2011 INFINITI M56

The 2011 INFINITI M56 is a luxury sedan offering a blend of performance and comfort. It came with two engine options: a 3.7-liter V6 (M37) and a 5.6-liter V8 (M56). The M56, the focus of this report, boasts 420 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque, delivering robust acceleration. Both engines were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the M56’s powerful engine, stylish design, and comfortable interior. Common complaints often revolve around fuel economy, reliability issues, and the cost of repairs.

Engine

5.6L VK56VD V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil more frequently than expected between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels and addressing any leaks are the first steps. In severe cases, engine repair or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Knocking/Ticking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report engine knocking or ticking noises, especially at startup or during idle.
  • Solution: A diagnostic test is needed to confirm the source. This could range from simple maintenance to engine repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid change might resolve minor issues. In more severe cases, the transmission may need repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of suspension bushings, particularly in the front control arms, can lead to clunking noises and diminished handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation and infotainment system can experience glitches, screen freezes, or complete failures.
  • Solution: Software updates, fuse replacements, or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining prematurely, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the source of the drain (e.g., parasitic draw) and addressing the faulty component. Replacing the battery may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window/Door Lock Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty switches, motors, or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make noises when operating, or leak water.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the tracks, replacing the sunroof motor, or repairing the seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: HID headlight failure or flickering.
  • Solution: Replacing the HID bulbs or ballasts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 INFINITI M56, while offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience, can suffer from several issues. Engine oil consumption and transmission issues are among the more significant concerns, potentially leading to costly repairs. Electrical glitches and suspension problems also surface in owner complaints. Overall, while many M56s prove reliable, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and have a pre-purchase inspection performed to avoid surprises.