2018 INFINITI QX80
2018 INFINITI QX80
Overview
The 2018 INFINITI QX80 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its powerful V8 engine and spacious interior, designed for comfortable family hauling and towing. As a large, body-on-frame SUV, it prioritizes robust construction and a smooth ride. While generally considered reliable, like any vehicle, it can experience specific issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential areas of concern for owners and prospective buyers. The QX80’s powertrain and chassis are built for durability, but attention to certain electrical and suspension components can help ensure long-term performance and satisfaction.
Engine
5.6L V8 (VK56VD)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
7-speed Automatic (RE7R01A)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Hydraulic Body-Based Suspension System
Hydraulic Leaks
- Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, uneven ride height, fluid leaks under the vehicle.
- Solution: Repair or replace leaking hydraulic lines, seals, or actuators.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of active suspension control, stiff or bouncy ride, warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replace faulty suspension actuators.
- Cost: $800 - $2000
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes or reboots randomly.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $500 - $2000
Battery Drain
Intermittent Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Battery dies unexpectedly, requiring jump starts; often related to parasitic draw from modules.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic draw, potentially replacing faulty modules or sensors.
- Cost: $300 - $1000
Exterior
No Major Issues
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
No Major Issues
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2018 INFINITI QX80 demonstrates strong overall reliability, particularly with its robust 5.6L V8 engine and 7-speed automatic transmission, which have no widespread reported issues. The primary areas requiring attention are the sophisticated hydraulic suspension system, which can develop leaks or actuator failures, and certain electrical components, notably the infotainment system’s responsiveness and potential for intermittent battery drain. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are not indicative of systemic failure across the vehicle. With proactive maintenance and addressing these specific concerns, the QX80 should provide a dependable and luxurious ownership experience.