2008 Infiniti G37 Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2008 Infiniti G37
- The system most likely to surface first: engine internal oil leaks (gallery gaskets) (critical severity).
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the air bags.
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2009 Infiniti G37 earns a 82.
Is the 2008 Infiniti G37 Worth Buying?
The 2008 Infiniti G37 offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and style, making it an attractive used option. However, its significant Achilles' heel – the costly timing chain gallery gasket issue – demands meticulous pre-purchase inspection and a clear budget for potential major repairs. Proceed with caution and a comprehensive inspection to secure a rewarding ownership experience.
The 2008 Infiniti G37 is a thrilling and attractive car, but its known, costly engine and manual transmission vulnerabilities prevent a full 'Buy with Confidence' recommendation without significant provisos. If you find a meticulously maintained example with service records, ideally with evidence of gallery gasket o…
Best Model Years
2010-2013 (Later models may have revised gallery gasket material, though still a risk. Also benefited from incremental refinements.)
Years to Avoid
None explicitly, but early models like 2008-2009 are most likely to experience gallery gasket failures if not addressed.
Biggest Strengths
- Potent and generally robust VQ37HR engine (when properly maintained)
- Engaging driving dynamics and responsive handling
- Upscale interior with premium materials for its class
What Tends to Fail First on the 2008 Infiniti G37
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2008 Infiniti G37, 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 paper gaskets sealing the timing chain cover oil galleries can degrade and fail, leading to significant internal oil pressure loss. This can starve critical engine components of lubrication, resulting in P0011/P0021 codes, engine rat…
On manual transmission models, the Concentric Slave Cylinder (CSC) is a notorious weak point. It's prone to premature failure, leading to a soft or non-existent clutch pedal, making the vehicle undriveable. Repair requires removal of the…
Bushings, particularly in the lower control arms and sway bars, are prone to wearing out, leading to clunking noises, imprecise steering, and uneven tire wear. Struts and shocks also lose effectiveness over time, impacting ride quality a…
2008 Infiniti G37 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2008 Infiniti G37 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the G37 is still relatively new. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin/engine air filters. Inspect brakes for wear and address any minor issues promptly.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often marks the need for major fluid services, including transmission (especially if automatic), differential, and brake fluid. Suspension components may start showing early signs of wear, particularly bushings. Manual trans…
Elevated Risk Zone
This is where more significant and costly repairs become a real possibility. The infamous timing chain gallery gasket failure often occurs in this range. VVEL issues might also surface. Thorough inspection of all major systems is crucial.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120k miles, expect age-related component failures across all systems. While a well-maintained G37 can go much further, the risk of engine issues (if not previously addressed), transmission wear, and widespread suspension/electrica…
2008 Infiniti G37 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2008 Infiniti G37 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
$600-1,500 occasionally (e.g., suspension work, VVEL solenoid)
How Long Does the 2008 Infiniti G37 Last?
Prioritize G37s with comprehensive service records. While high-mileage examples can be tempting, those around the 80,000-120,000-mile mark should be approached with extreme caution and a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the engine's oil pressure.
What 2008 Infiniti G37 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Strong V6 engine performance and exhilarating acceleration
- Sharp handling and precise steering for an involving driving experience
- Stylish exterior design that still looks modern
- Comfortable and well-appointed interior with good standard features
Common Frustrations
- Significant fuel consumption requiring premium gasoline
- Road noise can be intrusive, especially at highway speeds
- Rear seat space is very limited, typical for a coupe
- The potential for expensive gallery gasket failure is a constant worry
Who Should Buy the 2008 Infiniti G37?
Best For
- Enthusiasts seeking a powerful, engaging, and relatively affordable luxury sport coupe
- Drivers who prioritize performance and styling over ultimate fuel economy
- Individuals comfortable with potentially higher maintenance costs than average
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for rock-bottom running costs
- Those who need spacious rear seats or cargo room
How the 2008 Infiniti G37 Compares to Rivals
The G37 offers a more engaging and sporty driving experience than most competitors in its price range, often with better reliability than its German rivals of the same era, but doesn't quite match the bulletproof reputation of some Lexus models due to its specific, costly engi…
More Reliable Than
- BMW 3-Series (E90 generation, generally higher repair costs and more frequent electronic issues)
- Audi A4/A5 (B8 generation, known for timing chain tensioner issues and high repair costs)
Comparable To
- Lexus IS 250 (less powerful, but slightly better overall reliability reputation)
- Acura TL (FWD bias, but similar luxury/sport balance)
2008 Infiniti G37 Recall History
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
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).
What breaks on the 2008 Infiniti G37?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Infiniti G37 Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Infiniti G37. Click any year for its full report.
2008 Infiniti G37 Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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