Infiniti G37 Common Problems and Their Permanent Fixes
You’re cruising in your G37, enjoying that legendary VQ37VHR power, when a warning light flickers on—or worse, you hear an unfamiliar rattle that makes your stomach drop.
The G37 is an incredible performance luxury coupe, but like any enthusiast car, it has its quirks. The good news? Most of these issues are well-documented, and there are permanent fixes that can keep your car running strong for years. This guide breaks down the most common G37 problems, what causes them, and exactly how to fix them for good.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
The Infiniti G37’s VQ37VHR engine is generally reliable but has several known weak points. The most critical issue is oil gallery gasket failure on pre-2013 models, which can cause catastrophic engine damage if ignored—fix it with upgraded metal gaskets. Other common problems include timing chain tensioner wear, faulty fuel pressure regulators causing black smoke and rough running, EVAP system leaks causing power loss, and electrical gremlins like clutch pedal switch corrosion. Most of these have permanent fixes that cost far less than replacing the engine.
Key Takeaways
- Gallery Gasket Failure: Pre-2013 VQ37VHR engines have paper gaskets that deteriorate, causing oil pressure loss. Permanent fix: replace with upgraded metal gaskets ($1,500–$3,000 in labor) .
- Timing Chain Tensioners: These can wear out, causing rattle on startup. Replace with OEM or quality aftermarket tensioners when doing gallery gasket work .
- Fuel Pressure Regulator: Failing regulators cause black smoke, rough idle, and jerky acceleration. Replacement costs around €250–€350 and solves the problem permanently .
- EVAP System Issues: Damaged vent lines or clogged purge valves cause power loss and rough idling. Replace the lines and valve for a permanent fix .
- Electrical Issues: Corroded clutch pedal switch connections can cause gear display failures and warning lights—replace the connector assembly .
The Big One: Oil Gallery Gasket Failure
This is the most serious and well-documented issue affecting the VQ37VHR engine, especially in models manufactured before 2013 . Here’s what you need to know.
What Happens
Two small paper gaskets on the inner timing cover seal the oil gallery. Over time, the paper material deteriorates and blows out, causing a significant internal oil leak. This leads to a severe drop in oil pressure, starving the top end of the engine of lubrication .
“This failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage if not addressed. The low oil pressure can destroy camshafts, bearings, and other critical components, potentially requiring a full engine replacement.”
Symptoms
- Low oil pressure light flickering or staying on, especially at idle when warm
- Check engine light with codes P0011 or P0021 (intake valve timing control performance)
- Rattling or whirring noise from the front of the engine
- Limp mode activation
The Permanent Fix
The repair involves replacing the paper gaskets with upgraded metal-reinforced composite gaskets. Nissan corrected this flaw around 2012–2013 by switching to these more durable gaskets from the factory .
Important: This is an extremely labor-intensive job. The entire front of the engine must be disassembled to access the timing cover. While doing this repair, it’s highly recommended to also replace the water pump, timing chains, tensioners, and guides since they’re already accessible .
Cost: Shop labor typically runs $1,200–$2,800+, with parts adding $70–$100 for the upgraded gasket kit .
Pro Tip from a DIYer: “I created a couple 6mm guide pins from a pair of bolts M6x70 I purchased locally. Those guides really help to carefully place the cover.” — G35Driver forum member
Timing Chain Tensioner Wear
A related issue involves the timing chain tensioners. The VQ37VHR uses hydraulic tensioners that rely on oil pressure. If the tensioners fail, the timing chain can become loose, leading to a slapping or rattling noise—especially on cold starts .
Symptoms
- Brief rattle on cold startup
- Persistent rattling from the front of the engine
- Possible check engine light for timing-related codes
The Permanent Fix
Replace the timing chain tensioners with OEM units or quality aftermarket replacements. The Melling BT5442 is a popular aftermarket option that fits 2008–2013 G37 models .
Cost: The Melling tensioner is around $60 . OEM options are available through Infiniti dealers .
Recommendation: If you’re already doing the gallery gasket repair, replace the tensioners at the same time to save on labor .
Fuel System Problems
Black Smoke and Rough Running
Several G37 owners have experienced black smoke during acceleration, rough idle, and jerking performance. In many cases, the culprit is a faulty fuel pressure regulator .
What Happens
When the fuel pressure regulator fails, it can’t maintain proper fuel pressure. This causes an overly rich fuel mixture—too much fuel is dumped into the engine, creating black smoke and rough operation .
The Permanent Fix
Replace the faulty fuel pressure regulator and clean the fuel injectors, which can get gunked up from the rich mixture .
Real-World Experience: One 2012 Infiniti M37 owner with identical symptoms paid about 250€ for the repair. Another owner paid around 280€ because additional cleaning was needed. Both reported their cars “running like new” after the fix .
EVAP System Leaks
Another fuel-related issue involves the EVAP system. Damaged vent lines from the tank to the purge valve can cause power loss, rough idling, and jerking during acceleration .
Symptoms
- Power loss during acceleration
- Rough idle
- Check engine light
- Jerking or hesitation
The Permanent Fix
Replace the damaged vent lines and the purge valve. In some cases, additional sensors may need replacement .
Cost: One owner paid 205€ for vent line replacement. Another paid about 350€ because they also needed the valve and additional sensors replaced .
Electrical and Sensor Issues
Clutch Pedal Switch Corrosion
A common electrical gremlin involves the clutch pedal position switch. Corrosion and loose connections can cause the gear display to malfunction and trigger warning lights .
Symptoms
- Gear selection display not working
- Warning light on dashboard
- The issue is related to the transmission safety system
The Permanent Fix
Replace the connector assembly and clean up the wiring. This is a relatively simple repair that takes about an hour .
Cost: Around 95€–120€ for parts and labor .
Water Intrusion and BCM Issues
Water leaks can damage the Body Control Module (BCM), causing multiple electrical failures. One owner reported that after a water leak, their 2008 G37 would start but the dash lights wouldn’t come on and the car would be stuck in park .
The Permanent Fix
Dry out the affected area thoroughly. In some cases, the BCM may need replacement if it’s been fried. One owner had success with DampRid and a hair dryer .
Engine Noise and Oil Consumption
Ticking Noises
G37 owners sometimes report ticking sounds from the engine. The causes can vary :
- Evap Purge Solenoid: Located beneath the intake manifold, this can cause ticking at idle and during light acceleration. If it’s unusually loud, replacement is needed .
- Hydraulic Lifter Tick: Can occur with cold starts, thick oil, or if the car hasn’t been driven in a while. Oil additives can help .
- VTC Issues: Sometimes mistaken for piston slap, this is actually the cam gear unable to set the right timing on one bank .
Oil Consumption
Some VQ37VHR engines, particularly 2008–2010 models, experience higher-than-normal oil consumption. Infiniti issued a Technical Service Bulletin (ITB10-048) addressing this issue .
The Fix
If consumption is excessive, the short engine assembly may need replacement. The TSB provides a detailed oil consumption test procedure .
Break-in Note: If the short engine is replaced, follow the break-in schedule for the first 1,200 miles: no running over 4,000 RPM and no full-throttle acceleration .
Comparison of G37 Common Problems
| Problem | Affected Years | Symptoms | Permanent Fix | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gallery Gasket Failure | Pre-2013 | Low oil pressure light, P0011/P0021 codes, rattling | Replace with metal gaskets | $1,500–$3,000+ |
| Timing Chain Tensioner | 2008–2013 | Rattle on cold start | Replace tensioner | $60–$115 (part) |
| Fuel Pressure Regulator | Various | Black smoke, rough idle, jerking | Replace regulator, clean injectors | €250–€350 |
| EVAP System Leaks | Various | Power loss, rough idle | Replace vent lines and purge valve | €200–€350 |
| Clutch Switch Corrosion | Various | Gear display dead, warning light | Replace connector assembly | €95–€120 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most common problem with the Infiniti G37?
The most critical and well-known issue is the oil gallery gasket failure on pre-2013 VQ37VHR engines. The paper gaskets deteriorate, causing oil pressure loss that can destroy the engine if not addressed .
How much does it cost to fix the G37 gallery gasket?
The repair typically costs $1,500–$3,000+ in labor, with upgraded gasket kits costing $70–$100. The high cost is due to the extensive disassembly required to access the timing cover .
Can I drive my G37 with a P0011 code?
It’s not recommended. P0011 indicates intake valve timing control performance issues, often caused by low oil pressure from gallery gasket failure. Driving with this code can lead to catastrophic engine damage .
Why does my G37 rattle on startup?
A brief rattle on cold startup is often caused by a worn timing chain tensioner that loses oil pressure when the engine is off. If the rattle is persistent, you may have gallery gasket failure or a stretched timing chain .
Why is my G37 blowing black smoke?
Black smoke during acceleration usually means an overly rich fuel mixture, often caused by a faulty fuel pressure regulator. Replacing the regulator typically solves the problem .
Is the G37 reliable overall?
Despite these known issues, the G37 is considered a reliable sports car when properly maintained. Most of these problems have permanent fixes, and many owners report trouble-free driving well past 150,000 miles .
Should I replace the gallery gaskets preventively?
If you own a pre-2013 G37 and are doing other major engine work (like timing chain replacement), it’s wise to replace the gallery gaskets proactively since the labor is already being done .
The Verdict: Know Your G37’s Weaknesses
The Infiniti G37 is a fantastic driver-focused sports coupe with a legendary engine. But like any performance machine, it has weak points that need attention. The key to long-term ownership is understanding these issues and addressing them before they become catastrophic.
The gallery gasket is the big one—if you have a pre-2013 G37, be aware of the symptoms and address them immediately. The timing chain tensioners and fuel system issues are also common but manageable. Most repairs have permanent fixes that will keep your G37 running strong for many more miles.
With proper maintenance and prompt attention to these known issues, your G37 can continue delivering that exhilarating performance luxury experience that made you fall in love with it in the first place.
Have you dealt with any of these issues on your G37? What was your experience? Share your story or any additional tips in the comments below.
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