1994 INFINITI Q45

Typical onset: 80,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: Strawberry milkshake appearance in coolant reservoir, Transmission slipping or erratic shifting, Overheating transmission and engine simultaneously, Pink residue on dipstick or in radiator

Fix: The internal transmission cooler in the radiator fails, mixing ATF and coolant. Requires radiator replacement, complete transmission fluid flush (multiple cycles), often new transmission if contamination went unnoticed. External cooler install recommended. 6-10 hours labor depending on transmission damage assessment.

Estimated cost: $1,200-4,500

Typical onset: 150,000-200,000 mi

Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption (quart per 500-800 miles), Blue smoke on startup or acceleration, Low compression on multiple cylinders, Knock or bearing noise at idle, Metal flakes in oil filter

Fix: High-mileage VH45s develop ring land failures, piston scuffing, and main/rod bearing wear, especially if oil changes were neglected. Full rebuild with new pistons, rings, bearings, machine work, and both head gaskets. 35-45 hours labor for complete teardown and rebuild. Short block swap is alternative at 20-25 hours.

Estimated cost: $4,500-8,000

Typical onset: 90,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking on hard acceleration or deceleration, Excessive vibration at idle in gear, Visible engine movement when revving in park, Transmission mount failure causes similar symptoms

Fix: Front and rear hydraulic mounts fail internally, causing harsh NVH and driveline lash. Transmission mount also common. Replace all three mounts as a set for best results. 3-4 hours labor total.

Estimated cost: $600-1,000

Typical onset: 120,000+ mi

Symptoms: Extended cranking when hot, No-start after sitting in heat, Rough idle after refueling, Fuel smell in cabin or engine bay

Fix: Rubber fuel lines harden and crack; metal lines corrode at clips. Fuel filter also clogs frequently if tank hasn't been dropped and cleaned. Replace all rubber lines, filter, and inspect hard lines. 2-3 hours labor.

Estimated cost: $400-700

Typical onset: 100,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Warning light on dash, Harsh ride quality despite setting, Leaking hydraulic fluid at struts, Suspension fails to adjust height

Fix: The Full Active Suspension system uses hydraulic accumulators and solenoids that fail with age. Parts are expensive and scarce. Many owners convert to conventional coilovers. Repair: 8-12 hours for full system overhaul. Conversion: 6-8 hours.

Estimated cost: $2,000-4,000

Typical onset: 100,000-160,000 mi

Symptoms: Flickering dash lights, Battery not charging consistently, Random electrical component failures, Voltage gauge fluctuating

Fix: Internal regulator in alternator fails, causing overvoltage or undervoltage conditions that damage other components. Rebuild or replace alternator. 2 hours labor.

Estimated cost: $400-650