There isn’t a single model year of the Infiniti G37 that should be universally avoided. If you’re shopping used, the earliest year of the generation tends to carry more of the typical teething issues seen with a new platform, while later years—when the platform had more time on the road—tend to be more reliable with proper maintenance.
The Infiniti G37, produced from roughly 2009 to 2013, was the successor to the G35 and offered a 3.7-liter V6 in sedan and coupe forms. This article explains how to evaluate model-year tradeoffs and what to check when buying a used G37.
Model-year reliability snapshot
Below are the broad reliability takeaways that buyers commonly weigh when evaluating used G37s. The goal is to help you identify cars with solid maintenance histories and flag areas that may require extra scrutiny.
- First-year generation risks: The 2009 G37 marks the start of the refreshed platform; some owners report teething issues with electronics and calibration. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a complete service history are especially important for these early units.
- Oil consumption possibilities: Some engines in this generation have been noted to consume oil more quickly than expected. Verify oil level behavior over time and review maintenance records for regular top-ups and filter changes.
- Transmission behavior: The 7-speed automatic can show changes in shift feel as the car ages. A test drive and transmission fluid/service history check are prudent, particularly on higher-mileage examples.
- Electrical and infotainment: Higher-mileage cars may exhibit dashboard warnings, sensor glitches, or infotainment hiccups. Ensure fault codes are addressed and software updates are current if applicable.
- Recalls and safety: Check for open recalls (airbags, ignition systems, fuel systems, etc.) for the specific VIN via official databases and confirm they’ve been completed.
- Suspension and wear items: Worn bushings, control arms, and related components are common with age and mileage. Listen for clunking noises and inspect suspension parts during a pre-purchase inspection.
In practice, the decision of which year to stay away from should hinge on the individual car’s history rather than the year alone. A well-maintained, higher-mileage 2011–2013 example with complete service records can be more trustworthy than a poorly cared-for 2009 with low mileage.
Buying tips for a used G37
Before making a purchase, use a structured checklist to assess condition, verify history, and ensure common issues are addressed. The following steps help minimize risk when buying a G37 used.
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and verify open recalls for the VIN.
- Request maintenance records, focusing on oil changes, any timing-chain or major service, brake work, and suspension components.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection with attention to the engine, transmission, suspension, and electronics.
- Take a thorough test drive to evaluate throttle response, shifting behavior, steering feel, braking, and ride quality.
- Inspect tires, brakes, and wear patterns; look for warning lights on startup and during driving that could indicate sensor or electrical issues.
Completing these steps increases the likelihood of finding a G37 with solid reliability, regardless of the model year.
Summary
The Infiniti G37 spans roughly 2009–2013 for most markets. There isn’t a single year to universally avoid; instead, reliability hinges on maintenance history, recall status, and overall condition. Prioritize a car with comprehensive service records, a recent pre-purchase inspection, and full recall completion. With careful shopping, a well-maintained G37 from any year can deliver strong performance and value in the used-car market.
Why is G37 insurance so high?
Infiniti G37 Sedan owners pay an average of $189 per month for car insurance. Liability insurance policies cost an average of $132 per month, and full coverage averages $246 per month. These insurance costs are higher than the national average, largely due to the G37's status as a luxury car.
Which Infiniti G37 years to avoid?
Like most cars, the G37 had some improvements over its lifespan, so the worst Infiniti G37 years are the earliest—in this case the 2008-2009 cars. We're talking small differences, though, because the car changed little during its seven-year production run and it has generally proved reliable.
What year is the G37 most reliable?
Which Infiniti G37 years are the best? Since the Infiniti G37 was only produced for a single generation, there's not a huge difference between the earliest and most recent examples, but post-2011 Infiniti G37 models are generally regarded as the best choice, because they included some upgrades over earlier cars.
What's better, a 350Z or a G37?
When comparing the Infiniti G37's and the Nissan 350Z's specifications and ratings, the Infiniti G37 has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, interior volume and base engine power. The Infiniti G37 and Nissan 350Z have the same fuel efficiency.