Vehicle Guide

2008 Infiniti FX35 Problems, Reliability & Owner's Guide

Common problems with the 2008 Infiniti FX35, reliability ratings, maintenance tips, and owner reviews. Get your complete owner's guide.

Overview

The 2008 Infiniti FX35 is a midsize luxury crossover SUV known for sporty handling, bold styling, and a performance-first feel compared with softer, family-focused rivals. It’s ideal for drivers who want an SUV driving experience closer to a sport sedan, plus premium features and strong V6 power. For 2008, the FX35 sits in the first-generation FX lineup (often called the FX “S50” generation), positioned as a stylish, upscale alternative to vehicles like the Lexus RX and Acura MDX. Its market appeal is a mix of luxury, performance, and distinctive design, with practicality that’s good but not class-leading.

Key Features

1) 3.5L V6 performance: The FX35 uses Infiniti’s 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 (VQ35DE), delivering strong acceleration and a smooth, high-revving character commonly associated with Infiniti/Nissan performance models. 2) 5-speed automatic transmission: A 5-speed automatic is standard, tuned for responsive passing power and confident highway cruising. 3) Rear-wheel drive or AWD: Many 2008 FX35 models are rear-wheel drive, with available all-wheel drive (AWD) for improved traction in rain or snow and better year-round confidence. 4) Sporty chassis tuning: The FX platform emphasizes steering feel and cornering stability, giving the FX35 a more athletic personality than many luxury crossovers of its era. 5) Available luxury/tech equipment: Depending on trim and options, shoppers may find leather seating, premium audio, navigation, and upscale interior touches that keep the cabin feeling luxurious even by modern standards.

Common Issues & Reliability

When shoppers research 2008 Infiniti FX35 reliability, most find that the powertrain can be durable with proper care, but age-related wear and a few repeat complaints show up across owner reports. Here are some 2008 Infiniti FX35 problems and common issues to know before buying: 1) Oil consumption and valve cover leaks: Some FX35 owners report higher-than-expected oil consumption as mileage climbs, along with oil seepage from valve cover gaskets. This tends to appear more often past 100,000 miles, and it’s important because low oil can accelerate engine wear if not monitored. 2) Cooling system wear (radiator, hoses, thermostat): As these vehicles age, cooling components can weaken. Radiator leaks, brittle hoses, or thermostat issues may show up around 90,000–140,000 miles, and overheating risk makes this a “fix it early” item. 3) Suspension and steering wear: The FX’s sporty setup can mean faster wear of components like control arm bushings, ball joints, and wheel bearings, especially on rough roads or with larger wheel packages. Clunks over bumps, uneven tire wear, and vibration can appear around 80,000–130,000 miles depending on driving conditions. 4) Interior/electrical annoyances: Older luxury crossovers can develop small but frustrating issues, such as window motor/regulator wear, door lock actuator problems, or intermittent sensor-related warning lights. These aren’t always constant failures, but they’re common enough to budget for on a 2008 model.

Frequently Asked Questions

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