So, you're thinking about slapping a turbo kit onto your 2012 Infiniti G37 sedan? Awesome choice, guys! Adding a turbocharger is one of the most effective ways to seriously boost the horsepower of your G37. But before you jump in headfirst, let's break down everything you need to know about turbo kits for this specific model. We're talking compatibility, performance expectations, installation considerations, and, of course, some of the best kits on the market.

Understanding Turbocharging Your G37

Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of turbocharging your G37. Turbocharging is a forced induction method that crams more air into your engine's cylinders than it could naturally ingest. This extra air allows the engine to burn more fuel, resulting in a significantly more powerful combustion and, ultimately, a substantial increase in horsepower and torque. In the context of your 2012 Infiniti G37 sedan, which comes stock with a naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 (the VQ37VHR), a turbo kit can transform the car's performance from sporty to downright exhilarating.

Think of it this way: your engine is like an athlete. Without a turbo, it's running on its own natural ability. Adding a turbo is like giving that athlete a performance-enhancing supplement (in a completely legal and awesome way, of course!). It forces more air and fuel into the engine, leading to a bigger, stronger reaction. The VQ37VHR engine is known for its responsiveness and smooth power delivery, but it can sometimes leave you wanting more punch, especially when compared to some of its turbocharged rivals. This is where a turbo kit comes in, offering a significant leap in performance.

When considering a turbo kit, it's crucial to understand that it's not just about bolting on a turbocharger. A comprehensive kit will include a variety of components designed to work together seamlessly and reliably. These components typically include the turbocharger itself, exhaust manifolds, an intercooler to cool the compressed air, piping, fuel injectors, a fuel pump, and engine management system modifications (like an ECU tune). Each component plays a vital role in the overall system, and choosing high-quality parts is essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Another key consideration is the level of boost you plan to run. Boost is the amount of pressure the turbocharger generates, and it's measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). Higher boost levels generally translate to more power, but they also put more stress on the engine. It's essential to choose a boost level that's appropriate for your engine's capabilities and your driving style. Many kits offer adjustable boost settings, allowing you to fine-tune the performance to your liking.

Finally, remember that turbocharging is a complex modification that can affect your car's reliability and fuel economy. While a properly installed and tuned turbo kit can provide years of trouble-free performance, it's crucial to maintain the car properly and address any issues promptly. Be prepared to spend a bit more on maintenance and fuel, and always drive responsibly. With the right approach, turbocharging your 2012 Infiniti G37 sedan can be an incredibly rewarding experience, transforming your car into a true performance machine.

Key Considerations Before Buying

Alright, before you pull the trigger on a turbo kit, let’s talk about some crucial considerations. This isn't just about bolting on a shiny new part; it's about ensuring compatibility, understanding the implications, and setting realistic expectations.

First off, compatibility is king. Not all turbo kits are created equal, and not all kits are designed for every vehicle. You need to verify that the kit you're eyeing is specifically designed for the 2012 Infiniti G37 sedan. This ensures that all the components will fit properly, and that the kit will integrate seamlessly with your car's existing systems. Check the manufacturer's specifications carefully, and don't hesitate to contact the seller or manufacturer directly if you have any questions.

Next, consider your performance goals. What are you hoping to achieve with the turbo kit? Are you looking for a modest boost in power for everyday driving, or are you aiming for a track-ready beast? The answer to this question will help you determine the right size and type of turbocharger, as well as the appropriate boost level. Keep in mind that higher boost levels generally require more extensive modifications and can put more stress on the engine.

Budget is another major factor. Turbo kits can range in price from a few thousand dollars to upwards of ten thousand, depending on the quality of the components and the complexity of the installation. Don't forget to factor in the cost of installation, tuning, and any additional modifications that may be required, such as upgraded fuel injectors or a stronger clutch. It's always better to overestimate the cost than to be caught short later on.

Installation is another significant consideration. Unless you're a highly experienced mechanic with access to the right tools and equipment, you'll likely need to have the turbo kit installed by a professional. This can add a significant cost to the project, but it's well worth it to ensure that the kit is installed correctly and safely. A poorly installed turbo kit can lead to serious engine damage, so don't cut corners on this step.

Finally, think about tuning. Once the turbo kit is installed, your car's engine management system will need to be re-tuned to properly manage the increased airflow and fuel delivery. This typically involves installing a piggyback ECU or reflashing the factory ECU with a custom tune. Tuning is essential for optimizing performance and preventing engine damage. Again, it's best to have this done by a professional tuner who has experience with the VQ37VHR engine.

Top Turbo Kit Brands for the G37

Okay, let's get down to brass tacks and talk about some of the top brands offering turbo kits for your 2012 Infiniti G37 sedan. The market has evolved, and while specific models might shift, the reputation of these manufacturers generally holds strong. These are some brands known for quality, performance, and reliability in the forced induction realm:

• Stillen: Stillen has been a household name in the Nissan and Infiniti performance world for decades. They offer supercharger kits and often develop well-engineered solutions that are more comprehensive than some turbo kits. Though traditionally known for superchargers on the VQ platform, it's worth checking their current offerings as they may have turbo solutions or be a good source for components.

• Fast Intentions: Fast Intentions is well-regarded for their exhaust systems and turbo kits for various platforms, including the G37. They focus on performance and quality, with kits designed to deliver significant power gains while maintaining reliability. Their kits often include high-quality components and are designed for relatively straightforward installation.

• GTM Motorsports: GTM Motorsports (now largely out of the retail turbo kit business) was a prominent player in the G37 turbo kit market and set a standard. While complete kits may be harder to find directly from GTM, understanding their approach to turbocharging the VQ37VHR engine is still valuable. You might find used kits or be able to piece together a similar setup using components from other manufacturers.

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• AdminTuning: More of a tuner and parts supplier, AdminTuning is an excellent resource for those building a custom turbo setup. They offer a range of components and tuning services specifically for the VQ platform. If you're comfortable with a more DIY approach, AdminTuning can provide the expertise and parts you need.

When evaluating these or other brands, consider the following factors:

• Turbocharger Quality: The turbocharger itself is the heart of the kit. Look for reputable brands like Garrett, Precision, or BorgWarner. These brands are known for their quality, reliability, and performance.
• Component Quality: Pay attention to the quality of the other components in the kit, such as the intercooler, piping, fuel injectors, and engine management system. High-quality components will ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Tuning Options: Make sure the kit includes a compatible engine management system or offers tuning options that are readily available in your area. Proper tuning is essential for optimizing performance and preventing engine damage.
• Customer Support: Choose a brand that offers good customer support and has a proven track record of standing behind their products. This can be invaluable if you encounter any issues during installation or operation.

Installation: DIY or Professional?

Now, let's tackle the big question: should you attempt to install the turbo kit yourself, or should you leave it to the professionals? This is a critical decision that can have a significant impact on the success and longevity of your turbocharging project.

DIY Installation:

• Pros:
  • Cost Savings: The most obvious advantage of DIY installation is the potential cost savings. Professional installation can easily add several thousand dollars to the total cost of the project.
  • Personal Satisfaction: For some enthusiasts, the satisfaction of installing a turbo kit themselves is a major draw.
  • Learning Experience: DIY installation can be a valuable learning experience, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of your car's mechanics.
• Cons:
  • Technical Expertise Required: Turbo kit installation is a complex and demanding task that requires a high level of technical expertise. You'll need to be comfortable working with engines, fuel systems, and electronics.
  • Specialized Tools and Equipment: You'll need access to a wide range of specialized tools and equipment, such as a lift, engine hoist, and welding equipment.
  • Time Commitment: DIY installation can take a significant amount of time, potentially weeks or even months, depending on your skill level and the complexity of the kit.
  • Risk of Damage: If you make a mistake during installation, you could potentially damage your engine or other components.
  • Warranty Issues: DIY installation may void the warranty on the turbo kit or other parts of your car.

Professional Installation:

• Pros:
  • Expertise and Experience: Professional installers have the expertise and experience to install the turbo kit correctly and safely.
  • Proper Tools and Equipment: They have access to the right tools and equipment to do the job right.
  • Time Savings: Professional installation can be completed much faster than DIY installation.
  • Warranty Protection: Professional installation typically comes with a warranty, protecting you against any installation-related issues.
• Cons:
  • Higher Cost: The most obvious disadvantage of professional installation is the higher cost.
  • Finding a Reputable Shop: You'll need to find a reputable shop with experience installing turbo kits on G37s.

The Verdict:

Unless you're a highly experienced mechanic with access to the right tools and equipment, I generally recommend leaving turbo kit installation to the professionals. The risk of damaging your engine or other components is simply too high to justify the potential cost savings of DIY installation. Plus, a professional installation will typically come with a warranty, giving you peace of mind.

Tuning Your Turbocharged G37

So, you've got your turbo kit installed, congratulations! But the job's not quite done yet. To unleash the full potential of your new setup and ensure long-term reliability, you absolutely need to tune your engine management system. Tuning is the process of adjusting the parameters of your engine's computer (ECU) to optimize performance for the increased airflow and fuel delivery provided by the turbocharger.

Why is Tuning Necessary?

When you add a turbocharger, you're significantly altering the way your engine operates. The factory ECU is designed to manage a naturally aspirated engine, and it simply can't compensate for the increased airflow and fuel requirements of a turbocharged engine. Without proper tuning, your engine could experience a variety of problems, including:

• Reduced Performance: The engine may not be able to take full advantage of the increased airflow, resulting in less power than expected.
• Poor Fuel Economy: The engine may be running too rich (too much fuel) or too lean (not enough fuel), leading to poor fuel economy.
• Engine Damage: Running too lean can cause detonation (knocking), which can severely damage your engine.

Tuning Options:

There are several different tuning options available for the G37, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

• Piggyback ECU: A piggyback ECU is a standalone engine management system that intercepts and modifies the signals from the factory ECU. Piggyback ECUs are typically easier to install and tune than standalone ECUs, but they may not offer the same level of control.
• ECU Reflash: An ECU reflash involves reprogramming the factory ECU with a custom tune. This is typically done using a handheld tuning device or a laptop computer. ECU reflashing can provide a higher level of control than a piggyback ECU, but it requires more technical expertise.
• Standalone ECU: A standalone ECU is a complete replacement for the factory ECU. Standalone ECUs offer the highest level of control and flexibility, but they are also the most complex and expensive option.

Finding a Tuner:

The most crucial part of the tuning process is finding a qualified tuner. Look for a tuner who has experience tuning turbocharged VQ37VHR engines and who has a good reputation in the G37 community. A good tuner will be able to datalog your engine's performance and make adjustments to the tune to optimize performance and reliability.

Conclusion

Adding a turbo kit to your 2012 Infiniti G37 sedan can be an amazing upgrade, transforming your car into a true performance machine. However, it's not a decision to be taken lightly. Do your research, consider your budget, and choose the right kit for your needs. And most importantly, make sure to have the kit installed and tuned by a qualified professional. With the right approach, you can enjoy years of trouble-free performance and turn heads wherever you go. Happy boosting, guys! Be safe and have fun! Make sure you check your local laws too! Don't go doing anything illegal. Stay awesome! This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult with qualified professionals before making any modifications to your vehicle.