PROBLEM GUIDE

2008–2013 Infiniti EX35/QX50 Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated May 2026

8+

recurring radiator/cooling-system repairs

2008–2013

Model years affected

$1,600 – $1,900

Typical repair cost, by problem

The dominant problem for this generation is dashboard melting and cracking, creating windshield glare. The same defect is reported on other Infiniti models. Owners also report the brake and accelerator pedals are positioned too close together at the same height, leading to accidental acceleration when intending to brake. Cold-weather door lock and handle failures, including handles breaking below 40°F, are also reported as an emergency-escape risk.

Quick Scan: 5 Issues

Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Dashboard melting or cracking

Windshield glare affecting visibility

Check engine light: Off

Dashboard melting and cracking reported at 62,000 miles, creating windshield glare that affects visibility — the same dashboard deterioration is reported on other Infiniti models.

62,000 mi

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Pedal placement leading to accidental acceleration

Brake and accelerator positioned too close together

Check engine light: Off

Owners report the brake and accelerator pedals are positioned too close together at the same height, leading to accidental acceleration when intending to brake — a design issue distinct from electronic or mechanical unintended acceleration.

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Cold-weather door lock and handle failures

Locks and handles fail below roughly 30-40°F

Check engine light: Off

The driver's side door lock reportedly fails in temperatures below 30°F, recurring annually and requiring yearly replacement; a related complaint describes outer door handles breaking below 40°F.

Distinct from the door-lock-actuator failure reported on the Infiniti FX35/FX37 — this one is cold-weather-triggered and involves handle breakage, not just lock-actuator failure.

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Recurring radiator and cooling system failures

Multiple radiator repairs across the vehicle's life

Check engine light: Off

Radiator failures appear repeatedly (8+ occurrences), including a highway overheating incident with a cracked radiator.

$1,600 – $1,90059,000 – 109,200 mi

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Brake Pulsation or Steering Wheel Vibration When Braking

Brake pulsation or steering wheel vibration occurs when braking

Check engine light: Off

Brake pulsation or steering wheel vibration occurs when braking. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 28 owner reports on file.

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This generation has a confirmed Takata airbag recall, with the manufacturer reportedly exceeding a reasonable repair timeframe. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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