2009 Infiniti M45 problems

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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The M30's angular design aesthetics and on-road performance were viewed as outdated, especially considering a redesigned Acura Legend coupe was launched in 1991. The interior came in for criticism for its outdated ergonomics and lack of room.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.

2009 Infiniti M45

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Common 2009 Infiniti M45 problems

The Infiniti M45, a luxury sedan produced by the Japanese automaker, is known for its powerful VK45DE engine and stylish design. However, like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems that have been reported by owners.

One of the most common issues with the Infiniti M45 is related to the engine. The timing chain tensioners in the 2003-2004 models have been known to wear out prematurely, leading to a rattling noise in the engine. Replacement of the failed sensors is the only solution to this problem.

Oil leaks from the valve covers and oil pan are another common issue with all models of the Infiniti M45. These leaks can lead to a low oil level in the engine, which can cause premature engine wear and failure. To solve this problem, it's important to have the valve covers and oil pan gaskets replaced and to ensure that the engine's oil level is regularly checked and maintained.

Overheating due to a failed radiator is another common problem with the 2003-2004 models of Infiniti M45. A failed radiator can cause the engine to overheat, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure if not addressed promptly. Replacement of the faulty radiator is the only solution to this problem.

In addition to engine problems, the Infiniti M45 is also known to have transmission issues. Some of the common transmission problems experienced by Infiniti M45 owners include delayed or harsh shifting, transmission fluid leaks, and failed torque converters. These issues can lead to a less than smooth driving experience and can be costly to repair.

Another common issue reported by Infiniti M45 owners is related to the moonroof. A rattle is a commonly reported problem, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including loose screws or worn out parts.

Finally, some owners have reported issues with the passenger window "AUTO UP" feature. This feature allows the window to roll up by itself when the button is pressed once, but in some cases, the feature may not work properly, requiring the button to be held down in order to roll up the window.

In summary, the Infiniti M45 is a powerful and stylish luxury sedan that can provide many years of driving pleasure. However, like any other vehicle, it is important to stay up-to-date with routine maintenance and to address any issues promptly in order to ensure the vehicle's longevity and reliability. Common problems with the Infiniti M45 include engine issues such as timing chain tensioner wear and camshaft position sensor failure, transmission problems such as delayed or harsh shifting and transmission fluid leaks, moonroof rattles, and issues with the passenger window "AUTO UP" feature. By staying on top of these issues and addressing them promptly, Infiniti M45 owners can continue to enjoy the driving experience that this vehicle offers.

2009 Infiniti M45 engine

What years to avoid INFINITI M45?

Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003-2004 INFINITI M45 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 7, 2002, THROUGH JUNE 3, 2004. DUE TO A CIRCUIT BOARD FAILURE, THE FUEL GAUGE MAY READ A FUEL LEVEL HIGHER THAN ACTUALLY EXISTS. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE MAY RUN OUT OF GAS WITHOUT NOTICE.

Are INFINITI M45 reliable?

M45 is an excellent value!

The car offers tremendous power combined with luxury. It is also very reliable.

What year did Infiniti stop making the M45?

2010

The INFINITI M45 was dropped after the 2010 model year in favor of an upgraded M56 sedan.

What kind of engine does a INFINITI M45 have?

In contrast to the Japanese models, which were available only with 6-cylinder engines, the M45 was powered by Nissan's VK45DE V8, producing 340 hp (254 kW) and 333 lb⋅ft (451 N⋅m) of torque, which it shared with the Infiniti's flagship Q45.

2009 Infiniti M45 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Infiniti M45.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2009 Infiniti M45 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2009 Infiniti M45.

2022-08-09
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain air bag inflator replacement service parts that may have been installed as part of a theft or collision repair. The parts include certain passenger-side air bag inflators designed to fit Infiniti 2002-2003 QX4, 2006-2010 M35 and M45; Nissan 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, and both driver and passenger-side inflators designed to fit 2007-2012 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback vehicles. Please see Nissan's recall report for the specific part numbers. These replacement inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the inflators as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 14, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
2020-01-09
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback, 2001-2004 Infiniti I30 and I35, 2002-2003 Inifiniti QX4, 2003-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 and 2006-2010 M35 and M45 vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated, frontal passenger air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators with alternate desiccated inflators, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 888-737-9511 or Infiniti customer service at 888-810-3715.
2017-01-10
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2012 Nissan Versa hatchbacks originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan) and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A". Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" above, Nissan is recalling certain 2009-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45 and 2009 Nissan Versa sedans and hatchbacks originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B". Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Nissan is recalling certain 2005-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45, 2006-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2008 Nissan Versa vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began on June 8, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
2016-05-24
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2003-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45, 2003-2004 Infiniti I35, 2006-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2011 Nissan Versa vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Nissan is recalling certain model year 2005-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45, 2003-2004 Infiniti I35, 2006-2008 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2008 Nissan Versa vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Nissan is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Infiniti I35 vehicles originally sold, or registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. These inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began December 21, 2017. All owners should receive a second notice by May 15, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
2013-09-26
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45 vehicles manufactured April 4, 2004, through October 5, 2010. Over time, the accelerator pedal sensor signal may deteriorate resulting in the output of an incorrect signal causing the engine to go into fail-safe (limp home) mode.
  • Consequence: In this fail-safe mode, throttle valve deposits may cause the engine to stall when the vehicle is coming to a stop or at idle, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the accelerator pedal assembly and reprogram the engine control module, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during November 2013. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
2009-10-05
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. THE MATERIAL IN THE NUT USED TO SECURE THE SENSOR-TRANSMITTER OF THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) MAY CORRODE AND POTENTIALLY CRACK IN AREAS WITH HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT. IF THIS OCCURS, THE NUT MAY COME OUT OF THE SENSOR-TRANSMITTER AND THE TPMS LAMP WILL ILLUMINATE.
  • Consequence: IF THE TPMS LAMP IS DISREGARDED AND THE VEHICLE CONTINUES TO BE DRIVEN IN THIS CONDITION, THE TIRE WILL QUICKLY LOSE AIR PRESSURE AT A CONSISTENT RATE RESULTING IN A FLAT TIRE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE TPMS NUT WITH A NEW, MORE ROBUST NUT. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 9, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 AND INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.

Negative 2009 Infiniti M45 car reviews

  1. Wilfredo Daniel 2024-01-21

    This car comes complete with every possible feature, including DVD, Bluetooth, navigation with voice recognition, and more. The only area that could use some improvement is the Sport Rims. The roads here in New England are not the best, and the sport rims have caused major cracking to the wheels twice, which had to be replaced. While this is not necessarily a flaw, normal driving conditions in New England include potholes, and in hindsight, I would have chosen more durable rims. Although the sport rims give a better appearance, it's important to consider the practicality of the rims for the area.

Positive 2009 Infiniti M45 car reviews

  1. Devon Ortiz 2025-01-02

    I test drove a Volvo, Saturn, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Lexus. However, none of these other cars were as much fun to drive or had such great technology features as the Infiniti. My M45 is fast, easy to drive, and comfortable, with more leg and head space than Audi, BMW, or Mercedes. What a smooth ride!

  2. Kenton Ebert 2024-11-10

    We had a 2003 M45, and we thought that car was nice. However, the 2007 model is a significant improvement. It beats the 550 in every way!

  3. Leon Goodwin 2024-11-04

    I just wanted to share my experience with this car. I absolutely love it! The way it handles the road is just amazing and the acceleration is so smooth. Although, I do wish that it had some standard features like an Auxillary plug and a Bluetooth system that would allow me to connect my music, not just my phone. Another feature that would be great is automatic wipers. But overall, I think this car is amazing and I plan on keeping it for years to come!

  4. Will O'Kon 2024-11-03

    I'm thrilled to share my experience with the Infiniti M45 Sport! After a year of researching and dreaming of the perfect sports sedan, I finally found it. This car has exceeded all my expectations, and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. Of course, with 335 hp, the fuel mileage isn't great, but that's to be expected with a hot rod like this. I do wish it had a six-speed transmission, and the high-beam headlights could be better, but these minor issues wouldn't stop me from buying this car again. Even without the Bose 5.1 surround-sound system, the regular Bose system is impressive. I just took it for a spin through the mountains, and I can't stop smiling!

  5. Dedrick Pfeffer 2024-09-29

    After reviewing several cars from BMW (3 and 5 series), Jaguar (XF), Mercedes (C class), and Lexus (IS F), I ultimately chose the M45 sport, which is almost fully loaded (except for the mobile DVD system). While each car has its own unique features, the M45 offers the best overall value and performance. It boasts great performance, plenty of space, excellent design, and the latest technology features. Unlike the other cars, which were lacking in some areas (for example, the IS F lacks space and the Jag lags in technology), the M45 excels in every aspect and is reasonably priced compared to its competitors.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2009 Infiniti M45 problems:

M45 Common Issues or just issues you've had - Nissan Forum ...
M45 Common Issues or just issues you've had - Nissan Forum ...
https://forums.nicoclub.com/m45-common-issues-or-just-issues-you-ve-had-t514536.html

Nov 11, 2010 ... Here is what i found on another forum as most common issues: 1. Issue with speaker static. Had to be replaced and sounds as if it was. 2.

Looking at getting an 07-09 535i. Common problems?
Looking at getting an 07-09 535i. Common problems?
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?1973068-Looking-at-getting-an-07-09-535i-Common-problems

Mar 22, 2013 ... Common problems? ... My most recent car was an Infiniti M45. A ... Are there any major discrepancies between the 2007, 2008, and 2009 models?

M45 2003-2004 common problems? - Nissan Forum | Nissan Forums
M45 2003-2004 common problems? - Nissan Forum | Nissan Forums
https://forums.nicoclub.com/m45-2003-2004-common-problems-t468372.html

Dec 20, 2009 ... Joined: Sun May 31, 2009 12:58 pm: Car: 2006 Infiniti M45. Re: (rsg123). Post by 1scott » Mon Dec 21, 2009 7:23 pm. The oil consumption is an ...

Infiniti M35/M45 Electrical Issues — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Infiniti M35/M45 Electrical Issues — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/8145/infiniti/m35/infiniti-m35-m45-electrical-issues

Jul 13, 2007 ... July 2009. Our 2006 Infiniti M35X has insomnia. Out of the blue the horn and alarm systems go off. It happens randomly. Last night at 12:30 ...

How does an M45 hold up with high miles? - Nissan Forum | Nissan ...
How does an M45 hold up with high miles? - Nissan Forum | Nissan ...
https://forums.nicoclub.com/how-does-an-m45-hold-up-with-high-miles-t470480.html

Jan 3, 2010 ... These cars suffer from the oil consumption issues which causes eventual engine failure. I had put out a post for people with the M45 over 100kmi ...

Other years of Infiniti M45

infiniti m45 2010 photo
M45 2010
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6

21

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infiniti m45 2003 photo
M45 2003
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131

2

25

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infiniti m45 2004 photo
M45 2004
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43

2

17

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infiniti m45 2006 photo
M45 2006
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6

22

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infiniti m45 2007 photo
M45 2007
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5

16

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infiniti m45 2008 photo
M45 2008
Infiniti

0

6

25

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  • 1

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2009 Infiniti M45 photo