major changes in there next year model, in this case only 6 months from now.
So I would really appreciate if anybody out there is kind enough to share, if there are going to be any above mentioned changes in the 2002 model.
I think Rawpower #490 is close to the mark. The I30 is apparently being moved more upscale (and perhaps the Maxima too). My understanding also is that the there is a change to front and rear taillights. Interior has real wood trimeed wheel and console trim. clock being moved from top of dash to middle and seats are a little different look. There will be a 265hp v6 and a 360hp v8 option with rear wheel drive. Now whether this is strictly the I30 or a new derivative of something between I30 and G20 I don't know. But local dealer (Crest) says it is the I30. By the way, my friend just bought new I30t msrp 32,295 plus dest. (excluding tax) for $30,700. Had to negotiate a while to get that as the Dallas car market is red hot and many Infiniti's are sold for close to msrp.
Just came back from service appointment at a dealership about 70 miles from my home. I gave up on my local incompetent dealer...a bunch of real useless people (Autoplace Infiniti). Instead, went to neighboring city of Rochester, NY, and had the boys over at Dorschel Infiniti look at the car. Let me tell you, BIG difference in service between the two. Now I know what people are talking about when they say Infiniti people treat you well. I brought in my concerns, backed by printed TSBs from the alldata website, and the experienced senior tech and service manager wrote up the work to be done even before looking at the car. It was the first time I didnt have to PROVE my problems to these people. They were amazing. They even had ALL of the TSB parts in stock, didnt even have to wait for them to be ordered. It turned out that another customer already had the same parts that I needed waiting, but that customer was to come in on Friday. Since I was there, they just threw in his parts into my car, and overnight ordered his parts so they arrive on time for his appointment. On top of that, they washed off my salty car (Autoplace Infiniti, my local dealer, never bothers to do that) and even walked me to the car. Total bill was 0 bucks (all warranty). I was also surprised to see that they used disposable seat covers so as not to dirty my seats...Autoplace doesnt do that either! BUT, on top of ALL, the liars at Autoplace Infiniti are just plain...liars! Even when I showed them the TSBs and parts that needed to be fixed, they came up with stupid excuses "on-the-fly" and brushed me off. The people at Dorschel knew what i was talking about on the other hand, and immediately did what I requested them to do...didnt even need to convince them. They also told me about the recent increase in customers coming to Dorschel Infiniti service because they are fed up with Autoplace Infiniti. Let me tell you, I would definately drive round-trip, 140 miles to have my car serviced at Dorschel of Rochester.
The main purpose of my post was to report the differences in dealers...I didnt really post what they did since my vehicle is a 97, and most people here have 2000's (or even 2001's now). However, I will still list what was done/checked:
1.) Blower motor (for A/C or heat) made a loud flutter noise on lower fan speeds, mostly in the summer time. There is a TSB for this for 2000 model Infiniti I30s also...they basically put this plastic cover on top of the motor so as to insulate the noise better. Dealer never witnessed the noise, but took my word for it and installed it anyway.
2.) Rough idle/erratic idling: The technician adjusted the target idle directly on the ECM (not the base idle screw from inside the engine compartment), adjusted it up 50 RPMs to attempt to eliminate the rough idle/vibration i was experiencing. It made a big difference, but still vibrates more than it should in my opinion (at idle, the car is not quiet either...its rather rough sounding). Anyhow, I am happy with it now...sascuderi, just wondering if your dealer actually went over the details with you about how they "reprogrammed the ECU" on your car?
3.) Rattle behind dashboard due to a noisy brake valve inside a hose. Infiniti had new hoses sent out to eliminate the pressure build-up, and the problem is now solved.
4.) Loud squeak noise when I start my car after sitting in cold overnight or for more than 2-4 hours in 20 degree weather. They couldnt do anything about this problem since my car wasnt cold when I brought it there...
I think they did a very good job with the fixes. I am happy.
I have been having the same problem with the wind tunnel(great description). The service manager did acknowledge that he heard the problem, but doesn't want to attempt to fix it until the manufacturer comes up with an exact fix. I have been given a reference# (which by the way is a big joke) by the consumer affairs division. When calling in about the reference#, I am told that the wind noise is considered normal at this point and that they are working on it. They will not give me a time frame for fixing the car. I feel like they are just putting me off and that nothing will ever be resolved. The whole ordeal has made me very frustrated and I regret having ever made the purchase!!!
You said you, "...regret having ever made the purchase" merely because of wind noise and one dealer visit? Like I always said, dont ever hate the car, but if you seriously have problems with the dealer and are sure they can fix it, try another dealer. If there isnt one a comfortable distance away, then either try your own solution or wait until one is made available. But to regret buying one car because of wind noise is unreasonable, simply because any car you buy will have some sort of annoyance (meaning, you would regret purchasing any car, and you would never be happy).
Maybe you guys can help me out, seeing that you are either Infiniti customers or potential buyers. I appreciate any support you guys can give me.
Here is the website detailing my problems with Infiniti/Nissan over my lemon QX4. Putting the finishing touches on it this week, and I'm thinking about buying an appropriate domain name for it.
Ignore mhammy84 or whatever he is. He sounds like an Infiniti plant used to down play legitimate consumer concerns. You paid good money for the car. If the wind noise is ridiculous, which it is, you have a right to complain. "Find your own solution, mhammy84?" Go find your own road. It's not Djrunner's job to find the solution, let Infiniti provide one, which they likely won't. There is a serious design defect in the rear door seals or the rear window seal. If Infiniti wants repeat car buyers, they'll own up to it and provide a permanent fix. Cars costing thousands less don't have that kind of problem right off of the car carrier. Keep pushing Infiniti. Maybe they'll listen. If not, we won't be repeat buyers and you can tell your friends the reason why. In the meantime, we'll let mhammy84 sit in the back seat while we're cruising down the highway. With all that "wind noise," we'll never hear him! Hang in there!
I sound "like an Infiniti plant used to down play legitimate consumer concerns"? What does that mean? I dont know exactly what you mean, but it sounds like you think I work for Infiniti. HA! What a joke...i love how people like you come onto boards and try to persuade other readers that those who criticize someone else's opinions are actually "secret supporters" who work for the car company. Well, Infiniti is certainly not wasting their money paying me to oppose "consumer complaints." Nor would I oppose a "consumer complaint" if it was at least somewhat reasonable. The complaint itself is definately legitimate, but where djrunner stands right now, she's going to have to wait and be patient. You obviously dont know what I myself have been through with my I30. I had problems with my own car, and I too had similar thoughts as djrunner did (asking myself things like "Why did I buy this car" etc.) But, in the last 7 months I have worked to resolve my problems (which exlegend, if you havent read my previous postings, explain that they were FINALLY resolved yesterday) I have learned that the folks who work at Infiniti are human beings just like me and [maybe] you are. Some people are stubborn, and some people are seriously willing to work with us. Also, you dont seem to understand how the problem solving process works with these people, as you have just bought yourself your 2001. Wind noise is obviously not a safety issue, so I dont see how your claim that the rear window seals posses a "serious" design defect is valid. Infiniti realizes this, and is obviously not putting the wind noise issue top on their priority list. Also, they are not going to manufacture a fix if only a few people experience this. Since it seems like an issue on the 2001s, they're going to have to wait until they receive a sufficient amount of complaints before they create a TSB to help dealers resolve the issue (this means, selling most of the 2001s, and that just started happening). If it were a safety issue, the story would be different, especially since the government would be involved, and things would move faster. But think about it exlegend, regretting you made a purchase because of wind noise and because one visit to the dealer didnt solve things IS ridiculous. It wont take one visit for such a new problem, and again, they're human beings, they cant magically manufacture a new seal for your rear window before your eyes. Thats too bad you wont be a repeat buyer...I said I wouldnt either, because I know Lexus makes a better car. Infiniti doesnt care if you're not going to be a repeat buyer, because they know that the guy who has had it with his Lexus will go to Infiniti, and the cycle will continue. It just depends on who has got the bad eggs which is going to keep the cycle going. Once the TSB is made available (if at all, it IS made available), the dealer should be willing to perform the necessary work. If they do not, take it to another dealer! And exlegend, if you're not going to be a repeat buyer, go ahead and buy the car thats thousands less and enjoy a wind-noise-free ride. By the way, why DID you end up buying an Infiniti anyway? Why didnt you just buy the car you have so much faith in...the one thats "thousands less?" You wouldnt be able to tell which car, no matter HOW much it costs, will have problems and which cars will be perfect.
I can SERIOUSLY feel for infiniti_lemon's problems on his QX4. Now, HIS case is DEFINATELY a [set of] VERY legitimate consumer concern(s). I am totally impressed with the amount of work he has put into resolving the issue(s) with his car...and I can totally see his concern...
After having briefly scanned his website and fully reading the timeline, all I can say is that I really feel bad for you. Its disgusting to think of how Infiniti could sell you a 38K SUV with problem after problem, and not even offer you a new one at their expense. After all, Infiniti pays for brand new Q45s for their regional senior technicians...the one I met with was a worthless, COMPLETELY useless person who ABSOLUTELY DID NOT deserve to drive that car on Infiniti's money. Since the day I met with him and learned he was driving that car for free, I have always thought of how stupid it is for Infiniti to refuse completely OBVIOUS lemon repurchases, but spend generously on useless regional tech's.
To Exlegend: Thanks for your words of encouragement.
To Mhammy84: Didn't mean to offend you so much. I'm surprised how my own regrets have affected you. Sorry if I led you to believe that I had only made one service trip. I didn't want to go into the whole ordeal and end up sounding like a whiner. The car has been in multiple times to the closest dealer (75 miles one way). I have not taken the car to any other dealer, because it would be over 200 miles. I would probably be less aggrevated if Infiniti could be a little more forth coming with information. Talking with Consumer Affairs is like talking with the dealership. No one knows anything. I now realize how silly it was of me to think that a $30,000 car should be considered higher quality than say my 1991 Acura Integra (which by the way does not have a wind tunnel).
I wasnt offended anyway...cant see why you belive I was. I merely thought your original "efforts" and regret was unreasonable, but now that you have clarified yourself, all I can say is good luck in your battle in getting the problem fixed. The only thing that offended me or would probably offend anyone is the direct "attack" made by exlegend on me...claiming I was some secret employee of Infiniti here on this board denouncing other people's complaints...how ridiculous!
I leased an I30 Luxury Titanium w/ Sage leather I30 Luxury about 2 months ago. It has all options including the navigation system except xenon headlights and mud guards. MSRP was $33,110. I currently have almost 2,000 miles on it. I do not have any problems with the car.
My living conditions may change and I am considering getting something a little more sports-oriented like a BMW or maybe an Acura CL. I called Infiniti Financial and the payoff on the vehicle is $30,036.14 until 2-12-01 which I thought was reasonable since I had a lease with them. For a $50 transfer fee I could include the first two years of scheduled maintenance at any dealership or tune-up place for free through a contract I have.
My question is, should I try and sell this vehicle now while it is still almost new or should I wait a year and then try? I would be willing to sell it for the payoff amount and just eat the amount I put down and the amount I have paid on the car so far.
I think the market value vs. your payoff will be more unfavorable to you in a year than it is now. On a lease or balloon payment buy which are popular in Texas because of lease laws, your principal reduction amount in your payment will not equal the depreciation in the first year. You have low miles (2K) and the 2002 will be here with their bigger engine and price in just a few months so your car will be a year old before it is actually a year old if you know what I mean. I would strike now if you are determined to rid yourself of it within a year.
Sounds like you may have been happier in an I30t. The curb weight on new bodystyle Infiniti has increased to approx. 3400 lbs vs. previous bodystyle of 3150 lbs which was quasi clone of Maxima so that is bound to have some affect on how nimbly the car handles and responds. It seems to me with the lack of a 5 speed manual and increased curb weight that they are positioning the vehicle as strictly as a near luxury car with some "sport" thrown in with the I30t. (the 3400 lb. curb weight is in alignment with other near luxury vehicle curb weights).
Good luck in your search. The cars you sound like you are interested in, BMW (I assume 3 series), Acura and maybe Lexus IS300 are not known for their new car discounts but they do retain their value. Again, I think you may have some difficulty in selling it now for 30K, but it will worth thousands less in a year. Probably around 25K. My two cents
I'll let you know what response I get from my dealer on the wind problem. I might be able to live with it if the car were four or five years old and the door or window seals had deteriorated somewhat. My Legend was ten years old and never had a similar problem, nor my '87 Integra or '95 Integra.
mhammy84: let's have a cold beer or a martini so we can get you calmed down. I wasn't attacking you, just making an observation on your many responses to complaints from Infiniti owners. Infiniti __lemon's situation and Infiniti's response is reprehensible. My position is that no one should have to invent their own solution to a manufacturing problem on a new car. I'm all for giving the dealer and Infiniti a chance and will do so. Just keep in mind the customer oriented response received by our QX4 friend. Oh, by the way, I just know you'll ask why I didn't stay with Acura after filling my garage with them for fourteen years. The reason is: I wanted to get on the Infiniti message board with you!
ahh, i will only have the drink if you join me...the alcohol will make you understand what I am saying. I am very calm already anyway, my problems are all fixed What I found from my problems was that the dealer I was working with never stepped forward to solve the problem...instead just made up excuses and brushed me off. I therefore had to find the TSBs that were related to my problems, and move to a diff. dealership...I turned out being lucky that the new dealership was very nice. My entire point is that you guys are seriously going to have to wait until the slow Infiniti folks resolve the issue for themselves...and from what you wrote to djrunner, you are in fact sounding patient now. I was merely trying to calm you down before...just advising you to be patient. By the way...the only time I made a response on a complaint to an Infiniti owner was djrunner, and you decided to step in. Fine...now that its all over and we both understand...you can sell your Infiniti so that you dont have to be here with me. In fact, i would seriously recommend you sell the Infiniti and go back to Acura...as I just purchased two of them last year (new 3.2TL and 3.2CL-S) and they are both very beautiful, trouble-free cars, that in my opinion, are much better than the I30.
I have been test driving a '97 I30 and a '96 TL. To those of you who have own these cars what is your impression? I'm leaning toward the I30 at this point because of the price and it is still under warranty. I'm concerned now though about the resale value of the car down the road. Also which in your opinions provides better performance? I am 24 years old, does the I30 look more like an older person's car?
I may sound dumb, but what is TSB you are referring to? Where and how can I find them? Thanks. I have an I30 1999 and find this forum very useful. I also had a blower motor noise problem on the low speed. My dealer took care of it by installing sound damper. (He had told me though that he had replaced the motor, but receipt says different.
We recently noticed the wind noise in our 2000 I-30. We did not realize the noise until we rode in the back seat. It was very noticeable. Our dealership agreed and replaced the window seals. The service manager mentioned that he had done this on other I-30s. It seemed to help to fix the problem on the left side but now the right side is loud. I am planning on having them check it on my next service. Infiniti of Baton Rouge was helpful on the repair.
I would recommend I30. The 96-99 TL have very bland and unexciting styling to me. The I30 has a nice look to it with the front grille, the profile will be the same as a Maxima and the rear I think looks better with a spoiler.
While both are reliable cars, I think the I30 is one of Consumer Reports top used cars. The I30 has a more luxurious appearance with its interior.
Your comment about it being an old person's car is interesting. That is the kind of payback/brand image they deserve and are creating by increasing the size, weight, more conservative yet luxurious appearance, and lack of 5 speed with the 2000 model positioning the car as purely a luxury vehicle which typically appeals to an older crowd.
I called a local Infiniti dealer to see if they could find me a 1998 I30t 5 speed. His first comment to me was "it's a luxury car" so why in the world would you expect it to have a 5 speed. Then why do you want a I30t, it's more rough riding than all these base I30's in automatic they had. I have given up on finding a I30t and am switching my focus to a Maxima SE.
Bottom line, I think the I30 is a handsome car and would much rather be seen in it than a 96 Acura TL.
I recently purchased a 2001 I30 in December and am 25 years old. I thought about the I30 being marketed toward older folks but as for me, I got the car I though looked nicer and fit my needs. Image wasn't as important as my main criteria: Safety, Interior Space, and Convenience. Decide on what characteristics important to you, then make the choice with that. If image is important, choose the car that meets that image requirement.
I'm considering purchasing an I30 luxury, my wife has a G20 and when we were at the dealership for our last oil change, the salesperson was telling me about some changes that are coming to the I30, mainly the increased horse power and cosmetic changes. He said the "new" i30 should be available this summer. A couple of weeks ago I noticed they had an add in the paper for a 2001 I30 luxury for 25,990. I think that was the price, I know it was just under 26k. I'm sure the car had few options but still the price sounds great. Now my problem is this: the price seems almost to low! I've noticed that the I30 doesn't seem to hold it's value as well as other cars in the same class. The Acura 3.2 TL for example. When this new I30 becomes available I'm sure the resale value of the current I30 will decline even faster. Is there a perceived lack of quality on the current I30 compared to other cars in this class or could the dealership be trying to rid themselves of excess inventory to make room for the new vehicles. In any event, I don't want to own a new car whose value may decrease so quickly. Perhaps I'll wait for the new version of the I30.
To Williamc1: Thanks for the info about the wind noise problem. My dealership doesn't want to change out the seals without the manufacturer specifying that as a fix for the problem. They only want to fix things that have a TSB backing the problem up. I have written letters to the manufacturer and to the owner of my local dealership to see when the problem may be resolved.
Let Exlegend and me know if your dealership solves the problem. I may have to have my dealership in Mobile,AL contact your's in Baton Rouge.
I mentioned in an earlier posting that a friend of mine just bought a 2001 I30t for a little over $30K. In talking with the sales staff, they indicated they had only a couple of I30t's left and were pushing the I30L's which they had a bunch of. With the new model coming in a few months, they are advertising in paper a $26,900 price which is not bad. From what I have heard, the prices they were willing to sell one for was higher earlier in the model year which is par for the course in the auto business. I have even heard that Acura 3.2TL is being discounted now. I know someone who bought one earlier this summer and paid full msrp.
It is true that Acura 3.2 and Lexus ES300 in same model year do bring a higher price. I've checked. That is good if you are looking for a used vehicle because the I30 is a comparable car performance and reliability wise and that is reason I was looking for a 98 I30t.
Why is that so? Probably a myriad of reasons but if you recall when Infiniti and Lexus followed Acura into the upscale car market (while Caddy and Lincoln continued to produce leaky land yachts) Infiniti marketing and advertising wasn't as well recieved as Lexus and the LS400 was favorably compared to Mercedes for thousands less while the Q45 tried for a more sportier image with less creature comforts. Lexus quickly left Infiniti in the dust in the sales race and hasn't looked back since. Also, most reviews on the I30 lamented that there was little difference between the 30 and Maxima so the 5k price difference wasn't worth it. If you look at used car prices today a Maxima SE sells in some cases for more than a same model year I30. While there were some complaints (and still are) about the Lexus ES300 being a glorified Camry it was very well received and became a benchmark. We were just entering the 90's and economic boom years and Lexus offered a viable alternative to pricey european makes and baby boomers had grown frustrated with American choices in cars. (not trucks however where America is still king) Anyway, they have capitalized on their reputation and Infiniti is still playing catch up. A comparable situation might be Audi. The unintended acceleration problems in the 5000 hurt their reputation for many years. I was able to get an good value in a 92 100CS as a result. Once they came out with the excellent A4 and gave it the credentials to compete with the 3 series and later the redesigned A6 it has raised the resale values on their vehicles.
If Infiniti would come out with some hot exciting product the potential is there. To me, the conservative yet elegant styling on the current I30 means they are trying to emulate Lexus and it is going to be hard to beat those guys with their established reputation. If they were to position the vehicle with a sportier image, like a Japanese BMW/Audi I think success could come more quickly and improve desirability of the cars and hence demand.
I'll bet the lowball price you saw on the I30L was for one of the sunroof-delete models (which would be next to impossible to sell down the road). Those were about $2k less than the regular I30L's to begin with. Otherwise, it sounds like a great deal. We have a 2000 I30L (Titanium w/ sage interior) and we love it. No complaints.
I think the 97 I30's front styling is very nice...however, the rear styling isnt too great. It looks good from certain angles. The only problem with the I30 is the large gaps between the tires and the body...where I live, there would be no reasonable way to remedy this (using those lowering springs would either damage my car's performance, or the snow/ice would scrape the bottom too frequently). I like the conservative styling...it keeps the I30 looking in a more "stately" manner, whereas the TL is frequently modified by younger folks (being a Honda vehicle). However, the 96 TL also does look very nice from the front and back in my opinion. That generation of TL wasnt extremely unpopular...I see many around my town. I would check up on both car's most frequent problems, and try to determine which car (96 or 97) exhibits the least amount of problems. Also, the 97 IS a year younger...just one more plus.
I have a 97 Infiniti I30 and recently the brakes started to squeak really bad. We finally got it to the shop and got new brake pads. For about a day maybe not even the brakes started to put out a very loud noise. 2 more times we put it in the shop to get new brake pads using different qualities. Finally we figured out that in order to stop the noise the car required INFINITI brake pads. so if you are having the same problem go straight for the original pads for the car.
Hi, how are you all? can anyone here give me a hand? looking forward to buy I30 in 2 wks. i would like to know the price you bought and where did you get it from? any special promotion or rebates and so on... thanks for your help
I paid 28K for my I30L last month in NJ. My car has traction control, CD changer, Heated seats package, and splash guards. The price included everything but tax, and registration. I think you may have chance to do better than me. Good luck.
if anyone has the link for the TSB for the Transmission Control Module on the 2000 I30 it would be appreciated. i am taking it to be replaced and i would like to show the dealer proof that it needs replacing.
mhammy... does this suprise you? i called and the guy i talked to didnt have a clue of what i was talking about. He said the check engine light should come on if it needs replacing. Its not an engine problem! Well, im kinda looking forward to seeing how ignorant they are. If me or my dad had time to take it to Dorschel or Doan i would but i dont.
VTGT....Which Dealer did you purchase from in New Jersey? I am considering purchasing from Holman Infiniti in South Jersey. Please let me know your about your experience with the Dealer you purchased from.
I have been monitoring this discussion for several months now. I appreciate all of the information that has been contributed. Also looking for positive/negative feedback on Infiniti Dealers in the DC Metro Area. Thank you for your assistance. Best regards.
I drove a friend's '00 Maxima SE to determine what the concern is with the TCM. My friend claims the car lags...and I did see a little of that...but not enough to bother me on my first drive (although, I am pretty sure it would grow on you after driving it for a few months).
redskin: I would avoid Autoplace at ALL cost...they are just a WASTE of time, and a bunch of useless idiots like I have said MANY times. It seems like EVERYONE there is like that, even the visiting "factory reps" who they seem to worship (for NO reason...the rep for Autoplace and Rochester is the MOST USELESS jackass...the cheif tech at Dorschel should be in his place instead!). By the way, only Dorschel has an Infiniti dealership, as Doan had sold it to Dorschel. Its about a 70 mi. drive. Good luck!
I bought my I30L at Ray Catena in Edision (Rt 1). They were pretty good and they have a lot of choices (they are big). I had no problem with them. However, you should know what you want to buy and what you want to pay for it. Otherwise, don't expect them to give you the "rock bottom" price.
This looks like what they had replaced in my I30 to fix the Service Engine Soon warning. I posted the details in post number 447.
The service manager claimed that he had never heard of that problem occurring before and that mine was the first vehicle they (Crest) had serviced with this problem. He also claimed at that time that there was no TSB regarding this issue. I wonder if their mechanics found the faulty solenoid problem themselves.
Interesting how we who read this forum are more informed than some Infiniti Service Centers, eh?
I agree with regarding the people in service for Infiniti. I am still deciding whether to bring my car in for the 1st to 2nd slip. It does not always happen when the car is warmed up, but if it is anything less then fully warmed up it is very noticeable. If I bring it in to Infiniti and they test drive it they probably will not notice the problem since the car is fully warmed up.
Comments
Better yet, has anyone gotten their "windtunnel" fixed? I did not hear the wind noise from the
rear window on my earlier test drive of another I30. And no, the Bose wasn't cranking at the time, either. It's not bad for under $29,000, but Infiniti could do some minor upgrades to really make this car stand out, like a five-speed auto tranny and standard Xenon headlights on the luxury model. But first, fix the rear window roar!
Here's your Motortrend forecast for the next few years. Hope this helps you.
http://www.motortrend.com/future/index.html
George
After having ordered an I30L, I read in this forum (somewhere) several complaints about an air leak or high volume wind noise around the rear window. As I stated earlier, I did not hear it when I test drove an I30L. When I took delivery of mine last Saturday, I could
hear a loud wind noise from the rear window, as if one of the side rear windows was partially opened. I checked both the rear side windows via the window buttons, as well as visually. They were closed tightly. However, anytime I reach 50 mph or higher, the noise is
so noticeable that it sounds like a wind tunnel behind me. Several people have written stating they had the same problem with their I30. I was trying to find out if Infiniti came up with a solution for this problem, or if anyone has solved it on their own (without using a large amount of volume from the Bose to mask the noise).
If you re not noticing the noise, you don't have a complaint. Enjoy.
front view of XVL:
http://detnews.com/2000/concepts/0001/31/01110033.htm
http://www.autoworld.com/news/infiniti/infiniti_xvl_concept.asp
http://www.freshalloy.com/cars/nissan/xvl/xvl01.html
I have found the model matrix again, scroll 3/4 of the way down to see the Infiniti models, it briefly mentions the Infiniti "QE" which was the GS400 equivelant I mentioned before:
http://www.freshalloy.com/cars/nissan/nissan_matrix.html
enjoy!
A few of you were upset when we confirmed that the 2002 Q45 would not look like the beautifully chiseled Japanese market Cedric and Gloria twins. Those people, and a lot more, were excited when we reported on March 20th, that Infiniti is working on a fire breather of it's own to challenge the Lexus GS400 and BMW 540i. Well, you will be surprised and overjoyed by what we have to say...
According to our source, apparently Infiniti has given the green light to a large sports sedan code-named "QE." The car is basically an aggressive version of Nissan's well received Japanese market Gloria that will slot just under the new Q45. According to our source, the concept shown looks exactly like the Gloria with the exception of the prerequisite Infiniti logos and badges. Powering it will be a 4.5L V-8 with an estimated 330 bhp!
Infiniti's car line-up is sure going to grow with the "QE" and don't forget the other sedan that will be based on the XVL. Speaking of the XVL, word is that, at the New York Auto Show, Infiniti will enlighten us as to what will be the future of the car in the US. We of course. are counting the days.
AND...just in case you guys were wondering what the current Japanese market Gloria or Cedric even look like, here are links to some pictures:
Cedric
http://www.nissan.co.jp/CEDRIC/Y34/9906/GALLERY/gallery_1.html
Gloria
http://www.nissan.co.jp/GLORIA/Y34/0010/EXTERIOR/index_main.html
Like I mentioned in my earlier post, I have been in the market for I30 for about 3 months.
When I test drove I30t I heard lot of wind and tire noise(even more than my 1995 Chrysler Cirrus). I have no other complains about I30t other than the wind/tire noise.
What is holding me to buy 2001 I30t model is it's wind/tire noise and speculative future changes to it like --> 5-speed transmission, more HP and interior/exterior design changes for 2002.
As with any car buyer, no body likes to buy a car that will have major changes in there next year model, in this case only 6 months from now.
So I would really appreciate if anybody out there is kind enough to share, if there are going to be any above mentioned changes in the 2002 model.
1.) Blower motor (for A/C or heat) made a loud flutter noise on lower fan speeds, mostly in the summer time. There is a TSB for this for 2000 model Infiniti I30s also...they basically put this plastic cover on top of the motor so as to insulate the noise better. Dealer never witnessed the noise, but took my word for it and installed it anyway.
2.) Rough idle/erratic idling: The technician adjusted the target idle directly on the ECM (not the base idle screw from inside the engine compartment), adjusted it up 50 RPMs to attempt to eliminate the rough idle/vibration i was experiencing. It made a big difference, but still vibrates more than it should in my opinion (at idle, the car is not quiet either...its rather rough sounding). Anyhow, I am happy with it now...sascuderi, just wondering if your dealer actually went over the details with you about how they "reprogrammed the ECU" on your car?
3.) Rattle behind dashboard due to a noisy brake valve inside a hose. Infiniti had new hoses sent out to eliminate the pressure build-up, and the problem is now solved.
4.) Loud squeak noise when I start my car after sitting in cold overnight or for more than 2-4 hours in 20 degree weather. They couldnt do anything about this problem since my car wasnt cold when I brought it there...
I think they did a very good job with the fixes. I am happy.
Keep me posted if you find out any solutions.
STEVE
Here is the website detailing my problems with Infiniti/Nissan over my lemon QX4. Putting the finishing touches on it this week, and I'm thinking about buying an appropriate domain name for it.
read all about it:
http://sleepwalk.home.mindspring.com
After having briefly scanned his website and fully reading the timeline, all I can say is that I really feel bad for you. Its disgusting to think of how Infiniti could sell you a 38K SUV with problem after problem, and not even offer you a new one at their expense. After all, Infiniti pays for brand new Q45s for their regional senior technicians...the one I met with was a worthless, COMPLETELY useless person who ABSOLUTELY DID NOT deserve to drive that car on Infiniti's money. Since the day I met with him and learned he was driving that car for free, I have always thought of how stupid it is for Infiniti to refuse completely OBVIOUS lemon repurchases, but spend generously on useless regional tech's.
To Mhammy84: Didn't mean to offend you so much. I'm surprised how my own regrets have affected you. Sorry if I led you to believe that I had only made one service trip. I didn't want to go into the whole ordeal and end up sounding like a whiner. The car has been in multiple times to the closest dealer (75 miles one way). I have not taken the car to any other dealer, because it would be over 200 miles. I would probably be less aggrevated if Infiniti could be a little more forth coming with information. Talking with Consumer Affairs is like talking with the dealership. No one knows anything. I now realize how silly it was of me to think that a $30,000 car should be considered higher quality than say my 1991 Acura Integra (which by the way does not have a wind tunnel).
My living conditions may change and I am considering getting something a little more sports-oriented like a BMW or maybe an Acura CL. I called Infiniti Financial and the payoff on the vehicle is $30,036.14 until 2-12-01 which I thought was reasonable since I had a lease with them. For a $50 transfer fee I could include the first two years of scheduled maintenance at any dealership or tune-up place for free through a contract I have.
My question is, should I try and sell this vehicle now while it is still almost new or should I wait a year and then try? I would be willing to sell it for the payoff amount and just eat the amount I put down and the amount I have paid on the car so far.
Thanks,
tholden1@hotmail.com
Dallas, TX
I think the market value vs. your payoff will be more unfavorable to you in a year than it is now.
On a lease or balloon payment buy which are popular in Texas because of lease laws, your principal reduction amount in your payment will not equal the depreciation in the first year.
You have low miles (2K) and the 2002 will be here with their bigger engine and price in just a few months so your car will be a year old before it is actually a year old if you know what I mean. I would strike now if you are determined to rid yourself of it within a year.
Sounds like you may have been happier in an I30t.
The curb weight on new bodystyle Infiniti has increased to approx. 3400 lbs vs. previous bodystyle of 3150 lbs which was quasi clone of Maxima so that is bound to have some affect on how nimbly the car handles and responds. It seems to me with the lack of a 5 speed manual and increased curb weight that they are positioning the vehicle as strictly as a near luxury car with some "sport" thrown in with the I30t. (the 3400 lb. curb weight is in alignment with other near luxury vehicle curb weights).
Good luck in your search. The cars you sound like you are interested in, BMW (I assume 3 series), Acura and maybe Lexus IS300 are not known for their new car discounts but they do retain their value. Again, I think you may have some difficulty in selling it now for 30K, but it will worth thousands less in a year. Probably around 25K. My two cents
I'll let you know what response I get from my dealer on the wind problem. I might be able to live with it if the car were four or five years old and the door or window seals had deteriorated somewhat. My Legend was ten years old and never had a similar problem, nor my '87 Integra or '95 Integra.
mhammy84: let's have a cold beer or a martini so we can get you calmed down. I wasn't attacking you, just making an observation on your many responses to complaints from Infiniti owners. Infiniti __lemon's situation and Infiniti's response is reprehensible.
My position is that no one should have to invent their own solution to a manufacturing problem on a new car. I'm all for giving the dealer and Infiniti a chance and will do so. Just keep in mind the customer oriented response received by our QX4 friend. Oh, by the way, I just know you'll ask why I didn't stay with Acura after filling my garage with them for fourteen years. The reason is: I wanted to get on the Infiniti message board with you!
I have an I30 1999 and find this forum very useful. I also had a blower motor noise problem on the low speed. My dealer took care of it by installing sound damper. (He had told me though that he had replaced the motor, but receipt says different.
While both are reliable cars, I think the I30 is one of Consumer Reports top used cars. The I30 has a more luxurious appearance with its interior.
Your comment about it being an old person's car is interesting. That is the kind of payback/brand image they deserve and are creating by increasing the size, weight, more conservative yet luxurious appearance, and lack of 5 speed with the 2000 model positioning the car as purely a luxury vehicle which typically appeals to an older crowd.
I called a local Infiniti dealer to see if they could find me a 1998 I30t 5 speed. His first comment to me was "it's a luxury car" so why in the world would you expect it to have a 5 speed. Then why do you want a I30t, it's more rough riding than all these base I30's in automatic they had. I have given up on finding a I30t and am switching my focus to a Maxima SE.
Bottom line, I think the I30 is a handsome car and would much rather be seen in it than a 96 Acura TL.
mainly the increased horse power and cosmetic changes. He said the "new" i30 should be available this summer. A couple of weeks ago I noticed they had an add in the paper for a 2001
I30 luxury for 25,990. I think that was the price, I know it was just under 26k. I'm sure the car had few options but still the price sounds great. Now my problem is this: the price seems almost to low! I've noticed that the I30
doesn't seem to hold it's value as well as other cars in the same class. The Acura 3.2 TL for example. When this new I30 becomes available I'm sure the resale value of the current I30 will decline even faster. Is there a perceived lack of quality on the current I30 compared to other cars in this class or could the dealership be trying to rid themselves of excess inventory to make room for the new vehicles. In any event, I
don't want to own a new car whose value may decrease so quickly. Perhaps I'll wait for the new version of the I30.
Let Exlegend and me know if your dealership solves the problem. I may have to have my dealership in Mobile,AL contact your's in Baton Rouge.
It is true that Acura 3.2 and Lexus ES300 in same model year do bring a higher price. I've checked. That is good if you are looking for a used vehicle because the I30 is a comparable car performance and reliability wise and that is reason I was looking for a 98 I30t.
Why is that so? Probably a myriad of reasons but if you recall when Infiniti and Lexus followed Acura into the upscale car market (while Caddy and Lincoln continued to produce leaky land yachts) Infiniti marketing and advertising wasn't as well recieved as Lexus and the LS400 was favorably compared to Mercedes for thousands less while the Q45 tried for a more sportier image with less creature comforts. Lexus quickly left Infiniti in the dust in the sales race and hasn't looked back since. Also, most reviews on the I30 lamented that there was little difference between the 30 and Maxima so the 5k price difference wasn't worth it. If you look at used car prices today a Maxima SE sells in some cases for more than a same model year I30. While there were some complaints (and still are) about the Lexus ES300 being a glorified Camry it was very well received and became a benchmark. We were just entering the 90's and economic boom years and Lexus offered a viable alternative to pricey european makes and baby boomers had grown frustrated with American choices in cars. (not trucks however where America is still king)
Anyway, they have capitalized on their reputation and Infiniti is still playing catch up. A comparable situation might be Audi. The unintended acceleration problems in the 5000 hurt their reputation for many years. I was able to get an good value in a 92 100CS as a result.
Once they came out with the excellent A4 and gave it the credentials to compete with the 3 series and later the redesigned A6 it has raised the resale values on their vehicles.
If Infiniti would come out with some hot exciting product the potential is there. To me, the conservative yet elegant styling on the current I30 means they are trying to emulate Lexus and it is going to be hard to beat those guys with their established reputation. If they were to position the vehicle with a sportier image, like a Japanese BMW/Audi I think success could come more quickly and improve desirability of the cars and hence demand.
looking forward to buy I30 in 2 wks. i would like to know the price you bought and where did you get it from? any special promotion or rebates and so on...
thanks for your help
I paid 28K for my I30L last month in NJ. My car has traction control, CD changer, Heated seats package, and splash guards. The price included everything but tax, and registration. I think you may have chance to do better than me. Good luck.
mhammy... does this suprise you? i called and the guy i talked to didnt have a clue of what i was talking about. He said the check engine light should come on if it needs replacing. Its not an engine problem! Well, im kinda looking forward to seeing how ignorant they are. If me or my dad had time to take it to Dorschel or Doan i would but i dont.
I have been monitoring this discussion for several months now. I appreciate all of the information that has been contributed. Also looking for positive/negative feedback on Infiniti Dealers in the DC Metro Area. Thank you for your assistance. Best regards.
redskin: I would avoid Autoplace at ALL cost...they are just a WASTE of time, and a bunch of useless idiots like I have said MANY times. It seems like EVERYONE there is like that, even the visiting "factory reps" who they seem to worship (for NO reason...the rep for Autoplace and Rochester is the MOST USELESS jackass...the cheif tech at Dorschel should be in his place instead!). By the way, only Dorschel has an Infiniti dealership, as Doan had sold it to Dorschel. Its about a 70 mi. drive. Good luck!
http://www.his.com/~wc/maxima/tsb039.pdf
George
I bought my I30L at Ray Catena in Edision (Rt 1). They were pretty good and they have a lot of choices (they are big). I had no problem with them. However, you should know what you want to buy and what you want to pay for it. Otherwise, don't expect them to give you the "rock bottom" price.
The service manager claimed that he had never heard of that problem occurring before and that mine was the first vehicle they (Crest) had serviced with this problem. He also claimed at that time that there was no TSB regarding this issue. I wonder if their mechanics found the faulty solenoid problem themselves.
Interesting how we who read this forum are more informed than some Infiniti Service Centers, eh?
Thanks