Vehicle Class:
Full-size luxury sedan.
Brand Identity:
Infiniti's flagship luxury sedan, competing with German and American luxury marques.
Key Competitors:
Lexus LS 400, BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Cadillac DeVille.
Primary Selling Points:
Powerful V8 engine, sophisticated styling, comfortable ride, advanced features for its era.
Manual Value Proposition:
An inexpensive way to keep the vehicle working properly, empowering owners to perform repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed coverage of engine components, disassembly, assembly, and overhaul.
Engine Lubrication Cooling:
Lubrication system, oil pump, oil filter, cooling fan, radiator, coolant flow, water pump.
Engine Control System:
ECU, sensors (MAF, O2, TPS, CKP, CMP), actuators, ignition timing, fuel injection control.
Fuel Exhaust Systems:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers.
Automatic Transmission:
Detailed overhaul, component identification, torque converter, valve body, shift solenoids, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Propeller shaft, universal joints, differential carrier, axle shafts, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front axle and suspension components (struts, control arms, ball joints), Rear axle and suspension components (multi-link, shocks, springs).
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, ABS components, brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, master cylinder, parking brake.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, steering rack/gearbox, steering column, tie rods, steering angle sensor.
Restraint System:
Airbag system, SRS control module, seatbelts, pretensioners.
Body Exterior Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, mirrors, interior trim, seats, dashboard, weatherstripping.
HVAC:
Heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant system, blower motor, climate control module, ducts.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring schematics, lighting, power distribution, starter, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, ECUs.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Comprehensive guides for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds.
Restoration Guidance:
Detailed information to assist in the complete restoration of the vehicle.
Detail Level:
Complete disassembly of components, with hundreds of photos and illustrations.
Diagrams Schematics:
Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and wiring schematics for all systems.
Target Audience:
Suitable for both do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Digital Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows, Mac, Linux OS, iPhone, iPad, Android devices.
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip
Page Integrity:
100% Complete and Intact, no missing/corrupt pages or sections.
Navigability:
Bookmarked and Searchable for easy information retrieval.
Delivery Method:
Digital Download (No physical shipping)
Usage Options:
Can be viewed on any computer, zoomed, printed, and saved to hard-drive or burned to CD-ROM.
Engine Code:
VQ35DE (likely, though specific code for FY33 Q45 is VH45DE for earlier years. VQ35DE was introduced in later models but this manual covers 1997-2001, which could include both. The FY33 chassis code strongly suggests the 4.1L VH45DE V8 for the earlier part of this range, transitioning possibly to the 3.5L VQ35DE in later years of the FY33 generation or a subsequent generation covered within the scope.)
Engine Type:
4.1L V8 DOHC (VH45DE for most of this generation)
Displacement:
4130 cc (4.1 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approximately 270-280 hp @ 6000 rpm (VH45DE)
Torque:
Approximately 280-290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (VH45DE)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with electronic throttle control.
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher).
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil-on-plug ignition (or coil packs depending on exact year).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for exact recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as specified in the manual. Check for severe service intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs often have intervals of 60,000-100,000 miles. Iridium plugs may be longer.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic API SN/SM or equivalent.
Coolant Type:
Nissan/Infiniti Long Life Antifreeze or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Power Steering Fluid:
Infiniti Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF.
Engine Vibration:
Some V8 VH45DE engines can experience engine mount degradation leading to increased vibration.
Timing Chain Tensioner:
While generally robust, some VH45DE engines may eventually require attention to timing chain tensioners or guides.
Idle Air Control Valve:
Can become dirty or faulty, causing rough idle or stalling.
Suspension Wear:
Components like ball joints and bushings can wear over time, affecting ride quality and handling.
