2017 INFINITI Q70L

The 2017 INFINITI Q70L is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior (especially the “L” long-wheelbase version), and elegant styling. Engine options include a 3.7-liter V6, a 5.6-liter V8, and a 3.5-liter V6 hybrid. The 3.7-liter V6 produces 330 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The Q70L is appreciated for its quiet cabin and available technology features. However, some owners have noted that it can feel dated compared to newer competitors, and the fuel economy isn’t the best, especially with the V8. Common complaints include the infotainment system’s complexity and the lack of some advanced driver-assistance features that are standard on rivals.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Potential for engine misfires and loss of power. This is a common issue with the VQ37VHR engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

5.6L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable decrease in oil level between oil changes, blue smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, piston ring replacement is necessary. In others, monitoring and frequent top-offs may suffice.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idler Pulley Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squealing or chirping noise from the engine bay, especially at idle or low speeds. Possible belt slippage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the idler pulley and potentially the drive belt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L Hybrid

• Hybrid Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced electric range, frequent engine starts, decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

All Transmissions (7-Speed Automatic)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable and abrupt shifts between gears, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and software update (if available). In some cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $1,500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, compressor running frequently, rough ride. (Note: Not all Q70L models have air suspension)
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking air struts or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment screen freezing, unresponsive buttons, system restarts.
  • Solution: Software update (if available). Replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (e.g., Blind Spot Monitoring, Parking Sensors)
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunction indicator lights on the dashboard, systems not functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific sensor that has failed and replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on automatically, staying on when they should be off, or flickering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight sensor or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not working, getting too hot, or only heating in certain areas.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues (Failure to Open/Close Properly)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making grinding noises, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 INFINITI Q70L has some potential issues, ranging from relatively minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. The 3.7L V6 can suffer from timing chain issues, while the 5.6L V8 can exhibit oil consumption. Harsh shifting with the 7-speed automatic transmission can also occur. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with some repairs costing a few hundred dollars and others potentially running into the thousands. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic.