Common INFINITI problems stem from electrical system glitches, transmission software issues in earlier models, premature timing chain wear in VQ engines, above-average oil consumption in some V6s, and suspension bushing wear. Proactive maintenance and software updates are key to mitigating these issues and ensuring long-term reliability.
A significant portion of owner complaints and repair patterns center on electronic control unit (ECU) and dashboard interface failures. Symptoms include flickering or blank screens on the infotainment system, unresponsive controls, and malfunctioning gauges. These are often not just faulty screens but deeper software integration or sensor issues. According to repair frequency data from sources like Consumer Reports and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database, these electrical gremlins are a top concern for models like the Q50 and QX60, affecting convenience and sometimes core vehicle information displays.
Transmission performance, particularly in models from the mid-2010s, draws attention. The 7-speed automatic transmission in some earlier Q50, QX60, and QX70 models is known for hesitant shifting, rough downshifts, or "juddering" sensations. A primary cause is outdated transmission control software. Nissan-INFINITI Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) often address this, and a dealership-performed software update frequently resolves the issue, highlighting it as more of a programming flaw than a mechanical failure. Models produced after 2018 generally incorporate improved software from the factory.
For models equipped with the venerable 3.7L V6 (VQ37VHR) engine, timing chain guide wear is a known, albeit not universal, problem. As guides degrade, a distinct rattling noise, especially on cold starts, emerges from the front of the engine. Left unaddressed, this can lead to timing chain slack and, in severe cases, interference with valves. This repair is labor-intensive. Industry mechanic surveys suggest this concern is more prevalent in higher-mileage examples (often beyond 80,000 miles) and vehicles that have experienced irregular oil change intervals.
Excessive oil consumption is another engine-related note for the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (VR30) and some older VQ35 engines. Owners may find the need to add a quart of oil between standard 5,000-7,000 mile service intervals. While some consumption is normal in direct-injection turbocharged engines, levels exceeding 1 quart per 1,000 miles are considered problematic and may point to issues like piston ring design or PCV system operation. Monitoring oil level monthly is a critical habit for owners of these models.
Finally, premature wear of suspension components, specifically control arm bushings and rear subframe bushings, impacts ride quality. This manifests as clunks over bumps, vague steering feel, or unusual tire wear in models like the Q50 and FX/QX70. The rubber compounds in these bushings can deteriorate faster than some competitors’ parts, leading to replacements being needed around the 60,000- to 80,000-mile mark. Upgrading to aftermarket polyurethane bushings or newer OEM revised parts is a common long-term solution.
| Common Problem Area | Typical Models Affected | Core Issue & Notes |
|---|
| Electrical & Dashboard | Q50 (2014+), QX60 (2014+) | Infotainment screen failures, software glitches. Top complaint category. |
| Transmission Behavior | Q50, QX60, QX70 (pre-2018) | Hesitant/shuddering shifts often fixed via TSB software update. |
| Timing Chain | G37, Q40, Q50, Q60 (w/ 3.7L V6) | Guide wear causes cold-start rattle; a known higher-mileage repair. |
| Oil Consumption | Q50/Q60 Red Sport (3.0T), older VQ35 | Can exceed 1qt/1k miles in some examples; requires monitoring. |
| Suspension Bushings | Q50, FX/QX70 | Control arm/subframe bushing wear leads to clunks and loose feel. |
