The 2012 Infiniti G37’s most commonly reported problems include transmission rough shifting, oil consumption, and electrical glitches. These issues can vary based on mileage, maintenance history, and wear, but they reflect the model year’s most frequently cited concerns among owners and observers.
Engine and transmission concerns
Many owners associate the G37 with a strong V6 engine, but some configurations of the 2012 model year have reported issues related to the powertrain. The key areas involve the transmission’s behavior, oil usage, and ignition components that affect performance.
- Rough shifting or hesitation from the 7-speed automatic transmission, especially at low speeds or when shifting into drive.
- Occasional transmission slipping or delayed engagement, which can be noticeable during acceleration.
- Excessive oil consumption reported by a subset of engines, requiring more frequent top-ups between changes.
- Misfires or reduced performance due to failing ignition coils or spark plugs common to VQ-series engines.
If you notice unusual shifting, a drop in power, or higher oil use, a qualified technician should inspect the transmission fluid condition and level, ignition system, and engine software updates, as some fixes involve recalibration or part replacement.
Electrical and interior electronics
Electrical problems and infotainment glitches have been cited by some owners, affecting the driving experience and daily usability of the car’s systems.
- Display or interface glitches in the infotainment/navigation system, with occasional freezes or resets.
- Warning lights (ABS, traction control) triggered by wheel-speed sensors or related wiring issues.
- Battery or alternator-related faults leading to intermittent power loss or dashboard warning indicators.
- Power window regulators and door lock actuators wearing out, particularly on older units.
Electrical faults can often be traced to aging sensors, connectors, or the need for software updates; addressing these early can prevent more disruptive failures.
Suspension, brakes, and handling
As with many mid-2010s luxury cars, wear over time can influence ride quality and braking behavior. Some owners report noises or handling quirks related to worn front-end components or bearings, which can affect confidence behind the wheel.
- Worn wheel bearings producing humming or grinding noises at speed.
- Clunks or thuds from suspension components such as control arms, bushings, or links as they wear.
- Brake pulsation or rotor warping, which may require resurfacing or replacement to restore proper braking feel.
- Alignment drift or uneven tire wear from worn suspension parts or bushings.
Regular inspection of suspension components and timely replacement of worn parts can preserve handling and ride comfort.
Recalls, safety campaigns, and reliability context
Like many cars from that era, the G37 has appeared in various recalls and service campaigns. It is important to check the vehicle’s VIN against NHTSA and Infiniti recall databases to confirm completion of any safety-related campaigns and to review service history for potential issues.
- Airbag inflator recalls and related safety campaigns common across several models from the period.
- Possible recalls or service campaigns affecting braking-system components, sensors, and electrical connectivity.
- Software updates or ECU recalibrations issued to address drivability, transmission behavior, or infotainment glitches.
Always verify recall status and have any outstanding campaigns completed before purchase or long-term ownership.
Maintenance tips to minimize problems
Proactive maintenance can reduce the likelihood and impact of many common issues on the 2012 G37. Following the manufacturer’s schedule and addressing wear early are key strategies.
- Adhere to the recommended oil change interval and use the proper viscosity and grade for the V6 engine.
- Replace spark plugs and ignition coils at or near the intervals specified for the VQ37 engine to prevent misfires and rough running.
- Keep the transmission fluid clean and at the correct level; schedule transmission service if shifting becomes abnormal.
- Inspect and replace worn suspension components, wheel bearings, and brakes as needed to maintain handling and safety.
- Monitor battery health and electrical components; update firmware when available to improve stability of infotainment and electronics.
Sticking to maintenance intervals and addressing symptoms early can help extend the life of key systems in the G37.
What to check when buying a used 2012 G37
If you’re shopping for a used G37, focus on maintenance history, drivetrain behavior, and electronic system reliability. A pre-purchase inspection can uncover wear that isn’t obvious from a test drive.
- Review service records for oil consumption, ignition components, and transmission service history.
- Have the VIN checked for recalls and ensure completion of safety campaigns.
- Test drive to assess transmission smoothness, throttle response, and idle quality.
- Inspect brakes, tires, suspension components, and wheel bearings for signs of wear.
Getting a qualified technician to perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection can help identify potential red flags before you buy.
Summary
The 2012 Infiniti G37 is remembered for strong performance and a engaging drive, but owner reports highlight common problems mainly in the areas of transmission behavior, oil usage, electrical systems, and suspension wear as the vehicle ages. With proactive maintenance, careful purchasing checks, and attention to recalls, many G37s from this year can remain reliable and enjoyable to drive rather than problematic liabilities.