2006 INFINITI M35 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2006 INFINITI M35: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2006 INFINITI M35 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2006 INFINITI M35 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2006 INFINITI M35?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2006 INFINITI M35, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically, starting with the simplest solutions. Begin by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. If the cap is secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner to read any error codes from the vehicle's computer. These codes will give you specific insights into what might be wrong. Following this, inspect the spark plugs for wear or damage, as faulty plugs can lead to engine misfires and illuminate the check engine light. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can cause significant engine issues. Finally, take a moment to examine the wiring and connections in the engine bay for any signs of damage or corrosion, as these can lead to sensor malfunctions. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take the necessary steps toward resolution.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2006 INFINITI M35?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2006 INFINITI M35, it signals potential issues that DIY enthusiasts can investigate. One of the first things to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a frequent culprit and can often be fixed simply by tightening it. If the light persists, the oxygen sensor may be malfunctioning, which can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, indicating a need for repair or replacement. The mass airflow sensor is another component that can affect vehicle performance and may need attention if it’s not functioning correctly. It's also wise to inspect the spark plugs and ignition coils, as failures in these parts can cause engine misfires, which are often indicated by the check engine light. Lastly, an engine misfire itself, resulting from various issues like fuel delivery problems, can also illuminate the light. Addressing these common problems promptly is essential for maintaining optimal vehicle performance, and if the light remains on after these checks, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is recommended.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2006 INFINITI M35?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2006 INFINITI M35, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this alert can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and may cause significant damage to engine components, ultimately resulting in costly repairs. Moreover, some underlying problems could pose safety risks, making it imperative to act swiftly. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issues at hand. This proactive approach not only helps in identifying the problem but also allows you to take informed steps toward resolution, whether that means performing minor repairs yourself or seeking professional assistance. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you can maintain your vehicle's performance, prevent further damage, and ensure a safer driving experience.

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