2016 INFINITI QX70

The 2016 INFINITI QX70 is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its sporty handling and distinctive styling. It offers a comfortable ride and a well-appointed interior. The QX70 came with two engine options: a 3.7L V6 producing 325 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.0L V8 producing 390 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the QX70’s athletic driving dynamics and unique design, while others criticize its relatively small cargo space and fuel economy.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Can lead to engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil dripping from the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often from valve cover gaskets or front timing cover.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or resealing the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Needing to add oil frequently between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: This can range from replacing PCV valve to more significant repairs like piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (PCV Valve) - $3,000+ (Piston Rings)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears. Hesitation when shifting.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and fill with genuine Infiniti transmission fluid, valve body replacement, or in severe cases, transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs high without the vehicle accelerating properly.
  • Solution: Could be due to low fluid, worn clutches, or valve body issues. Repairs range from fluid service to a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (control arms, sway bar links, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air compressor running constantly, suspension warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, compressor, or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery going dead overnight or after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to find the parasitic draw. Could be a faulty module, a relay stuck on, or a failing component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, outdated maps.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Liftgate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate not opening or closing properly, making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts, motor, or latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the tracks, replacement of the motor or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 INFINITI QX70 can be a stylish and fun-to-drive SUV, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues. The most concerning problems revolve around the engine (timing chain issues on the V6, oil consumption on the V8) and the transmission, which could lead to costly repairs. Electrical issues, like battery drain and infotainment problems, can also be frustrating. Suspension issues are also something to watch out for. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor fixes to major component replacements, with repair costs spanning a wide range. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to identify any existing or potential problems.