Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of your 2008 Infiniti FX35, ensuring that the VQ35DE 3.5L V6 engine and its complex drivetrain operate smoothly under all conditions. This luxury crossover combines performance with versatility, but like any sophisticated machine, it requires specific fluids to maintain its reputation for reliability and driving dynamics. Using the wrong viscosity or an inferior formulation can lead to premature wear, reduced fuel economy, and costly repairs. This guide outlines the essential AMSOIL products designed to match the precise engineering requirements of your vehicle.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The top choice for maximum protection and extended drain intervals, offering 75% more engine protection against wear.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A premium option with 37% more cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother for up to 20,000 miles.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent value that fights sludge and deposits while outperforming conventional oils in protecting against wear.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated specifically for vehicles over 75,000 miles with boosted detergents and seal conditioners.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Provides 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns to trap small, wear-causing contaminants effectively.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mix formulation that protects cooling system metals and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option for those who prefer mixing with distilled water for ultimate corrosion protection.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A cost-effective solution that resists sludge and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced protection against thermal runaway and rust, ideal for limited-slip differentials.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Offers excellent cold-weather flow and controls operating temperatures in extreme conditions.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity range.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Reduces friction and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks in power steering systems.
The 2008 Infiniti FX35 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine (Engine Code VQ35DE) that is renowned for its smooth power delivery and high-RPM capability. While the engine is robust, the Signature Series or Extended-Life synthetic motor oil is critical for maintaining this performance. The factory recommendation is for 5W-30 viscosity oil, which provides the right balance of cold-start protection and high-temperature stability for this powertrain. Whether you choose the Signature Series for maximum longevity or the Extended-Life formula for superior cleaning, the correct oil ensures that the VQ35DE’s variable valve timing system and high-pressure fuel pump operate without issue. The engine capacity is approximately 5.0 quarts when the filter is included, so precise measurement is required during service.
Beyond the engine, the transmission and differential systems in the FX35 demand specialized attention. The vehicle typically uses an automatic transmission (often the RE5R05A) that benefits greatly from high-quality synthetic fluid. Conventional fluids may degrade under the heat of canyon driving or heavy towing, leading to shuddering or delayed shifts. The recommended synthetic transmission fluids remain fluid in extreme cold and withstand the rigors of heavy loads better than conventional options. For the front and rear differentials, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® lubricants are specifically formulated to control thermal runaway and provide long oil seal and equipment life. These gear lubes contain friction modifiers essential for limited-slip differentials, ensuring that the all-wheel-drive system engages smoothly and effectively.
Maintenance of cooling and braking systems is equally vital for the safety and longevity of the FX35. The cooling system capacity is approximately 9 quarts, making a full flush and refill an important service to prevent overheating and corrosion. The recommended antifreeze products are phosphate- and silicate-free, ensuring compatibility with the vehicle’s cooling metals and hoses. For the braking system, a DOT 3 synthetic brake fluid is recommended to ensure consistent pedal feel and prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to brake fade. Proper fluid management across all these systems transforms routine maintenance from a chore into an investment in the vehicle’s future reliability.
Vehicle Background
The 2008 Infiniti FX35 occupies a unique space in the automotive market as a luxury crossover that was one of the first vehicles to successfully blend high-performance driving dynamics with practical utility. Built on a platform derived from the Infiniti G35 sedan, the FX35 inherited the reputation for sporty handling associated with Nissan’s premium brand. It features a distinctively aggressive design that set it apart from the boxier SUVs common at the time, with a low-slung profile and a sloping rear roofline that contributed to its aerodynamic efficiency.
Under the hood, the 3.5L VQ35DE engine is a masterpiece of Japanese engineering, known for its smoothness, reliability, and willingness to rev. This powerplant delivers a significant amount of horsepower, providing quick acceleration and the ability to merge confidently onto highways or overtake slower traffic. The FX35 also comes with a choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, with the latter offering superior traction in adverse weather conditions without sacrificing the engaging driving experience Infiniti is known for.
Owners of the 2008 FX35 often appreciate its dual nature: it serves as a capable daily driver with a comfortable interior and ample cargo space, yet it retains the spirited character of a performance coupe. The interior features high-quality materials, supportive seats, and a driver-focused cockpit that makes long journeys enjoyable. The vehicle’s market position allowed it to compete with European luxury crossovers while offering lower maintenance costs and a reputation for durability that has kept many of these cars on the road well beyond their original service life. Regular fluid changes with high-quality synthetic lubricants ensure that this sophisticated machine continues to perform with the precision it was designed for.
Comprehensive Fluid Guide
When performing maintenance on your 2008 Infiniti FX35, attention to detail is paramount. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (EA15K12-EA) offers extended service life and greater capacity to capture contaminants, ensuring that the engine receives clean oil throughout the drain interval. For those who prefer established brands, the WIX Oil Filter (51358-EA) is also a compatible option that offers premium media. Similarly, keeping the air intake clean is essential for engine health, and the WIX Air Filter (46044-EA) provides the protection needed to maintain airflow and fuel efficiency.
For the cooling system, the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is an ideal choice as it comes pre-mixed at a 50/50 ratio, ready for immediate use. It is engineered to exceed original equipment manufacturer requirements and protects against corrosion for up to 150,000 miles or five years. Alternatively, for those who prefer custom mixing or have a heavy-duty need, the Concentrated AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze offers maximum protection. The transmission fluid options allow you to select between the fuel-efficient Signature Series for maximum performance or the OE series for a reliable, cost-effective solution that prevents sludge buildup and ensures smooth gear changes.
The differential and transfer case lubricants are designed to handle the specific stresses of the FX35’s drivetrain. The SEVERE GEAR® products are not only synthetic but also fortified with additives that reduce operating temperatures and protect against rust and corrosion. For the braking system, the 100% Synthetic DOT 3 and DOT 4 Brake Fluid offers a high boiling point and excellent responsiveness, ensuring that the hydraulic system performs reliably under stress. Finally, the Power Steering Fluid is formulated to reduce friction and prevent leaks, contributing to a quiet and smooth steering experience. By selecting the right fluids for each subsystem, you ensure that your Infiniti FX35 remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.
Additional Maintenance Products
For vehicle owners who engage in extended storage or need to protect their investment during off-seasons, AMSOIL offers specialized products such as the Gasoline Stabilizer, which keeps fuel fresh for up to 12 months, and the Engine Fogging Oil, which protects internal components from rust and corrosion. These products are particularly useful for seasonal vehicles or those subject to long periods of inactivity. Additionally, the AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver can be used to clean fuel injectors and restore lost horsepower, helping to maintain the engine’s efficiency over time. These supplementary products complement the core fluid maintenance program, providing a complete solution for the care and preservation of your 2008 Infiniti FX35.