2000 Infiniti I30 Luxury from North America - Comments

Service Engine Soon light is on.

(but car doesn't operate abnormally)

Bose Subwoofer works occasionally.

I have owned the car for just a few months now. However, I have put almost 10k miles on it. The car was repossessed, so I was a little worried about prior maintenance performed such as oil changes, etc. But, I took the risk and bought the car. I also own a 1986 Nissan 300ZX which is an awesome machine. Very reliable for a 20 year old car. And for those of you who do not know, Infiniti is the luxury division of Nissan. Don't believe me? Pop the hood and look at a part, it will will say Nissan (or another Japanese brand, depending on the part).

The powertrain in the car is outstanding! The motor actually made the 10 best list! 230hp and 26+ mpg! However this car DOES need PREMIUM FUEL. But, that roughly equates to $1.50 more each fillup compared to regular octane, so no big deal. At 105K miles, the spark plugs should be replaced. It uses platinum tipped ones which are a bit pricey at $9.50 each, but they last a lot longer than conventional spark plugs. The dealer quoted me $300.00 for the job. However, this task is listed under the "Do It Yourself" section of the Owner's Manual. So, I went and purchased the spark plugs and used the spark plug wrench that came with my 300ZX (from the factory) and did the job. It took less than an hour of my time, and I saved $240.00. The transmission is smooth and responsive, although at certain speeds when downshifting could be beneficial it sometimes doesn't. Also, in the morning, the transmission will not shift into overdrive for a few miles. This is not a problem. It's designed to do this, allowing the transmission temperature to be warm to prevent damage.

The quality is typical Nissan, very high. Interior is very nice. Rear sunshade is very useful for preventing sun from damaging rear leather seats. Automatic climate control is very useful, allowing driver to "Set it and Forget it". Bose stereo sounds good even when the subwoofer isn't working.

Overall, a great car. I highly recommend any V6 Nissan product. My experiences with the VG30E (300ZX) and the VQ30DE (I30) have been outstanding. I have never understood why Nissan is never mentioned in terms of reliability like Honda and Toyota. My Nissan experiences and everyone I know who has owned one will tell you that they are awesome. My 1986 300ZX has 153k miles. No leaks, drips, smoke, or oil consumption. Go Nissan!

Same owner, now at 120k miles. No problems to date! Still fantastic.

OK, same owner now at 122K. New drive belts and CV boots (both maintenace items). Scanned Service Engine Soon light and was no delighted to see that it revealed 4 codes. It needs a new oxygen sensor, all 6 coilpacks need to be replaced, a new thermostat, and the alternator I starting to sqeal like crazy! Ouch, this isn't gonna be fun. From what I can gather from this website, the 2000 Maxima and I30 are notorious for bad coil packs and 02 sensors. Oh, well my fault for buying a repossed car with 100k+ miles on it. I might just trade it in and get a newer Maxima or I35 with the VQ35DE in it. Still a great, smooth, powerful car, but annoying.

OK, same owner, now at 130k miles. I replaced all 6 coiplacks myself, very easy task. The sqeualing was actually from a loose belt, so that was a relief. Got a new thermostat and O2 sensor today. Other than that no problems, its engine amazes me everytime I drive it. Definitely, a Nissan/Infiniti fan here! No oil consumption or any other issues. Has never left me stranded.

Same Owner now at 140k miles. Car is still fantastic. No oil consumption or leaks. However, the SES light is really getting annoying. As soon as I got the Thermostat and 02 sensor replaced, the Catylic Converter code popped up. Also, there is a noise when I hit potholes, I'll have it looked at soon. Still, overall a great, reliable car.

This is great to find! I am looking at buying a 2000 I30, and your comments are very helpful. I was very impressed with the car, and after reading your review and those of others, I believe that I will buy it at the beginning of the week! Thanks!

I own a 2000 I30 base model!

Only items replaced are the belts, front and rear brakes, cabin air filters.. about 80,000 miles on it as of now!

I think I will have the struts and shocks replaced.. And have the spark plugs and O2 sensors replaced for better mileage... Best car I have owned... Styling still looks very good too!

I bought a 2001 I30 yesterday. I like it so far.

I also own a 300ZX (1988 2+2 Turbo, Canadian car, 205000km). It has been a fantastic car, and I expect the same from the Infiniti.

Ben.

OK, same owner, now at 160K. The SES light is gone! yay! Wasn't cheap though (catalyst converter; $700.00). The suspension noise turned out to be a broken grommet or something cheap. She still runs like new, A/C is still cold, everything works! Were looking to get a new G35 in the fall, but we will keep the I30, as it is so trusty! Never seen a tow truck!

I purchased my 2000 I 30 base model ''new''so far @ 90k miles on it - had front and rear brakes.. front struts $900.00 wow!

Exhaust from the cat back...$450 @ a local muffler shop... did a good job!

Still have original coils and maf sensor - knock sensor... oh yes, changed the plugs @ 80k...

One note; keep the air cleaner element clean always!!every 4 months or so.

Gas is now 3.25 a gallon, so this is important!

Best car I ever owned... very reliable... looks and comfort are definitely all about this car.. The Bose system is the best I ever experienced!

Try to stay away from the dealerships... they are very incredible about price on parts and repairs. Good luck with your I30!!!

OK, same owner now at 166k miles. Since the Catalyst Converter was replaced, we haven't had nay problems, its been smooth sailing. We really love the car and are probably going to purchase another infiniti/ nissan product in the near future. We were hooked on the new G35, but the 2009 Maxima is looking very appealing. If we get the G35, we get service loaners. If we get the Maxima, we can skip the 'snobby' infiniti dealer. hmmmmmm.