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2015 INFINITI Q50

The 2015 INFINITI Q50 is a popular luxury sport sedan known for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. Available with several engine options, including a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder (208 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque), a 3.7L naturally aspirated V6 (328 hp, 269 lb-ft of torque), and a hybrid powertrain pairing a 3.5L V6 with an electric motor (360 total system hp), the Q50 caters to a range of performance preferences. The Q50 is praised for its responsive handling, luxurious features, and attractive styling. Some common criticisms include the sometimes-numb steering feel, particularly in non-sport models, and the complexity of the infotainment system. All engine options are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, whining noise from the turbocharger.
    • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.7L Naturally Aspirated V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets and front timing cover.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or resealing the timing cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Gallery Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine may exhibit symptoms such as a ticking or knocking noise, reduced oil pressure, and potential engine damage due to insufficient lubrication.
    • Solution: Replacement of the gallery gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Hybrid

  • Hybrid Battery Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, decreased performance, error messages on the dashboard related to the hybrid system.
    • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, especially between gears 1-3, sometimes accompanied by a noticeable clunk.
    • Solution: Software update/reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM). In severe cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for software updates; $800 - $2,000+ for valve body replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Premature Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, loose handling, uneven tire wear. Typically affects control arm bushings.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings or entire control arms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per corner, depending on the parts replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, system crashes, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
    • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment system module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software updates; $500 - $1,500+ for module replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system may experience intermittent issues, such as a temporary loss of power steering assist or unexpected changes in steering feel. These issues can affect vehicle handling and driver confidence.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the DAS system can be complex and may require specialized equipment. Repair options may include software updates, sensor replacements, or replacement of the DAS control unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$3,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
    • Recalls: R1602: Voluntary Safety Recall Campaign - Loss of Steering Control
      • NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V380000

Exterior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof leaking, not opening or closing properly, or making grinding noises.
    • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks and mechanism. In some cases, the sunroof motor or entire assembly needs replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for cleaning/lubrication; $500 - $1,500+ for motor/assembly replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Navigation Display Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The navigation display may experience flickering, dimming, or complete failure. These issues can impair visibility and functionality of the system.
    • Solution: Replacement of the navigation display screen.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 INFINITI Q50 has a range of potential issues across various systems. Engine issues such as oil leaks in the V6 and turbocharger failures in the 2.0T are common. Hybrid models suffer from expensive hybrid battery issues. Transmission problems with harsh shifting can often be resolved with software updates. However, it can result in more expensive repairs. Suspension bushing wear is a relatively common concern, and electrical issues can range from infotainment glitches to more serious problems with the Direct Adaptive Steering system. The severity and cost of repairs vary widely, but some issues, such as hybrid battery replacement or DAS repairs, can be quite expensive.

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