2018 INFINITI QX80

The 2018 INFINITI QX80 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. The QX80 is only available with one engine option: a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and towing capability. However, some criticisms include its dated styling, large turning radius, and fuel economy.

Engine

5.6L V8

• Timing Chain Guide Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup or idle. Can eventually lead to engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-ups. Blue smoke from the exhaust may also be present.
  • Solution: In some cases, switching to a different oil viscosity may help. In more severe cases, engine repairs, such as piston ring replacement, may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ (depending on the extent of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration. Hesitation when shifting or when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: A software update of the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission overhaul may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs without a corresponding increase in speed, indicating the transmission is slipping.
  • Solution: Usually requires a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sagging, ride height adjustments not functioning, and an error message on the dashboard related to the suspension system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Strut/Spring Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging corner, uneven ride height, bouncing or rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected strut/spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes completely.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment system is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera displays a distorted image, a blank screen, or does not activate when the vehicle is in reverse.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections for corrosion or damage. The camera may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The liftgate does not open or close automatically, or only opens/closes partially.
  • Solution: Check the liftgate struts and motor. The struts, motor, or liftgate control module may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seats do not move in one or more directions, or make unusual noises when attempting to move.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 INFINITI QX80 has some notable issues, primarily related to the engine (timing chain guides, oil consumption) and transmission (rough shifting, slipping). The air suspension system, if equipped, can also be prone to failures. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and backup camera, as well as automatic liftgate problems, are also reported. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to repair can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission repairs. While these issues can be significant, many owners find the QX80’s luxury features and performance outweigh the potential maintenance costs.