🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Infiniti

Model:

Q45

Year:

1990

Generation Designation:

First Generation (FY32)

Chassis Code:

FY32

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Luxury Sedan; positioned as Infiniti's flagship model, competing with established German and American luxury marques.

Competitive Analysis:

Directly challenged the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Cadillac Sedan DeVille with its sophisticated technology, powerful V8 engine (though the 1990 model featured a V6), and luxurious appointments, often at a more competitive price point.

Key Features:

Powerful V6 engine, advanced suspension systems (optional active suspension), opulent interior, quiet cabin, comprehensive standard equipment list.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair Procedures

Page Count:

Digital Access (comprehensive content, not a fixed page count)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software (Online)

Language:

English

Format:

Web-based Software Access (via browser)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

VG30DE Engine, Automatic Transmission (RE4R01A), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Active Suspension (optional), Power Steering, Front and Rear Suspension Components, Electrical Schematics, Climate Control (HVAC), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Emission Controls, Body Electronics, Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repair, Electrical Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Replacement, System Adjustments, HVAC System Servicing, Body Panel Repair and Alignment

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Web-based)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Content)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Content)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Content)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

VQ30DE

Engine Displacement:

3.0 Liters (2960 cc)

Engine Configuration:

V6, DOHC, 24 Valves

Horsepower:

217 hp @ 6400 rpm

Torque:

202 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (RE4R01A)

Transmission Features:

Electronically Controlled, Overdrive, Snow/Normal Mode Selector

Optional Transmission:

None offered for 1990 model year

📐 Dimensions

Length:

197.2 inches (5009 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

55.9 inches (1420 mm)

Wheelbase:

112.2 inches (2850 mm)

Curb Weight:

3760 lbs (1706 kg) (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Not rated (era specific)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Not rated (era specific)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (optional/later models), Variable Assist Power Steering

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags (standard), Crumple zones, Side-impact door beams, Height-adjustable seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Premium Bose sound system with cassette player and AM/FM radio, optional CD player.

Controls:

Steering wheel audio controls (optional).

Driver Assistance Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cruise Control.

Connectivity:

Not applicable (pre-dating modern connectivity standards).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (or as per owner's manual)

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (recommended)

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH; SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

3.2 US quarts (3.0 Liters) for drain and fill

Coolant Type:

Nissan Genuine Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

Nissan Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (Dexron III compatible)

Known Issues:

ECS (Electronic Control Suspension) system issues (accumulator leaks, sensor failures), coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets, power window motor failures, occasional HVAC blower motor issues, distributor O-ring leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Infiniti was launched by Nissan in 1989 as a luxury performance division, aiming to compete with established premium automakers on a global scale. The Q45 was its inaugural flagship model.

Model Evolution:

The first generation (FY32) debuted for the 1990 model year and was produced until 1996. It underwent a significant facelift in 1993. It was later replaced by the second generation Q45 (FY33).

Production Location:

Japan (Nissan's Tochigi Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Car and Driver's Ten Best list for 1990 and 1991, MotorTrend's Import Car of the Year for 1991.

Road Test Magazine Ratings:

Generally praised for performance, luxury, and value, though some critics noted the initial lack of a V8 engine and the unconventional styling.