Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2008 Infiniti EX35
The 2008 Infiniti EX35 is generally a reliable used vehicle, though potential buyers should be cautious of certain issues, notably with the airbag system and steering components. Perform thorough checks, especially regarding the recalls. With a combination of performance and luxury, it remains an attractive option if potential issues are addressed.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2008 Infiniti EX35 has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 44 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #15V054000 Steering Column Tube may be Out of Round NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E050000 AFTERMARKET RECEIVER HITCH NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V521000 OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM CONTROL UNIT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V066000 PASSENGER AIR BAG FAIL TO DEPLOY NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 11 complaints
- Steering 11 complaints
- Engine 8 complaints
- Electrical System 6 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 2 complaints
- Power Train 2 complaints
Of the 44 complaints on file, 5 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 44 complaints, owners report 3 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Passenger airbag may fail
How to check: Verify recall repair with a service record; ask about airbag light
Steering column issues
How to check: Test for smooth tilt and telescope function of steering wheel
Faulty occupant classification system
How to check: Ensure passenger seat detects occupants correctly. Check for warning lights
Battery may drain excessively
How to check: Inspect for battery life and test electronic functions
Receiver hitch may detach
How to check: Examine rear bumper for secure attachment and for any repairs
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or rough idling
Red flag: Persistent rough idling
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check that all dashboard warning lights turn off
Red flag: Any warning lights stay on
- 03
Steering operation
What to check: Adjust steering wheel tilt and telescope
Red flag: Wheel does not adjust smoothly
- 04
City driving
What to check: Test brake response and pedal feel
Red flag: Spongy or grinding brakes
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth gear shifts and engine response
Red flag: Delayed or jerky gear transitions
- 06
Final parking
What to check: Inspect for unusual smells like burning
Red flag: Noticeable burning smell
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the passenger airbag recall been fixed?
- Are there any current warning lights on?
- Has the steering column been serviced?
- When was the battery last replaced?
- Is the original hitch still installed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service history records
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2008 Infiniti EX35 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2008 Infiniti EX35? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.