The Infiniti G37, a blend of luxury and performance, has carved out a niche for itself in the automotive world. However, not all model years are created equal, and some have more skeletons in the closet than others. Imagine cruising in what seems like a sleek, well-oiled machine, only to find that beneath its polished exterior lies a Pandora’s box of mechanical gremlins. In this exploration, we’ll peel back the layers of the G37’s history, uncovering the Infiniti G37x years to avoid that turned driving dreams into mechanical nightmares. From dashboard disasters to transmission troubles, discover which years to sidestep and why navigating the used car market requires more than just a keen eye—it demands a deep dive into the vehicle’s past.
A Brief Overview of the Infiniti G37
The Infiniti G37 is a luxury sports sedan and coupe, designed to rival popular German brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. It quickly gained a reputation for offering sporty handling, a powerful V6 engine, and upscale features at a more affordable price. However, with the complexity of modern vehicles, no model is without its faults, and the G37 had a few years where certain issues were more prominent.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve delved into user reviews, expert opinions, and data on reliability to pinpoint which Infiniti G37 model years you should consider avoiding.
2008 Infiniti G37: A Tech-Heavy Struggle
The 2008 G37 is praised for its powerful V6 engine, sleek design, and overall driving experience, but it has some reliability concerns. One of the most commonly reported problems is dashboard cracking and melting. Owners have mentioned that despite proper maintenance, their dashboards began to bubble or peel, particularly in hot climates. This issue has been reported by multiple sources, and it often appeared between 50,000-70,000 miles. Unfortunately, replacing the dashboard can cost upwards of $2,000, making it an expensive fix.
Additionally, some 2008 G37 owners have experienced slave cylinder failures, especially in models with manual transmissions. The slave cylinder is known to fail without warning, often resulting in high repair costs as it requires dropping the transmission. This issue was widely discussed by G37 owners, some of whom had to replace the component multiple times within a short period.
Despite these concerns, the 2008 model is still loved for its handling, power, and comfort. Many drivers find it to be a reliable luxury vehicle as long as these issues are properly addressed or monitored.
For more details, owner reviews on platforms like Cars.com and CarParts.com provide deeper insights into these problems and how they might impact long-term ownership(Cars, CarParts, The Motor Guy, Low Offset).
2009 Infiniti G37: Cracks in the Facade
Owners of the 2009 Infiniti G37 commonly reported problems with transmission slipping and electrical issues. Transmission issues like hesitation, jerky shifting, and gear-hunting were especially problematic. Many drivers complained that their vehicles would struggle to find the correct gear, leading to a frustrating and less enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, electrical problems, such as faulty sensors and dashboard malfunctions, were frequently mentioned. These electrical issues made the driving experience more unpredictable, leading to high repair costs. According to user reviews on Edmunds, many found the transmission issues particularly frustrating, and in some cases, dealers were unable to offer satisfactory fixes(Car Forums at Edmunds.com, Car Forums at Edmunds.com).
2011 Infiniti G37: Gaskets and Glitches
The 2011 model suffered from airbag and braking issues, which raised serious safety concerns. Some owners reported that their airbags failed to deploy during collisions, or the airbag sensors malfunctioned, which could result in the airbags not activating at all. Brake system issues were also a recurring complaint, including premature wear of brake pads and rotors, which affected the vehicle’s stopping power. CarComplaints lists several reports regarding the failure of airbag systems, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) flagged similar safety issues, making this model year a risky purchase(Car Forums at Edmunds.com).
2012 Infiniti G37
In 2012, Infiniti G37s were plagued with steering and engine issues. Many drivers complained about a lack of steering responsiveness, which could make the car feel unstable at high speeds. Some even reported instances where the steering wheel would temporarily lock up. Additionally, engine performance problems like knocking sounds, oil leaks, and sudden loss of power were common. According to owner feedback on Edmunds and CarComplaints, these problems persisted even after multiple trips to dealerships for repairs(Car Forums at Edmunds.com).
Reliable years
2010 Infiniti G37
- Fewer transmission and engine complaints: The 2010 G37 has significantly fewer problems compared to earlier models, particularly in terms of transmission stuttering or engine failures, which plagued some previous years(CarComplaints).
- Manageable issues: Most complaints for this year revolve around minor problems like interior accessories or window malfunctions. These are far less critical than engine or transmission issues and do not significantly affect long-term reliability(CarComplaints).
- Performance remains strong: Despite the minor issues, the 2010 model still benefits from the powerful and responsive V6 engine that defines the G37, along with excellent handling and driving dynamics(CarParts).
2013 Infiniti G37
- Final production year: By 2013, many earlier issues had been addressed, such as transmission stuttering and electrical malfunctions. This model year represents a culmination of the refinements Infiniti made throughout the G37’s production(CarComplaints).
- Fewer drivetrain and engine problems: While there were some minor reports of drivetrain vibrations at higher mileage, these issues are rare, and the 2013 G37 generally experiences fewer mechanical failures(CarComplaints.com).
- Balanced performance and reliability: Owners have praised the 2013 model for its comfortable interior and strong performance, making it a desirable option for those seeking a used luxury vehicle(CarComplaints).