The most commonly reported problem for the Infiniti G37 is excessive oil consumption in certain VQ37 engines. This issue often leads to more frequent oil top-ups and, if severe, potential engine wear. Beyond that, owner reports frequently cite transmission behavior and cooling-system concerns as other common reliability notes.
To provide a clearer picture, this article summarizes the main problems cited by owners and service data, outlines what to check when buying used, and offers basic maintenance guidance to mitigate these issues.
Common problems reported by G37 owners
Below is a snapshot of the issues most frequently mentioned by owners and service technicians, based on driving history and common maintenance experiences with the G37.
- Excessive oil consumption in some VQ37 engines, which can require frequent top-offs and may indicate wear that should be inspected by a technician.
- Transmission shifting issues, including rough or hesitant shifts and occasional shudder, especially during cold starts or in city driving.
- Ignition-related misfires from aging spark plugs or ignition coils, often triggering a check engine light and rough engine performance.
- Cooling-system leaks or wear, such as coolant loss from the water pump, hoses, or radiator, with a potential for overheating if not addressed promptly.
- Timing chain tensioner/chain wear or noise, which can manifest as rattling at startup or unusual engine sounds and may require inspection or repair to prevent bigger engine damage.
These issues are influenced by model year, maintenance history, and driving conditions. Regular service and a documented maintenance schedule tend to mitigate many of these concerns.
Maintenance tips and warning signs
Proactive care helps reduce the likelihood or impact of the issues listed above. The following sections highlight practical checks and maintenance steps.
Engine health and oil consumption
Regularly monitor oil level and consumption between changes, adhere to Nissan/Infiniti factory-recommended oil type and change intervals, and pay attention to any burning smell, exhaust smoke, or rapid oil level decline. If consumption seems high, have the engine inspected for worn piston rings or valve guide issues.
Transmission condition and shifting behavior
Keep up with transmission fluid service per the manufacturer schedule, note any irregular shifts, hesitation, or slipping, and consider software updates or fluid replacement as recommended by a dealer or qualified shop. Sudden or persistent issues warrant a diagnostic check.
Cooling system health
Inspect for coolant leaks, monitor the temperature gauge, and address any overheating promptly. Pay attention to leaks around the water pump, hoses, and radiator, and replace worn components before they fail catastrophically.
Timing chain and related components
If you hear a rattling or metallic pinging on startup or during acceleration, have the timing chain, tensioner, and guides inspected by a qualified technician. Early diagnosis can prevent more serious engine damage and costly repairs.
Summary
In short, the Infiniti G37 is generally reliable, but the most commonly reported problem is oil consumption in some VQ37 engines, followed by transmission behavior and cooling-system concerns. Regular maintenance, attentive monitoring of oil and coolant levels, and timely diagnostics can help owners manage these issues and extend the life of the vehicle.