Infiniti M Diesel: Trans Issues & ABS Light Mystery Solved?

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2011 Infiniti Q70 Diesel (they're basically mechanical cousins with the M). I have some experience working on cars, but this was definitely a workshop job. I was getting those exact symptoms weird shifts, ABS light, and that annoying whining noise. Took it to my trusted mechanic, and they found metal shavings in the transfer case oil from a worn gear. Had to get it repaired set me back about 210 Euro, but it fixed everything. What's your mileage and maintenance history? Just asking because this could help pinpoint if we're dealing with the same problem. Let me know and I might be able to share more specific details about what to expect.

Just had my latest service about 3 months ago at 79741 KM. Thanks for sharing your experience that price actually sounds pretty reasonable compared to what I was expecting! Good to know it might not be as catastrophic as I feared. Did you notice any other warning lights or symptoms before you got it fixed? Really helpful to hear from someone who's been through the same thing.

Hey again! Yeah, your mileage is actually pretty close to when I had my issues (mine was around 82,000 KM). And you're right about the price I was honestly expecting way worse when I first heard that grinding noise! To answer your question about other symptoms yeah, actually. Before I took it to the shop, I noticed the car would sometimes hesitate when shifting from reverse to drive, and there was this slight vibration at highway speeds that I initially thought was just tire balance. Oh, and the whining noise definitely got louder when turning right that's what really tipped me off that it was transfer case related. Also worth mentioning after I got it fixed, my mechanic told me to keep an eye on the transfer case oil level and check it more frequently than the manual suggests. I've been doing that religiously ever since (about every 20,000 KM), and haven't had any issues in the past two years. Quick heads up though make sure you get it checked soon. In my case, the longer I waited, the worse that grinding sound got. Better to tackle it now while it's still a manageable repair! Keep me posted on what you find out when you get it looked at!

Thanks a lot for all the detailed info this is exactly what I needed to hear! Actually, now that you mention it, I've definitely noticed that hesitation between reverse and drive, but I hadn't connected the dots until now. I've already called my mechanic and booked it in for next Tuesday. Really glad I caught this before it got worse! You know what? I'm actually feeling pretty relieved now. Was having nightmares about having to sell my kidney to fix this thing, but 210 Euro sounds way more manageable. I'll definitely take your advice about checking the transfer case oil more frequently too sounds like that's the key to preventing this from happening again. I'll update you once I get the diagnosis from the shop. Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience super helpful!