2002 INFINITI QX4

Introduction:

The 2002 INFINITI QX4 is a mid-size SUV that comes standard with a 3.5L V6 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. It produces 240 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. The QX4 is known for its comfortable interior, spacious cargo area, and off-road capabilities. However, it has also been plagued by several issues over the years.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. This can lead to overheating and engine damage. Symptoms include white smoke from the exhaust, overheating, and coolant or oil leaks. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gaskets. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $800+
• Timing chain tensioner failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break. This can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, poor performance, and eventually engine failure. The solution is to replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Valve cover gasket leaks: The valve cover gaskets can leak, causing oil leaks. This can lead to a loss of oil and potential engine damage. Symptoms include oil leaks around the valve covers. The solution is to replace the valve cover gaskets. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip or hesitate when shifting gears. This can lead to poor acceleration, difficulty driving up hills, and eventually transmission failure. Symptoms include slipping or hesitation when shifting gears, poor acceleration, and difficulty driving up hills. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• Torque converter failure: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to lose power. This can lead to difficulty accelerating and eventually transmission failure. Symptoms include a lack of power when accelerating, slipping, or shuddering. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Strut mount failure: The strut mounts can fail, causing a clunking noise from the front of the vehicle. This can also lead to premature tire wear. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the front of the vehicle, poor handling, and premature tire wear. The solution is to replace the strut mounts. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+
• Rear axle seal leaks: The rear axle seals can leak, causing a loss of differential fluid. This can lead to premature wear and tear on the rear axle and differential. Symptoms include oil leaks around the rear differential. The solution is to replace the rear axle seals. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+
• Ball joint failure: The ball joints can fail, causing the vehicle to pull to one side while driving. This can also lead to excessive tire wear. Symptoms include a pulling sensation while driving, poor handling, and premature tire wear. The solution is to replace the ball joints. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+ per ball joint

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery can drain prematurely, leaving the vehicle unable to start. This can be caused by a faulty alternator, starter, or parasitic draw. Symptoms include a dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle, and electrical problems. The solution is to diagnose and repair the underlying cause of the battery drain. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Headlight switch failure: The headlight switch can fail, causing the headlights to not turn on or flicker. This can be dangerous when driving at night. Symptoms include flickering or inoperable headlights. The solution is to replace the headlight switch. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+
• Ignition switch failure: The ignition switch can fail, causing the vehicle to not start. This can be a major inconvenience and safety hazard. Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle or the vehicle not starting at all. The solution is to replace the ignition switch. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Door handle failure: The door handles can fail, making it difficult or impossible to open the doors. This can be a major safety hazard in an emergency. Symptoms include difficulty opening the doors or doors that cannot be opened at all. The solution is to replace the door handles. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+ per door handle
• Rear window wiper motor failure: The rear window wiper motor can fail, causing the rear wiper to not work. This can be a nuisance and a safety hazard when driving in inclement weather. Symptoms include a non-working rear wiper. The solution is to replace the rear window wiper motor. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+

Interior

• Airbag control module failure: The airbag control module can fail, causing the airbags to not deploy in the event of an accident. This can be a major safety hazard. Symptoms include an airbag warning light on the dashboard. The solution is to replace the airbag control module. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $800+

Summary:

The 2002 INFINITI QX4 is a capable SUV with a number of features that have been popular with drivers. However, it has also been plagued by several issues, including engine problems, transmission problems, suspension problems, electrical problems, exterior problems, and interior problems. Some of these issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, while others are major and can require a significant investment to repair. Overall, the QX4 is a reliable vehicle but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before purchasing one.