2004 Infiniti FX35 Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2004 Infiniti FX35
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2005 Infiniti FX35 earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (major severity).
- Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
2004 Infiniti FX35: Buy or Avoid?
The 2004 Infiniti FX35 offers a compelling blend of sporty performance and distinctive styling, making it an attractive used purchase. While its core engine and chassis are robust, specific known issues, particularly with the automatic transmission's valve body and common interior flaws, elevate its risk profile from what some might expect from a Japanese luxury brand. If you're willing to address these potential headaches proactively, this crossover can deliver an engaging ownership experience, but it's not a 'set it and forget it' vehicle.
The 2004 Infiniti FX35 is a driver's SUV with a potent engine and striking looks, but its reliability is hampered by widespread transmission valve body issues and a prone-to-cracking dashboard. While the engine is a tank, these other factors elevate the ownership risk. It's a solid choice if you understand and budge…
Best Model Years
2006-2008 (later models saw some refinements and generally fewer transmission complaints)
Years to Avoid
2003-2004 (higher incidence of the well-known valve body and dash issues)
Biggest Strengths
- Robust VQ35DE engine durability
- Solid, performance-oriented chassis and handling
- Distinctive and timeless styling
2004 Infiniti FX35 — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2004 Infiniti FX35, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 5-speed automatic transmission is prone to valve body failure, leading to harsh shifts (especially 1st to 2nd), slipping, or even complete failure to engage gears. This is a common issue with Nissan/Infiniti transmissions of this era.
The dashboard material is notorious for cracking, particularly around the passenger airbag area and gauge cluster. This is primarily a cosmetic issue but is widespread and can be expensive to repair or replace.
Power window motors and regulators frequently fail, causing windows to operate slowly, get stuck, or stop working entirely. This affects all four windows but is particularly common on the driver's side.
2004 Infiniti FX35 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2004 Infiniti FX35 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the FX35 is typically in its prime. Focus on basic fluid changes (oil, brake fluid) and tire rotations. No major reliability concerns should be present.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks a period where more significant maintenance items become due, and early signs of common wear items may appear. Pay close attention to transmission performance and suspension.
Elevated Risk Zone
The risk of transmission valve body failure increases significantly. Suspension components like control arm bushings and struts are likely showing wear. Electrical nuisance issues become more probable.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120k miles, expect to address multiple wear items. A well-maintained engine will continue strong, but the transmission, entire suspension, and electrical system will likely demand significant investment. Factor in potential major…
2004 Infiniti FX35 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2004 Infiniti FX35 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-800
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 annually (factoring in window motors, bushings, brakes)
How Long Does the 2004 Infiniti FX35 Last?
For a 2004 FX35, lower mileage is certainly preferred, especially if under 70,000 miles, as it reduces the immediate likelihood of valve body and suspension issues. However, a higher mileage example (100k+) with documented transmission service or a recently replaced valve body can also be a reasonable buy if the pri…
What 2004 Infiniti FX35 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Engaging driving dynamics and responsive handling for an SUV
- Distinctive, aggressive exterior styling that has aged well
- Powerful VQ35DE engine with an addictive exhaust note
- Comfortable and supportive front seats (when new)
Common Frustrations
- Poor fuel economy for its size and class
- Firm, sometimes harsh ride quality on rough roads
- Limited rear cargo space and compromised rear visibility
- Frustratingly common dashboard cracking issue
Who Should Buy the 2004 Infiniti FX35?
Best For
- Drivers prioritizing style and engaging performance over outright utility
- Individuals seeking a luxury SUV with a robust, proven engine
- Buyers comfortable with performing or budgeting for specific known repairs
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious owners who cannot afford potentially significant transmission repairs
- Those prioritizing maximum cargo space or family hauling ability
How the 2004 Infiniti FX35 Compares to Rivals
The FX35 strikes a unique balance, offering sportier performance than most Japanese competitors while generally being more reliable than its European counterparts, despite its specific Achilles' heels.
More Reliable Than
- 2004 BMW X5 (E53) - generally superior electrical reliability and cooling system robustness.
- 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W163) - more reliable engine/transmission than the M-Class, which faced numerous quality control issues.
- 2004 Cadillac SRX - fewer complex drivetrain issues than the early SRX.
Comparable To
- 2004 Acura MDX - offers a similar blend of performance and luxury, with slightly better overall reliability but its own common issues (e.g., transmission on early models).
Safety Recalls on the 2004 Infiniti FX35
7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
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.
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.
What breaks on the 2004 Infiniti FX35?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Infiniti FX35 — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Infiniti FX35. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2004s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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