Used 2001 INFINITI I30 Consumer Reviews
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2001 I-30 Outstanding Reliability and Value
Purchased new 2001. After some O2 and Mass Airflow sensor failures during 60K warranty period, no repairs until 148,000 miles (starter) and 160K m (radiator). Now at 178Km and car drives like it has 50K on it. I could not be happier with it. My 21 yr old son wants me to replace it (with G37) and retire the I30 to him! This car has been a 10+ on a 10 point scale.
Street tank Highway Cruiser
Bought the car used with 115k. Driving impressions: the car is like a tank in the city: huge turn radius, horrible mpg (14/city), poor rear visibility makes it hard to park. Performance is ok for 230hp. I come from 97 528i, and some minor features are missing, and interior quality is not as great. HID lights are all fogged out by now and barely illuminate the road. However, over 2 years I only had the following issues: replaced ECU and defective idle control valve ($500), power steering hose ($300). Oxygen sensor fault popped up once in a while - replaced spark plugs and now it's gone (at least for now). That's all! Now the pros - read them in the favorite features below.
- Base SedanMSRP: $5,000460 mi away
- Touring SedanMSRP: $3,500751 mi away
- Touring SedanMSRP: N/A898 mi away
Thinking twice about Infiniti
Bought this car after my SC400 was totaled. Had about 100K on it or so. Performance is decent but coming from a RWD V8 to a FWD V6 was a little disappointing. Don't get me wrong I love my I30, but its conditional love. This car has been an absolute nightmare. The VSS was replaced twice, MAF sensor is prone to replacement, ECM burned up due to sudden fault in the Idle Control. Suspension is very soft even for a sedan. Besides this long list of expensive i mean very expensive repairs, I enjoy driving this car. It has a very responsive throttle and gets attention where ever it goes.
Stay away
I read reviews before I bought this car, and it seemed like a safe choice. All scheduled maint. was provided by the dealer but at 80K the problems began and haven't stopped. MAF sensor, 2 alternators, driver's seat motor, O2 sensor, another problem has just popped up and it's sure to be another. $1,000. Low price is not worth the thousands spent in repairs, not to mention it has left me stranded 3 times in 3 years.
EXCELLENT
I love my car! I have 80000 miles on it and have owned it since 1400 miles, never given me an ounce of trouble. I love the dealership, they give you loaners for anything you have done on the car! My only concern is that I was told not to take it over 90000 miles, that is when it starts to get expensive to maintain. Guess it's time to shop for a new Infinity soon!
Great Used Vehicle
Purchased this vehicle two model-years old with 28,000 miles, currently has 105,000 miles. It has been a stellar performer! Very comfortable and refined interior and classic exterior body styling. This car has clearly spoiled me. It is going to be difficult to replace this level of refinement and trouble-free driving, and do it with a reasonable price tag. Mileage has been better than expected for this size vehicle, combined driving consistently averaging 25. Only complaint is the underbody design puts stress on the exhaust system; I have had to replace it three times. Other than that, just routine maintenance.
Lemon
I purchased this car new. It drives good handling is excellent, fuel economy good, this vehicle was great until it got to 65,000 miles then it started to come unglued, it now has 85,000 miles on it now, sensors are going out one after the other, struts gone, front axles out now, brake calipers replaced, catalytic converters replaced to many items to list have been replaced, am trading it in for a Ford as soon as I get it out of the shop.
Don't Want to Lose It
This car started out as my mom's, she drove it for six years and then passed it down to me when my car bit the dust. It just feels like an all around great ride, smooth, classy, and reliable. Very few trips to the shop each year, usually one thing at a time, the kind of problems that come with an aging auto. At best I've been able to squeeze 29 or 30 mpg on long highway drives, of which I've been doing a lot of. My favorite part about reading other I-30 reviews is how long everyone intends to keep theirs until 300,000 miles. I'm passing mine down to my younger brother, in favor of a newer car. No doubt it'll keep running.
Worst Car I Ever Owened
My wife's Honda Accord was stolen and we wanted a a nice temporary replacement car for her while we recuperated from the loss. Buying a used Infiniti I30 was a huge mistake. within one week of taking it home the instrument panel went out $200 towing $375 to repair. After that it has left us stranded 3 times at $200 per tow. Replaced alternator, starter, belts and oxygen sensors. Lately its its been stalling and dealer says we need a new transmission, probably another $2000 in repairs. We bought the car for $4200 with the intention of keeping it for one year and so far we've spent $1900 in repairs. We should have just bought something new.
Looks good , Drives good ,wife's car
Still a classey automobile ,purchased in August 2000 by my wife. She still loves it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Excellent Car
I purchased this car about 3 1/2 years ago with 14k on it. I have only had to do routine maintenance on it. Great fuel economy because of regular maintenance. I currently have 94,000 miles on the car and it still runs like new. This car drives like sports car and still seats 4 adults comfortably.
Still Happy
I purchased this car with 27,000 miles on it and it was 4 years old. It has 117K miles on it now. It has held up very well. O2 sensors were replaced under warranty. I purchased it with a certified used warranty from the local Infiniti dealer. This with worth the premium I paid. That warranty was good until 100K miles and the service I received was excellent. My complaints are that the vinyl seat edge is wearing out on the driver's side. Everything else in the interior still looks great. I wish it got better gas mileage about 23 overall - but given the size and power of the car that's not bad. Very comfortable. Quick but a little heavy feeling. Very solid feeling.
Not as nice as it should be
This is more of a tank than a sports car. Slow at the start, but has zip at 30+ mph. Interior quality is average. Well known radio/CD issues with this car that Infiniti never offered to fix for owners. Outside temp does not show unless asked for. Gas mileage for a car this size is poor and the amount of road noise is in unacceptable range. I cannot have a decent cell phone call while on the highway in the I30. New tires may help, but not that much.
Can you afford it?
I was looking for a second vehicle for job and everyday commute and settled for the 2001 Infiniti I30. Coming from a German made 2009 VW Passat and now a 2012 VW CC 'Lux Plus', the expectations were already high. The 2001 I30 lived and still lives up to this expectation. The interior and exterior are beautiful. There are technologies on this vehicle that I think even the Germans can still borrow from to add to some of their "future" vehicles :-). Don't get me wrong, German engineering is still up there but this car holds it's own. The question potential buyers of this vehicle may want to ask themselves is "can you afford this"?. I don't mean the buying price, but the cost of maintenance.
Where is everyone comming from
I see that most of you rate the 2001 I30 a 10. Well I own 1 and it is far from a 10. my behind is killing after a 45 min. drive. to much wind noise. maybe all of u upgraded from a Cavalier!
Mechanical Nightmare
Bought the car in '05 from Team Nissan in Oxnard, CA. They failed to inform me car had been in an accident. (Hood didn't have VIN, etc) Put 80k on it in four years, but didn't have it running for 18 months of that. Replaced wheel bearings, two new alternators, VSS sensor, starter, ignition, radiator... Fine when you punch it, but very heavy otherwise. '05 Altima V6 tromps this car with offline and during-driving quickness(but with only 23 more hp). I like the exterior and interior, but leather seats cracking, clock wand rattles, wind noise from back window, paint fading horribly. Wanted an Infiniti from day one, only enjoyed it for a year then it became a $ black hole. F You, Team Infiniti!
Hated it From Day 1
Brake problems, stalling out problems, transmission problems, 2 alternators. LEMON LEMON LEMON!!!
Wind Noise
The wind noise has been so bad, we cancelled our summer trip to North Carolina. Eight trips to the dealer, telephoned to California. After a year of frustration, I was told " we do not make that model any more sorry". I am paying off the 39 month lease for $24,000 and selling it to local dealer for $20,000. Anyone else had this sad experience?
It spoils you.
This is my 3rd. Infiniti, and I must say I'm spoiled. Quality and service far exceed my Acura and Oddessey during the same period, and I will stick with Infiniti for good. Resale is better than reported. My first 2 held their value remarkably. Niec to get another Infiniti to drive even when I go in for an oil change, it's worth every penny if you value your time. Never get thos recalls that Honda issues weekly on the Oddessey.
2001 I 30. A great buy and reliable
This car is excellent overall.Not one mechanical problem but handling could be a little better at HIGH speed.
My 2001 Infiniti I30
Overall, an excellent and reliable car. The power is outstanding but it could be quieter. Road noise is too apparent, and there's a lot of wind noise from the back door seals. The ride is a bit harsh, though better at higher speeds. The heater is could be more effective. Service is outstanding.
Rose's Toy
Spacious interior with look of luxury; touring model is quick, flat performer, gives confidence while driving; standard and optional features top quality . Excess air-intake noise on hard acceleration; under-hood noise when a/c is turned on; small knobs.
End of Infiniti
The first few years were great but soon after the warranty of 4 years hit that's when the quarterly trips to the over priced Infiniti garage started as the check engine light seemed to turn on as if on a timer...I still have my '96 Honda Accord EX given the new Infiniti prices for the G and M...I am going back to the H...Honda.
One of the finest cars existed
I have '01 i30t with all options (no Navigation). This is the car I enjoy to own. No headaches, no problems, solid built quality, nice features. This car is a STEAL for it's MSRP of $34.5 DOUBLE PRICES BMW and MB offer may be (!) a little mor features (in case of BMW) and a known name (especially in case of MB). I also have MB '99 E320 and honestly this Infiniti is far more reliable and advanced for half price. I strongly recommend this car, especially when they put 3.5 V6 in 2002 model!
Great Car
Great car all around, i upgraded from a fully loaded Bonneville. This is a japanese car in it's best. I am an infinity customer for a while now. I have close to 75,000 miles on my car and it's in great shape mechanically. The build quality for this car was my first reason for buying it over a tl or lincoln ls and it has proven to be great.
good car
63000 miles so far engine runs great so quiet you don't even know its running. Transmission shifts perfect. Great braking performance, very good in rain and light and moderate snow. 21mpg mixed driving. 14000 miles on car since purchases, brakes still ahve 75% left on them. Seats comfortable brisk acceleration. Great car overall.
Back to Imports
Over the last 15 years I tried Pontiac, Chrysler and Chevy and got tied of spending time and lots of money in the shops. So I went back to an import with a used Infiniti I30t. After 50,000 miles, nothing but stops for oil and gas (same for my wifes 1997 4 Runner). One thing I do recommend is to change the the factory installed Bridgestone Potenza RE92 ASAP! They are great tires for the first 12,000 miles and then lose most of the winter traction.
A pleasure to drive
We considered Audi, Volvo and VW Passat. The Infiniti was a hands-down winner even though we had to endure a rugged sales experience. The 60,000 mile warranty was huge though we have not had problem one with the car -- except for the time she decided it needed to hit a concrete pole at the car wash. Note: The fog lamps are quite expensive.
Great
Love the car
Love this car
Just picked it up. Great car from day 1. Learning to appreciate it more and more every day. Looks fabulous, great performer, comfortable interior. Althought the suspension is stiffer on the t's the ride is harsh sometimes over the littles bumps you feel it in the cabin. This car is made well, great looking, and will get many years of pleasure driving it.
Top notch highway cruiser
Recently pulled the I30 out from an almost 3-year garaged hiatus and it still looks fresh after all these years though the paint has seen better days. Cruises effortlessly on European highways with cruise control set at nearly 100mph. Excellent midrange power at the expense of fuel economy. Suspension is tuned for comfort; car gets unsettled during small-radius backroads turns. After 60,000 miles only problem has been with O2 sensor, otherwise trouble- free. I can foresee keeping this car for at least another 5 years. The Bose radio alone merits this, though the rear parcel shelf mounted subwoofer can become boomy. Otherwise, great value, great car.
Great for the money
Given, I just upgraded from a Toyota Corrolla - but I think the I-30 is great. I looked at the ES 300, Avalon, Acura TL and RL - while they're all great cars the I-30 was the best bang for the buck - superior rear seat space (vs TL and ES 300) - smoother ride than the Avalon - and much less expensive than the RL or ES 300. Although it was probably my least favorite exterior design, after test driving it I knew it was the best overall luxury sedan value.
TYPICAL INFINITI
WELL BUILT, EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE AND QUIET.
Infiniti Without A Doubt
Picked this I30 up at dealership w/65000 miles for a low price. O2 sensors replaced by dealership @ 60000 miles. Car ran great, looked great, rode great. Have put additional 8000 miles on since purchase. This is, absolutely without a doubt, a super road car. It's comfortable, smooth, classic looking and I'm averaging 27- 28 mpg running at 70 MPH. Have switched tires to 225 x 65 x 16 (Regatta 2s) at 35 PSI and ride is super smooth (tire diameter goes from 25" to 27") and they really fill up the wheelwells. I expect to keep this one close to 200000 miles or more (have 92 Accord with 153000 just running great). This is NOT like any Maxima I've driven. It's far better!
1 yr of owning
purchased 1 yr ago at 117,000km. now at 130,000km. had to replace alternator. CEL comes on and off telling O2 sensor is bad. car pulls good when you floor it but during normal throttle, car feels heavy and big. turning circle is very big. fuel economy isn't great. regular can be used but premium recommended. Very good on highway cruising. long list of options but the material quality isn't up to acura/lexus. doesn't have MIST wiper operation that sweeps only once (even civic has this feature). need to turn on the wiper and turn off for occational wiper sweep. Trunk space is HUGE. interior space is HUGE as well. Standard HID is good but need more brightness.
I love this car
I've had this car close to 4 years, bought it used. Almost 100K miles on it now. Rides like brand new. Talked to a car salesman today and he said that these cars start running their best at 100K and I believe it. You can't even tell the car is on. I have been tempted to get something newer but I just can't trade my baby in. Best car I've ever owned.
Bang for the buck
Got it used with 68200 miles on it for dealer trade-in price. What a beauty! It is one of the most elegant Infinitis around (past and present). The engine revs effortlessly and the transmission shifts smoothly. Very sturdy at highway speeds of 80 mph. The leather seats are large and comfortable and it is so roomy inside. It definitely likes only premium fuel as I hear an annoying growl when I press the gas with 87 octane fuel. Mileage is not as good as I thought, 21 mpg mixed driving and 26 mpg on highway. The tornado fuel saver did not improve mileage. There is an annoying rattle coming from around the beautiful analog clock when the ext. temp is cold but disappears when the car warms up.
Love it! Buy 2
I ran into this car, looking to purchase a Nissan Maxima. After test driving and pulling out my calculator, it was a pretty easy decision to purchase the car. The 2001 I30 is great. A Smooth ride, powerful-fast engine (for the money), and loads of comfortable options makes this car one of the best kept secrets in the automotive world. So much so that I about an I35 8 months later. I love it. I have 2.
Don't judge this book by its cover ...
My I30 has an exterior look of "your father's Oldsmobile". However, it also has excellent acceleration and braking, a smooth powerful engine, superb interior controls, awesome BOSE sound, and rock-solid reliability. It was rated a Consumer Reports automotive "Best Buy" for a reason. I'm convinced that the only reason that it doesn't cost alot more is that Infiniti marketing is so bad.
good deal
I purchased my I30 at a friend's lease termination. I got a very good deal. I graduated to this v6 and have really enjoyed the additional power vs my v4 Toyota. The car handles well and is quick. My biggest criticism is that the ride is rough. It's like I can feel every change in the road's surface. Also, there seems to be a whistle of air, the origin of which I cannot determine. I like the sun visor feature which allows you to block out the sun coming from the rear window, with just the touch of a button. I think it is stylish and still looks good among newer cars. The ABS is good but my Subaru Outback rides better and has better brakes.
Creature comfort
Excellent and reliable vehicle but definitely not in the luxury class. Suspension is very stiff; with 3 ladies (not large) in the back seat, it sounds as if the springs have hit the stops and it bottums out. AC should have dual control for front passenger comfort and should have rear outlet. Sun shield in rear window is excellent idea and functional. Have had the car 18 months but am considering the Lincoln Continental for creature comforts and reliablility.
It's not made of plastic!
This was my first "luxury" car since the '80s. After raising my kids, I wanted a car that I could drive for hours without feeling cramped. I love it. Lots of bells and whistles, but I bought it because of it's reliability rating with Consumer Reports. And it has proven incredibly reliable, including when I accidentally run over curbs!
Terrific car
After a harrowing Volvo experience, I wanted a reliable car. I bought a certified preowned I30 for the 100k warranty. Today, I traded the car-- without ever having to use the warranty in 97000 miles. I just replaced the brakes at 90k. This has been a fantastic car for me--plenty of power, comfort and space. It was hard to find a replacement.
Very Refined Ride
This is one of those "undiscovered" cars. Nice blend of comfort and performance. The Luxury model has a MUCH nicer ride than the touring model. The I35 has more HP and is has far better performance.
i30t
dealership is great to work with but have had a lot of problems with car electrical, exhaust .
I LOVE my Infiniti I30!
I originally wanted the Acura TL but my husband kept pushing me to test drive the I30. I was convinced before I even got to the dealership that I wouldn't like it. Well, as it turns out, I loved the I30 and we bought one that night!
I LOVE my '01 Infiniti I30
I was considering the Acura TL and the Volvo S80. My husband dragged me to the Infiniti dealership to test drive the I30. I test drove it and LOVED it immediately! I was loads of fun to drive with a lot of comfort. It's a sporty "family" vehicle. My next will be the M45.....
STRONG engine & luxury
Great acceleration, great comfort inside. Interior is luxurious, love the sunshade in the back. Feels like a much more expensive car. Looked at Volvo S60, VW Passat - neither had the room or the power of the I30. Have had this one nearly 3 years and no mechanical problems whatsoever. Rock solid engine, fit, finish. My only gripe is the rear supension, it takes bumps a little hard
great car but long in tooth
Very reliable, but bad mileage (19/21). Suspension can be slightly squirrelly. Engine is great; way better than the variable cam Toyota V6.
The Best Bang For The Buck
The I30t is an exceptional vehicle from it's standard features, luxed-out interior, handling, performance, elegant but sporty body design, too it's price. The I30t beats it's rivals with more luxury & comfort amenities, more horsepower and it costs less.