2016 INFINITI Q70

The 2016 INFINITI Q70 is a mid-size luxury sedan that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and technology. It comes with a choice of three engines: a 3.7-liter V6 producing 330 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, a 5.6-liter V8 generating 420 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain combining a 3.5-liter V6 with an electric motor for a combined output of 360 horsepower. All engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Q70’s smooth ride, spacious interior, and powerful engine options. Common complaints include the dated infotainment system and smaller back seat than its competitors.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Timing Chain Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the timing chain stretching or failing prematurely. Symptoms include a rattling noise, especially on startup, and the engine may run rough or stall.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.6L V8

• Valve Stem Seal Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of valve stem seal leakage, resulting in oil consumption and blue smoke from the exhaust on startup.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L Hybrid

• Electric Motor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the hybrid system including the electric motor causing warning lights, reduced performance, and the inability to operate in electric-only mode.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the hybrid system components (inverter, battery, or electric motor).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $6,000+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also present itself as a “slip” in the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter, and in some cases, the entire transmission, as well as a transmission fluid flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or erratic shifting between gears.
  • Solution: Fluid change, valve body replacement or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Leaks (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Q70 offered an optional rear air suspension, and on these models, the air springs can develop leaks, leading to a sagging rear end and a rough ride. The air compressor might also fail due to overworking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air springs and/or air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The lower control arm bushings wear out prematurely, causing clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arms or just the bushings, depending on the severity and mechanic’s recommendation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system (navigation, audio, climate control) may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software update if available, replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ (depending on the solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight or within a few days of being fully charged.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain, repair or replacement of faulty components (alternator, starter, or electrical component causing the drain).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Headlight Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Automatic headlights do not turn on or off when they are supposed to.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters fail to heat up, or heat unevenly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat heating element.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Screen Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system screen delaminates, causing a cloudy or blurry image.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 INFINITI Q70 has some notable potential issues. Engine problems, particularly with the timing chain on the 3.7L V6 and valve stem seals on the 5.6L V8, can lead to costly repairs. Transmission issues like torque converter shudder and rough shifting are also potential concerns. Suspension problems, especially with the air suspension on equipped models, and electrical glitches with the infotainment system can be frustrating. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor (seat heater failure) to significant (engine or transmission replacement), with repair costs varying widely. While not every Q70 will experience these problems, potential buyers should be aware of them and inspect vehicles carefully before purchasing.