Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2003 Infiniti FX45
The 2003 Infiniti FX45 has notable issues with airbag recalls, exterior lighting compliance, and fuel system concerns. These issues, combined with other minor complaints, require thorough inspection of affected components before purchase. Despite these concerns, the model remains a viable option if problems are addressed and the car is well-maintained.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2003 Infiniti FX45 has 9 NHTSA recall campaigns and 25 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V008000 Frontal Passenger Air Bag Inflators May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V349000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V287000 Passenger Air Bag Inflator may Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V226000 Passenger Air Bag Inflator may Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06V328000 FMVSS 108/HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06V244000 FMVSS 108/REAR COMBINATION LAMP NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #05V555000 FUEL FILLER HOSE CRACKING NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #03V476000 NISSAN/FRONT BRAKE CALIPER MOUNTING BOLTS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #03V164000 NISSAN/TRANSAXLE/DIFFERENTIAL BOLTS NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 5 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 5 complaints
- Power Train 4 complaints
- Structure 4 complaints
- Fuel System, Gasoline 2 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 2 complaints
Of the 25 complaints on file, 1 reports a crash (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Passenger airbag inflator rupture
How to check: Inspect recall status and confirm airbag replacement.
Headlamp compliance failure
How to check: Test headlights meet brightness requirements.
Front brake caliper bolts loose
How to check: Verify caliper bolts are securely tightened.
Rear combination lamp compliance
How to check: Check rear light functionality and compliance.
Fuel filler hose can crack
How to check: Inspect filler hose for cracks or leaks.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Check for unusual noises from engine or exhaust.
Red flag: Loud knocking or rattling noises
- 02
Initial acceleration
What to check: Feel for smooth transition through gears.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifting
- 03
City driving
What to check: Examine if brakes function without noise or vibration.
Red flag: Grinding or squealing brakes
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure stable acceleration without hesitation.
Red flag: Lag or surging in acceleration
- 05
Steering at low speeds
What to check: Assess if steering responds without effort.
Red flag: Loose or unresponsive steering
- 06
Parking
What to check: Check for smooth gear shifting into park.
Red flag: Delayed or harsh response
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been serviced?
- Have the headlight compliance issues been addressed?
- Are there any known fuel system issues?
- Has the car had regular brake inspections?
- Were any of the recalls addressed by a dealership?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service and repair records
- Recall service documentation
- Vehicle Title and registration
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2003 Infiniti FX45 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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