Maintaining the optimal performance and longevity of your 2012 Infiniti M35H with the 3.5L VQ35HR engine requires more than just following a standard maintenance schedule; it demands high-quality lubricants specifically engineered for modern synthetic engine technology. This luxury sedan, powered by a high-revving naturally aspirated V6, places significant demands on its internal components, particularly when subjected to extreme temperatures, spirited driving, or extended service intervals. Choosing the wrong viscosity or a conventional mineral oil can lead to increased wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential long-term damage to the engine and transmission systems.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
For the 2012 Infiniti M35H, AMSOIL offers a comprehensive selection of lubricants designed to meet or exceed the specific requirements of the VQ35HR engine and its associated systems. Whether you are looking for maximum protection with extended drain intervals or a solution tailored for high-mileage vehicles, there is an option that fits your needs. Below are the primary lubricant choices recommended for this vehicle, including the correct filter and essential fluids for a complete maintenance regimen.
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The premier choice for maximum engine protection, offering up to 25,000 miles of reliable service and superior resistance to horsepower loss and wear. This oil is ideal for drivers who push their vehicles to the limit or wish to extend intervals between changes.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A robust option that provides up to 20,000 miles of protection while offering enhanced cleaning power to keep the engine running smoothly and reduce sludge formation over time.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Formulated to outperform conventional oils and meet Original Equipment specifications, this oil fights sludge and deposits effectively, providing a cost-effective way to maintain peak engine performance.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically designed for engines with over 75,000 miles, this formula includes boosted detergents and anti-wear additives to help reduce oil consumption and sludge, restoring performance to aging engines.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – A critical companion to synthetic oil, this filter offers 99% efficiency at 20 microns and a higher capacity for capturing small contaminants compared to competing brands, ensuring the engine stays clean for the full service interval.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium alternative featuring advanced filtration media that outperforms original equipment manufacturer-branded filters, offering reliable protection for your Infiniti’s engine.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – An ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix formulation that protects the cooling system, including the engine and inverter, for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, ensuring optimal thermal management.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula requiring mixing with distilled water, this product provides exceptional protection against corrosion and erosion, suitable for long-term service intervals up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Engineered to withstand the rigors of the Infiniti’s 7-speed RE7R01H automatic transmission, this fluid remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures and protects against wear during heavy towing or elevated operating temperatures.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A fuel-efficient alternative that offers excellent protection against wear while meeting the demanding requirements of modern automatic transmissions.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Recommended for the rear differential, this lube provides advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway, while containing friction modifiers suitable for limited-slip applications common in performance sedans.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – A high-performance option designed to improve efficiency and extend seal life, offering robust protection in the rear differential for drivers seeking extended service intervals.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – An even heavier-grade option for extreme heavy-load conditions, providing superior control over operating temperatures and protection against rust and corrosion.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – A high-quality hydraulic brake fluid that ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, enhancing braking safety and reliability.
Using the correct viscosity and specification is paramount for the VQ35HR engine. The manufacturer recommends a 5W-30 viscosity for all temperatures. The total capacity for a standard oil change, including the filter, is 5.2 quarts. When performing this service, it is crucial to torque the oil drain plug to the specified 25 ft/lbs and install a new washer on the drain bolt to prevent leaks and ensure a secure seal. After refilling, always check the oil level to confirm proper volume, as overfilling can cause foam and pressure issues while underfilling risks inadequate lubrication.
Beyond the engine, the cooling system in the M35H is complex, utilizing both an engine cooling loop and an inverter cooling circuit for the hybrid components. The engine requires approximately 9.1 quarts of coolant, while the inverter requires an additional 2.7 quarts. Using a premium antifreeze like the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant ensures compatibility with all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses, preventing corrosion and maintaining efficient heat transfer. For those preferring a concentrated option, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers superior longevity and protection against metallic corrosion, meeting or exceeding OEM standards for both passenger cars and light trucks.
The transmission in this model, specifically the 7-speed RE7R01H automatic, requires a specialized fluid. While the total fill capacity is around 7.4 quarts for a complete flush, regular maintenance fluids are equally vital. The AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed to handle the extreme conditions often found in urban driving and spirited highway use. It resists oxidation and maintains its viscosity even under heavy towing or elevated temperatures, ensuring smooth shifts and prolonged transmission life. The AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient variant provides a comparable level of protection, making it a reliable choice for standard service intervals while still delivering fuel economy benefits.
The differential and transfer case systems also benefit from synthetic lubrication. The rear differential requires a synthetic GL-5 75W-90 gear lube, with a capacity of 2.4 pints. Synthetic oil is strictly required for this application to handle the high loads and thermal stresses. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 is an excellent choice, offering protection against thermal runaway and rust while containing friction modifiers that are essential for limited-slip differentials. For vehicles operating under severe conditions or seeking the ultimate in seal life and efficiency, the 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube offers extended service intervals up to 500,000 miles, providing a robust shield against wear in heavy-load gear and bearing applications.
Brake system health is another critical aspect of the M35H’s safety and performance. The recommended fluid is a hydraulic brake fluid meeting DOT 3 specifications. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is engineered to provide superior ABS and traction-control responsiveness. By maintaining a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, this fluid prevents the formation of water vapor bubbles that can lead to brake fade, ensuring consistent pedal feel and stopping power in all weather conditions.
Model History and Performance
The 2012 Infiniti M35H represents a significant chapter in the brand’s history as a competitor to the German luxury sport sedans. Part of the M Series lineup, which was Infiniti’s answer to the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the M35H distinguished itself as one of the first premium hybrids to offer a blend of performance and efficiency. The “H” designation stands for Hybrid, indicating the integration of a hybrid powertrain that supplements the powerful naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, known internally as the VQ35HR.
This particular engine code, VQ35HR, is renowned among enthusiasts for its smooth power delivery and high-revving nature. It produces substantial horsepower, allowing the M35H to accelerate quickly despite its size. The addition of the electric motor in the hybrid variant provided instant torque, enhancing the driving experience in stop-and-go traffic and during overtaking maneuvers. The platform, built on a robust chassis, offered a driving dynamic that balanced a comfortable, refined ride with sharp handling characteristics. Owners often appreciate the vehicle’s sophisticated interior, advanced technology for its time, and the reliability associated with the Nissan Infiniti engineering backbone.
The M35H is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (or all-wheel-drive, depending on specific configuration) sedan that appealed to drivers who wanted the dynamics of a sports car with the practicality of a daily driver. Its market position was unique because it offered hybrid efficiency without compromising the V6 power that was a signature of the M Series. Over the years, the M35H has built a reputation for being a durable and engaging vehicle, provided it receives the proper maintenance. Regular use of high-quality synthetic fluids ensures that the hybrid system’s electric components, the engine’s VQ architecture, and the transmission’s complex gearing continue to operate as smoothly in 2012 as they do today.
In conclusion, keeping your 2012 Infiniti M35H in top condition requires a dedicated approach to lubrication and fluid maintenance. By selecting the appropriate AMSOIL products, owners can ensure that the engine, transmission, cooling system, and differential are all protected against wear, corrosion, and thermal breakdown. Whether you are extending service intervals, driving in extreme conditions, or maintaining a high-mileage vehicle, the synthetic formulations available provide the necessary performance and reliability to keep this luxury sedan running smoothly for years to come.