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Infiniti · Known Issues

2008-2012 Infiniti EX35 Problems: 6 Known Issues

2008-2012 model years · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated August 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2008-2012 Infiniti EX35 has 6 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Airbag Control Unit Software Disables Passenger Airbag After Battery Discharge (Recall 08V066000) ($0-$0 repair), OCS Varistor Defect Suppresses Passenger Airbag (Recall 08V521000) ($0-$0 repair) and Steering Column Out-of-Round Causing Bearing Fracture and Steering Play (Recall 15V054000) ($0-$0 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $60 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • EX35 Safety/Recalls2
  • EX35 Steering1
  • EX35 Body/Panels1
  • EX35 Interior1
  • EX35 Engine1
  • Recalls4
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Safety/Recalls2
  • Steering1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Interior1
  • Engine1
  • Recalls4
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS20122011201020092008

Incorrect software programming in the airbag control unit means that if the vehicle battery becomes significantly discharged, the passenger airbag may not operate as designed afterward. The failure is insidious because it is triggered by an ordinary event — a flat battery from leaving a door ajar, a long period parked, or a failing battery near end of life — and leaves no obvious indication that crash protection has been compromised. NHTSA campaign 08V066000 covers 16,365 vehicles: 2008 EX35 and 2009 Nissan Murano. The recall began February 19, 2008.

Common Symptoms

  • Airbag warning light after a dead battery or jump start
  • Passenger airbag status indicator behaving abnormally
  • SRS light illuminated with no obvious cause
  • No fault indication despite compromised airbag function

How to Fix

Have the dealer reprogram the airbag control unit under recall 08V066000, free of charge. Verify by VIN that it was performed rather than assuming — this is an early, low-profile campaign on a car that has since passed through many owners. After any deep battery discharge or jump start on an unremediated car, check that the passenger airbag status indicator behaves normally with an adult in the seat, and have the SRS system scanned for stored codes. Note that 2008 EX35 is also covered by the separate OCS varistor campaign 08V521000, so a given car may need both.

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Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

A varistor inside the Occupant Classification System control unit in the front passenger seat cushion was manufactured out of specification and can interrupt the signal between the OCS and the airbag control unit. With that signal lost the airbag control unit suppresses the passenger frontal airbag, so it will not deploy in a crash even with an adult correctly belted. NHTSA campaign 08V521000 covers the 2008 EX35 along with 2007-2008 G35 sedans, the 2008 G37 Coupe, and several Nissan models — 204,361 vehicles in total. The recall began November 4, 2008.

Common Symptoms

  • Passenger airbag status light reads OFF with an adult seated
  • Airbag status indicator flickering between ON and OFF
  • SRS warning light illuminated
  • Seat classified as empty while occupied

How to Fix

Have the dealer test the OCS-to-ACU signal with the special tool required by recall 08V521000 and replace the passenger seat cushion containing the OCS hardware if it fails, free of charge. Watch the passenger airbag status light with an adult in the seat: an OFF reading means the bag is suppressed right now. Remove aftermarket seat covers and clear anything stored under the passenger seat before diagnosis, since both confuse the sensor mat. Never unplug the OCS to extinguish a warning light — that removes the crash logic entirely.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On EX35 vehicles ordered with the power tilt/telescope steering option included in the premium package, the steering column outer tube may not be truly round. The out-of-round tube applies extra stress to the upper steering bearing, and that stress can fracture the bearing retainer. The result is excessive free play at the steering wheel and, in the worst case, loss of steering. NHTSA campaign 15V054000 covers 2008 EX35 vehicles built June 29, 2007 to April 25, 2008 with that option, along with 2009 FX35, FX45, and Nissan GT-R. The recall began March 9, 2015 — seven years after the affected build window, so many owners never connected the play they had learned to live with to a safety campaign.

Common Symptoms

  • Excessive free play in the steering wheel
  • Knocking or clunking from the steering column
  • Notchy or loose feel when rocking the wheel
  • Rattle from the column over rough pavement
  • Vague or inconsistent on-center steering

How to Fix

Confirm eligibility by VIN with Infiniti, since this recall is limited both by build date and by the presence of the power tilt/telescope option. On EX35 the remedy is replacement of the steering shaft, free of charge. Do not dismiss a small amount of rotational play at the wheel as normal wear on this car — on the affected columns it is the direct symptom of a fracturing bearing retainer. A knocking or notchy feel when rocking the wheel side to side with the vehicle stationary, or a rattle from the column over bumps, warrants immediate inspection rather than a wait-and-see approach.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The EX35 shares the sunroof drain architecture of its G-platform siblings: a tray around the glass panel that collects water and routes it through tubes down the A- and C-pillars. Debris packs the drain nipples at the tray corners, the tray overflows, and water enters the headliner and runs down the pillars into the cabin. Owners find soaked footwell carpet, water dripping from the headliner or map light, and a persistent musty smell. Because the water tracks past wiring and body modules on its way down, the complaint frequently presents as unexplained electrical behavior before anyone notices the carpet is wet. On a hatchback like the EX35 the rear cargo area and the spare tire well are also common places to find standing water.

Common Symptoms

  • Wet or damp footwell or cargo area carpet
  • Water dripping from the headliner or map light
  • Standing water in the spare tire well
  • Persistent musty or mildew smell
  • Unexplained electrical faults or erratic module behavior
  • Interior glass fogging that will not clear

How to Fix

Open the sunroof and locate the drain openings at the four corners of the tray. Clear them with low-pressure compressed air or soft weed-trimmer line worked in gently. Never use a stiff wire or drain snake — it punches through the tube inside the pillar and converts a clogged drain into a permanent leak that is much harder to fix. Pour a little water into the tray and confirm it exits behind each wheel. Lift the carpet and padding to dry them completely rather than letting them dry in place, since trapped moisture corrodes connectors and modules under the seats. Check the spare tire well and the tailgate seal as well, both of which collect water on this body. Resolve the leak before diagnosing any electrical fault on a car with damp carpet.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $900

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The EX35 uses the same dashboard topper material as its G-platform contemporaries, and it degrades the same way under sustained sun and heat: soft and tacky first, then shiny patches, cracks, and chipping, typically starting at the defroster vents and around the instrument binnacle. The degraded surface becomes reflective and casts glare onto the windshield severe enough to interfere with forward vision in low sun, which makes this a visibility problem rather than a purely cosmetic one. Owner reports for the 2008 EX35 mirror those for the 2006-2008 G35 and M35 and 2008-2009 G37 that were the subject of class-action litigation against Nissan, though warranty coverage was not extended to these models.

Common Symptoms

  • Dashboard soft, tacky, or sticky to the touch
  • Shiny reflective patches causing windshield glare
  • Cracks and chipping near the defroster vents
  • Discoloration or bubbling of the dash surface
  • Glare obscuring forward vision in low sun

How to Fix

Expect this to be out of pocket, though one call to Infiniti Consumer Affairs with the VIN costs nothing. Practical options in ascending cost: a fitted dash cover or carpet-style mat, which kills the glare for well under a hundred dollars and is where most owners land; a vinyl or leather re-wrap by a trim shop; or full dashboard replacement, expensive mainly because the labor requires pulling the steering column and HVAC ducting. Do not apply silicone-based interior dressings to a dash already going soft — they worsen the tackiness and trap dust in the surface. A windshield sunshade whenever parked meaningfully slows further degradation on a dash that has not yet failed.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Custom-fit polycarpet dashboard cover
    OEMCarCoverPlanet custom 2008 EX35 polycarpet cover

    2008 glare-reduction and surface-containment option while preserving required factory openings Fitment/availability: The page is filtered to 2008 EX35 and offers three factory-cutout patterns: center/two outer speakers plus center sensor…

  • Custom-fit polycarpet dashboard cover
    OEMCarCoverPlanet custom 2009 EX35 polycarpet cover

    2009 glare-reduction and surface-containment option while preserving required factory openings Fitment/availability: The page is filtered to 2009 EX35 and offers three factory-cutout patterns: center/two outer speakers plus center sensor…

Typical repair cost:$60 - $2,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The VQ35HR engine in the EX35 exhibits higher-than-normal oil consumption, typically burning 1 quart every 2,000-3,000 miles. Worn valve stem seals and piston ring coking contribute to the problem, especially in vehicles with infrequent oil changes.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX35, Infiniti G37, Nissan 350Z

Common Symptoms

  • Oil level dropping between changes
  • Light blue exhaust smoke on startup
  • Fouled spark plugs

How to Fix

Perform an oil consumption test at the dealer to establish baseline usage. Replace valve stem seals if consumption exceeds 1 quart per 1,500 miles. Use quality 5W-30 synthetic oil and change every 5,000 miles.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Mobil 1 Extended Performance High Mileage full-synthetic SAE 5W-30, 5 quart
    OEMMobil 1 123843

    API-certified 5W-30 maintenance/top-off oil during a documented consumption test or scheduled service Fitment/availability: The EX35 VQ35HR specification prefers API-certified SAE 5W-30. This five-quart container is less than the publish…

    AutoZone

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $2,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls4 recalls

STEERING:COLUMN

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2008 Infiniti EX35 vehicles equipped with the power tilt/telescope option included in the premium package, manufactured June 29, 2007, to April 25, 2008, 2009 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 vehicles manufactured October 31, 2007, to April 16, 2008, and 2009 Nissan GT-R vehicles manufactured March 14, 2007, to April 25, 2008. The steering column outer tube may not be round, resulting in extra stress being applied to the upper steering bearing. This stress may cause the bearing retainer to fracture, creating extra play in the steering wheel or a possible loss of steering.

Campaign #15V05400002/02/2015

EQUIPMENT

CURT IS RECALLING CERTAIN CLASS 1 RECEIVER HITCHES, P/N 11500, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN MARCH 26, 2008 AND MARCH 12, 2009, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 NISSAN INFINITI EX35 VEHICLES. WHEN THE HITCH IS LOADED TO THE MAXIMUM RATING, THE BUMPER STRUCTURE OF THE VEHICLE MAY PULL AWAY FROM THE VEHICLE FRAME.

Campaign #09E05000010/08/2009

AIR BAGS

NISSAN IS RECALLING 16,365 MY 2008 INFINITI EX35 AND MY 2009 NISSAN MURANO VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT SOFTWARE PROGRAMMING, THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU) MAY CAUSE THE PASSENGER AIR BAG NOT TO OPERATE AS DESIGNED IF THE VEHICLE BATTERY BECOMES SIGNIFICANTLY DISCHARGED.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Infiniti EX35 problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2008-2012 Infiniti EX35 has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Airbag Control Unit Software Disables Passenger Airbag After Battery Discharge (Recall 08V066000), OCS Varistor Defect Suppresses Passenger Airbag (Recall 08V521000), Steering Column Out-of-Round Causing Bearing Fracture and Steering Play (Recall 15V054000). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Infiniti EX35 reliable?

The 2008-2012 Infiniti EX35 has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Airbag Control Unit Software Disables Passenger Airbag After Battery Discharge (Recall 08V066000) and OCS Varistor Defect Suppresses Passenger Airbag (Recall 08V521000) and Steering Column Out-of-Round Causing Bearing Fracture and Steering Play (Recall 15V054000). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Infiniti EX35 problems?

Repair costs for known Infiniti EX35 issues range from $0 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Airbag Control Unit Software Disables Passenger Airbag After Battery Discharge (Recall 08V066000), typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Infiniti EX35 is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Infiniti EX35. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2008-2012 Infiniti EX35 with 6 documented issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #08V06600012/02/2008

AIR BAGS

NISSAN IS RECALLING 204,361 MY 2007-2008 ALTIMA, ALTIMA HYBRID, 350Z, 350Z ROADSTER, MY 2008 ALTIMA COUPE, ROGUE, MY 2009 MURANO, AND INFINITI MY 2007-2008 G35 SEDAN, MY 2008 G37 COUPE AND EX35 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS' OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) CONTROL UNITS. A VARISTOR IN THE OCS CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU).

Campaign #08V52100007/10/2008

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2008 Infiniti EX35 Airbag Control Unit Software Disables Passenger Airbag After Battery Discharge (Recall 08V066000)?

Incorrect software programming in the airbag control unit means that if the vehicle battery becomes significantly discharged, the passenger airbag may not operate as designed afterward. The failure is insidious because it is triggered by an ordinary event — a flat battery from le… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2008 Infiniti EX35 OCS Varistor Defect Suppresses Passenger Airbag (Recall 08V521000)?

A varistor inside the Occupant Classification System control unit in the front passenger seat cushion was manufactured out of specification and can interrupt the signal between the OCS and the airbag control unit. With that signal lost the airbag control unit suppresses the passe… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2008 Infiniti EX35 Steering Column Out-of-Round Causing Bearing Fracture and Steering Play (Recall 15V054000)?

On EX35 vehicles ordered with the power tilt/telescope steering option included in the premium package, the steering column outer tube may not be truly round. The out-of-round tube applies extra stress to the upper steering bearing, and that stress can fracture the bearing retain… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2008-2012 Infiniti EX35 Clogged Sunroof Drains Causing Cabin Water Leaks and Electrical Faults?

The EX35 shares the sunroof drain architecture of its G-platform siblings: a tray around the glass panel that collects water and routes it through tubes down the A- and C-pillars. Debris packs the drain nipples at the tray corners, the tray overflows, and water enters the headlin… Repairs typically run $0-$900. Severity: medium.

What is the 2008-2009 Infiniti EX35 Dashboard Melts, Turns Sticky, and Cracks Causing Windshield Glare?

The EX35 uses the same dashboard topper material as its G-platform contemporaries, and it degrades the same way under sustained sun and heat: soft and tacky first, then shiny patches, cracks, and chipping, typically starting at the defroster vents and around the instrument binnac… Repairs typically run $60-$2,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2008-2012 Infiniti EX35 VQ35HR Oil Consumption?

The VQ35HR engine in the EX35 exhibits higher-than-normal oil consumption, typically burning 1 quart every 2,000-3,000 miles. Worn valve stem seals and piston ring coking contribute to the problem, especially in vehicles with infrequent oil changes. Repairs typically run $100-$2,500. Severity: medium.