1997 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 With a price of A$140,000, the Q45 sold poorly and the brand was subsequently withdrawn from the market in 1996.
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Common 1997 Infiniti Q45 problems
The INFINITI Q45, a luxury sedan produced by Nissan's premium brand, has been known for its high-performance capabilities and refined design. However, like any other vehicle, it is not immune to certain problems that have been reported by owners over the years. Here are some of the common issues found in the 1997 INFINITI Q45:
- Ignition Coil Pack Failures: One of the most common problems in the 1997 INFINITI Q45 is the failure of ignition coil packs. These components are responsible for generating the high voltage needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine. When they fail, it can lead to drivability issues, such as misfires, rough idling, and poor acceleration.
- Knock Sensors: Another issue that has been reported by Q45 owners is the failure of knock sensors. These sensors monitor engine knocking, a condition that can cause damage to the engine if not addressed promptly. When a knock sensor fails, it can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased emissions. Replacing the faulty knock sensors with new OEM parts can help resolve this issue.
- Steering Rack: The steering rack is also a common problem area in the 1997 INFINITI Q45, particularly around 150,000 miles. Symptoms of a failing steering rack include excessive play in the steering wheel, wandering, and difficulty maintaining a straight line. To address this issue, it is recommended to replace the faulty steering rack with a new or remanufactured unit.
- Electrical Issues: The 1997 INFINITI Q45 has been known to experience various electrical issues, including problems with the crankshaft angle sensor. This sensor is responsible for providing critical information to the engine control module (ECM) regarding the crankshaft's position and speed. When it fails, it can cause drivability issues, such as stalling, poor acceleration, and difficulty starting the engine. To resolve this issue, it is recommended to replace the faulty crankshaft angle sensor with a new or remanufactured unit.
- Recalls: The 1997 INFINITI Q45 has been subject to numerous recalls, addressing issues such as electrical problems, airbag malfunctions, lighting defects, seat issues, wheel concerns, transmission faults, and engine problems. It is essential to check if the vehicle in question has had all the necessary recall work performed to ensure its safety and reliability.
These are some of the common problems reported by 1997 INFINITI Q45 owners. Regular maintenance and addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the vehicle's longevity and reliability.
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) |
1997 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Infiniti Q45 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Infiniti Q45 complaints
The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Infiniti Q45.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-17
- VIN: JNKBY31A1VM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 INFINITI Q45. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 75 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND FAILED TO RESPOND. AN UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE STOPPED AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED INTO THE NEUTRAL POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 162,915.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-12
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 INFINITI Q45. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY. THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY BECAME FULL OF SMOKE AS THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER EXITED THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-01
- VIN: JNKBY31DXVM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: SOMETIME AFTER I PURCHASING THE ABOVE VEHICLE IN NOVEMBER, 2001, THE ENGINE WOULD FAIL TO START WITHOUT RECHARGING THE BATTERY. AFTER RECHARGING, THE VEHICLE WOULD EXHIBIT NO MALFUNCTION AND OPERATE NORMALLY FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME. THIS CONDITION WOULD REOCCUR INFREQUENTLY, AND HAS SINCE MANIFESTED ITSELF BY SHOWING NO CHARGING FROM THE ALTERNATOR. INFINITI IDENTIFIED THIS PROBLEM WITH A RECALL BEGUN ON 03/15/2002, AS A DEFECTIVE DIODE DAMAGED IN MANUFACTURE. THIS ACTION IS IDENTIFIED AS NHTSA ACTION # PE02034. AT NO TIME WAS I NOTIFIED BY INFINITI OF THIS RECALL, AND THE SYMPTOMS OF MALFUNCTION I HAVE EXPERIENCED ARE CLEARLY A RESULT OF A DEFECTIVE ALTERNATOR/DIODE. I CONTACTED INFINITI ON 11/08/2011 AND THEY DENIED ME ANY ASSISTANCE. I REQUEST YOUR ASSISTANCE IN REQUIRING INFINITI TO CORRECT THIS MALFUNCTION WHICH WOULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED HAD INFINITI NOTIFIED ME DURING THE RECALL PERIOD. MY OWNERSHIP OF THE VEHICLE WAS A MATTER OF PUBLIC RECORD AND COULD HAVE EASILY BEEN OBTAINED. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-28
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR CAN REFUSE TO START RIGHT AFTER IT HAS BEEN DRIVEN AND SHUT OFF OR AFTER IT HAS BEEN PARKED FOR A WHILE. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING ALOT IN THE LAST THREE MONTHS. WE HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY,THAT WERE ALL REPLACED EARLY THIS YEAR BY PREVIOUS OWNER. SOMETIMES JUMPING THE CAR WORKS AND OTHER TIMES IT DOES NOT. THE PROBLEM STARTED ONE DAY WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS. THE BRAKE LIGHT AND BATTERY SIGNS APPEARED ON THE DASH AND DISAPPEARING AFTER THAT,THE CAR STARTED TO REFUSE STARTING AND NEEDED A JUMP. WE INSTALLED A NEW BATTERY DAYS AGO AND THE CAR STARTED RIGHT UP. BUT IT REFUSED TO START THE NEXT DAY AGAIN AND TOOK 4 ATTEMPTS TO GET IT GOING. IT ALSO SEEMS THAT WHILE AT A STOP SIGN/LIGHT TRYING TO TAKE OFF,THE CAR REFUSES TO MOVE EVEN WHEN THE GAS PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. IT TAKES QUITE AN EFFORT TO MAKE THE GAS PEDAL RESPOND,MAKING THE CAR JERK/LURCH FORWARD WITH GREAT FORCE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-29
- VIN: JNKBY31D2VM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 INFINITI Q45. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT BOTH THE BRAKE LIGHT AND BATTERY WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A CHEVROLET DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE ALTERNATOR FAILED. THE CONTACT DID NOT NOTICE ANY DIFFERENCES PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 101,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-16
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WOULD REV EXTREMELY HIGH WHEN THE GAS PEDAL WAS PRESSED. THIS VEHICLE HAD A RECALL FOR A DEFECTIVE ALTERNATOR, BUT THE RECALL EXPIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND THE DEALER ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM( RECALL NO. #02V171000 DAMAGED ALTERNATOR). *NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-01
- VIN: JNKBY31D4VM
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT BEGINNING IN EARLY 2001, WE ENCOUNTERED A PROBLEM WITH OUR INFINITY Q45T. IT HAS CONTINUED TO DEGENERATE SINCE THEN. THE GAS PEDAL DOES NOT ENGAGE READILY. WHEN AT A STOPPED POSITION AND WE PUSH ON THE PEDAL, IT ACTS AS IF IT IS CAUGHT OR BEING HELD BY SOMETHING. WITH MORE FORCE APPLIED, IT SUDDENLY RELEASES, CAUSING THE CAR TO LURCH FORWARD. ON 10/29/01 I SPOKE TO A STEVE AT INFINITYS CONSUMERS AFFAIRS OFFICE IN GARDENA, CALIFORNIA ABOUT THE PROBLEM. HE ADVISE THIS IS A COMMON AND KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THE INFINITY AND IS CORRECTED IF THE CUSTOMER COMPLAINS WHEN THE CAR IS BROUGHT IN FOR SERVICE. HE ADVISED THAT SINCE MY CAR WAS ORIGINALLY PURCHASED ON 9/22/97, IT WAS OUT OF WARRANTY AND WOULD ONLY BE REPAIRED AT MY COST. FOR INFINITY TO KNOW THEY HAVE A MANUFACTURING DEFECT OF THIS NATURE AND NOT RECALL THE VEHICLE, MAKES THEM, IN MY OPINION, CRIMINALLY LIABLE.BY COPY OF THIS MEMO TO NHTSA, I AM REQUESTING THEY INVESTIGATE THIS CAR AND TAKE APPROPRIATE MEASURES TO RECALL THESE AUTOMOBILES AND HAVE THEM CORRECTED AT THE MANUFACTURERS COST. ADDITIONALLY, I AM REQUESTING THAT APPROPRIATE ACTIONS BE TAKEN FOR INFINITY ALLOWING AN AUTOMOBILE WITH A KNOWN SAFETY DEFECT TO REMAIN ON OUR HIGHWAYS. PLEASE ADVISE THE RESULTS OF YOUR INVESTIGATION AND ACTION TAKEN. THANKS YOU, HOWARD J. & BONNIE J. TRICKETT. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JNKBY31D1VM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE VEHICLE HAS CONTINUALLY EXPERIENCED SEVERE VIBRATION IN THE FRONT END SUSPENSION WHILE DRIVING 40 TO 60 MPH, THE TIRES HAVE BEEN REPLACED DUE TO UNEVEN SEVERE WEAR OF THE INSIDE OF TIRES (NO MAKE/MODEL OF TIRE PROVIDED), ONE TIRE BLEW OUT DUE TO VIBRATION PROBLEMS. CONSUMER REPLACED TWO SETS OF TIRES IN 39000 MILES. *MJS
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JNKBY31AXVM
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHEN THE CAR IS SHIFTED IN REVERSE AND AS THE CAR MOVES BACKWARD, THE DRIVER SEAT RECLINES INVOLUNTARILY AND WITHOUT WARNING. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-10
- VIN: JNKBY31A0VM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS MY VEHICLE HAD A SIGNAL INDICATING AIR BAG FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN AT THE DEALER THREE TIMES IN WHICH ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS THEY CLAIMED TO HAVE REBUILT THE AIRBAGS. I PHONED THE MANUFACTURER TO ASK THEM FOR WARRANTIES THAT FIRST THE AIR BAGS HAVE BEEN REPARIED PROPERLY FOR THE LAST TIME AND THAT IF THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE IN AN ACCIDENT, THAT THE AIR BAGS WOULD DEPLOY PROPERLY. THE MANUFACTURER REFUSES TO GIVE THIS WARRANTY ,AND REFUSES TO HONOR ANY CLAIMS. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-10
- VIN: JNKBY31D6VM
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE #98V215000 IN THE MAIL. NOTIFIED DEALER. WAS INFORMED NO PARTS AVAILABLE FOR THEFT PREVENTION. MANUFACTURER WAS CALLED. WAS INFORMED PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE EARLY NEXT YEAR. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE HYDROPLANED THREE TIMES CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL AND NEAR ACCIDENT DUE TO DESIGN FLAW.
1997 Infiniti Q45 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1997 Infiniti Q45.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, ONE OF THE DIODES USED IN THE ALTERNATOR MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED WHEN BUILT. THIS CAN EVENTUALLY RESULT IN FAILURE OF THE DIODE AND AN ELECTRICAL SHORT WHICH COULD MELT THE PLASTIC HOUSING.
- Consequence: IF THE COMBUSTIBLE GAS EMITTED BY THE MELTING PLASTIC DOES NOT DISPERSE DUE TO AIR FLOW THROUGH THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, IT COULD IGNITE AND IN TURN IGNITE THE FAN GUIDE IN THE ALTERNATOR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ALTERNATOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 29, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. ONE OF THE DIODES USED IN THE ALTERNATOR MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED WHEN BUILT. THIS CAN EVENTUALLY RESULT IN FAILURE OF THE DIODE AND AN ELECTRICAL SHORT WHICH COULD MELT THE PLASTIC HOUSING.
- Consequence: IF THE COMBUSTIBLE GAS EMITTED BY THE MELTING PLASTIC DOES NOT DISPERSE DUE TO AIR FLOW THROUGH THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, IT COULD IGNITE AND IN TURN IGNITE THE FAN GUIDE IN THE ALTERNATOR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ALTERNATOR.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: VEHICLE DESRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE IGNITION KEY CAN BE REMOVED WHEN THE ENGINE IS TURNED OFF WITHOUT PLACING THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER IN THE "PARK" POSITION. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT."
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURRED AND THE DRIVER FAILED TO MOVE THE SHIFT LEVER TO 'PARK' OR ENGAGE THE PARKING BRAKE, THE VEHICLE COULD ROLL AWAY IF PARKED ON A SLOPE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SHIFT LOCK CONTROL UNIT.
Negative 1997 Infiniti Q45 car reviews
Positive 1997 Infiniti Q45 car reviews
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Nothing but good review about the Q45. Mine has 160,000 miles now and it still performs like new. The engine is still smooth and quiet. I put a set of springs and wide 18
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Hey there! After writing a review of my Q45, I was surprised to see a TV ad from Lexus about a family cruising at high speed in their living room. It felt like they stole my ideas! What do you think?
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I love the looks of this car! It looks good from every angle and has been almost trouble-free. I think I'll keep it for a long time before getting another car because the combination of its unique look, quietness, smoothness, and reliability won't bore me anytime soon.
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Your Q45 is outstanding! It's great to hear that you love your vehicle without question. The engineering is truly awesome and it sounds like you feel your car is the absolute best.
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Congratulations on your purchase! It's great to hear that you found a 97 Q45 in such great condition. Although it needed a few minor repairs, it sounds like the dealership took care of everything. The ride is comfortable and the power is exhilarating, which must make for a fantastic driving experience. It's impressive that the interior has held up so well after 7 years, with all buttons and knobs still in perfect condition. While the lumbar control for the driver's seat could be improved, it's good to know that Nissan can perform regular maintenance on Infiniti cars/trucks for less. Enjoy your ride!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Infiniti Q45 problems:
1997 Q45 common problems - Nissan Forum | Nissan Forums
Jul 31, 2016 ... I'd say the biggest issues you'll find besides "normal car stuff" is the knock sensors and roving ignition coil pack failures. If you replace ...
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 ...
Q&A: Common Problems with 1999 Infiniti Q45 - P1320 Code
Nov 24, 2020 ... Same as all other problems with these cars p1320. 99 q45. 1999. I replaced all plugs and also all 8 coils and checked - Answered by a ...
I've been looking at used Infiniti Q45, why are they so inexpensive ...
Sep 26, 2014 ... I was looking for a 5th generation 97 ... Any known common problems that would deter me away from owning one? ... The only problem I have had with ...
Q&A: How to Stop Infiniti Q45 1997 Starting Problems? | JustAnswer
Jul 19, 2010 ... What causes starting problems in my 1997 In finiti Q45? - Answered by a verified Auto Mechanic.
Other years of Infiniti Q45
Are you having problems with your 1997 Infiniti Q45?
Reese Schimmel 2024-06-28
I purchased a q45 with 88k . .I have some costly repairs.which include a power steering pump, rack and pinion, ac compressor, right from spring that cracked, radio will not turn off (kills battery) crank position sensor changed. knock sensor code. Put in shop came back one cylinder not firing I don't know why. I have had it. I got an offer from "buy any car" for $250.00 I have decided to keep it and wait until it doesn't have to pass e-check and drive it with the engine miss.. .