2022 INFINITI QX50
The 2022 INFINITI QX50 is a compact luxury SUV powered by a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo inline-4 engine producing 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This is the only engine option available for this model year. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The QX50 is appreciated for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and advanced technology features. However, some common criticisms include the performance and feel of the CVT transmission, the complex infotainment system, and some reliability concerns.
Engine
2.0L VC-Turbo Inline-4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported experiencing excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. This can lead to low oil levels, potentially causing engine damage.
- Solution: INFINITI has released service bulletins and revised parts. Replacing the piston rings with an updated design has been reported as a fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature turbocharger failure has been reported, resulting in a loss of power, unusual noises from the engine bay (whining, screeching), and potentially illuminated check engine lights.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- CVT Shudder/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: The most common complaint is a shuddering or hesitation during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds or when climbing hills. This can feel like the transmission is slipping or struggling to find the right gear ratio.
- Solution: A software update or transmission fluid change may temporarily alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, complete CVT replacement is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 (fluid change), $150 - $300 (software update), $4,000 - $7,000+ (CVT replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- CVT Whining Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a noticeable whining noise coming from the transmission, especially during acceleration. This noise can become more pronounced as the vehicle ages.
- Solution: In some cases, a fluid change can help reduce the noise. If the noise persists or worsens, a CVT replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 (fluid change), $4,000 - $7,000+ (CVT replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
No Issues Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can be slow to respond, freeze, or exhibit lag when navigating menus or using features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Solution: Software updates from the dealer. In some cases, replacing the infotainment system’s control unit is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software update), $500 - $1,500+ (Control unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
- Description/Symptoms: Faulty sensors can trigger false alarms or fail to detect obstacles, compromising safety features like parking assist and blind spot monitoring.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Automatic Tailgate Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The automatic tailgate may fail to open or close properly, or become stuck. This can be caused by faulty sensors, actuators, or software glitches.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the cause, potentially requiring sensor or actuator replacement, or a software update.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof/Moonroof Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the sunroof/moonroof seal, especially during heavy rain.
- Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof drains, replacing the sunroof seal, or resealing the sunroof assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2022 INFINITI QX50 has some notable issues, primarily related to the CVT transmission and the infotainment system. Engine issues like excessive oil consumption can also be expensive to address. The CVT problems can range from minor annoyances to significant performance issues requiring costly replacements. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect the vehicle, particularly the transmission’s performance, before purchasing.