Maintaining the 2012 Infiniti EX35 with its 3.5L VQ35HR D engine requires specific lubricants designed to meet the demands of a high-performance crossover. Using the correct fluid viscosities and meeting the manufacturer’s specifications is critical for sustaining fuel economy, ensuring smooth transmission shifts, and preventing premature wear in extreme temperatures. AMSOIL offers a comprehensive line of synthetic lubricants tailored to provide superior protection compared to conventional oils, ensuring your vehicle remains reliable whether you are commuting in city traffic or taking a spirited drive.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The top-tier choice offering up to 25,000 miles of protection, 75% more protection against wear than industry standards, and superior control of oil consumption for high-mileage engines.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A robust option providing 37% more cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother for up to 20,000 miles between oil changes.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent value option that outperforms conventional oils and meets OEM requirements while fighting sludge and deposits with a 100% synthetic formulation.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated specifically for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents and enhanced anti-wear additives to reduce sludge and extend engine life.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Features 99% efficiency at 20 microns and greater capacity for contaminants than competing filters, designed to reduce engine wear and allow for extended service intervals.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium aftermarket option that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters, ensuring reliable filtration compatibility.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides excellent protection against wear and ensures smooth, shudder-free shifts for your 7-speed automatic transmission.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mix formulation that exceeds OEM requirements, protecting cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that offers long-lasting protection against metallic corrosion and erosion, requiring mixing with distilled water.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection for front differentials, containing friction modifiers for limited-slip applications and helping to reduce operating temperatures.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for varying temperature conditions, this lube controls thermal runaway and protects against rust and corrosion in transfer cases and differentials.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range for safe stopping power.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks and offers strong anti-wear protection for quiet operation in your Infiniti EX35.
Understanding the lubrication requirements of your 2012 Infiniti EX35 begins with the engine. The 3.5-liter VQ35HR engine is a powerhouse known for its smooth power delivery and reliability, but it demands precise oil protection to maintain its performance characteristics over time. The engine oil capacity is 5.2 quarts when including a filter replacement. This specific volume is crucial to ensure the oil pump functions correctly and that all internal components, including the VVT-i variable valve timing system, are adequately lubricated. Using a high-quality AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil in the 5W-30 viscosity grade is the preferred specification for this engine, as it provides optimal flow during cold starts while maintaining film strength at high operating temperatures. The engine oil drain plug torque should be set to 25 ft/lbs, and a new washer must be installed on the drain bolt to prevent leaks. Regular oil changes are the single most effective way to extend the life of your Infiniti.
Transferring power from the engine to the wheels is the responsibility of the automatic transmission, which in the 2012 EX35 is a 7-speed unit (RE7R01A). This complex transmission requires a fluid that can handle rapid shifts and heat generated during spirited driving. The total fill capacity for the automatic transmission is 9.7 quarts. AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is formulated to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures without losing their viscosity. They also remain fluid in sub-zero temperatures, ensuring cold-weather reliability. Proper transmission fluid not only protects against wear but also ensures smooth, shudder-free shifts and guards against leaks that can lead to costly repairs. Maintaining the correct fluid level is vital for the longevity of the transmission.
While the engine and transmission often receive the most attention, the differential and transfer case lubrication are equally important for a vehicle like the EX35, which may be driven in diverse conditions. The front differential (F160A) holds 1.4 pints of lubricant, while the rear differential (R200) requires 3 pints. For transfer cases, the capacity is approximately 2.1 pints. These components endure high stress, particularly if the vehicle is used for off-roading or towing. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube provides superior protection against rust, corrosion, and thermal runaway. The drain plugs for the transfer case require a torque of 22 ft/lbs, while the fill plug torque is 26 ft/lbs, with new washers recommended for both. Using the correct grade of AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube ensures that gears and bearings are protected from wear and that the limited-slip differential functions as designed.
Seasonal maintenance also involves checking the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant and brake systems. The cooling system has a capacity of 9.1 quarts. AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant formulations offer protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, preventing corrosion and freezing. For braking performance, AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid ensures responsive pedal feel and stability in extreme temperatures. Additionally, the power steering system benefits from AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid, which resists heat degradation and helps keep seals soft to prevent leaks. These fluids work together to ensure safety and reliability throughout the year.
Vehicle Background
The 2012 Infiniti EX35 stands as a distinctive entry in the luxury compact crossover segment, blending the dynamic handling of a sports sedan with the versatility of an SUV. Built on the same platform as the Infiniti G series, the EX35 features a unique design that prioritizes a sporty driving character, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on performance. At the heart of this vehicle is the legendary VQ35HR engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 that produces robust power and a linear power delivery curve that enthusiasts have long admired. This engine is renowned for its durability and smooth operation, though its precise lubrication needs are critical to maintaining that reputation.
Infiniti positioned the EX35 as a “sports activity vehicle,” targeting drivers who value agility and style over traditional SUV utility. The vehicle sits between the more rugged QX70 and the smaller EX25, offering a balanced mix of luxury amenities and dynamic driving dynamics. The interior typically features high-quality materials and a driver-focused cockpit, while the exterior styling is sharp and aerodynamic. As a Japanese import known for its build quality, the EX35 has earned a loyal following. However, like any vehicle with high-performance aspirations, it requires diligent maintenance to keep its road-holding capabilities and engine responsiveness at peak levels. Owners who prioritize synthetic lubricants often report smoother operation and extended intervals between major services, allowing them to enjoy the vehicle’s full potential for years to come.
About the Vehicle
The 2012 Infiniti EX35 is a compact luxury crossover SUV that was produced during the early 2010s. It shares its chassis with the Infiniti G37 sedan and coupe, inheriting the sport-tuned suspension and refined driving dynamics that Infiniti customers expect. The vehicle is powered by the VQ35HR engine, a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers a strong combination of power and efficiency. The “HR” designation in the engine code stands for High Revolution, indicating that this engine is tuned for higher RPMs and better performance than earlier iterations of the VQ series. The transmission is a 7-speed automatic with manual mode, providing quick shifts and smooth power delivery. The EX35 also features an all-wheel-drive option, which enhances traction in various weather conditions. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while its cargo space and rear seat flexibility make it practical for families. The vehicle is known for its stylish design, which includes a distinctive grille and sleek lines that give it a premium appearance.