Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2003 Infiniti Q45
The 2003 Infiniti Q45 has notable issues with engine performance and side airbag deployment, requiring cautious evaluation. Electrical system complaints are also prevalent, suggesting potential trouble areas. With proper inspection, it could still be a reliable luxury vehicle option.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2003 Infiniti Q45 has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 12 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #12V079000 SIDE AIR BAG NON-DEPLOYMENT NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 6 complaints
- Electrical System 3 complaints
- Steering 3 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 2 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 1 complaint
- Power Train 1 complaint
Of the 12 complaints on file, 1 reports a crash; across all 12 complaints, owners report 1 injury (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Side airbags may not deploy
How to check: Inspect airbag warning light and wire connectors under seats.
Engine performance issues
How to check: Check for rough idling or abnormal sounds during startup.
Electrical system malfunctions
How to check: Test all lights, power windows, and locks for responsiveness.
Steering problems reported
How to check: Check ease of turning and listen for noises.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Look for warning lights on dashboard.
Red flag: Warning lights stay on
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Listen for engine noise or roughness.
Red flag: Unusually loud or rough idle
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth pickup and response.
Red flag: Hesitation or sluggish acceleration
- 04
Urban driving
What to check: Steering feel and noise during turns.
Red flag: Heavy or noisy steering
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Engine performance and noise at high speeds.
Red flag: Vibrations or lack of power
- 06
Straight highway cruising
What to check: Steering stability and alignment.
Red flag: Pulling to one side
- 07
Braking
What to check: Response time and noise when braking.
Red flag: Squealing or delayed braking
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Any major engine repairs done recently?
- Are there any electrical issues?
- Have there been steering repairs?
- Any accidents involving this vehicle?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documentation
- Service history records
- Accident report history
- Title and registration
- Vehicle inspection report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2003 Infiniti Q45 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2003 Infiniti Q45? 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.