2006 Infiniti G35 Fuel Pump Assembly: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
If you own a 2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe and need a fuel pump assembly, the bottom line is this: you should replace the entire fuel pump module assembly rather than just the pump motor, and you have several quality options ranging from about $100 to $400 depending on the brand and where you buy it. The 2006 G35 uses an in-tank electric fuel pump that sits under the rear seat, and replacement takes about 1 to 2 hours for a DIY mechanic. While a dealer will charge over $1,500 for the job, you can buy a solid aftermarket assembly for a fraction of that cost and install it yourself with basic hand tools. This guide covers what the fuel pump assembly includes, how to tell if yours is failing, which parts fit your 2006 G35, and how to swap it out safely.
Understanding the Fuel Pump Assembly in Your 2006 G35
The fuel pump assembly in a 2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe is not just a simple pump. It is a complete module that includes several critical components working together to deliver fuel from the tank to the engine. The assembly typically includes the electric fuel pump itself, a fuel pressure regulator, a fuel sending unit with float arm, a fuel strainer, and the plastic housing that holds everything together. Some assemblies also include a fuel filter and a seal or gasket for installation.
The 2006 G35 Coupe is powered by the VQ35DE 3.5L V6 engine, and the fuel pump assembly is mounted inside the fuel tank. The pump draws fuel through the strainer, pushes it through the fuel lines, and the pressure regulator keeps the system pressure within the correct range. The sending unit measures the fuel level and sends that information to the gauge on your dashboard.
One important detail about the G35 is that it actually has two fuel level senders. The main sending unit is built into the fuel pump assembly on the passenger side, but there is a second sending unit on the driver's side of the fuel tank. If your fuel gauge is still inaccurate after replacing the pump assembly, the secondary sender may also need attention.
Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump in a 2006 G35
Before you spend money on a new assembly, you need to confirm that the fuel pump is actually the problem. Here are the most common symptoms of a failing fuel pump in a G35 Coupe:
1. Engine sputtering or stalling. A failing fuel pump cannot maintain consistent fuel pressure, which causes the engine to sputter during acceleration or stall unexpectedly, especially under load or when the engine is warm.
2. Difficulty starting. If the pump is weak, it takes longer to build fuel pressure, making the engine crank longer before it fires up. This problem often gets worse in cold weather or after the car has been sitting for a while.
3. Loss of power during acceleration. When the engine demands more fuel, a failing pump cannot keep up, resulting in noticeable hesitation or sluggishness. You may also see a check engine light with misfire codes.
4. Whining noise from the fuel tank. A fuel pump that is wearing out often makes a whining or humming sound, especially at startup or when the fuel level is low. This noise comes from the internal motor struggling to operate.
5. Low fuel pressure readings. If you test the fuel pressure at the rail, the 2006 G35 should maintain 40 to 60 PSI at idle. Anything below that range, or pressure that fluctuates, points to a failing pump. The flow rate should also be around 100 to 120 liters per hour.
If your car will not start at all, the mechanic will check for fuel pressure at the injectors, then check the pump's electrical circuit. A clogged fuel filter or a bad electrical connection can mimic the symptoms of a failed pump, so it is worth verifying the actual cause before you buy a replacement.
What Fits a 2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe
Compatibility is where things get tricky, because the G35 fuel pump assembly fits several vehicles and the correct part depends on your exact model year, engine type, and transmission. Here is what you need to know:
1. The 2006 G35 Coupe came with two different engines. Earlier 2006 models used the VQ35DE engine, while later 2006 models (and 2007 models) used the VQ35HR engine. The fuel pump assemblies for these two engines are not necessarily interchangeable, so you must confirm which engine you have before ordering.
2. Transmission matters. Some aftermarket fuel pump assemblies are specifically listed for manual transmission G35 Coupes only. For example, a fuel pump listed for a 2005-2006 G35 Coupe 3.5L V6 with manual transmission will not fit an automatic.
3. Several Nissan and Infiniti models share the same fuel pump assembly. The 2003-2009 Nissan 350Z, the 2006-2008 Infiniti M35 and M45, and the 2003-2007 Infiniti G35 all use a similar fuel pump module assembly. This is why you will see many aftermarket listings covering all of these vehicles at once.
4. The OEM part numbers are your best reference. The original Nissan part numbers for the G35 fuel pump assembly include 17040AC800, 17040AC80A, 17040CD000, 17040CD010, 17040CD01A, 17040EH110, and 17040EV10A. Aftermarket parts that cross-reference to these numbers will fit your car.
5. Check the production date. For the 2006 G35, some fuel pump assemblies are listed with a production split. Vehicles built before July 31, 2004, use one assembly, while vehicles built after August 1, 2004, use another. Even though the 2006 model year started production later, this distinction matters for parts fitment.
Replacement Cost: How Much Should You Pay?
The cost of a fuel pump assembly for a 2006 G35 varies dramatically depending on where you buy it and the brand you choose. Here is a realistic breakdown:
1. OEM from the dealer. A genuine Infiniti fuel pump assembly will cost anywhere from $500 to over $1,400. This is the most expensive option, but you get the guarantee that the part is correct and built to original specifications.
2. Quality aftermarket brands. Brands like Delphi and Hitachi (which is an OEM supplier) offer fuel pump assemblies priced between $250 and $400. These parts are built to meet or exceed OE standards and are a good balance of quality and price. For example, a Delphi fuel pump module assembly for the 2003-2007 G35 Coupe is available for around $115 to $290 depending on the specific part number and seller.
3. Budget aftermarket brands. You can find fuel pump assemblies for as little as $60 to $150. The TRQ brand assembly for the 2006 G35 Coupe, for instance, is priced at $99.95. These budget options work, but owner forums report a higher risk of noise and premature failure compared to mid-range brands.
4. Labor costs. If you have a shop do the job, expect to pay $110 to $250 for labor, which is typically 1 to 1.5 hours of work. When you add the cost of a quality aftermarket part and labor, the total will likely land between $350 and $650 for most shops.
5. Dealer total cost. If you take your G35 to a dealer and use an OEM part, the total replacement cost will be between $1,536 and $1,587, according to RepairPal estimates. This range does not include taxes and fees.
DIY Replacement: Can You Do It Yourself?
Replacing the fuel pump assembly in a 2006 G35 Coupe is a task that a reasonably skilled DIY mechanic can handle in an afternoon. You do not need to drop the fuel tank, which makes the job much easier. The pump is accessed from under the rear seat cushion.
Here is the basic process:
1. Safety first. Work in a well-ventilated area, disconnect the negative battery terminal, and have a fire extinguisher nearby. Relieve fuel pressure by pulling the fuel pump fuse and cranking the engine for a few seconds until it stalls.
2. Remove the rear seat bottom cushion. It is held in by two clips at the front edge. Under the seat, you will see two black metal plates. The fuel pump is under the passenger side plate, and the driver's side plate covers the secondary sending unit.
3. Remove the access plate. Take out the four Phillips head screws holding the passenger side plate. Disconnect the electrical connector and the fuel line by pressing the release tabs. Have a rag ready to catch any residual fuel.
4. Remove the old assembly. Unscrew the eight 8mm bolts holding the fuel pump assembly to the tank. Carefully lift the assembly out, being mindful not to bend the float arm. You may need to tilt it to get it through the opening.
5. Install the new assembly. The installation is the reverse of removal. Make sure the new O-ring is seated correctly and tighten the 8mm bolts in a star pattern to ensure an even seal.
6. Test the system. Reconnect the battery, turn the key to the ON position (without starting), and check for fuel leaks. Then start the engine and verify that the fuel pressure is within spec.
The difficulty rating for this job is 2 out of 5, and the estimated time is 1 to 2 hours.
Should You Replace the Whole Assembly or Just the Pump?
This is a common question among G35 owners. You can technically replace just the pump motor inside the plastic housing, which is cheaper. However, this requires carefully disassembling the entire unit, and the plastic clips and seals are fragile. For most people, replacing the entire assembly is much faster, easier, and reduces the risk of breaking small plastic parts during the process.
Another reason to replace the whole assembly is that you get new components across the board: the fuel pressure regulator, the strainer, the float arm, and the sending unit. If you only replace the pump motor, you are leaving old components in place that could fail later. Many aftermarket assemblies include the fuel filter as well, which is a nice bonus.
Choosing the Right Brand
When it comes to aftermarket fuel pump assemblies, not all brands are created equal. Here is a quick overview of the options available for the 2006 G35:
1. Delphi. Delphi is a well-established brand that produces fuel pump module assemblies with a strainer included. Their part number 6703-06445975 fits the 2003-2007 G35 Coupe with the VQ35DE engine. It includes the fuel pump module assembly with float arm, seal, instruction sheet, fuel filter, and regulator. The average flow rating is 26 gph.
2. AM Autoparts. AM produces a fuel pump module assembly that fits the 2004-2006 G35, 2006-2008 M35/M45, and 2003-2009 Nissan 350Z. It has a maximum pressure of 53.6 PSI, a maximum flow rating of 34.34 gph, and includes the fuel sending unit. The reference numbers include E8534M, 17040AC800, and 17040AC80A.
3. A-Premium. A-Premium offers a fuel pump with sending unit for the 2005-2006 G35 Coupe with manual transmission. Their part number is APFP0242, and it comes with a 3-year warranty. It does not include a pressure sensor or wire harness.
4. TRQ. TRQ builds a fuel pump module assembly for the 2006 G35 Coupe priced at just under $100. It includes the sending unit and strainer, has a maximum pressure of 53.6 PSI, and comes with a lifetime warranty. TRQ parts are backed by step-by-step installation videos, which is helpful for DIY installers.
5. Skyward. Skyward is another aftermarket brand offering a fuel pump module assembly for the 2005-2006 G35 and 2004-2009 Nissan 350Z. It includes the fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, sending unit, float, fuel reservoir, and fuel strainer, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
6. Walbro. If you are planning to modify your G35 for higher horsepower, the Walbro GSS342 is a popular upgrade. This is a 255 LPH high-flow fuel pump designed for the 2003-2006 G35 Coupe and Sedan. It will support up to about 600 rear-wheel horsepower and is a straightforward replacement for the stock pump.
Why Buying a Complete Assembly Makes Sense
When you are shopping for a fuel pump for your 2006 G35, you will notice that some listings say "fuel pump" and others say "fuel pump module assembly." These are not the same thing. A bare fuel pump is just the motor and impeller. A module assembly includes everything you need to replace the entire unit in one shot.
Here are the reasons why the assembly is the smarter purchase for most owners:
1. It saves time. You do not have to transfer the sending unit, pressure regulator, and float from your old assembly to a new pump. You simply take out the old assembly and drop in the new one.
2. It prevents future problems. All the plastic clips, seals, and internal components are new. You will not have to worry about a binding float arm or a plugged strainer down the road.
3. It is more reliable. Because you are replacing the entire unit with a single part that has been tested as a complete assembly, you reduce the risk of installation mistakes. The aftermarket brands that sell complete assemblies test them to ensure the same fit, form, and function as the original equipment.
4. It is cost-effective. While the assembly costs more than a bare pump, the difference is often less than you might expect, especially when you factor in the cost of buying the additional components separately.
Recommended KEMSO Fuel Pump for Your G35
If you are looking for a high-quality, reliable fuel pump replacement, consider the KEMSO brand fuel pump. KEMSO fuel pumps are designed as high-performance, OEM-replacement units that deliver dependable fuel delivery and long service life. Every KEMSO fuel pump is built to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, ensuring a proper fit and reliable operation for your vehicle.
KEMSO stands behind their products with a lifetime warranty, which gives you peace of mind that your investment is protected. Whether you are restoring a G35 to daily-driver condition or looking for a dependable replacement part, KEMSO offers a solution that balances performance, durability, and value.
To browse the full line of KEMSO fuel pumps and find the one that fits your 2006 Infiniti G35, visit their website at:
Final Thoughts
Replacing the fuel pump assembly on your 2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe is a manageable job that can save you hundreds of dollars compared to dealer pricing. The key is to order the correct part for your specific vehicle configuration—knowing whether you have the VQ35DE or VQ35HR engine, and whether your car has a manual or automatic transmission. Quality aftermarket assemblies from brands like Delphi, TRQ, AM Autoparts, and Skyward offer a good balance of price and reliability, with prices starting around $100. If you prefer a high-performance option, the KEMSO brand provides OEM-replacement quality with a lifetime warranty, available at https://www.kemsoracing.com/. With basic hand tools and about two hours of your time, you can get your G35 back on the road with a fresh fuel system that will deliver years of dependable service.