2012 Infiniti G37 Reliability ReportB grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2012 Infiniti G37
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (gallery gasket) (critical severity).
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the visibility:power window devices and controls.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2011 Infiniti G37 earns a 88.
Is the 2012 Infiniti G37 Worth Buying?
The 2012 Infiniti G37 offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and generally robust engineering, making it a strong contender in the used market. However, a critical engine vulnerability and a few common age-related issues elevate its risk profile from 'low' to 'moderate.' You can absolutely enjoy this car for years, but only with a diligent pre-purchase inspection and a clear understanding of its potential pitfalls.
While the 2012 Infiniti G37 delivers an excellent driving experience and robust performance for its price point, the looming threat of the gallery gasket issue necessitates a cautious approach. If you find a well-maintained example with documented service history and pass a thorough pre-purchase inspection confirmin…
Best Model Years
2012-2013 (later production years often benefit from minor refinements)
Years to Avoid
Earlier 2008-2010 models if gallery gasket repair status is unknown or not verified.
Biggest Strengths
- Potent and generally durable VQ37VHR engine
- Robust 7-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions
- Solid chassis and engaging driving dynamics
What Tends to Fail First on the 2012 Infiniti G37
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2012 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 internal gallery gasket, made of paper, can fail, leading to a loss of oil pressure. This starves the valvetrain and other critical engine components, resulting in costly engine damage or failure if not caught early.
Electric window motors and regulators frequently fail, particularly on the driver's side. This typically results in a window that won't go up or down, or operates very slowly.
The soft-touch material on the dashboard is prone to bubbling, peeling, or cracking, especially in vehicles exposed to direct sunlight or hot climates. This is primarily a cosmetic issue but significantly impacts interior aesthetics.
2012 Infiniti G37 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2012 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 typically in excellent condition, requiring only routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. Any issues at this stage are usually minor or warranty-related.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often triggers major service intervals, including spark plugs, differential fluid, and potentially early signs of brake wear. Dashboard bubbling or a sticky window motor may start to appear.
Elevated Risk Zone
Suspension components like control arm bushings may show significant wear. This is also the mileage where the potential for gallery gasket failure begins to increase, making a thorough inspection critical.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120k, all major systems have significant mileage. While a well-maintained G37 can go much further, the risk of gallery gasket failure, major fluid leaks, and component wear requiring substantial investment increases significantly.
2012 Infiniti G37 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2012 Infiniti G37 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., window regulator, suspension components, VVT solenoids)
How Long Does the 2012 Infiniti G37 Last?
Focus on G37s with mileage between 60,000-100,000 miles that have a complete service history. Vehicles above 120,000 miles require even more rigorous inspection, especially for engine oil pressure.
What 2012 Infiniti G37 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Engaging driving experience and strong V6 engine power
- Sleek and timeless exterior styling
- Comfortable and well-appointed interior for its class
- Generally reliable and well-built components (outside of specific issues)
Common Frustrations
- Disappointing fuel economy for a sedan of its size
- Common dashboard bubbling issue is a visual frustration
- Infotainment system can feel dated compared to newer vehicles
- Rear seat space is somewhat cramped for adults
Who Should Buy the 2012 Infiniti G37?
Best For
- Enthusiasts seeking a reliable, rear-wheel-drive sport sedan on a budget
- Commuters who appreciate a comfortable and engaging daily driver
- Drivers looking for a luxurious experience without extreme maintenance costs
Not Ideal For
- Extreme budget buyers unprepared for potential moderate repair costs
- Drivers who prioritize maximum fuel efficiency
How the 2012 Infiniti G37 Compares to Rivals
The G37 often strikes a sweet spot between European luxury-sport sedans' performance and Japanese reliability, typically offering more power and engagement than its Lexus counterparts but without the complex (and costly) issues of contemporary German rivals.
More Reliable Than
- BMW 3-Series (E90 era, especially models with N54/N55 engines)
- Audi A4/A5 (B8 generation, for oil consumption and timing chain tensioner issues)
Comparable To
- Lexus IS 250/350 (strong reliability, but G37 offers more performance)
- Acura TL (FWD/SH-AWD models, similar blend of sport and luxury)
2012 Infiniti G37 Recall History
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 AND 2012 INFINITI G37 COUPE VEHICLES AND CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 NISSAN 370Z VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 2, 2011, THROUGH AUGUST 29, 2011. DUE TO A PROGRAMMING ERROR, THE POWER WINDOW SWITCH CONTROLLER IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WAS MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION.
What breaks on the 2012 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.
2012 Infiniti G37 Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2012 Infiniti G37
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Frequently Asked Questions
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