2006 Infiniti G35 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2006 Infiniti G35
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags.
- Scores roughly in line with adjacent Infiniti G35 years — consistency that often signals a stable platform generation.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine oil consumption (vq35de revup) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2006 Infiniti G35?
The 2006 Infiniti G35 remains a strong contender for those seeking an engaging sports sedan or coupe on a budget, offering robust performance and premium features without the steep repair costs of its German rivals. While generally reliable, specific engine variants demand diligent oil monitoring and some common age-related issues need to be addressed, making a pre-purchase inspection critical for a confident buy.
While the 2006 G35 offers an exhilarating driving experience and Infiniti's renowned reliability, the prevalence of oil consumption in RevUp engines and common age-related wear items necessitate careful consideration. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a clear understanding of its specific weaknesses are paramou…
Best Model Years
2003-2004 non-RevUp G35 Sedans and 2007+ (G37) for improved reliability and power.
Years to Avoid
2005-2006 manual transmission coupes and AWD sedans equipped with the RevUp engine, unless a thorough oil consumption test has been performed and documented, or an engine rebuild is confirmed.
Biggest Strengths
- Potent VQ35DE engine performance
- Engaging RWD/AWD driving dynamics
- Generally durable chassis and drivetrain
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2006 Infiniti G35, 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.
Specific to manual transmission coupes and some AWD sedans, the 'RevUp' version of the VQ35DE engine can notoriously consume excessive amounts of oil due to piston ring design flaws. This leads to low oil levels if not frequently checked…
Like many performance-oriented vehicles, the G35 is prone to wearing out its suspension components, including front control arm bushings, strut/shock absorbers, and sway bar end links. This leads to clunking noises, reduced ride quality,…
Owners frequently report issues with power window motors failing, especially on the driver's side. Other common electrical annoyances include failures of the Bose amplifier, flickering dashboard lights, and intermittent issues with heate…
2006 Infiniti G35 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2006 Infiniti G35 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the G35 is typically still under its prime. Focus on basic fluid changes, tire rotations, and general inspection to ensure early issues are caught. Oil consumption in RevUp engines might just be starting to appear.
Maintenance Zone
This is a critical maintenance interval for spark plugs, differential fluid, and transmission fluid. Suspension components like front control arm bushings may begin to show wear, requiring attention. Watch for increasing oil consumption…
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond 90k, more significant wear items emerge. Suspension overhaul (struts, bushings) is likely needed. Monitor oil consumption closely if you have a RevUp engine. Electrical issues like window motors or the Bose amp may start to surface.
High Risk Zone
At this mileage, virtually all major components have significant wear. While the VQ engine can last, neglected maintenance, especially oil levels in RevUp models, can lead to failure. Expect a comprehensive refresh of almost all wear items.
2006 Infiniti G35 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2006 Infiniti G35 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., full suspension refresh, transmission service)
How Long Does the 2006 Infiniti G35 Last?
Focus on G35s with documented maintenance up to 90,000 miles. Beyond 120,000 miles, be prepared for a substantial investment in suspension and possibly drivetrain refresh to ensure continued enjoyable ownership.
What 2006 Infiniti G35 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Strong V6 engine performance and satisfying exhaust note
- Sharp, engaging handling for a sedan/coupe of its size
- Premium interior feel and quality materials for its price point
- Timeless exterior styling that still looks good today
Common Frustrations
- Poor fuel economy for a sedan/coupe (especially compared to modern cars)
- Significant road noise at highway speeds
- High oil consumption on RevUp engines requires constant monitoring
- Limited rear seat room and trunk space, particularly in the coupe
Who Should Buy the 2006 Infiniti G35?
Best For
- Performance enthusiasts on a budget
- Daily drivers who value engaging dynamics over ultimate fuel economy
- Drivers seeking a premium feel without a premium price tag
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking absolute lowest cost of ownership and fuel efficiency
- Individuals who neglect routine fluid level checks (especially oil)
How the 2006 Infiniti G35 Compares to Rivals
The G35 offers exceptional value for a performance luxury vehicle, outperforming European rivals in long-term cost of ownership, while providing a more engaging driving experience than its direct Japanese competitor, the Lexus IS, albeit with a few more specific quirks.
More Reliable Than
- BMW 3 Series (E46/E90 generations) - Generally lower maintenance and repair costs, better long-term powertrain reliability.
- Older Mercedes-Benz C-Class - Superior long-term electrical reliability and simpler systems.
Comparable To
- Lexus IS (older generation) - Offers a similar blend of sport and luxury, with slightly better overall reliability but often less raw performance feel.
NHTSA Recalls
2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2007 INFINITI G35 SEDANS MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 29, 2004 THROUGH AUGUST 25, 2006 AND INFINITI G35 COUPES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 1, 2004 THROUGH MAY 30, 2007. THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTING THE BELT TENSION SENSOR (BTS) AND THE OCCUPANT DETECTION SENSOR (ODS) CONTROL UNIT UNDER THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT CAN EXPERIENCE RELATIVE MOVEMENT WHICH CAN CAUSE WEAR AND OXIDIZATION OF THE TERMINALS AND MAY CAUSE INTERRUPTION OF THE SIGNAL.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
CERTAIN VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE "VERTICAL GRADIENT" AND "HEADLAMP PHOTOMETRIC VALUES" REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, 'LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.'
What breaks on the 2006 Infiniti G35?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Infiniti G35 by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Infiniti G35. Click any year for its full report.
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