2007 INFINITI M35 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2007 INFINITI M35: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2007 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 2007 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 2007 INFINITI M35?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2007 INFINITI M35, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to read the error codes from the vehicle's computer; these codes are invaluable for identifying the specific problem. After that, visually inspect the engine for any apparent signs of damage, such as frayed wires or disconnected hoses, which could indicate a more significant issue. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—like oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can also cause the check engine light to activate. Finally, consider performing a drive cycle to see if the light resets itself, as sometimes the issue may be temporary. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and determine whether further action is needed.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2007 INFINITI M35?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2007 INFINITI M35, it serves as a crucial alert for drivers to investigate potential issues that could affect vehicle performance. One of the most straightforward problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can often be easily tightened or replaced if damaged. However, if the light persists, it may indicate more complex issues such as a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a vital role in monitoring exhaust gases and can lead to reduced fuel efficiency if malfunctioning. Another significant concern is the catalytic converter; if it becomes clogged or fails, it can severely impact engine performance and should be thoroughly inspected. Additionally, the mass airflow sensor, which measures the air entering the engine, can also fail, triggering the check engine light. Problems with spark plugs or ignition coils can lead to engine misfires and poor performance, making them critical components to examine. Lastly, a malfunctioning thermostat can disrupt the engine's temperature regulation, further contributing to the warning light. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding these common issues is essential, as addressing them promptly not only helps maintain optimal vehicle performance but also prevents more extensive damage down the line.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2007 INFINITI M35?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2007 INFINITI M35, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. This warning signal is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's engine or emissions system is experiencing a problem that could escalate if left unaddressed. While some issues may be minor, such as a loose gas cap, others could lead to significant engine damage or decreased fuel efficiency. Ignoring the light can result in costly repairs and performance issues that could compromise your vehicle's safety and reliability. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can help identify the specific issue triggering the light. However, if the codes indicate a serious problem, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic to ensure that the underlying issue is resolved effectively. Taking prompt action not only protects your investment but also enhances your driving experience by maintaining optimal vehicle performance.

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