2009 INFINITI QX56

Introduction:

The 2009 INFINITI QX56 is a full-size luxury SUV powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The V8 produces 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. The QX56 offers a spacious interior, premium features, and a comfortable ride. However, some owners have encountered various issues with the vehicle.

Engine

5.6L V8

• Intake Camshaft Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake camshaft actuator may fail, causing reduced engine performance, rough idling, and illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty intake camshaft actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner may fail, leading to a stretched or broken timing chain. This can cause catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include rattling noises from the engine and illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Hard Shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip or shift hard when changing gears. Other symptoms include delayed engagement or difficulty selecting gears.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the faulty transmission components (e.g., clutches, solenoids).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor may fail, resulting in a loss of ride height and decreased handling. The vehicle may lean to one side or sit low to the ground.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shock absorbers may leak fluid, reducing suspension damping and ride comfort.
  • Solution: Replace the leaky shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ per shock absorber
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain quickly, especially when the vehicle is parked.
  • Solution: Test and troubleshoot the electrical system to identify the source of the drain and replace faulty components (e.g., battery, alternator, wiring).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical Shorts:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical shorts may occur, causing intermittent power loss or component failures.
  • Solution: Inspect the wiring harness and electrical components for damage or loose connections, and repair or replace as necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Struts Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch struts may fail, causing the hatch to droop or become difficult to open or close.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may malfunction, causing inconsistent temperature control or failure to operate.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty climate control components (e.g., blower motor, blend doors, control panel).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Software Bugs:
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may experience software bugs, leading to incorrect directions or system freezes.
  • Solution: Update the navigation system software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 INFINITI QX56 can be a reliable and comfortable SUV, but some owners have experienced issues with various components. The most severe and expensive issues include engine timing chain tensioner failure and transmission failure, which can cost upwards of $2,500 to repair. Other issues, such as electrical shorts and suspension leaks, are less severe and typically less costly to fix.