2014 INFINITI QX50

The 2014 INFINITI QX50 is a compact luxury crossover SUV that was known for its sporty handling and comfortable ride, albeit with limited rear passenger space compared to competitors. It came standard with a 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 325 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate its powerful engine and engaging driving experience. Criticisms often include the tight rear seating, small cargo area, and dated infotainment system.

Engine

3.7L VQ37VHR V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. This can manifest as the low oil pressure light illuminating or the engine running rough.
  • Solution: Some owners have addressed this issue by using a thicker grade of oil or by replacing the valve stem seals or piston rings. A compression test can help diagnose the extent of the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ depending on the cause and repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, and difficulty starting. The check engine light will illuminate, often with codes related to camshaft position sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (RE7R01A)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or jerky shifting, especially when shifting between gears at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Some owners have addressed this issue by changing the transmission fluid. If that doesn’t work, it may need a new valve body, or complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500 for fluid change, $800 - $2,000+ for valve body replacement, $3,000 - $5,000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported transmission slipping, particularly when accelerating or going uphill. This manifests as the engine revving higher than normal without a corresponding increase in speed.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the valve body if that is the cause of the slipping. Otherwise, transmission replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ for valve body replacement, $3,000 - $5,000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per pair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may freeze, reboot, or display incorrect information.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software update, $500 - $1,500+ for unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections, and poor audio quality during phone calls.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the Bluetooth module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update), $200 - $500+ for module replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making excessive noise, or failing to open/close properly.
  • Solution: Sunroof track lubrication, repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for lubrication, $300 - $1,000+ for motor/mechanism repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 INFINITI QX50, while a stylish and sporty crossover, does have some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most concerning are the potential for excessive oil consumption in the engine and rough shifting or slipping in the transmission, as these can lead to costly repairs. Electrical issues with the navigation and Bluetooth systems can be frustrating, but are generally less expensive to address. Overall, the QX50 can be a reliable vehicle if properly maintained, but it’s important to be aware of these potential problems.