2018 INFINITI QX30

The 2018 INFINITI QX30 is a compact luxury crossover based on the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class platform. It offers a blend of stylish design and a premium driving experience. The QX30 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the QX30 for its distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. Some common dislikes include the somewhat cramped rear seating, limited cargo space, and the shared components with the Mercedes-Benz GLA, which may affect long-term reliability expectations for some buyers.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-ups between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms may include low oil level warnings, and, in more severe cases, engine knocking or damage.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels regularly and addressing any leaks promptly. In some cases, piston ring replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, rough idling, check engine light illumination. Diagnostic codes related to the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifts, particularly at low speeds. Hesitation during acceleration or delayed engagement of gears can also occur.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, replacement of the transmission valve body or the entire transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (Software Update) - $4,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or creaking sounds from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings in the control arms or sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location and number of bushings needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Malfunctioning
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or exhibits glitches. Bluetooth connectivity issues and navigation problems.
  • Solution: Software update for the infotainment system. If the problem persists, replacement of the infotainment unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,000+ (Infotainment Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle struggles to start or the battery is frequently dead, especially after sitting for a short time.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain and replacement of faulty components, such as the alternator or battery itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Struts Failing
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear hatch/trunk will not stay open on its own and droops or falls down.
  • Solution: Replace the rear hatch struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, makes excessive noise, or leaks when closed.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating sunroof tracks and mechanism. Repair or replacement of faulty sunroof motor or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver Seat Adjuster Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Driver seat will not adjust or move properly. Often related to the motor or the track.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat adjuster mechanism
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 INFINITI QX30, while stylish and comfortable, has some potential issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine oil consumption and transmission harshness are notable concerns, potentially leading to costly repairs. Electrical gremlins in the infotainment system and battery drain issues can also be frustrating. While the QX30’s issues are not universally prevalent, careful inspection and maintenance are recommended to mitigate potential problems. The estimated costs to fix these issues range from minor expenses like sensor replacements to more significant investments for engine or transmission repairs.