Recall 16V527 affects 1,140 2012-2013 INFINITI M35 Hybrid vehicles because the engine can shut off while driving. Repair is free at any franchised INFINITI dealer.
INFINITI is recalling 1,140 2012-2013 M35 Hybrid vehicles because a hybrid system overheat condition can make the powertrain control module shut off the engine. If the engine shuts off while driving, crash risk increases, and INFINITI dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The hybrid powertrain control module on the 2012-2013 INFINITI M35 Hybrid is the computer that coordinates the gasoline engine with the hybrid propulsion system. It also watches system conditions so the vehicle can protect major parts when heat rises beyond the safe range. The hybrid cooling system is supposed to keep that heat under control during normal driving.
On affected M35 Hybrid vehicles, an overheat condition in the hybrid system can trigger protective programming in the module. If the vehicle keeps being driven after the warning lamp comes on, the module shuts off the engine to prevent engine damage. That shutdown can happen while the vehicle is moving.
The warning sign is a telltale warning lamp on the instrument panel. If that light comes on, treat it as an engine or hybrid-system overheat warning and stop driving when safe. The lamp is the signal before the module shuts off the engine.
Who's affected?
Both listed model years involve the same hybrid propulsion system component.
| 2013 INFINITI M35 Hybrid | Hybrid propulsion system |
|---|---|
| 2012 INFINITI M35 Hybrid | Hybrid propulsion system |
| Units affected | 1,140 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged 1 field incident to date. |
The year and model narrow the scope, but the VIN decides. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific sedan is included.
What's the safety risk?
If the engine shuts off while you are driving, the risk of a crash increases. A warning telltale illuminates to alert the driver, so treat that light as a reason to slow down, move out of traffic when safe, and schedule the repair soon. Repair is free at any franchised INFINITI dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2012-2013 INFINITI M35 Hybrid is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised INFINITI dealer to schedule the free software update that addresses the overheat condition and engine-shutoff risk.
- Bring the recall notice if INFINITI mailed one. If not, reference recall number 16V527 when you call.
- Drive cautiously until the repair is complete, and leave extra room to pull over if the engine shuts off.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, an INFINITI technician reprograms the hybrid control module, automatic transmission control unit, and inverter software. The dealer software update is free under the recall. Out-of-pocket repairs already paid are handled through the existing warranty, not through a separate reimbursement program, because the subject vehicles were under warranty. Ask the service desk how warranty coverage applies if you have prior repair paperwork.
| Reimbursement | Warranty coverage applies |
|---|
Timeline
| July 12, 2016 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| July 12, 2016 | Dealer notification began |
| August 15, 2016 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 16V527?
Recall 16V527 covers 1,140 2012-2013 INFINITI M35 Hybrid vehicles with hybrid powertrain software that can shut off the engine during an overheat condition. INFINITI dealers will reprogram the hybrid control module, automatic transmission control unit, and inverter software for free.
What should I do if my 2012-2013 INFINITI M35 Hybrid is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific vehicle is included in recall 16V527. If it is, contact a franchised INFINITI dealer to schedule the software reprogramming. Reference recall number 16V527 when you call. The dealer repair is free.
Is recall 16V527 repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. For recall 16V527, a franchised INFINITI dealer will reprogram the hybrid control module, automatic transmission control unit, and inverter software free of charge.
What is the safety risk in recall 16V527?
The safety risk is engine shutoff while driving, which increases crash risk. The defect involves a hybrid system overheat condition that can cause the hybrid powertrain control module to shut off the engine. Confirm your VIN and schedule the free dealer repair.
What if I bought my INFINITI M35 Hybrid used?
The free recall repair still applies. Federal recall law follows the vehicle, not the first owner. Check your VIN to confirm whether your 2012-2013 INFINITI M35 Hybrid is included, then contact a franchised INFINITI dealer and reference recall number 16V527.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/16V527000 |
|---|---|
| INFINITI customer service | 1-800-647-7261 |
| NHTSA recall # | 16V527 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 16V527000 |
Source documents
-
Download Misc. Document (PDF) - Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 31, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →