Also worth reading: Best Used Infiniti Models, Infiniti G35 Buying Guide and Infiniti Q50 Buying Guide.
Short answer: Infiniti is Nissan luxury — which means the VQ35 and VQ37 V6s are excellent and the platforms are largely durable. Unlike Nissan's mainstream lineup, most Infinitis use conventional automatic transmissions rather than the CVT, which is a major reliability advantage.
Bottom line: Infiniti is Nissan luxury — which means the VQ35 and VQ37 V6s are excellent and the platforms are largely durable.
Choose the naturally aspirated V6 models when possible. The newer 3.0T twin-turbo V6 is potent but less battle-tested. Ownership costs are close to Lexus and well below German competitors.
The VQ35DE-powered G35 is where most shoppers start, and because every year shares the same engine and platform, condition matters more than the badge on the trunk — our guide to the best years for the Infiniti G35 walks through which examples are worth paying up for.
Generations that have earned a strong long-term reputation.
| Model | Reliability | Maintenance | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| G35 | 4.4/5 · Very good | 4.2/5 · Very good | The 2003–2008 G35 is a cult reliability icon — VQ35DE with 6MT or 5AT is one of the strongest used-… |
| Q50 | 4.0/5 · Very good | 4.0/5 · Very good | VQ37VHR examples are the safest pick; VR30 twin-turbo is newer but potent — verify service history. |
Not deal-breakers — but they reward a careful buyer.
Same Jatco CVT concerns as the Pathfinder. Fluid service every 30k is critical — verify history.
Rare hybrid; battery service and dealer familiarity vary by region.
Newer twin-turbo V6 — much less long-term data than VQ37. Direct injection carbon buildup is a future consideration.
Powertrains that have earned a bulletproof reputation.
M35, QX60, older G35. One of Nissan's best.
G37, Q50, Q60, QX70. Refined evolution — timing chain guides deserve inspection past 150k.
QX80. Truck V8 with a strong record.
Not deal-breakers — but they reward a careful buyer.
Powerful and refined but newer. Direct injection means carbon buildup is a long-term consideration.
Bring this list to your pre-purchase inspection.
Paste the Infiniti listing and let Verdict analyze it in seconds:
Infiniti service costs sit between Nissan and Lexus. Independent Nissan-familiar shops handle most Infiniti work identically.
The VQ V6s use conventional service intervals and standard fluids. The only exception is the CVT-equipped QX60, where 30k CVT fluid service is essential.
A used Infiniti is a strong value if you pick the powertrain carefully. The important buying factors are:
Infiniti is Nissan luxury — which means the VQ35 and VQ37 V6s are excellent and the platforms are largely durable. Unlike Nissan's mainstream lineup, most Infinitis use conventional automatic transmissions rather than the CVT, which is a major reliability advantage.
Well-maintained Infiniti models routinely reach high mileage — the VQ35DE (3.5L V6) is commonly good for 250k+ miles with records to back it up. Service history matters far more than the odometer reading.
Infiniti service costs sit between Nissan and Lexus. Independent Nissan-familiar shops handle most Infiniti work identically.
The G37, Q50 and Q60 have the strongest long-term records in the Infiniti lineup. Pair the right model with the right model year and you avoid most of the brand's known trouble spots.
A used Infiniti is a strong value if you pick the powertrain carefully. The important buying factors are:
Paste any Marketplace, Craigslist, Cars.com, Facebook Marketplace, or dealer listing and receive a free AI buying report in seconds.
No account required. Always free.
My Garage