CLICKING NOISE FROM FRONT OR REAR AXLE DURING TAKE-OFF/ACCELERATION This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2009 INFINITI G37 powertrain problems
severe 17 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
17
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
What stands out
Of the 5 model years of INFINITI G37 we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 17.
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 16 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
CLICKING NOISE FROM FRONT OR REAR AXLE DURING TAKE-OFF/ACCELERATION This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗TRANSMISSION & ENGINE AUTOMATED DATA COLLECTION AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORTING SERVICE INFORMATION To support proper diagnosis and to promote Fixed-Right-First-Time ? Infiniti may review CONSULT-III plus (CIII plus) data relating to vehicle operation and function to help with vehicle diagnosis and diagnostic validation. IMPORTANT: For transmission/engine repair or replacement, retailers are required to connect C-III plus and perform ?Diagnosis (All Systems)?. Performing C-III plus ?Diagnosis (All Systems)? is also required prior to contacting any Infiniti call center (i.e. TECH-LINE, PCC, or WCC) for diagnostic support or claim preauthorization. NOTE: For additional information regarding Automated
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SERVICE INFORMATION Replacement 5-speed rear wheel drive Automatic Transmission (A/T) assemblies and replacement control valves (valve bodies) now come with blank Transmission Control Modules (TCMs). Blank TCMs come without software and must be programmed (not reprogrammed) and then configured after they are installed. When ordering a replacement A/T or control valve, use the Infiniti electronic parts information systems to obtain the correct software program part number See this bulletin for further detail.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SERVICE INFORMATION If a customer describes lack of power or poor acceleration, perform the following checks before attempting any repair: * Check for stored DTCs. * Check if the driver is resting their left foot on the brake pedal while accelerating. Advise the customer not to rest their foot on the brake while accelerating. * Use CONSULT-III plus in Engine Data Monitor to check operation of the brake lamp circuit signal. Monitor the brake switch during the incident; it should be "OFF". Please see this bulletn for further details.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2009 G37's powertrain has a documented pattern of software and transmission control failures. Multiple owners report the ECM or TCM entering limp mode, capping RPM at 2,000–2,400 and locking the transmission in high gear, resulting in sudden power loss at highway speeds with no warning light. One dealership reportedly encountered about 300 cases. Temporary fixes involve engine shutdown and restart, but failures recur; one owner cited a service advisor's awareness of the problem and ITB service bulletins (ITB10-075, ITB12-027D), though parts fitment issues and inability-to-replicate excuses prevented repairs on some vehicles.
Transmission jerking, surging RPM during downshifts, and hanging gears plague many owners from early ownership (under 4,000 miles). Severe cases include torque converter lockup requiring full transmission replacement ($11,000–$16,000 warranty cost) within days of purchase.
Braking dynamics also concern owners. One 2-month-old G37X owner reported the transmission takes too long to downshift when braking at highway speed, extending stopping distance. The dealership confirmed the design but offered no fix, noting corporate was aware and might release a software correction eventually.
Rare but critical: two owners report complete engine shutdown while driving 60+ mph, losing power steering and brake assist with no prior warning light. Cold-weather engine misfiring from MAF sensor issues affected at least one owner. Manual-transmission models show grinding in 6th gear and transfer case failures in AWD variants.
Same INFINITI G37 powertrain reports on nearby years: 2008
Failure modes owners describe
ECM/TCM Software Failure - Limp Mode & Power Loss
Electronic control module (ECM) or transmission control module (TCM) software malfunction causing the vehicle to enter limp mode (failsafe), with maximum RPM capped at 2,000-2,400, unable to exceed 4th gear, and sudden loss of power at highway speeds. Occurs intermittently or after sitting; temporary recovery after engine shutdown and restart, but failures can recur.
When: Early in vehicle ownership; can happen randomly while driving or upon restart after extended idle
Symptoms owners cite: Engine power loss without warning indicator; Deceleration from highway speed to under 35 mph within seconds; RPM ceiling at 2,000-2,400; inability to exceed 4th gear; Limp mode activation; car stuck in highest gear or unable to downshift; Temporary self-correction after engine shutdown and restart; Problem recurrence after temporary fix
Codes mentioned: PO744
Repairs/costs cited: ECM reprogramming reported by dealerships (e.g., Towbin Infiniti); reported ~300 cases seen by one dealership; ITB10-075 and ITB12-027D referenced but parts fitment issues noted
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Infiniti known to have awareness of problem; waiting to determine how widespread before issuing recall; ECM reprogramming offered at dealerships; some dealers acknowledged problem but declined repair citing inability to replicate or part number mismatches
Transmission Surge & Jerking Under Acceleration
Transmission surges RPM (200-250 RPM or up to 5,000 RPM) during acceleration, especially upon braking or downshifting from highway speeds. Vehicle jerks violently during shifts; hanging in gear instead of downshifting cleanly. Occurs consistently on cold starts or when braking at speed.
When: Early in ownership; 3,800-52 miles; can occur repeatedly every drive or intermittently over months
Symptoms owners cite: RPM surge of 200-250 RPM during 3rd-to-4th gear shift after idle; RPM surge of 3,000+ upon braking; RPM surge of up to 5,000 during acceleration from stop; Violent jerking during downshifts; Transmission hangs instead of downshifting; Jerky shifts between gears
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple dealer visits; dealerships unable to replicate; ITB10-075 issued but not applied due to part number mismatch (one letter off); no repair completed per owner report
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Infiniti issued ITB10-075 (Dec 2010) to address issue; customer support declined further action citing inability to replicate
Transmission Torque Converter Locking & Stalling
Torque converter locks up, causing the car to stall or near-stall when coming to a stop. Check engine light illuminates. New transmission required to repair. Affects vehicles within first few days of ownership.
When: Within 2-3 days of purchase; 52 miles on odometer
Symptoms owners cite: Car dies when slowing to a stop; Check engine light illumination; Problem worsens over days; Temporary mitigation by shifting to Neutral
Codes mentioned: PO744
Repairs/costs cited: New transmission/drivetrain required; warranty repair estimate $11,000 (retail $16,000+); both selling and service dealerships reported never seeing such defect on new car
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Infiniti Consumer Assistance Department reviewing under lemon law; declined to consider owner loyalty or problem magnitude
Cold-Weather Engine Misfire & Violent Shaking
During cold snowy weather, vehicle experiences violent shaking and misfire when accelerating above 30 mph. Dealership attributed to software issue with mass air flow sensor not functioning correctly in cold air intake conditions. Problem resolves after engine shutdown and restart.
When: Cold, snowy evening at highway speed (60 mph)
Symptoms owners cite: Violent shaking at highway speed on acceleration; Violent shaking persists after reaching destination and restarting; Problem resolves after prolonged shutdown and restart
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership diagnosed as software issue with MAF sensor; problem did not recur after diagnosis
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No formal recall or TSB; dealership suggested Infiniti should notify owners via recall or software update during routine maintenance
Engine Shutdown While Driving
Engine completely shuts off without warning while driving at highway speed (60-65 mph). Power steering and braking assistance lost; steering becomes very difficult and brakes require forceful pressure. No warning light or prior symptom. Second occurrence reported.
When: During highway driving; two separate incidents
Symptoms owners cite: Complete engine shutdown with no warning indicator or message; Loss of power steering assistance; Degraded braking performance; No prior warning light or symptom; Recurrence of same event
Repairs/costs cited: No dealer, manufacturer, police, or insurance inspection/reproduction; owner reports vehicle available for inspection
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None documented; owner notes similar issues referenced in Infiniti online forums
Transmission Delay/Lag & Loss of Gear
Transmission loses engagement temporarily, feeling like vehicle enters neutral while accelerating. Occurs during passing maneuvers at highway speed after recent TCM update. Owner uncertain if issue is fully resolved by TCM software update; fear of highway passing due to lack of confidence.
When: Multiple instances; one incident at 60-65 mph during passing attempt
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle feels like it drops into neutral during acceleration; No gear engagement; lag in acceleration response; Vehicle drift during passing lane attempt; Rough downshifting and shift lag at lower speeds
Repairs/costs cited: TCM (transmission control module) update applied 05/25/2019; appears to have solved some lag/rough downshift issues but owner uncertain if highway delay issue resolved
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TCM update offered and applied
Transmission Grinding in 6th Gear
Manual transmission grinds gears nearly every time the transmission is placed in 6th gear, resulting in extended gear change times and prolonged one-handed steering operation. Occurs under normal driving conditions starting at low mileage.
When: Started at approximately 6,000 miles; repair performed at 8,500 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Grinding noise when engaging 6th gear; Prolonged gear change time; Requires extended one-handed steering during shifts
Repairs/costs cited: Complete transmission replacement under factory warranty at no cost to owner
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Factory warranty replacement transmission provided
Timing Chain Galley Gasket Failure
Timing chain galley gaskets blow out, requiring expensive repair. Owner maintains vehicle according to manufacturer specs with premium fuel and synthetic oil.
When: High mileage not specified; vehicle maintained per schedule
Symptoms owners cite: Blown timing chain galley gaskets
Repairs/costs cited: Expensive repair required; owner reports this is common problem
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued; owner requesting recall
Transfer Case Failure (AWD vehicles)
Transfer case develops problems repeatedly. Defect recurred for the second time within one year. Dealership unable to explain cause or reason for recurrence. Parts unavailable in US market.
When: Two failures within one year; timing not specified
Symptoms owners cite: Transfer case malfunction
Repairs/costs cited: Parts not available in US; expected availability mid-October
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None documented
1st Gear Sluggish Acceleration & Dangerous Shift Behavior
1st gear is exceptionally slow, causing dangerous acceleration problems in certain traffic situations. Transmission jerks noticeably when upshifting or downshifting. Dealers report receiving numerous complaints but have not released software update or recall.
When: Early in ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Sluggish acceleration in 1st gear; Jerking during upshifts and downshifts
Repairs/costs cited: No software update or recall released
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers acknowledge numerous complaints received but no TSB or recall issued
Unexpected Acceleration & Idle Surge
Vehicle accelerates on its own approximately once or twice per week without driver input. Dealership unable to fully resolve despite service attempts.
When: Recurring issue; once or twice per week
Symptoms owners cite: Spontaneous acceleration without throttle input; Recurring problem despite dealership service
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership service performed; problem improved slightly but persists
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership attempted correction
Transmission Bucking & Inability to Engage Low Gears
Vehicle bucks and stops accelerating smoothly. Will not engage into low gears or 6th gear. Transmission function severely compromised.
When: <UNKNOWN>
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle bucking during acceleration; Acceleration stops or becomes unresponsive; Inability to engage low gears; Inability to engage 6th gear
Braking Power Loss & Engine Slowing Design Flaw
Transmission fails to downshift immediately when brakes are applied at highway speed. Engine designed to 'click down' gears gradually rather than providing engine braking, resulting in extended stopping distance and reduced driver control. Owner reports dealership confirmed design behavior but acknowledged it poses safety concern.
When: Early in ownership; 2-month-old vehicle
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission does not downshift when brakes applied; Extended stopping distance at highway speed; Delayed engine braking; Reduced sense of vehicle control during hard braking; Multiple hard-stop situations requiring extended distance
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership confirmed transmission behaves as designed; no repair offered
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership confirmed issue; corporate Infiniti reportedly aware; potential software correction may occur in future but not implemented
Synthesized from 17 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
We picked up our brand new Infiniti g37 sedan out of town (52 miles on it) and the next day, drove it home 300 highway miles. Obviously, we were extremely fortunate the problem didn't begin on the trip. By the second day, the car started dying when we came to a stop. At first, the problem didn't happen every time we slowed down, and we discovered putting the car in neutral proved helpful. We…
I was driving at about 65 mph on the tail end of a roughly 2 hour trip. The car shut off on me completely. Fortunately there weren't many cars on the road, so I was able to force the steering wheel - since power steering went out as well, I needed to turn the wheel forcefully - to the shoulder. The brakes worked ok, but not well, again because the engine shut off, so I was forcing the brakes and…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2009 INFINITI G37?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2009 INFINITI G37?
It's a meaningful issue. 17 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 11 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 6,000 and 117,000 miles, with the median around 28,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 6,000; a quarter make it past 117,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2009/INFINITI/G37.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.