2016 INFINITI Q50

The 2016 INFINITI Q50 is a popular luxury sports sedan known for its sleek styling, comfortable ride, and engaging driving experience. Engine options include a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (introduced mid-year as a replacement for the existing 3.7L V6), and a 3.5L V6 paired with an electric motor in the hybrid model. The 2.0L turbo four-cylinder produces 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The 3.7L V6 (initially offered) put out 328 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0L twin-turbo V6 produces either 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque or 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque depending on the trim level. A 7-speed automatic transmission is standard across the range. Some owners appreciate the Q50’s sporty handling and luxurious interior. However, common complaints revolve around the electronic power steering system (especially the Direct Adaptive Steering), the infotainment system, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noise from the turbo, check engine light, excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 (VR30DDTT)

• Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud squealing noise at startup or idle, especially when cold. Can lead to belt slippage and potential damage to other components.
  • Solution: Replace the belt tensioner. Some have reported replacing the belt as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, low coolant level.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Hybrid (VQ35HR) * No Issues Found

3.7L V6 (VQ37VHR) * No Issues Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, transmission warning light.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, vague steering.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the number of bushings replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update. If it persists, replacement of the head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) to $1,000+ (for head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering feels disconnected or artificial, lack of road feel, warning lights related to the steering system.
  • Solution: Software updates, recalibration of the system, or replacement of steering components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ (depending on the issue and parts required)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: System applies brakes unnecessarily, or fails to apply the brakes when needed.
  • Solution: Recalibration of the sensor, replacement of the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: R1603, R1505

Interior

• Sunroof/Moonroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof won’t open or close, makes excessive noise, leaks water.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 INFINITI Q50 can be a rewarding vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the turbocharger and the 3.0L V6 belt tensioner and water pumps, can be costly. Transmission issues related to the valve body are also a concern. Electrical gremlins with the infotainment system and Direct Adaptive Steering can be frustrating. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive (bushing replacements), others (turbocharger, valve body, DAS components) can be quite costly, making a pre-purchase inspection essential.