2013 — 2017
3.5L V6 VQ35DE (FWD)
Petrol
While driving at a steady speed, gently rest your foot on the accelerator. Check for any 'shuddering' or inconsistent RPM drops, as these can be early indicators of the CVT transmission sensitivity common in this generation. | Note: Smooth acceleration is key with this transmission, so ensure it feels linear.
Before starting the car, check the service history for regular CVT fluid changes. This component is highly sensitive to heat and age, so look for evidence that the fluid has been serviced every 40,000 to 60,000 km.
Check this by navigating to an uneven surface or a driveway entrance at a slow speed, listening closely for any knocking or clicking noises from the front suspension, which may indicate worn control arm bushings or stabilizer links.
While parked, run the dual-zone climate control through all settings. Verify that the air conditioning blows cold consistently and that the rear climate controls are functional, as the blend door actuators can occasionally become temperamental in older R52 units.
Consider a major service including spark plugs and cooling system flush to keep the VQ35DE engine running efficiently.
Monitor the suspension components and wheel bearings, as these often start to show signs of wear around this threshold on New Zealand roads.
Review the state of engine mounts and ancillary drive belts to ensure the V6 remains vibration-free and reliable.
Prioritize a professional transmission 'health check' if there is no documented record of fluid maintenance.
Inspect the coolant color and levels regularly to protect the longevity of the V6 cooling system.
Keep the cabin air filter fresh to ensure the HVAC system doesn't have to work harder than necessary.
Check the brake pads and rotors during every oil change, as this is a heavy vehicle and consumables can wear faster than in smaller cars.
Regularly clean the throttle body if you notice any slight idle fluctuations, as this is a simple task that keeps the engine idle smooth.
Estimated repair costs if issues arise
If the transmission begins to show signs of premature wear, it is wise to be aware that these units are complex. Depending on the car's history, you might eventually need to budget for professional diagnosis or a specialist rebuild.
If this component needs attention in the future due to our varying road surfaces, replacing control arms, bushings, and shocks is a standard part of keeping a large SUV driving like new.
For a vehicle of this age, cooling components like radiators can eventually become brittle. It is common to consider a proactive cooling system refresh to avoid overheating issues.
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Disclaimer: This report is generated with the assistance of AI analysis based on verified automotive data. While we strive for 100% accuracy, enthusiasts should always conduct physical inspections and consult service records. View Full Disclaimer