2021 INFINITI Q50

The 2021 INFINITI Q50 is a luxury sport sedan that offers a blend of performance and comfort. The most common engine option is the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, producing 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque in the base models, or 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque in the Red Sport 400 trim. A less common 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine is available, producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Q50 for its powerful engine options, sporty handling, and luxurious interior. Common complaints include the infotainment system’s outdated interface, the lack of driver feedback in the steering (especially in non-Red Sport models), and the somewhat firm ride quality.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 (VR30DDTT)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature turbocharger failure, which can manifest as a loss of power, excessive turbocharger noise (whining or whistling), and/or engine knocking.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ (including labor and parts, especially if both turbos need replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Belt tensioner failing can cause the belt to fall off. This causes a loss of power steering and can cause major engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the belt tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the severity and part failures
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (RE7R01A)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh shifting, hesitation, or slipping between gears. This can be more pronounced during cold starts or under heavy acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update may resolve the issue. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for a fluid flush and software update, $800 - $2,000+ for valve body work.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The suspension bushings (especially in the lower control arms) can wear out prematurely. This can result in clunking noises over bumps, imprecise handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per side, depending on whether just the bushings or the whole control arm needs replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of the infotainment system freezing, glitching, or failing to respond to inputs. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if a software update fixes the issue) to $1,000+ for a replacement unit.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensor malfunctions have been reported, including issues with the blind-spot monitoring system, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Symptoms include error messages on the dashboard and/or the systems failing to function properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the specific sensor that is failing and replacing it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the sensor and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats will stop functioning in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Replace seat actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 INFINITI Q50 has a range of potential issues, with the most concerning being the turbocharger failures in the 3.0L V6 engine and harsh shifting in the 7-speed automatic transmission. The costs associated with these repairs can be significant. While the infotainment issues and sensor malfunctions can be frustrating, they are generally less expensive to fix. Premature bushing wear can lead to handling problems and increased wear and tear on other suspension components if left unchecked. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.