2005 Infiniti G35 Sedan Fuel Pump: Complete Replacement Guide and Cost Breakdown

If you own a 2005 Infiniti G35 sedan and are experiencing engine sputtering, hard starts, or a whining noise from the rear of the car, the culprit is almost certainly a failing fuel pump. The bottom line is this: replacing the fuel pump on a 2005 Infiniti G35 sedan is a manageable DIY job that can save you hundreds of dollars, but you need to understand exactly which pump fits your car, where it's located, and what to expect in terms of cost. The fuel pump sits under the rear passenger-side seat cushion, and the entire job takes about one to two hours for a typical home mechanic. Parts range from as low as $60 for a value aftermarket pump to over $1,400 if you buy from the dealership. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from symptoms and diagnosis to installation steps and cost-saving tips.

Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump in a 2005 G35 Sedan

Your G35's fuel pump is an electric in-tank unit that pushes fuel from the tank to the engine at the correct pressure. When it starts to fail, you will notice one or more of these warning signs:

  • Engine sputtering at high speeds: The car may hesitate or jerk, especially when you accelerate hard or drive at highway speeds. This happens because the pump cannot maintain steady fuel pressure under demand.
  • Whining noise from the rear seat area: A healthy fuel pump makes a low hum. If you hear a loud, high-pitched whine coming from under the rear passenger seat, the pump bearings or motor are wearing out.
  • Difficulty starting the car: A failing pump cannot build enough pressure in the fuel system, so the engine cranks longer than normal before firing up. In severe cases, the car may not start at all.
  • Loss of power during acceleration: If the pump delivers inconsistent fuel volume, you will feel a noticeable lack of power when you step on the gas. The engine may feel like it is "starving" for fuel.
  • Check engine light comes on: Low fuel pressure can trigger diagnostic trouble codes. Common codes related to fuel pump failure include P0001, P0002, and P0003, which point to issues with the fuel volume regulator circuit.

If you notice any of these symptoms, do not ignore them. Driving with a failing fuel pump can leave you stranded and may cause damage to other fuel system components.

Where Is the Fuel Pump Located on a 2005 G35 Sedan?

The 2005 Infiniti G35 sedan actually has two fuel pumps: a main pump on the passenger side and a secondary transfer pump on the driver's side. The main fuel pump, which is the one that usually fails, is located under the rear seat cushion on the passenger side.

To access it, you simply lift the rear seat bottom cushion. It is held in place by two clips at the front edge. Once you remove the cushion, you will see two black metal access plates. The passenger-side plate covers the main fuel pump assembly, while the driver-side plate covers the secondary fuel level sending unit. Remove the four Phillips-head screws on the passenger-side plate, and the pump assembly is right there.

This is great news because you do not need to drop the fuel tank. The job can be done entirely from inside the cabin.

Which Fuel Pump Fits a 2005 Infiniti G35 Sedan?

Not all G35 fuel pumps are the same. The 2005 sedan uses the VQ35DE engine, and the correct pump must match this specific configuration. Here are the key part numbers and options:

Genuine Infiniti / OEM Options:

  • 17040-CD000: This is the original OEM pump assembly for 2003-2005 G35 sedans. It includes the fuel pump, fuel level sensor, and strainer. Infiniti has since superseded this part number to A7040-CD01A.
  • 17042-AC700: This is another OEM pump assembly specifically listed for the 2005-2006 G35 sedan. It is sold as a complete assembly and carries a factory warranty.

Aftermarket Options:

  • Genuine W0133-1776589: This is an OEM-quality replacement pump that includes a new fuel pickup screen. It fits 2005-2006 G35 sedans, both base and X models. The original list price was $475.05, but it is often available for around $427.97.
  • Hella 6703-06175466: Hella is a well-known OEM supplier. This pump fits 2003-2006 G35 sedans and is an electric in-tank unit rated at 30 gallons per hour at 43 PSI. It does not include a strainer or gasket, so you may need to reuse or purchase those separately.
  • Skyward / SKP Fuel Pump Module Assembly: This is a complete drop-in replacement that includes the fuel pump, pressure regulator, sending unit, float, reservoir, and strainer. It is a popular aftermarket choice for 2005-2006 G35 sedans and coupes.

Important Compatibility Note: The fuel pump from a Nissan 350Z may fit your G35, but not always. For corresponding years and engine types (for example, a 2006 350Z pump for a 2006 G35 coupe), the assembly is often identical. However, you must verify the part number and visual fitment before purchasing because subtle differences exist.

Replacement Cost Breakdown

The cost to replace the fuel pump on a 2005 G35 sedan varies dramatically depending on where you buy the parts and who does the labor.

Parts Cost:

  • New OEM from the dealer: $500 to over $1,400. This is the most expensive route but guarantees the correct, high-quality part.
  • New aftermarket (OEM quality): $250 to $400. Brands like Hitachi (an OEM supplier) and Delphi offer a good balance of quality and price.
  • New aftermarket (value): $60 to $150. Lower-cost brands are available from retailers like AutoZone, but forum reports suggest a higher risk of noise and premature failure.
  • Used OEM: $50 to $125. This can be a cost-effective option if you can verify compatibility and condition.

Labor Cost:
If you take the car to a shop, labor typically runs $110 to $250 for one to 1.5 hours of work. RepairPal estimates the total cost for a fuel pump replacement on a 2005 Infiniti G35 at between $1,425 and $1,556, with parts accounting for roughly $1,395 of that total.

DIY Savings: If you do the job yourself, your total cost will be just the price of the pump assembly, which can be as low as $60 to $150 for a value option or $250 to $400 for a quality aftermarket unit.

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Replacing the fuel pump on a 2005 G35 sedan is not difficult, but you must follow safety precautions because you are working with gasoline.

Safety First: Work in a well-ventilated area. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Have a fire extinguisher nearby. Relieve fuel system pressure by pulling the fuel pump fuse from the fuse box and then cranking the engine for a few seconds until it stalls.

Tools You Will Need:

  • Socket set with an 8mm socket
  • Phillips-head screwdriver
  • Rag or shop towels
  • Fuel line disconnect tool (if your lines have quick-connect fittings)
  • New O-ring for the pump assembly

Installation Steps:

  1. Remove the rear seat bottom cushion. Pull up on the front edge of the cushion to release the two clips. Lift the cushion out of the car.

  2. Remove the passenger-side access plate. You will see a black metal plate held by four Phillips-head screws. Remove the screws and lift the plate off.

  3. Disconnect the wiring and fuel lines. Unplug the electrical connector from the top of the pump assembly. Press the release tabs on the fuel line quick-connects and pull them off. Have a rag ready to catch any residual fuel.

  4. Remove the pump assembly. Use an 8mm socket to remove the eight bolts holding the pump assembly to the top of the tank. Carefully lift the assembly straight up and out of the tank. Be careful not to bend the float arm. You may need to tilt the assembly slightly to get it through the opening.

  5. Install the new pump assembly. Transfer any components from the old assembly that are not included with your new pump, such as the O-ring. Place the new O-ring on the tank opening. Insert the new pump assembly into the tank, making sure the float arm is not obstructed. Tighten the eight 8mm bolts in a star pattern to ensure an even seal.

  6. Reconnect everything. Reconnect the fuel lines and the electrical connector. Replace the access plate and the rear seat cushion. Reconnect the battery.

  7. Test the repair. Turn the key to the ON position for two seconds, then turn it OFF. Repeat this two or three times to prime the fuel system. Then start the engine and check for leaks.

Difficulty Rating: 2 out of 5. The job is straightforward and takes most DIYers one to two hours.

Common Fuel Gauge Problems After Replacement

If your fuel gauge still reads incorrectly after replacing the pump, do not panic. The G35 has two fuel level senders. The main sender is part of the fuel pump assembly you just replaced, but there is a second sender on the driver's side of the fuel tank. If the gauge is still inaccurate, the secondary sender is likely faulty and needs to be cleaned or replaced. Unfortunately, if you need to replace either the fuel level sensor or the fuel temperature sensor, you must replace the entire unit as a single assembly.

Should You Buy a Complete Assembly or Just the Pump Motor?

You have two options when purchasing a replacement. You can buy just the electric pump motor and swap it into your existing plastic housing. This is cheaper but requires carefully disassembling the unit, which can be delicate and risks breaking small plastic clips. For most DIYers, replacing the entire assembly is much faster, easier, and reduces the risk of mistakes.

Why Choose a High-Quality Aftermarket Pump

While you can buy a value pump for as little as $60, spending a little more on a quality aftermarket unit is a smart investment. Forum reports suggest that lower-cost brands have a higher risk of excessive noise and premature failure. An OEM-quality pump from a reputable brand will deliver consistent fuel pressure, fit correctly, and last for many years.

We recommend KEMSO Fuel Pump for your 2005 Infiniti G35 sedan. KEMSO offers high-performance fuel pumps that are direct OEM replacements, meaning they bolt right in with no modifications needed. Every KEMSO pump is built to meet or exceed factory specifications, ensuring reliable fuel delivery and consistent engine performance. Best of all, KEMSO stands behind their products with a lifetime warranty, giving you complete peace of mind. Whether you are replacing a worn-out pump or upgrading for better reliability, KEMSO is a trusted choice. Visit their website to find the right pump for your G35: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Final Thoughts

Replacing the fuel pump on your 2005 Infiniti G35 sedan is a job that any intermediate DIYer can handle in a weekend afternoon. The pump is easily accessible under the rear seat, and the entire process requires only basic hand tools. Your total cost will be between $60 for a budget pump and $400 for a high-quality aftermarket unit, compared to over $1,400 if you go to the dealership. Just make sure you confirm the correct part number for your specific vehicle, and always prioritize safety when working with fuel. A properly functioning fuel pump is critical for engine performance, reliability, and drivability, so do not delay if you suspect yours is failing.

For a reliable, long-lasting replacement, check out the selection of fuel pumps at https://www.kemsoracing.com/.


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