Infiniti M30 problems

infiniti logo

The Infiniti M is a line of mid-size luxury (executive) cars from the Infiniti luxury division of Nissan. From 2013 (model year 2014) on it has been marketed as the Infiniti Q70, reflecting the company's new naming scheme.

The first iteration was the M30 Coupé/Convertible, which were rebadged JDM Nissan Leopard. After a long hiatus, the M nameplate was used for Infiniti's mid-luxury sedans (executive cars). First was the short-lived M45 sedan, a rebadged version of the Japanese-spec Nissan Gloria. The next generations, the M35/45 and M37/56/35h/30d, became the flagship of the Infiniti brand and are based on the JDM Nissan Fuga.

First generation (1989–1992)

The Infiniti M30 was a 2-door coupé based on the Japanese market Nissan Leopard (chassis code F31). It was launched in 1989 for the 1990 model year as a luxury coupe alternative to the Infiniti Q45, and was intended to be an alternative to the Lexus SC and Acura Legend coupe for the North American market.

Unlike its competitors that were designed with the American market in mind and were launched as brand-new models, the M30 was based on a somewhat dated platform that was originally designed for the Japanese market; when the Leopard was imported to the United States, few changes were made to the exterior but the interior was revised to better suit American tastes; a leather interior was standard in the M30, and several features in the Leopard such as a center-mounted television screen and a digital instrument cluster weren't available in the M30 as those features were perceived as gimmicks in western car markets.

The M30's angular design aesthetics and on-road performance were viewed as outdated, especially considering a redesigned Acura Legend coupe was launched in 1991. The interior came in for criticism for its outdated ergonomics and lack of room. While the Japanese-market Leopard had received a new dashboard along with the 1988 facelift, economics precluded making a left-hand-drive version of the new dashboard and the M30 was instead fitted with the LHD version of the R31 Skyline's rectilinear dashboard, first presented in 1985.

The M30 made up for these deficiencies in its somewhat lower price; whereas the 1990 Acura Legend coupe started at $27,325 before options and the 1990 BMW 325i started at $24,650 before options, the M30 started at $23,500, and had no factory options, per Infiniti's pricing structure used at the time. Dealerships offered an in-car cellular telephone and in-dash CD player as optional accessories, amongst other items.

photo of Infiniti M30 car production

Social links

Infiniti M30 model years

infiniti m30 1992 photo
M30 1992
Infiniti

0

1

8

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
infiniti m30 1991 photo
M30 1991
Infiniti

0

2

8

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
infiniti m30 1990 photo
M30 1990
Infiniti

0

2

2

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Infiniti M30 problems

The Infiniti M30 is a luxury car produced by Nissan's luxury brand, Infiniti, from 1990 to 1992. While the car was well-received for its sleek styling and powerful engine, there were several common problems reported by owners of the Infiniti M30.

One of the most common issues reported by Infiniti M30 owners is related to the car's engine, particularly the VG30DE engine. Owners have reported issues such as oil leaks, overheating, and blown head gaskets. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor maintenance, worn-out parts, or design flaws in the engine. To prevent these issues, it is recommended that owners regularly check their engine oil levels and have their engine inspected by a qualified mechanic.

The fuel system has also been known to cause problems for some M30 owners. Issues range from fuel pump failures to fuel tank and line issues. These problems can cause the car to have difficulty starting, stalling, or experiencing a loss of power while driving. To address these issues, it is recommended that owners have their fuel system inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.

The suspension and brake systems have also caused problems for some M30 owners. Complaints include worn out suspension components and brake calipers. These problems can cause the car to have poor handling, difficulty stopping, or uneven tire wear. To prevent these issues, it is recommended that owners have their suspension and brake systems inspected and replaced as necessary.

Electrical system issues are also a common problem for Infiniti M30 owners. The alternator and starter motor are both prone to failure. These problems can cause the car to have difficulty starting or experiencing a loss of power while driving. To address these issues, it is recommended that owners have their electrical system inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.

Cooling system problems, such as radiator and water pump failures, have also been reported by Infiniti M30 owners. These problems can cause the car to overheat, which can lead to engine damage or failure. To prevent these issues, it is recommended that owners regularly check their cooling system and have it inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.

Transmission issues have also been reported by some Infiniti M30 owners. Both automatic and manual models have experienced problems, including premature transmission failures and failed torque converters. These problems can cause the car to have difficulty shifting or experiencing a loss of power while driving. To prevent these issues, it is recommended that owners regularly check their transmission fluid levels and have their transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic.

Finally, the exhaust system has caused issues for some M30 owners, with exhaust manifold and catalytic converter problems. These problems can cause the car to have a loud exhaust noise or experience a loss of power while driving. To address these issues, it is recommended that owners have their exhaust system inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.

In terms of the car's body and interior, paint and body issues as well as interior problems such as cracked dashboards and failing seatbelts have been reported. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor maintenance, wear and tear, or design flaws in the car. To prevent these issues, it is recommended that owners regularly inspect their car's body and interior and have any issues repaired by a qualified mechanic.

In summary, the Infiniti M30 was a stylish and enjoyable car to drive, but it was not without its share of problems. It's important for prospective owners to carefully inspect the vehicle before purchasing and to stay on top of regular maintenance in order to mitigate any potential issues.

Infiniti M30

Is Infiniti expensive to repair?

The average annual repair cost for a INFINITI is $638, which means it has above average ownership costs.

What is the Nissan equivalent to the Infiniti M30?

Nissan Leopard

The Infiniti M30 was a 2-door coupé based on the Japanese market Nissan Leopard (chassis code F31). It was launched in 1989 for the 1990 model year as a luxury coupe alternative to the Infiniti Q45, and was intended to be an alternative to the Lexus SC and Acura Legend coupe for the North American market.

Are Infinitis reliable after 100k miles?

In fact, if a car is well-maintained and has been regularly serviced, it can last for well over 100,000 miles with no issues. INFINITI of Warwick has put together a guide for shopping for used cars, including the main factors you should consider and how to choose a car based on mileage.

How often do Infinitis break down?

Frequency. The average INFINITI visits a repair shop approximately 0.7 times a year for unscheduled repairs.

Latest 5 recalls Infiniti M30

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the Infiniti M30.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Infiniti M30 1991
  • Report Received Date: 1995-11-01
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
  • Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. THE CAMPAIGN WILL REPLACE THE FUEL INJECTORS AND RELATED HOSES OF AFFECTED VEHICLES WHICH COULD LEAK.
  • Consequence: FUEL LEAKS IN THE ENGINE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: NISSAN DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL INJECTORS AND RELATED HOSES ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES.
  • Model: Infiniti M30 1992
  • Report Received Date: 1995-11-01
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
  • Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. THE CAMPAIGN WILL REPLACE THE FUEL INJECTORS AND RELATED HOSES OF AFFECTED VEHICLES WHICH COULD LEAK.
  • Consequence: FUEL LEAKS IN THE ENGINE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: NISSAN DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL INJECTORS AND RELATED HOSES ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES.
  • Model: Infiniti M30 1990
  • Report Received Date: 1995-11-01
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
  • Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. THE CAMPAIGN WILL REPLACE THE FUEL INJECTORS AND RELATED HOSES OF AFFECTED VEHICLES WHICH COULD LEAK.
  • Consequence: FUEL LEAKS IN THE ENGINE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: NISSAN DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL INJECTORS AND RELATED HOSES ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES.
  • Model: Infiniti M30 1991
  • Report Received Date: 1995-05-24
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
  • Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE.
  • Model: Infiniti M30 1990
  • Report Received Date: 1995-05-24
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
  • Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE.

Latest negative Infiniti M30 car reviews

  1. Curtis Streich 2024-10-19

    Vehicle year: 1992

    The engine is great, although there have been some transmission issues. It's essentially a Maxima, but still a worthwhile purchase despite the known problems.

  2. Rusty Schiller 2024-09-08

    Vehicle year: 1991

    The engine is great, although there have been some transmission issues. It is essentially a Maxima, but still a worthwhile purchase despite the known transmission problems.

  3. Fred Rippin 2024-06-28

    Vehicle year: 1991

    This car may not be a sports car, but it is a luxurious one. Despite having a V6, it may be considered underpowered. However, I really like this car, especially because I love convertibles and needed something for commuting that would be suitable for winters. I have found this vehicle to be reliable and fuel-efficient (26 mi/gal). The interior styling is pretty cool, with real wood veneer around the dash, doors, and console. Additionally, it has some nice and convenient features. One of the drawbacks of this car is the cost of repairs. If you need to bring it to the dealership, be prepared to pay a hefty price. So far, I have been lucky.

  4. Stephon Waters 2024-05-11

    Vehicle year: 1990

    Great car except for poor gasoline mileage

  5. Wallace Kassulke 2024-03-11

    Vehicle year: 1992

    This car may not be a sports car, but it is a luxurious one. Despite having a V6, it may be considered underpowered. However, I really like this car, especially because I love convertibles and needed something for commuting that would be suitable for winters. I have found this vehicle to be reliable and fuel-efficient, with a mileage of 26 mi/gal. The interior styling is pretty cool, with real wood veneer around the dash, doors, and console. Additionally, it has some nice and convenient features. One of the cons of this car is the repair costs. If you need to bring it to the dealership, be prepared to pay a hefty amount. So far, I have been lucky though.

Latest positive Infiniti M30 car reviews

  1. Dedrick Cummerata 2024-11-20

    Vehicle year: 1991

    Great running car! I love it. However, every time it rains hard, it won't start for 2 days. Does anyone know why? It's like something gets wet when parked in the driveway.

  2. Joesph Smitham 2024-11-10

    Vehicle year: 1991

    Welcome to this beautiful Infiniti! This car is a rare gem, and with your love and care, it will serve you well. It was ordered back in 1990 and has only had two owners, of which I am the second. The mileage is low as I only use it for work and shopping. Although it needs some work, which is expected for a 20+ year old car, I have already replaced many parts, including all 4 brakes. Thank you for considering this wonderful car!

  3. Rickey Hettinger 2024-10-21

    Vehicle year: 1991

    This car is amazing! Despite being a bit old, it's incredibly reliable. I haven't had any major issues with it, and I think it's a high-quality vehicle. The Nissan engine is built to last, and with proper maintenance, it could easily last another 10 years. The only downside is that it's a bit small for my 6'8

  4. Linwood Renner 2024-09-03

    Vehicle year: 1992

    I would definitely recommend this car, especially if it has low mileage. I purchased mine with 76K miles and it has been an absolute joy to drive. The reliability has been nearly perfect, with only minor brake work needed. While the convertible top mechanisms don't work as well as they did originally, this is to be expected after 14 years of use.

  5. Terrell Reinger 2024-08-10

    Vehicle year: 1992

    This is a well-built luxury sports car.

Are you having problems with your Infiniti M30?

Add car complaint
Infiniti M30 photo