The 2009 Infiniti FX35 is a performance-oriented crossover that demands precise maintenance to sustain its engine and drivetrain capabilities. Powered by the renowned VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine, this vehicle offers a balance of power and efficiency that requires high-quality lubricants to perform optimally. Selecting the correct oil and fluid types ensures that the internal components remain protected against wear, thermal breakdown, and deposit formation over time.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides superior protection against horsepower loss and wear for up to 25,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers extended service intervals of up to 20,000 miles with enhanced cleaning power.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers protection that outperforms conventional oils and mimics OEM specifications.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles to reduce sludge and consumption.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Features 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns and extended service life.
- WIX Oil Filter – Premium media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique OAT formulation protecting the cooling system for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway in differentials.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Reduces friction and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks.
Maintaining the 2009 Infiniti FX35 requires more than just routine oil changes; it demands a comprehensive approach to lubrication that covers every fluid reservoir in the vehicle. The VQ35HR engine, while robust, benefits significantly from the superior shear stability and thermal resistance found in full synthetic motor oils. When oil breaks down under the heat of high-performance driving, sludge can form, leading to premature wear on timing chains, camshafts, and bearings. Using a high-quality synthetic oil helps maintain the proper oil pressure and flow characteristics required by this engine design.
Engine Lubrication and Filtration
The VQ35HR engine in the FX35 requires 5.2 quarts of oil, including the filter replacement. For this application, a 5W-30 viscosity grade is specified to ensure proper flow across all temperature ranges. AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 is designed for maximum protection, offering up to 25,000 miles of service in normal driving conditions. This oil contains a balanced additive package that fights wear, neutralizes acids, and keeps the engine clean. For owners seeking a balance of performance and value, the Extended-Life 5W-30 provides protection for up to 20,000 miles. The OE 5W-30 option is an excellent choice for those who prefer a product that aligns closely with original equipment manufacturer standards, while the High-Mileage 5W-30 is tailored for FX35 models with over 75,000 miles to help control oil consumption and reduce leaks.
The filtration system is equally critical. A premium oil filter is necessary to trap contaminants that can harm the engine’s moving parts. The AMSOIL Oil Filter is engineered with high-capacity media to remove small wear-causing contaminants and offers a longer service life than standard filters. Alternatively, the WIX Oil Filter is a premium aftermarket option that provides filtration efficiency comparable to OEM standards. Regularly changing the oil and filter at recommended intervals ensures that the engine runs smoothly and maintains its performance characteristics.
Transmission and Drivetrain Fluids
The FX35 is equipped with a 7-speed JR711E automatic transmission. Proper fluid selection is vital for the longevity of this transmission, especially given the vehicle’s weight and power delivery. The total fill capacity for the automatic transmission is 9.7 quarts. AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is recommended for those who drive under severe conditions, such as frequent towing or aggressive driving. It is engineered to resist shearing and maintain viscosity under high heat, ensuring smooth shifts and protecting the transmission clutches. The OE Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid offers a similar level of protection for daily driving and provides excellent cold-weather performance.
The drivetrain also requires attention to the differential and transfer case. The front differential requires 1.4 pints of gear lube, while the rear differential holds 3 pints. For these applications, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 is a top choice. This synthetic gear lube contains friction modifiers suitable for limited-slip differentials and provides superior protection against rust, corrosion, and thermal runaway. For vehicles operating in extremely cold climates, the 75W-90 or 75W-110 variants offer excellent cold-flow properties without sacrificing protection. The transfer case, with a capacity of 2.1 pints, also benefits from the use of high-performance synthetic gear lubricants to prevent premature wear on gears and bearings.
Cooling and Brake Systems
A healthy cooling system is essential to prevent overheating, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. The 2009 FX35’s cooling system has a capacity of 9.7 quarts. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is an ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix formulation that protects the cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or five years. For those preferring a concentrate, the Propylene Glycol Antifreeze & Engine Coolant offers extended service life and great corrosion protection. Both options are compatible with various coolant colors and are free of harmful additives.
The braking system relies on DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to spongy pedal feel or brake fade. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid maintains a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range and provides excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems. Replacing the fluid at recommended intervals ensures that the braking system operates safely and effectively.
Power steering systems in the FX35 benefit from high-quality fluid that reduces friction and protects seals. AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid is formulated to resist heat and prevent leaks by keeping seals soft. It also offers strong anti-wear protection, contributing to quieter operation and longer fluid life. For seasonal storage, using AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can help keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish and gum buildup that can clog fuel injectors and carburetors.
About the Vehicle
The 2009 Infiniti FX35 represents a unique blend of luxury, performance, and utility within the Infiniti lineup. Built on the D platform, this crossover shares its mechanical heart with the Infiniti G35 sedan and coupe, featuring the highly respected 3.5-liter VQ35HR V6 engine. This engine is renowned for its smooth power delivery, high-revving capability, and durability, making the FX35 a favorite among driving enthusiasts who require a daily driver that can also handle the demands of spirited driving on winding roads.
As a mid-size luxury crossover, the FX35 distinguishes itself with a more aggressive styling language compared to traditional SUVs of its era. It was one of the early adopters of a crossover SUV with a distinct sports car character, offering a balance of handling and comfort that appealed to buyers who wanted to avoid the soft, floaty feel of many competitors. The FX35 was manufactured in Japan, a testament to the quality standards applied to Infiniti vehicles. Its all-wheel-drive system, known as ATTESA E-TS, provides excellent traction in various weather conditions, enhancing its versatility as an all-weather vehicle. The interior is designed with a driver-focused cockpit, featuring supportive seats, intuitive controls, and high-quality materials that reflect the luxury status of the brand. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on long highway journeys, the FX35 offers a refined driving experience that combines performance with the practicality of a crossover.