The 2009 Infiniti M35 has 4 recalls, the most serious involving the front passenger airbag inflator, which can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, causing serious injury or death.
The airbag inflator issue is a well-known defect affecting a wide range of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles from this era. When the inflator ruptures, it does not just deploy the airbag, it can violently fragment and scatter metal shards toward anyone seated in the front passenger seat. This defect has been filed across multiple campaigns, but the underlying danger is the same in each case. On the mechanical side, the accelerator pedal position sensor can gradually lose the ability to send an accurate signal to the engine. When that happens, the engine enters a reduced-power mode intended to protect itself, but throttle valve deposits can then cause the engine to stall completely when the car slows to a stop or idles at a light. A stalling engine at an intersection or in traffic raises the risk of a rear-end collision, particularly if the driver is caught off guard when power cuts out unexpectedly.
At a glance
What can fail
The front passenger air bag inflators may explode due to propellant breakdown after exposure to humidity, heat, and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front passenger air bags with new desiccated inflators at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The front passenger air bag inflators may rupture during a crash because the propellant inside degrades after long-term exposure to humidity and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The passenger front air bag inflator may rupture after prolonged exposure to humidity and temperature changes, caused by propellant degradation.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The accelerator pedal sensor can deteriorate over time and send an incorrect signal, causing the engine to enter fail-safe mode and reduce power.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the accelerator pedal assembly and reprogram the engine control module at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
