Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2004 Infiniti M45
The 2004 Infiniti M45 faces notable issues with its fuel system, particularly the inaccurate fuel gauge reading that can lead to unexpected fuel depletion. Exterior lighting and electrical system complaints should be verified during inspection. Despite these concerns, if well-maintained, it remains a reliable option.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2004 Infiniti M45 has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 43 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #12V088000 FUEL GAUGE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V497000 NISSAN/BRAKE LIGHTS NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Fuel System, Gasoline 23 complaints
- Engine 7 complaints
- Fuel System, Other 7 complaints
- Electrical System 5 complaints
- Seats 3 complaints
- Air Bags 2 complaints
Known issues to inspect
Inaccurate fuel gauge
How to check: Check if fuel gauge moves correctly with fuel levels.
Brake lamp malfunction
How to check: Press brake pedal and check all brake lights.
General electrical failures
How to check: Operate windows, locks, and lights for consistency.
Circuit board failures
How to check: Inspect dashboard for irregularities or warning lights.
Seat function issues
How to check: Test seat adjustments for smooth operation.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Note how quickly the engine starts up.
Red flag: Delayed or rough start
- 02
Idle
What to check: Listen for unusual noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Knocking or constant shaking
- 03
Neighborhood driving
What to check: Check response of brakes and steering.
Red flag: Brakes not responsive
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe fuel gauge accuracy during drive.
Red flag: Erratic fuel gauge behavior
- 05
Parking
What to check: Test the parking brake efficiency.
Red flag: Parking brake fails to hold
- 06
Switch off
What to check: Ensure all lights turn off properly.
Red flag: Exterior or interior lights stay on
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel gauge been repaired?
- Have there been brake light issues?
- Is there a history of electrical problems?
- How often is regular maintenance done?
- Has the vehicle ever run out of gas?
- Are there complete service records available?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall repair history
- Service and maintenance records
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation, if applicable
- Vehicle history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2004 Infiniti M45 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2004 Infiniti M45? 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.