AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data

Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2004 Infiniti M45

Overall rating NHTSA-grounded

Below average

Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $9,000–$14,000

The 2004 Infiniti M45 has significant issues with the fuel system and a history of electrical complaints. Recalls for fuel gauge inaccuracies and brake light switch failures indicate reliability concerns, impacting the vehicle's overall rating.

Most-common failures

Part Typical mileage Cost range Frequency
fuel gauge70,000–100,000 miles$200–$450very common
brake light switch50,000–90,000 miles$100–$200common
fuel pump90,000–120,000 miles$300–$600occasional

Scheduled maintenance to budget

Routine items every owner should plan for.

  • oil changes every 5,000 miles
  • tire rotations every 10,000 miles
  • brake inspections every 20,000 miles
  • cooling system flush every 60,000 miles

Warning signs to watch for

Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.

  • difficulty starting
  • inaccurate fuel gauge readings
  • intermittent brake light failures

Generated by gpt-4o on 8/20/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.