2018 INFINITI Q50

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2018 INFINITI Q50, categorized by major component. The 2018 INFINITI Q50 offers a blend of luxury and performance, often praised for its stylish design and comfortable ride. However, it has also been criticized for its sometimes-problematic infotainment system and less-than-stellar fuel economy compared to rivals. The 2018 model year offers several powertrain options: a 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L Turbocharged V6 producing 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and a high-output version of the 3.0L Turbocharged V6 producing 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Turbocharged V6 (300 hp & 400 hp versions)

• Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squealing noises coming from engine while idling or at low RPMs.
  • Solution: Replace the belt tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and potentially associated hoses and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting between gears, especially noticeable when accelerating or decelerating.
  • Solution: Software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM). If the problem persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for software update, $1000 - $2000+ for valve body replacement, $4000 - $6000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. May also experience vague steering feel.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings, typically control arm bushings or sway bar bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per corner depending on which bushings need replacement and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights, steering assist malfunctions, vehicle pulls to one side.
  • Solution: Replacement of DAS components or software update
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or restarts unexpectedly. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software update. In some cases, the entire infotainment unit needs replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software update, $1000 - $3000+ for unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a short period, difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws. Common sources include aftermarket electronics, faulty door sensors, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for battery replacement, $100 - $500+ for diagnosing and fixing parasitic draws.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck, rattles, or doesn’t close properly.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate sunroof tracks, repair or replace sunroof motor, or realign the sunroof panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 INFINITI Q50 can be a rewarding vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of these common issues. Engine problems, particularly turbocharger failure in the 2.0L and water pump failure in the V6, can be expensive to repair. Transmission issues, while sometimes solvable with a software update, can escalate into costly valve body or complete transmission replacements. Electrical problems with the infotainment system are a frequent complaint, and while often fixed with software, the cost can rise significantly if the unit needs replacement. Suspension issues and sunroof problems also contribute to the potential maintenance costs. Overall, while the Q50 offers style and performance, these potential issues should be carefully considered.