2013 — 2016
3.5L VQ35DE V6 - Petrol FWD (350XV)
Petrol
While driving at low speeds, pay close attention to any hesitation or 'juddering' from the Xtronic CVT transmission; in cars of this age, it is common to check if the transmission fluid has been serviced regularly to ensure smooth power delivery.
During your test drive, find a quiet street and listen for any knocking or clicking sounds when driving over bumps; given the weight of the V6 engine, you might eventually need to budget for refreshing the front suspension bushings or struts.
After the engine has reached operating temperature, park the car and check for a faint smell of burning oil or visible residue near the rear of the engine block; the VQ35DE engine can sometimes develop minor leaks from the valve cover gaskets as the seals age.
Check this by operating all luxury features multiple times, including the passenger Ottoman seat and the sunroof; it is helpful to ensure these motors operate smoothly, as electronic components in premium sedans can occasionally show wear after a decade of use.
The 'major' service milestone. It is common to consider a full CVT fluid exchange (using Nissan NS-3 spec) and a cooling system flush to protect the V6 engine.
At this point, you might see the need for a comprehensive spark plug replacement; since the rear bank of the V6 is difficult to access, this is often paired with an intake manifold gasket refresh.
Depending on the car's history, you might eventually need to budget for a timing chain tensioner inspection and a complete suspension overhaul to maintain that signature 'Teana' ride quality.
Verify the use of high-quality 5W-30 synthetic oil every 7,500km to 10,000km to keep the VQ35DE internals clean.
Check the service records for 'CVT Fluid' changes; for NZ conditions, every 40,000km to 60,000km is a healthy interval.
Inspect the condition of the serpentine belt for any cracking or glazing, as it powers critical engine accessories.
Test the efficiency of the dual-zone climate control; a simple cabin filter change often restores full airflow.
Examine the brake rotors for any warping, as the 3.5L model is a heavy vehicle and puts more demand on the braking system.
Estimated repair costs if issues arise
If the transmission shows signs of wear or hasn't been serviced, you might eventually need to budget for a professional flush or, in rare cases, a reconditioned unit to maintain driveability.
Because the 3.5L V6 requires the removal of the intake plenum to reach the rear three spark plugs, the labor costs are higher than a standard four-cylinder car.
Due to the weight of the V6 engine over the front axle, the rubber components in the suspension may need attention to keep the steering feeling precise.
Depending on the car's history, you might find that the rubber gaskets harden over time; replacing them ensures the engine remains clean and avoids oil dripping onto hot exhaust components.
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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