2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan Turbo Kit Upgrade Guide

Hey guys, looking to give your 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan a serious power boost? You've come to the right place! We're diving deep into the awesome world of turbo kits for your ride. Imagine that satisfying whoosh and a surge of acceleration you've only dreamed of. That's exactly what a turbo kit can do for your G37. This isn't just about bragging rights; it's about unlocking the true potential of that fantastic VQ37VHR engine. We'll cover what to look for, the benefits, and what you need to consider to make sure you get the best bang for your buck. Get ready to transform your daily driver into a seriously fun machine!

Why Turbocharge Your 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan?

So, you're cruising in your 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan, and you're thinking, "Man, this car is great, but it could use a bit more oomph." That's where a turbo kit comes in, and trust me, guys, it's a game-changer. The primary reason anyone considers a turbocharger is for that sweet, sweet increase in horsepower and torque. Your G37's naturally aspirated VQ37VHR engine is already a solid performer, but a turbocharger forces more air into the combustion chambers, allowing for more fuel to be burned, which translates directly into more power. We're talking about significantly better acceleration, a more engaging driving experience, and the ability to leave other cars in the dust (safely, of course!). Beyond the raw power increase, a turbo kit can also improve your engine's efficiency under certain conditions. While it might seem counterintuitive, a well-tuned turbocharged engine can sometimes be more fuel-efficient than its naturally aspirated counterpart when cruising because it doesn't have to work as hard to maintain speed. However, when you put your foot down, prepare for a glorious consumption of fuel as the turbo spools up! Another huge plus is the sound. That distinct turbo whistle and the blow-off valve psshhht sound are music to many car enthusiasts' ears. It adds a whole new auditory dimension to your driving experience that just can't be replicated. Finally, and this is a big one for the modders out there, a turbo kit provides a fantastic foundation for further performance enhancements. Once you've got boost, you can explore upgrades like custom tuning, stronger internal engine components, and upgraded exhaust systems to push your G37's performance even further. It's an investment that opens up a world of possibilities for making your 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan truly unique and incredibly fast.

Understanding the Components of a Turbo Kit

Alright, let's break down what exactly goes into a turbo kit for your 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan. It's not just one magical part; it's a carefully engineered system designed to work together. At the heart of it all is, of course, the turbocharger itself. This is the component that compresses the intake air. It uses exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which in turn spins a compressor wheel. The compressor wheel sucks in ambient air, compresses it, and forces it into the engine's intake manifold. Next up, you've got the intercooler. Think of this as the turbo's best friend. When air gets compressed, it gets hot. Hot air is less dense, meaning it doesn't hold as much oxygen, which isn't ideal for making power. The intercooler's job is to cool down that compressed air before it enters the engine. This makes the air denser, allowing for a more potent fuel-air mixture and reducing the risk of engine knock (detonation). You'll typically see two types: air-to-air (the most common, using airflow from the front of the car) and air-to-water (which uses a liquid coolant). For most G37 setups, an air-to-air intercooler is the standard. Then there's the exhaust manifold or turbo manifold. This is a specialized manifold that directs your engine's exhaust gases to the turbocharger's turbine. Often, these are cast or fabricated from stronger materials to handle the increased heat and pressure. Downpipes are also crucial. These connect the turbocharger's exhaust outlet to the rest of your exhaust system. They are usually larger in diameter than stock to help evacuate exhaust gases more efficiently, further aiding turbo spool and performance. You'll also find piping – lots of it! This includes the intake piping that runs from the air filter to the turbo, the piping from the turbo to the intercooler, and the piping from the intercooler back to the engine's throttle body. The quality and routing of this piping are super important for smooth airflow and proper fitment. Lastly, many kits will include necessary hardware like gaskets, vacuum lines, oil feed and return lines (for lubricating the turbo), and sometimes even upgraded fuel injectors and a fuel pump to handle the increased fuel demand. Some kits might also include a wastegate (to control boost pressure) and a blow-off valve (to release excess boost pressure when you let off the throttle), though these are sometimes sold separately or integrated into the turbocharger housing. Understanding these parts helps you appreciate the complexity and engineering involved in a good turbo kit. We'll talk about choosing the right one next!

Choosing the Right Turbo Kit for Your G37

Now that you know the parts, let's talk about picking the perfect turbo kit for your 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan. This is where things get exciting, but also where you need to be smart about your choices, guys. First off, you need to decide on your power goals. Are you looking for a mild, daily-drivable bump in performance, or are you aiming for a full-blown track monster? This will dictate the size of the turbocharger and the overall complexity of the kit. A smaller turbo will spool up faster, giving you quicker response down low, perfect for street driving. A larger turbo will make more power at higher RPMs but might have more lag. For the G37, kits are often available in single-turbo or twin-turbo configurations. While the VQ37VHR is a V6, many kits opt for a single turbo setup for simplicity and cost-effectiveness. However, twin-turbo setups can offer more even power delivery and potentially higher peak power. Keep this in mind! Kit quality and brand reputation are paramount. You don't want to cheap out here. Look for kits from reputable manufacturers known for their quality control, reliable components, and good customer support. Brands like GReddy, Stillen, and various boutique tuners often have offerings or parts that can be pieced together. Do your research! Read reviews, watch videos, and check out forums dedicated to Infiniti performance. See what other G37 owners are using and what their experiences have been. Fitment and installation are also major considerations. Some kits are designed to be more bolt-on than others. A true bolt-on kit will minimize the need for custom fabrication, saving you time and money on installation. However, even the best kits might require some minor modifications or adjustments. Factor in the installation cost if you're not doing it yourself. A proper installation is critical for the longevity and performance of the turbo system. Supporting modifications are often overlooked but are crucial. A turbo kit puts more stress on your engine and drivetrain. You'll likely need an upgraded fuel system (injectors, fuel pump) to deliver enough fuel. A good engine management system or a ECU reflash/tune is absolutely essential to properly control the air-fuel ratios and ignition timing under boost. Without a proper tune, you risk serious engine damage. Consider your clutch if you have a manual transmission – it might not hold the extra power. You might also want to upgrade your exhaust system for better flow and a more aggressive sound, and improved cooling (radiator, oil cooler) can be beneficial. Finally, think about budget. Turbo kits can range from a few thousand dollars to well over ten thousand, depending on the brand, completeness, and quality. Remember to factor in the cost of installation, tuning, and any necessary supporting modifications. It's an investment, but one that can dramatically transform your 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan into a performance beast.

Installation and Tuning: The Crucial Steps

So, you've picked out your awesome turbo kit for your 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan, and you're itching to get it installed. Hold your horses, guys! This is arguably the most critical phase, and it's not a DIY job for the faint of heart. Professional installation is highly recommended unless you are a seasoned mechanic with experience in forced induction systems. Improper installation can lead to leaks, poor performance, and, worst of all, catastrophic engine damage. This involves carefully mounting the turbocharger, fabricating or connecting the exhaust and intake piping, installing the intercooler and all its associated plumbing, running oil and coolant lines to the turbo, and ensuring all vacuum and boost lines are securely connected. The precision involved in routing lines and securing components so they don't rub or vibrate is key to a long-lasting installation. Don't cut corners here! Many reputable performance shops specialize in turbo installations and can ensure everything is done correctly. Once the hardware is bolted on, the real magic happens: tuning. This is non-negotiable, seriously. Your car's engine computer (ECU) is programmed for naturally aspirated operation. Introducing boost requires a complete recalibration. A professional ECU tune adjusts fuel delivery, ignition timing, boost pressure, and other parameters to optimize performance and, more importantly, ensure engine safety under boost. The goal is to achieve the ideal air-fuel ratio (AFR) across the entire rev range and prevent detonation (knocking), which can quickly destroy your engine. Tuners use sophisticated software and often a dynamometer (dyno) to map out these parameters. They'll run the car on the dyno, making pulls to monitor engine data in real-time and making adjustments until the tune is perfect. You'll see graphs showing before-and-after horsepower and torque figures, which is always a cool bonus. Different tuning approaches exist, from piggyback systems that add a separate module to the ECU, to standalone ECUs that replace the factory unit entirely, to reflashing the stock ECU with new software. For most G37 kits, a reflash of the stock ECU or a high-quality piggyback system is common. The quality of the tune directly impacts the reliability and performance of your turbocharged G37. A bad tune can make even the best turbo kit a ticking time bomb. So, invest in a reputable tuner who understands VQ engines and forced induction. They are the gatekeepers of your engine's health and performance. Remember, the installation and tuning are where the potential of your turbo kit is truly realized or squandered. Get it right the first time!

Maintaining Your Turbocharged G37

Owning a turbocharged 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan is awesome, but it does come with a bit more responsibility, guys. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your boosted beast running reliably and powerfully for years to come. First and foremost, oil changes become even more critical. The turbocharger spins at incredibly high speeds (often exceeding 100,000 RPM) and relies heavily on your engine oil for lubrication and cooling. Using a high-quality synthetic oil that meets or exceeds the manufacturer's specifications is a must. You'll want to shorten your oil change intervals compared to a stock car. Instead of waiting for the manufacturer's recommended mileage, consider changing your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or even more frequently if you drive aggressively. Always check your oil level regularly between changes, as turbos can sometimes consume a small amount of oil. Cooling system maintenance is also vital. A turbocharged engine generates more heat, so ensuring your radiator, coolant, and hoses are in top condition is essential. Overheating is a turbo's worst enemy. Flush and replace your coolant according to a regular schedule, and inspect all cooling system components for leaks or wear. Check for leaks regularly – not just coolant, but all leaks. This includes oil lines to the turbo, vacuum lines, boost pipes, and exhaust components. A small boost leak can significantly rob you of power and put extra strain on the turbo. Listen for any unusual noises like hissing (boost leak) or whining (potentially turbo issues). Air filter maintenance is also important. Your turbocharger sucks in a lot of air, so keeping your air filter clean and in good condition ensures unrestricted airflow to the turbo. Inspect it regularly and replace it when it looks dirty or damaged. If you have a blow-off valve or wastegate, ensure they are functioning correctly and that any associated plumbing is secure. Finally, driving habits play a role. While it's tempting to drive everywhere with the turbo singing, giving your turbo a chance to cool down after hard driving can prolong its life. This is often referred to as the