🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Infiniti

Model:

M45

Year:

2003

Model Generation:

Y34

Chassis Code:

Y34

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2003 Infiniti M45 (Y34) was positioned as a luxury performance sedan, competing with established players like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Lexus GS.

Competitive Analysis:

Offered a potent V8 engine and a refined, comfortable interior, aiming to blend performance with luxury. It was a strong contender in its segment, especially for those seeking a powerful and less common luxury sedan.

Key Features:

Powerful 4.5L V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, luxurious interior appointments, advanced (for its time) technology features, and a focus on smooth, powerful cruising.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full vehicle service, repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and wiring diagrams for the 2003 Infiniti M45.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive, likely exceeding 1500 pages based on typical factory service manuals for this era and complexity.

Manual Type:

Factory-licensed Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software/Web-Based Access

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine management (ECM/ECU), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, starting and charging system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain (RWD), brakes (ABS, EBD), suspension (front and rear), steering, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body electrical systems, interior and exterior lighting, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), airbags, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and wiring diagrams.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), component inspection, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, removal and installation of major components (engine, transmission, suspension arms, brake calipers), electrical system diagnostics, HVAC system repair, body panel alignment and repair, interior trim removal and installation, and emissions system servicing.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to advanced diagnostic procedures and component-level repairs, mirroring factory service manual content.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based access, compatible with standard web browsers on PC, laptop, smartphone, and tablet.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format - high resolution images and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

VQ45DE

Engine Displacement:

4.5 Liters (4494 cc)

Engine Configuration:

V8, 32-valve, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)

Horsepower Net:

340 hp @ 6,200 rpm (approximate)

Torque Net:

333 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)

ECU Type:

Hitachi or similar OEM ECU

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic with Manual Shift Mode (M.S.P. - Manual Shift Program)

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Only automatic offered for this model year)

Transmission Features:

Electronic control, adaptive shift logic, lock-up torque converter.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 196.5 inches

Width:

Approx. 71.7 inches

Height:

Approx. 57.1 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 113.4 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,700 - 3,850 lbs (depending on options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger - per NHTSA data for similar models of the era)

IIHS Front Offset Rating:

Good (for vehicles of its class and era)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).

Passive Safety Features:

Front-seat airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear curtain airbags, pretensioner seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Optional premium Bose audio system with CD player, available navigation system.

Display Type:

Color LCD display for navigation and vehicle information.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, parking assist sensors (rear). Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) aids in stability.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by modern standards; primarily features like power outlets for accessories. Bluetooth connectivity was not a common factory option.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended at 105,000 miles for Iridium-tipped spark plugs (VQ45DE).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SH, SJ, or SL certified SAE 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend engine oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.1 US quarts (4.8 liters) with filter change.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Nissan Matic J (or equivalent ATF meeting JASO 1A specification).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) for drain and refill.

Coolant Type:

Nissan Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Known Issues Common:

Occasional issues with EVAP system leaks (causing Check Engine Light), front strut mount bearings, oil pressure sending unit failure, and potential for coolant leaks from the water pump or hoses. Some reports of infotainment system glitches. Timing chain tensioner wear can occur on high-mileage VQ engines, though less common than on some other VQ variants.

Common Maintenance Tasks:

Regularly checking and topping off power steering fluid, inspecting drive belts for wear, and ensuring cooling system is free of leaks and properly filled.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Infiniti, Nissan's luxury division, was established in 1989 with the goal of competing in the premium automotive market. Known for its focus on performance, luxury, and customer service.

Model Evolution Y34:

The Y34 generation M45 succeeded the J30 Maxima/Infiniti I30/I35 platform. It was based on Nissan's prestigious front-engine, rear-wheel-drive FM platform, shared with the G35. This generation marked a significant step up in performance and luxury, moving away from a front-wheel-drive based platform.

Production Period:

2002-2004 (for the Y34 generation M45)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Key Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2003 model year are less documented, the Infiniti M45 (Y34) was generally well-received for its powerful V8 engine and luxurious interior, often cited as a strong value proposition in the luxury sedan segment. Competitors like the Lexus GS often received more industry awards in this period.