2016 INFINITI Q70L

The 2016 INFINITI Q70L is a mid-size luxury sedan that offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior. It comes in several trims, including the 3.7, 3.7 AWD, 5.6, and 5.6 AWD. The base engine is a 3.7-liter V6 producing 330 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Upgrading to the 5.6-liter V8 boosts output to 416 horsepower and 414 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Q70L for its smooth ride, powerful engine options (especially the V8), and luxurious features. Criticisms typically focus on the car’s dated infotainment system and less-than-stellar fuel economy compared to competitors.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front timing cover. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Proper diagnosis is crucial to pinpoint the exact location of the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include a rattling noise, especially on cold starts, and potential issues with engine performance, such as reduced power or misfires.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.6L V8

• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues include fuel injector failure, causing symptoms such as misfires, rough idling, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty fuel injector(s). It’s recommended to replace injectors in sets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector, plus labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Stem Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking past the valve stem seals can cause blue smoke to appear during engine start-up or acceleration. This can also lead to increased oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+ (due to the labor-intensive nature of the repair).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the issue persists, a more in-depth inspection, valve body repair, or transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (fluid flush), $500 - $1500 (valve body repair), $3000 - $6000+ (transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: For models with air suspension, issues can arise with the air struts or air compressor. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, a noisy air compressor, or a suspension malfunction warning light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $500 - $1500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or unresponsive touchscreen.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In severe cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1000+ (infotainment unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain. This can be due to parasitic draw from an electrical component.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw, which could include faulty relays, modules, or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Automatic headlights not turning on or off properly, or flickering. This can be caused by a faulty sensor or wiring issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight sensor or repairing the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800 per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Errors
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system freezes, incorrect directions, failure to load maps
  • Solution: Upgrading software version, or replacing the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 INFINITI Q70L has a mix of potential issues. While some problems, such as infotainment glitches or seat heater malfunctions, are relatively minor inconveniences, others like oil leaks, timing chain issues, or air suspension problems (if equipped) can be more costly and impact the vehicle’s reliability. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to assess the vehicle’s condition. The engine and transmission issues, while not affecting all vehicles, represent the most significant risk in terms of repair costs.