2013 INFINITI FX50

The 2013 INFINITI FX50 is a performance-oriented luxury crossover SUV known for its distinctive styling, powerful engine, and sporty handling. The FX50 is equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 390 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. What owners appreciate about the FX50 is its strong acceleration, comfortable and luxurious interior, and distinctive exterior design. Common complaints include its relatively poor fuel economy, firm ride, and limited cargo space compared to more conventional SUVs.

Engine

5.0L V8 (VK50VE)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption in the 5.0L V8 engine. Symptoms include the need to add oil frequently between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: The fix can range from replacing the PCV valve to more extensive repairs such as piston ring replacement or engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (PCV valve) to $3,000+ (engine rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to a rattling noise, especially on startup. If left unaddressed, it can lead to timing chain failure and severe engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and possibly the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a shudder or vibration felt during light acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can be caused by a failing torque converter.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Sometimes, a transmission fluid flush with a specific type of fluid can temporarily alleviate the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, erratic shifting behavior, or getting stuck in a specific gear.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If the vehicle is equipped with the optional adaptive suspension, the dampers can fail, leading to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and potentially warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty adaptive dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per damper (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System/Infotainment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system can freeze, become unresponsive, or display error messages. The infotainment system may also experience similar issues.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues, but hardware replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1,500+ (hardware replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic draw. This may involve tracing the circuit and replacing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or it may make unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may fail to open or close properly, get stuck, or make excessive noise.
  • Solution: Lubrication, repair, or replacement of the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 INFINITI FX50, while offering a luxurious and sporty driving experience, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The engine oil consumption and timing chain tensioner issues are potentially the most severe and costly to address. Transmission issues, particularly torque converter shudder, are also prevalent. Electrical and interior issues, while less severe, can still be frustrating and expensive to repair. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to identify any existing or potential problems. The cost to repair these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the specific problem and the extent of the repair needed.