2004 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 With a price of A$140,000, the Q45 sold poorly and the brand was subsequently withdrawn from the market in 1996.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 2004 Infiniti Q45 problems
Based on the complaints and recalls from owners of the 2004 Infiniti Q45, several common problems have been identified:
- Electrical Problems:
- The 2004 Infiniti Q45 has been reported to have electrical issues, which can encompass a range of problems related to the vehicle's electrical system. These issues may include malfunctions in various electrical components like lights, power windows, or the vehicle's computer system.
- Airbag Malfunction:
- There have been complaints about the airbag system in the 2004 Infiniti Q45. Specifically, a wiring connector for the seat-mounted airbag may experience increased electrical resistance, leading to the non-deployment of the side airbags. This poses a significant safety concern for the vehicle's occupants.
- Brake Lamp Switch Malfunction:
- Another common problem reported is the malfunction of the brake lamp switch. This issue can affect the proper functioning of the brake lights, which are crucial for signaling to other drivers when the vehicle is slowing down or stopping.
- Steering Structure Issues:
- Complaints have been raised regarding the steering structure of the 2004 Infiniti Q45. Problems in this area can impact the vehicle's handling and overall safety while driving, making it a critical concern for owners.
- Exterior Lighting Problems:
- The vehicle has faced issues with its exterior lighting system. Malfunctions in this area can compromise visibility, especially during low-light conditions, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Seats Related Complaints:
- Some complaints have been associated with the seats of the 2004 Infiniti Q45. Issues with the seats can range from discomfort to safety concerns, affecting the overall driving experience and passenger safety.
- Wheels and Transmission Issues:
- Owners have reported problems related to the wheels and transmission of the vehicle. These issues can impact the vehicle's performance, handling, and overall driving experience.
These common problems highlight various safety and performance issues that owners of the 2004 Infiniti Q45 have faced. Addressing these issues promptly and ensuring proper maintenance can help mitigate potential risks and ensure a safer driving experience.
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.
How much is a 2004 Q45 Infiniti?
$96/Month* *Estimated payments based on Kelley Blue Book® Fair Purchase Price of $5,135 at 3.19% APR for 60 months with $500 down for well-qualified buyers.
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.
2004 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
- Steering problems
- Engine problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Infiniti Q45 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2004 Infiniti Q45 complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Infiniti Q45.
STEERING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-01
- VIN: JNRDR09Y62W
- Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 INFINITI Q45. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S FRAME WAS CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V244000 (STEERING, SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WOULD NOT PAY FOR THE REPAIR. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT KEPT THE VEHICLE PARKED AND HAD NOT DRIVEN IT IN OVER TWO YEARS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-08
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 INFINITI Q45. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WHILE THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON WARNING LIGHT AND ANOTHER UNKNOWN LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE CAM POSITION SENSOR FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, HOWEVER THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 111,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-02
- VIN: JNKBF01A34M
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AND DASHBOARD LIGHTS CAME ON, THEN VEHICLE CUT OFF ON THE HIGHWAY. I ASSUMED IT WAS A BAD ALTERNATOR, BUT IT WAS A DEFECTIVE CRANK SENSOR. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-02
- VIN: JNKBF01A84M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY LOW BEAM HEADLAMP SYSTEM HAS NOW FAILED AT TWO SEPARATE TIMES, BOTH DURING NIGHTTIME DRIVING. THE FIRST WAS ON NOVEMBER 2, 2009, AT 37,600 MILES, THE LEFT HID BALLAST FAILED; NISSAN REPAIRED THE FAILURE UNDER WARRANTY ALTHOUGH ITS TIME-PORTION HAD EXPIRED. THE SECOND FAILURE WAS AT 47,600 MILES ON DECEMBER 1, 2011. NISSAN/INFINITI CONSUMER AFFAIRS WERE TOLD AND ACKNOWLEDGED THAT MILEAGE WARRANTY WAS NO-WHERE-NEAR EXPIRED - BUT TIME HAD - YET, TALKED AS THOUGH THEY WOULD HELP WITH THE REPAIR. THE QUID-PRO-QUO WAS THAT I GET AN INFINITI DEALER TO VERIFY PROBLEM AND COST TO REPAIR. AT MY COST OF $125.88 THE INFINITI DEALER AGREED THE RIGHT BALLAST WAS NOW BAD; COST TO REPAIR APPROXIMATELY $1100. NISSAN CONSUMER AFFAIRS WERE INSTRUCTED (ACCORDING TO CA) BY A HIGHER ECHELON OF NISSAN NOT TO REPAIR. CA DID AGREE TO REFUND MY DEALER COST OF $125.88. CONCLUSION: IN 2004 THIS WAS NISSAN/INFINITI'S PREMIUM PRODUCT. THIS CAR WAS EARLIER REPORTED TO NHTSA BECAUSE THE FORE-AFT POWER FUNCTION OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT FAILED AT 42,170 MILES AND NISSAN WOULD ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITY. SURELY THE NHTSA MUST REASONABLY THINK THAT FAILURE OF A DRIVER'S SEAT IN ITS REARMOST POSITION AND TWO FAILURES OF THE LOW-BEAM HEADLAMP SYSTEM COULD EASILY PLACE ANY DRIVER AND HIS/HER PASSENGERS IN A LIFE THREATENING SITUATION. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-21
- VIN: JNKBF01A84M
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEATS
- Summary: 2004 INFINITI Q45 LEMON THIS AUTOMOBILE HAS AN IN-SERVICE DATE OF 12-17-04, PURCHASED BY ME ON 02-08-08 AT 26,670 MILES WITH 10 MONTHS REMAINING ON THE TIME WARRANTY THAT'S EXPIRED. IT WAS RETURNED TO MAJOR INFINITI ON 09-29-10 WITH 42,171 MILES ^0,000 WARRANTY) AND AN INOPERATIVE DRIVER'S SEAT (NO REAR/FORWARD FUNCTION) FIXED IN AN UNSAFE POSITION FOR ME AND IMPOSSIBLE FOR MY WIFE - (7) INCHES SHORTER. AFTER DIAGNOSIS, MAJOR INFORMED ME THE REPAIR COST WOULD BE $1300 AND THAT INFINITI REFUSED ANY WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITY. I CALLED NISSAN CONSUMER AFFAIRS AND SPOKE TO EMILY WHO GAVE ME A FILE # [XXX] AND TOLD ME A REGIONAL SPECIALIST WOULD CALL WITHIN TWO DAYS, NEXT DAY, SEPTEMBER 30, I CALLED NCA AGAIN AND TALKED TO [XXX], REGIONAL SPECIALIST. SHE TOLD ME I COULDN'T HAVE AN ANSWER ON NCA COVERING THE SEAT PROBLEM UNTIL MONDAY 10-4-10. OCTOBER 1, I AUTHORIZED ORDERING OF THE SEAT ADJUSTER ASSEMBLY AS I HAD NO OPTION SINCE OUR OTHER CAR WOULD BE UNAVAILABLE AFTER MONDAY. [XXX] CALLED OCTOBER 4 AND SAID NISSAN WOULD DO NOTHING TOWARD A WARRANTY REPAIR. MY COMPLAINT: FIRST, AN INOPERATIVE DRIVER'S SEAT SHOULD QUALIFY AS A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT. MY WIFE AND I DRIVE WITH A 9 INCH HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL AND WITH AN INOPERATIVE SEAT - AS IT WAS - SHE COULDN'T DRIVE WITHOUT PERCHING ON THE VERY FRONT EDGE. WITHOUT A SEAT BELT. I HAD NO OPTION BUT TO REPAIR THIS SEAT OR ABANDON ANY NOTION OF DRIVING OUT OF TOWN. IF WE DROVE OUT OF CELL PHONE COVERAGE AND I BECAME UNABLE TO DRIVE, AS IN AN EMERGENCY, MY WIFE WOULD BE COMPELLED TO DRIVE US WITHOUT THE SECURITY OF ADEQUATE SEATING AND SEAT RESTRAINTS. SECOND, AND ANOTHER REASON MY COMPLAINT, THIS CAR HAS A HISTORY OF ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS: CD @ 28395; CRUISE CONTROL @ 32442; BATTERY@35193; HEADLIGHT BALLAST AND LAMP @ 37694. UNRELATED BRAKE REPLACEMENT @ 36396. A DRIVER'S SEAT SHOULD QUALIFY AS SAFETY-RELATED. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).*TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-01
- VIN: JNKBF01A84M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT:THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE HAS A CRUISE CONTROL THAT HAS A CHIP THAT IF A CAR GETS TOO CLOSE TO IT SLOWS DOWN. WHEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND SOMEBODY CUTS THE CONSUMER OFF IT FEELS LIKE SOMEONE STEPPED ON THE BRAKE DUE TO AN ABRUPT DROP IN SPEED. CONTACTED MANUFACTURER, THEY SAID CAN'T SEPARATE THEM BECAUSE IT ONLY SHUTS DOWN CRUISE CONTROL OR IT GOES INTO THE ICC. THE DEALERSHIP SAYS THEY HAD MANY COMPLAINTS, BUT MANUFACTURER SAYS IT IS NOT A PROBLEM. *AK *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-01
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE CONSUMER BELIEVES THAT THE LASER CONTROLLED CRUISE CONTROL COULD BE A POTENTIAL SAFETY ISSUE TO AN UNWARY DRIVER. *NM THE SYSTEM DOES NOT WORK IN THE RAIN OR WHEN DRIVING INTO THE SUN AT SUNSET. THE SYSTEM ACTIVATES THE BRAKES WHILE PASSING OTHER VEHICLE AND THERE IS NO AUDIBLE ACKNOWLEDGEMET WHEN THE SYSTEM SLOW DOWN FOR A SLOWER VEHICLE. *NM
2004 Infiniti Q45 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2004 Infiniti Q45.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003-2005 INFINITI Q45 VEHICLES. A WIRING CONNECTOR FOR THE SEAT MOUNTED AIRBAG MAY EXPERIENCE INCREASED ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE, RESULTING IN THE NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE SIDE AIR BAGS.
- Consequence: NON-DEPLOYMENT OF SIDE AIR BAGS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL MODIFY THE WIRING CONNECTOR, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 19, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-647-7261.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION.
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE IS APPLIED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCH. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 25, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
Negative 2004 Infiniti Q45 car reviews
Positive 2004 Infiniti Q45 car reviews
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I love my new premium Q. I test drove several cars in its class and they just didn't have the same level of excitement. Although I have experienced an unexplained battery drain, overall I have been very pleased.
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The Q45 exudes quality from its sound-insulated doors to its choice of automatic or manual shifter. Air-conditioned or heated seats add to the pleasure and comfort of driving. With 340 hp (50 more than the Lexus 430), this car is exceptionally fast, with jackrabbit capabilities from a standing start. The ride is very responsive. The engine is especially quiet and smooth, for instance, it can be turning 5000 rpm with no noise or vibration, only apparent via the tachometer. Fuel economy has ranged from 19+ to 22 mpg. For making U-turns, this car has a very short turning radius. Cruising at 75 mph requires 2500 rpm but is very quiet. Paint and bodywork are superb. Just shutting the doors is a pleasure.
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The dealership was exceptional! They didn't play games and were very professional.
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Fast, powerful, quiet, smooth, safe, reliable - what more can you ask for? A pleasure to own and drive, this luxury cruiser is highly recommended. Not flashy, but elegant and understated, it is a true
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This car is amazing! It's the perfect combination of luxury and performance. It handles great and is so much fun to drive, without being tiring.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Infiniti Q45 problems:
1997 Q45 common problems - Nissan Forum | Nissan Forums
Jul 31, 2016 ... Hitachi is available at Rock Auto for $43 each, so not a huge deal... Good luck! 1990 Infiniti Q45 FKA "Q2" 2004 Nissan Frontier King Cab M/T
INFINITI Q45 Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top INFINITI Q45 Problems · Drivability Issues Due to Failing Crankshaft Angle Sensor · Check Engine Light Due to Failed EVAP Purge Control Valve · Fuel Injector ...
Q45 Reliability, Third Generation, 2002-2006 - Nissan Forum ...
Jul 14, 2010 ... The problem is the inverter, a poorly designed driver which lacks proper rated ballast caps thus reducing the life hours of the light tubes.
I've been looking at used Infiniti Q45, why are they so inexpensive ...
Sep 26, 2014 ... Can any Q45 owners tell me more about these cars? Any known common problems that would deter me away from owning one? I understand it's a V8 ...
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 ...
Other years of Infiniti Q45
Are you having problems with your 2004 Infiniti Q45?
Gerardo Swift 2024-11-10
The 2002 Q was introduced with great fanfare, touted as having power and build quality that could rival even Lexus. As a loyal Infiniti customer, having previously owned a J30 and a 97 Q, I was eager to purchase one for myself. However, I must admit that I have been disappointed with my experience. While the car does offer power, there is a noticeable lag after cornering and the steering is loose and unresponsive, providing little feedback to the driver. Additionally, I have had to bring my Q in for service more frequently than my Toyota pickup, which handles better. I have had to replace the seat tracing three times, the tires at 17,000 miles, and all brake rotors were warped at 30,000 miles. Most recently, a front bearing and spindle broke. Despite my frustrations, I remain confident in Infiniti's ability to produce quality vehicles and hope that future models will address these issues.
Buster Heathcote 2024-01-14
Although marketed as a luxury sedan, the trunk capacity is smaller than that of a Honda. If you plan to take a car trip, you may need to ship your luggage. I wonder what the designers were thinking. My previous Lexus had 35% more capacity.