2008 INFINITI QX56

The 2008 INFINITI QX56 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its powerful engine, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It came standard with a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 320 horsepower and 393 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Some people appreciate its towing capacity and luxurious features, while others find it to be large and cumbersome, with relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

5.6L VK56DE V8

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, especially when cold. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioners, guides, and possibly the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption requiring them to add oil between changes.
  • Solution: Could be caused by worn piston rings, valve stem seals, or PCV valve issues. Repair depends on the root cause, ranging from PCV valve replacement to engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (typically P0420 or P0430 codes), reduced engine performance, and potentially a sulfur smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per converter (depending on aftermarket vs. OEM).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter or performing a transmission fluid flush (although this may only temporarily alleviate the issue).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips between gears, shifts roughly, or fails to shift at all.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or valve body issues. Requires transmission diagnosis and repair, which may involve fluid flush, valve body repair/replacement, or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sags, air compressor runs constantly or fails to run, “suspension height high” or similar warning light.
  • Solution: Replacing the air springs, air compressor, or height sensors, and checking for air leaks in the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found
• Self-Leveling Headlight Issue
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights are angled low or do not adjust properly.
  • Solution: Replacing suspension sensors or ride height sensors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight or within a few days, requiring frequent jump-starts.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the parasitic draw, which could be a faulty relay, module, or aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster, including gauges, lights, and displays.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate does not stay open on its own and falls down.
  • Solution: Replacing the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen freezes, fails to load, or displays incorrect information.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2008 INFINITI QX56 has a range of potential issues, some of which can be relatively expensive to repair. Engine and transmission problems such as timing chain issues, oil consumption, and torque converter shudder are major concerns. Suspension issues, particularly with the rear air suspension, are also common. Electrical problems and interior malfunctions such as navigation system issues are also possibilities. Potential buyers should have a thorough inspection performed by a qualified mechanic before purchasing a used 2008 QX56.