1991 Infiniti Q45 problems
The Infiniti Q45 is a full-size luxury sedan manufactured by Nissan for its Infiniti brand, spanning model years 1989-2006 and three design generations.
The first generation Q45 (1989–1999) was based on the Nissan President; the second generation (1997–2000) and third generation (2002–2006) were based on Nissan's JDM Nissan Cima. Marketing of the Q45 ended after MY 2006.
First generation (G50; 1989–1996)
The first generation Q45 came to market in 1989 as a 1990 model with a high-output 4.5 L VH45DE DOHC 32V V8 engine rated at 278 hp (207 kW) and 292 lb⋅ft (396 N⋅m) in North American trim. All Q45s included a viscous limited-slip differential and a multi-link suspension at the front and rear. At launch, the US$38,000 (equivalent to $93,000 in 2023) sedan had a single option, the Touring Package, which added Nissan's Super HICAS four-wheel steering system, a decklid spoiler, and alloy wheels.
In Japan, it was marketed as the Nissan Infiniti Q45, and was exclusive to Nissan Prince Store locations, as its platform twin the President was exclusive to Nissan Store locations. The G50 chassis continued in production in Japan until 2002 as the President in both regular and extended wheelbase versions. The Japanese version had many options that never appeared on the North American G50.
The contemporary upstart luxury marque Lexus (Toyota) had managed to challenge the establish dominance of European full-size luxury cars with the LS 400, so the Q45 seemed poised for similar success with comparable specifications and price to the LS 400 while featuring more emphasis upon handling. However, the Q45 did not achieve similar sales volumes, which was attributed to the car's unconventional styling, particularly the grille and lack of interior woodgrain or chrome trim. There was also an unusual advertising campaign which did not include actual photos or information about the car. By 1995, the price had risen to US$54,000 (equivalent to $108,000 in 2023), slowing sales.
In 1993 the Infiniti brand was launched in Australia with the sole model on offer being the Q45. With a price of A$140,000, the Q45 sold poorly and the brand was subsequently withdrawn from the market in 1996.
Social links
Common 1991 Infiniti Q45 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1991 Infiniti Q45, several common problems have been reported:
- Rust Problems at Rocker Panels and Rear Wheel Wells:
Owners have reported rust issues at both the rocker panels and rear wheel wells of the 1991 Infiniti Q45. Rust can be a significant concern as it can lead to structural damage and affect the overall appearance of the vehicle. - Climate Control Display Failure:
Another common problem is the failure of the climate control display. While the controls may work perfectly, the display does not light up to show the current settings. This can be inconvenient for drivers who rely on the display for temperature adjustments. - Transmission Failure:
Some owners have experienced transmission failures in the 1991 Infiniti Q45. Although replacements have worked flawlessly for some, the initial transmission failure can be a costly and inconvenient issue to address. - Engine Problems:
CarComplaints.com reported engine problems as a common issue with the 1991 Infiniti Q45. Specific complaints include the engine running roughly at idle, indicating potential performance issues that may require attention.
These problems highlight some of the key issues that owners have faced with the 1991 Infiniti Q45. Addressing these concerns promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining the performance and longevity of this vehicle.
What happened to the INFINITI Q45?
With a price of A$140,000, the Q45 sold poorly and the brand was subsequently withdrawn from the market in 1996.
What engine is in a INFINITI Q45?
The first generation Q45 had a 4.5-liter DOHC 32-valve aluminium-alloy V8 engine, producing 278 horsepower, which took it from 0-60 in 7.2 seconds – truly outstanding at the time.
Why is my Q45 not starting?
The most common reasons an INFINITI Q45 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
How fast is a Q45?
Performance
| 0 - 60 mph | 5.9 s |
|---|---|
| 0 - 100 mph | 14.6 s |
| 1/4 mile | 14.6 s @ 100.0 mph |
| Top speed | 238 kph (148 mph) |
1991 Infiniti Q45 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Infiniti Q45 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Equipment problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Infiniti Q45 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1991 Infiniti Q45
The NHTSA has received 47 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Infiniti Q45. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1991 Infiniti Q45 vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-06-23
- VIN: JNKNG01C0MM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I AM CONCERNED ABOUT THE PASSIVE RESTRAINTS(AIR BAGS) THAT WERE USED IN THE 1991, INFINITI, Q45. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH I HAVE DISCOVERED THAT IN NUMEROUS ACCIDENTS THE AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY, AND INJURIES RESULTED. ADDITIONALLY, I HAVE UNCOVERED THAT INFINITI IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM, YET A RECALL WAS NEVER ISSUED. IN INFINITI'S OWE IN HOUSE BULLETINS IT IS LISTED THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE "CRASH ZONE SENSOR." ALSO REFERENCE IS MADE REGARDING A "PINS IN CONNECTOR FOR BETTER CONTACT" AND THE AIR BAG HARNESS. WHY HASN'T A RECALL BEEN ISSUED? FORTUNATELY I HAVE NOT BEEN INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT IN THE THIRTEEN YEARS THAT I HAVE OWED MY 1991 INFINITI Q45. HOWEVER, NOW I AM NOW WORRIED. SINCE I HAVE NOT PERSONAL EXPERIENCED THIS PROBLEM AND YOU HAVE A REQUIRED FIELD I HAVE USED THE DATE MY CAR WENT INTO ACTIVE SERVICE. *LA
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE RIM ON THE VEHICLE CRACKED PREMATURELY, WITHOUT VEHICLE BEING IN AN ACCIDENT. NOT THE ORGINIAL RIM OF THE VEHCILE KMC RIMS.PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFO. NLM
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-20
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JNKNG01C4MM
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: WRECK ON PASS SIDE AFTER HOOD CAME UP AND IT WAS LATCH BUT CAME LOOSE. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JNKNG01C5MM
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SUNVISORS HIT DRIVER OR PASSENGER ON HEAD WHEN GOING AROUND TURNS. SUNVISORS ARE NOT ADJUSTABLE AND CANNOT BE REPAIRED BY DEALER.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JNKNG01C6MM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY, THE VEHICLE STALLS OUT WHEN DECELERATING AND THE POWER STEERING DISENGAGES. THIS HAS CAUSED ALMOST SERVERAL MISSED CRASHES. A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN # FC0008624 HAS BEEN ISSUED ON THIS SITUATION. (LETTER WRITTEN BY FATHER FOR DAUGHTER) *CJ
SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-10
- VIN: JNKNG01C8MM
- Components: SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN SWITCHING GEARS FROM PARK TO DRIVE VEHICLE HESITATES, CONSUMER ALSO, WHEN TRAVELING THERE IS A LOUND NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT END, TRANSMISSION SLIPPING. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED THE DEALER, DEALER STATED FUEL FILTER LINE NEEDED REPLACING. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JNKNG01C7MM
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: FRONT SPEAKERS BEGAN MALFUNCTIONING LESS THAN AN HOUR AFTER A RECALL SERVICE REPLACING THE REAR SPEAKER AMPLIFIORS. RECALL NOTICE STATED THAT REAR SPEAKERS COULD MALFUNCTION AND CAUSE A FIRE. THE NOTICE WARNED THAT IF A "POP" WAS HEARD TO TURN OFF THE SYSTEM. WITHIN LESS THAN AN HOUR OF THE RECALL SERVICE THE FRONT SPEAKERS BEGAN TO OCCASINALLY "POP" AND THEN GO OFF AND ON. THE CASSETTE PLAYER ALSO BEGAN TO MALFUNCTION FOR THE FIRST TIME , GO "OFF AND ON" AND PLAYS TAPES AT AN ACCELEATED RATE OF SPEED. DEALER AND INFINITTI HAVE BEEN CONTACTED AND REFUSE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEMS STATING NO CONNECT BETWEEN THE PERFORMED RECALL AND THREE COMPONENT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION WHCIH APPEARED FOR THE FIRST TIME LESS THAN AN HOUR LATER. PLEASE TELL ME IF THE FRONT SPEAKER "POPPING" REPRESENTS ANY KIND OF SAFETY RISK AND IF SO WHAT I NEED TO DO?
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JNKNG01C0MM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE COMPUTER ALMOST CAUGHT ON FIRE BECAUSE IT IT'S LOCATED DIRECTLY ABOVE THE GAS TANK. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-26
- VIN: JNKNG01C5MM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TERMINAL TO FUEL MODULATOR SHORTED CAUSING FAILURE OF MODULATOR. THIS OCCURRED TWICE AND RESULTING IN FAILURE OF A SECOND MODULATOR AND FUEL PUMP.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JNKNG01C9MM
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE NHTSA DID A RECALL ON THE BACK SPEAKERS FOR THIS SAME CAR AND THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE FRONT SPEAKER AS WELL. *AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-28
- VIN: JNKNG01C9MM
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CONSUMER UNPLUGGED THE SPEAKER FROM THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR AFTER HE HAD EXPERIENCED FUMED/ODORS FROM THAT AREA. CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR THE REAR SPEAKER FIRES--I RECALL 9V-284. *AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-12
- Fire: 1
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: SHORT OR SPARK BEHIND RADIO RESULTED IN VEHICLE FIRE.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-12
- VIN: JNKNGO1C8MM
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: RECALL REPAIR OF THE REAR SPEAKER/AMPLIFIERS COMPLETED, FRONT SPEAKERS ARE EXPERIENCING SAME DEFECT HOWEVER ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL REPAIR.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JNKNG01C9MM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR THIS VEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-12
- VIN: REFUSED
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DEFECTIVE TORQUE CONVERTER IS CAUSING A VIBRATION EFFECT WHEN GAS IS PRESSED AND SPEEDODMETER READS 40-55 MPH. DEALER CONTACTED, AND ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM WITH OTHER MODELS, BUT NOT ON THIS MODEL. HOWEVER, PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-18
- VIN: JNKNVO1COMM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RADIATOR CAP LEAKS, CAUSING FLUID TO LEAK OUT ONTO THE ENGINE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-27
- VIN: JNKNG01C3MM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS DEFECTIVE BRAKE PADS. WHILE DRIVING AND PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, IT GOES DOWN METAL TO METAL. THERE WAS NO WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHT. SPEED LIMIT IS AT NORMAL OR BELOW, WHEN GOING DOWN HILL THE VEHICLE IS IN SECOND GEAR, DEALER CONTACTED DEALER, AND STATES THAT THE PADS ARE SUFFICIENT FOR THE VEHICLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-01-23
- VIN: JNKNG01CXMM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS A HISTORY OF REQUIRING BRAKE PADS EVERY 3000 TO 12000 MILES. OWNER FEELS THERE'S SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE BRAKE SYSTEM.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-14
- VIN: JNKNGO1C1MM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: KEYS ARE VERY DIFFICULT TO INSERT INTO IGNITION AND DOOR LOCKS.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-20
- VIN: JNKNGO1C1MM
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDOW FALL DOWN INTO DOOR.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-30
- VIN: JNKNGO1C1MM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE.
POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-30
- VIN: JNKNGO1C1MM
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY
- Summary: RIGHT PASSENGER WINDOW FALLS DOWN INSIDE OF DOOR. TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKS ONTO EXHAUST SYSTEM RESULTING IN LOTS OF SMOKE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-10
- VIN: JNKNG01C6MM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: REAR BRAKE PADS REPLACED.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-10
- VIN: JNKNG01C6MM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE ROTORS RESURFACED.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-01
- VIN: JNKNG01C6MM
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONER FAILED.
1991 Infiniti Q45 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1991 Infiniti Q45.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH BOSE REAR SPEAKERS THAT HAVE AN INTEGRAL AMPLIFIER. A CONDUCTIVE BRIDGE CAN FORM BETWEEN TWO LINES OF THE CIRCUIT BOARD PATTERN WHEN THERE IS ACCUMULATED ELECTROLYTE LEAKED FROMA CAPACITOR AND HIGH HUMIDITY CONDITIONS. THIS CAN CLOSE A TRANSISTOR ON THE CIRCUIT BOARD WHICH CAUSES OVERHEATING.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN SMOKE OR FLAME AND POSSIBLY THE SPEAKER CATCHING FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CIRCUIT BOARD WITH A NEW BOARD THAT HAS BEEN COATED.
- 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.
Negative 1991 Infiniti Q45 car reviews
Positive 1991 Infiniti Q45 car reviews
-
I love my car, but I have had a few issues with its dependability. Unfortunately, I have experienced some electrical failures, such as the telescopic steering wheel and seat memory. I even had to replace the speedometer after receiving a ticket! Additionally, I have had to replace the injectors. However, despite these issues, my car still looks great and is my trusty daily driver.
-
What a lovely car! Although it has 180k miles, it runs like new. The V8 is in great condition and has extreme power. It easily beats little 6 cylinders at stop lights. The leather interior looks great, and it would be even better with some nice wheels to complete the package. I noticed the speedometer goes up to 160, but I haven't had the chance to test it out yet.
-
Hey there! You've got a great car!
-
The 91 Q45T is an outstanding car. I researched it extensively prior to purchase. The car is on Motor Trend's used car hot list. Car & Driver issue in 91 had the Big Q rated second to the LS 400 by a hair but said that if you want a driver's car it's #1. The car rides and handles extremely well, especially with the Hicas steering package. The car stopped within 15 ft. of C/D's record for braking (by a Supra i.e. sports car) at the time. The power is renowned and even garnered praises from Consumer Reports. The only downside is the lack of cupholders and lower resale price, primarily due to Infiniti's initially horrendous marketing.
-
I love driving this car. I love all the features of the G45. This car drives nicely and is comfortable.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Infiniti Q45 problems:
INFINITI Q45 Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Drivability Issues Due to Failing Crankshaft Angle Sensor · Check Engine Light Due to Failed EVAP Purge Control Valve · Fuel Injector Problems are Common · Lack of ...
Q45 Reliability problems and excessive depreciation - Nissan Forum
Mar 11, 2005 ... I expect it will be several years - if ever - before Infiniti is able to repair its reputation as a result of the early Q45's. Most people ...
1998 INFINITI Q45 Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 1998 INFINITI Q45 Problems · Drivability Issues Due to Failing Crankshaft Angle Sensor · Check Engine Light Due to Failed EVAP Purge Control Valve · Lack of ...
Q&A: Infiniti Q45 Taillights, Brake Lights, Turn Signals, Headlights ...
Dec 19, 2011 ... I Googled around and this seems to be a common problem with other Infinitis but I couldnt find the solution. I had the fuses checked and ...
Tach not working | MR2 Owners Club Forum
Jan 16, 2007 ... 3) I don't see many "no Tach" threads, so I assume it isn't a very common problem, but has this happened to anyone else? ... ~~~~~~99 Infiniti ...
Other years of Infiniti Q45
Are you having problems with your 1991 Infiniti Q45?
Abdiel Leannon 2024-05-03
My first car was purchased by my parents in 2002 for $4000 on the side of the road. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a lemon/salvage and started breaking down within a month of purchase. The AC was the first thing to go out and it was difficult to fix due to the electronic controls. Additionally, it was a gas guzzler and the acceleration was only okay. The worst problem was that it would sometimes lose power and stall in the middle of the road, which was very concerning. Despite all of these issues, the car held a special place in my heart as my first car and provided many interesting memories. Eventually, my parents traded it in for a new car.