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Infiniti · Known Issues

2003 Infiniti FX45 Problems: 6 Known Issues

2003 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2003 Infiniti FX45 has 6 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Timing Chain Guide Wear and Chain Noise ($1,800-$3,500 repair) and Radiator Failure Causing Overheating ($450-$950 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $180 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • FX45 Engine1
  • FX45 Cooling1
  • FX45 Suspension1
  • FX45 Brakes1
  • FX45 Electrical1
  • FX45 Fuel System1
  • Recalls10
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Cooling1
  • Suspension1
  • Brakes1
  • Electrical1
  • Fuel System1
  • Recalls10
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS200820072006200520042003

On the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45, the VK45DE V8 used in the FX45 can develop timing chain guide and tensioner wear, leading to chain rattle on startup or at idle. Owners report the issue more often on higher-mileage engines or vehicles with poor oil change history, where sludge and low oil pressure accelerate guide and tensioner wear.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX35, Infiniti G35, Infiniti G37

Common Symptoms

  • Rattling noise on cold start
  • Metallic chain noise at idle
  • Check engine light
  • Rough running or timing-related misfire
  • Noise from front of engine

How to Fix

Diagnosis usually starts with confirming front cover chain noise during cold start and checking oil condition, oil pressure, and cam/crank correlation data. Repair typically involves replacing timing chain guides, tensioners, and often the primary chain while the front timing cover is removed; parts and labor are substantial because of the engine teardown. Typical repair cost runs about $1,800 to $3,500 depending on how many timing components are replaced.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Infiniti VK45DE camshaft timing chain
    OEMInfiniti 13028-6N200

    chain replacement after measurable wear, damage or timing-set service is confirmed Fitment/availability: Infiniti 13028-6N200 replaces 6N210 and fits the 2003-2008 FX45 VK45DE.

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti VK45DE right-side timing-chain tensioner
    OEMInfiniti 13070-AR000

    right-bank chain-tensioner branch during confirmed timing-system repair Fitment/availability: Infiniti 13070-AR000 is the VK45DE right-side chain tensioner cataloged for 2003-2008 FX45. It is paired with, not substituted for, the left-si…

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti VK45DE left-side timing-chain tensioner
    OEMInfiniti 13070-AR015

    left-bank chain-tensioner branch during confirmed timing-system repair Fitment/availability: Infiniti 13070-AR015 replaces AR010 and is cataloged for 2003-2008 FX45 VK45DE.

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti VK45DE right-side slack chain guide
    OEMInfiniti 13091-AR000

    right-side slack-guide branch during confirmed complete timing-system service Fitment/availability: Infiniti 13091-AR000 is a right-side/slack-side VK45DE guide cataloged for 2003-2008 FX45. It is only one of four side-specific guides; A…

    InfinitiPartsDeal

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

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipUse high-quality synthetic oil and avoid extended oil change intervals, since dirty oil is commonly blamed for accelerating chain guide and tensioner wear.
  • TipIf startup rattle lasts more than a second or becomes frequent, inspect it early before chain slack causes cam timing faults.
Typical repair cost:$1,800 - $3,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45 VK45DE, a common aging issue on the FX45 is radiator tank cracking or seam leakage, especially on higher-mileage vehicles exposed to heat cycling. Coolant loss can lead to overheating, and if ignored, the VK45DE can suffer head gasket damage or warped components.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX35, Infiniti FX50, Infiniti M35

Common Symptoms

  • Coolant smell from front of vehicle
  • Visible coolant leak under radiator area
  • Engine temperature running high
  • Low coolant level warning or repeated top-offs
  • Steam from engine bay

How to Fix

Diagnosis includes pressure-testing the cooling system, checking for leaks at the radiator end tanks, and inspecting hoses, cap, and thermostat operation. Repair usually means replacing the radiator assembly and fresh coolant, with many owners also replacing upper/lower hoses and the thermostat at the same time. Typical total cost is about $450 to $950 depending on parts quality and labor rates.

What you need to fix it

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

  • DENSO replacement radiator with integrated transmission-oil cooler
    OEMDENSO 221-3424

    radiator branch after an end-tank, core or integrated-cooler fault is confirmed Fitment/availability: DENSO 221-3424 is cataloged specifically for the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45 4.5L VK45DE and includes the transmission-oil cooler. It is no…

    PartsGeek

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

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipReplace the radiator cap and inspect both cooling fans whenever overheating starts, because weak cap pressure and fan issues can mimic radiator failure.
Typical repair cost:$450 - $950

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45, the FX45 is known for front suspension wear, especially in the upper and lower control arm bushings and ball joints. The vehicle's weight, wheel/tire package, and sporty suspension tuning contribute to clunks, looseness, and uneven tire wear as the bushings deteriorate.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX35, Infiniti FX50, Infiniti M35

Common Symptoms

  • Clunking over bumps
  • Uneven front tire wear
  • Steering wander
  • Vibration at highway speed
  • Loose or unstable front-end feel

How to Fix

Diagnosis involves checking for play in the front suspension, inspecting cracked bushings, and verifying alignment angles and tire wear patterns. Repair typically includes replacing the worn control arm assemblies rather than pressing bushings individually, followed by a four-wheel alignment. Typical cost ranges from $500 to $1,400 depending on how many arms and links are replaced.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Beck/Arnley front lower control arm and ball joint, passenger side
    OEMBeck/Arnley 102-6142

    passenger-side lower-arm branch after that arm or joint is proved worn Fitment/availability: Beck/Arnley 102-6142 fits the passenger-side front lower position on 2003-2008 FX45.

    Suspension.com
  • Beck/Arnley front lower control arm and ball joint, driver side
    OEMBeck/Arnley 102-6143

    driver-side lower-arm branch after that arm or joint is proved worn Fitment/availability: Beck/Arnley 102-6143 fits the driver-side front lower position on 2003-2008 FX45.

    Suspension.com
  • MOOG front sway-bar end link
    OEMMOOG K750273

    front-link branch when the end-link joint is the confirmed source of clunk Fitment/availability: MOOG K750273 fits the front of 2003-2008 FX45 and is sold singly; quantity two is required only when both links fail inspection.

    Suspension.com

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

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipHave alignment checked immediately after replacing any front suspension arm, or the new tires can wear quickly.
Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,400

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45, owners frequently report front brake pulsation and rapid pad/rotor wear on the FX45, especially with aggressive driving or heavy wheel/tire setups. The heavy V8 crossover places high thermal load on the front brakes, and lower-quality replacement rotors tend to develop thickness variation quickly.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX35, Infiniti FX50

Common Symptoms

  • Brake pedal pulsation
  • Steering wheel shake during braking
  • Squealing or grinding brakes
  • Reduced braking smoothness
  • Frequent front pad replacement

How to Fix

Diagnosis includes measuring rotor thickness variation, checking pad wear, and inspecting caliper slide movement. Repair typically involves replacing front rotors and pads together, cleaning/lubricating slide pins, and checking for sticking calipers or hub runout; premium coated rotors and quality ceramic pads usually last longer. Typical cost is about $350 to $900 for a proper front brake service.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Infiniti early-production front disc brake rotor
    OEMInfiniti 40206-CG010

    Confirm VIN/build date; it is not the later CL70A branch.

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti late-production front disc brake rotor
    OEMInfiniti 40206-CL70A

    Confirm VIN/build date and caliper configuration.

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti early front disc brake pad kit
    OEMInfiniti D1060-CA093

    Confirm VIN/build date/caliper because the later 2005-2008 EG090/1NC1B branch overlaps by production.

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti late front disc brake pad kit
    OEMInfiniti 41060-EG090 / D1060-1NC1B

    Confirm VIN/build date and order the current supersession; do not substitute the earlier CA093 branch witho

    InfinitiPartsDeal

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

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipTorque lug nuts evenly with a torque wrench after wheel service, since uneven torque can contribute to brake vibration complaints.
Typical repair cost:$350 - $900

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45, camshaft and crankshaft position sensors are a well-known failure point on many Nissan and Infiniti vehicles of this era, including the FX45. Heat and age can cause intermittent signal loss, resulting in stalling, hard starting, limp operation, or a no-start condition.

This issue also affects: Infiniti G35, Infiniti G37, Infiniti M56

Common Symptoms

  • Intermittent stalling
  • Extended cranking or no-start
  • Check engine light
  • Engine goes into fail-safe mode
  • Sudden loss of power

How to Fix

Diagnosis is done by scanning for cam/crank correlation or sensor circuit faults and monitoring RPM/cam signals during cranking. Repair usually involves replacing the failed camshaft sensor(s) and/or crankshaft sensor with quality OEM-equivalent parts and clearing codes; access is generally straightforward compared with internal engine work. Typical repair cost is about $180 to $500 depending on how many sensors are replaced.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Infiniti VK45DE camshaft/crankshaft position sensor
    OEMInfiniti 23731-4M50D

    replacement at the single diagnosed cam-phase or crank-position location Fitment/availability: Infiniti 23731-4M50D supersedes 4M50B/4M505/4M506 and is cataloged for the 2003-2008 FX45 VK45DE. The service catalog uses the same part at ca…

    InfinitiPartsDeal

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

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipIf the vehicle stalls hot and restarts after cooling down, check sensor data before replacing fuel system parts.
Typical repair cost:$180 - $500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45, the FX45 can develop inaccurate fuel gauge readings due to wear or contamination in the fuel level sending unit. This may cause the gauge to stick, read empty when fuel remains, or trigger low-fuel warnings inconsistently, which is a known Nissan/Infiniti issue from this era.

This issue also affects: Infiniti M35

Common Symptoms

  • Fuel gauge reads incorrectly
  • Gauge drops suddenly
  • Low fuel light comes on too early
  • Inconsistent distance-to-empty behavior
  • Need to track fuel manually

How to Fix

Diagnosis involves comparing scan tool fuel level data with actual tank fill amount and checking sender resistance through the fuel pump module circuit. Repair usually requires replacing the faulty fuel level sender or pump module assembly, depending on parts availability and condition of the rest of the unit. Typical cost is about $300 to $800 including labor.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Infiniti fuel-gauge sending unit
    OEMInfiniti 25060-CG00E

    Confirm VIN, sender side and required seal/retainer from the tank diagram; do not replace the full pump unless pump testing also

    InfinitiPartsDeal

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

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipUntil repaired, track mileage between fill-ups rather than trusting the gauge if it becomes erratic.
  • TipIf the tank is already being opened for sender work, inspect the pump strainer and electrical connector for heat damage.
Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls10 recalls

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

Nissan North America, Inc. (INFINITI) is recalling certain 2003 INFINITI FX35, 2006-2008 FX35 and FX45 vehicles that previously received a replacement front passenger air bag assembly under recall number 20V-008. The air bag cushion was folded incorrectly, which could increase internal pressure and tear the air bag cushion during deployment.

Campaign #21V13900004/03/2021

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback, 2001-2004 Infiniti I30 and I35, 2002-2003 Inifiniti QX4, 2003-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 and 2006-2010 M35 and M45 vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated, frontal passenger air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Campaign #20V00800009/01/2020

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Infiniti FX45 problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2003 Infiniti FX45 has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Timing Chain Guide Wear and Chain Noise, Radiator Failure Causing Overheating, Front Suspension Control Arm and Bushing Wear. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Infiniti FX45 reliable?

The 2003 Infiniti FX45 has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Timing Chain Guide Wear and Chain Noise and Radiator Failure Causing Overheating. 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 FX45 problems?

Repair costs for known Infiniti FX45 issues range from $180 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Timing Chain Guide Wear and Chain Noise, typically costs $1,800-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45 Timing Chain Guide Wear and Chain Noise?

The VK45DE V8 used in the FX45 can develop timing chain guide and tensioner wear, leading to chain rattle on startup or at idle. Owners report the issue more often on higher-mileage engines or vehicles with poor oil change history, where sludge and low oil pressure accelerate gui… Repairs typically run $1,800-$3,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45 Radiator Failure Causing Overheating?

A common aging issue on the FX45 is radiator tank cracking or seam leakage, especially on higher-mileage vehicles exposed to heat cycling. Coolant loss can lead to overheating, and if ignored, the VK45DE can suffer head gasket damage or warped components. Repairs typically run $450-$950. Severity: high.

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.

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2012 Nissan Versa hatchbacks originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan) and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A". Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" above, Nissan is recalling certain 2009-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45 and 2009 Nissan Versa sedans and hatchbacks originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B". Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Nissan is recalling certain 2005-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45, 2006-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2008 Nissan Versa vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Campaign #17V02800010/01/2017

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2003-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45, 2003-2004 Infiniti I35, 2006-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2011 Nissan Versa vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Nissan is recalling certain model year 2005-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45, 2003-2004 Infiniti I35, 2006-2008 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2008 Nissan Versa vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Nissan is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Infiniti I35 vehicles originally sold, or registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. These inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Campaign #16V34900024/05/2016

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

DURING A CANADIAN COMPLIANCE TEST, CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAILED TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, 'LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.' A REAR COMBINATION LAMP ASSEMBLY DID NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS.

Campaign #06V24400011/07/2006

+ 5 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

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

What is the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45 Front Suspension Control Arm and Bushing Wear?

The FX45 is known for front suspension wear, especially in the upper and lower control arm bushings and ball joints. The vehicle's weight, wheel/tire package, and sporty suspension tuning contribute to clunks, looseness, and uneven tire wear as the bushings deteriorate. Repairs typically run $500-$1,400. Severity: medium.

What is the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45 Brake Rotor Warping and Premature Front Brake Wear?

Owners frequently report front brake pulsation and rapid pad/rotor wear on the FX45, especially with aggressive driving or heavy wheel/tire setups. The heavy V8 crossover places high thermal load on the front brakes, and lower-quality replacement rotors tend to develop thickness… Repairs typically run $350-$900. Severity: medium.

What is the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45 Camshaft and Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure?

Camshaft and crankshaft position sensors are a well-known failure point on many Nissan and Infiniti vehicles of this era, including the FX45. Heat and age can cause intermittent signal loss, resulting in stalling, hard starting, limp operation, or a no-start condition. Repairs typically run $180-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2003-2008 Infiniti FX45 Fuel Level Sending Unit Failure?

The FX45 can develop inaccurate fuel gauge readings due to wear or contamination in the fuel level sending unit. This may cause the gauge to stick, read empty when fuel remains, or trigger low-fuel warnings inconsistently, which is a known Nissan/Infiniti issue from this era. Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: low.