Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2001 Infiniti I35
The 2001 Infiniti I35 shows moderate reliability as a used car, given its airbag recalls and minor complaints related to brakes and powertrain. Buyers should ensure airbag recall issues are resolved and check the suspension thoroughly.
Known issues to inspect
Passenger airbag inflator defect
How to check: Verify passenger airbag recall completion.
Control arm pin breakage risk
How to check: Inspect lower control arms for any damage.
General braking complaints
How to check: Check for unusual brake noises or vibrations.
General powertrain complaints
How to check: Listen for irregular engine noises.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for abnormal engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Feel for noticeable vibrations.
Red flag: Strong, unsteady vibrations
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test braking for smoothness.
Red flag: Sudden or uneven braking response
- 04
Straight highway acceleration
What to check: Check for transmission smoothness.
Red flag: Jerky or hesitant gear shifts
- 05
Steering response test
What to check: Evaluate steering sensitivity and accuracy.
Red flag: Steering feels loose or unresponsive
- 06
Post-drive inspection
What to check: Check for fluid leaks under car.
Red flag: Puddles or noticeable leaks
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Any recent brake system repairs?
- How has the suspension been maintained?
- Have the control arms been inspected recently?
- Any unresolved engine or transmission issues?
- Can you provide the latest service records?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Repair and maintenance records
- Recall repair receipts
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/20/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2001 Infiniti I35.