Infiniti Q50 Years to Avoid
The Infiniti Q50 is a stylish and performance-driven luxury sedan that has captured the attention of car enthusiasts worldwide. However, not every model year offers the same reliability and performance. Some years are notorious for mechanical issues, transmission problems, and electronics malfunctions. If you’re in the market for a used Infiniti Q50, understanding which years to avoid is crucial to ensure you don’t end up with a car that drains your wallet on repairs.
In this guide, we’ll cover the Infiniti Q50 years to avoid and the specific problems that plague them. We’ll also discuss more reliable alternatives and provide tips on what to look for when purchasing a used Q50.
Key Takeaways
- The 2014 and 2015 Infiniti Q50 models have frequent issues with the transmission, infotainment system, and electronics.
- Post-2018 models, especially those from 2019 to 2021, have significantly improved reliability and performance.
- Always check the vehicle history, review customer feedback, and ensure all recalls have been addressed before buying a used Infiniti Q50.
A Brief Overview of the Infiniti Q50
The Infiniti Q50 was introduced in 2014 as a replacement for the Infiniti G-Series, Infiniti’s entry-level luxury sedan. Known for its sleek design, powerful engine options, and advanced technology, the Q50 has earned a place in the competitive luxury car market. It offers twin-turbocharged engines, luxurious interiors, and cutting-edge driver assistance features, making it a popular choice for those seeking both performance and style.
However, the Infiniti Q50 hasn’t been immune to its share of mechanical issues and reliability concerns. Understanding the specific model years to avoid can save you from the potential headaches of unexpected repair costs and poor performance.
Infiniti Q50 Years to Avoid
2014 Infiniti Q50: First-Year Glitches
The 2014 Infiniti Q50 was the first model year for this luxury sedan, and like many first-year cars, it faced several growing pains. Common issues include transmission malfunctions, software glitches, and electrical system failures.
Transmission Problems
One of the most significant complaints about the 2014 Infiniti Q50 involves its 7-speed automatic transmission. Many owners have reported delays in shifting, jerky gear changes, and complete transmission failure. These issues lead to frustrating driving experiences, especially when accelerating or decelerating.
Infotainment System Glitches
Another widespread issue in the 2014 Q50 is with the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system. Owners have reported frozen screens, lagging responses, and frequent software crashes, making the system nearly unusable. The navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity were also prone to errors.
Electronic Malfunctions
In addition to the infotainment system, other electronics in the 2014 Q50 have been problematic. Faulty sensors, including backup cameras and proximity sensors, caused headaches for drivers relying on these systems for safe driving.
Why Avoid the 2014 Q50?
- Transmission problems that are expensive to repair.
- Persistent infotainment system glitches.
- Frequent electronic and sensor failures.
The 2014 Q50’s combination of mechanical and electronic issues makes it a risky investment for used car buyers. Repairs are often costly, and many owners report repeated trips to the mechanic.
2015 Infiniti Q50: Lingering Transmission and Electrical Woes
While the 2015 Infiniti Q50 saw some improvements over the first-year model, it still suffered from many of the same issues, particularly related to the transmission and electronics.
Transmission Defects
The 2015 Q50 inherited many of the same transmission problems as its predecessor. Owners continued to report jerky gear shifts, gear slippage, and transmission lag during acceleration. These issues not only affected the driving experience but also raised concerns about long-term reliability.
Electrical Problems
The 2015 model year saw persistent electronic issues, especially with the infotainment system and driver assistance features like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. These systems would malfunction or stop working altogether, leaving owners frustrated and concerned about safety.
Fuel Economy Complaints
Many owners also complained about the poor fuel economy of the 2015 Q50, especially when compared to its competitors. While the official fuel efficiency ratings seemed reasonable, real-world performance often fell short, leading to increased fuel costs over time.
Why Avoid the 2015 Q50?
- Transmission issues carried over from the 2014 model year.
- Persistent electrical system failures.
- Disappointing fuel economy.
2016 Infiniti Q50: A Year of Transition
The 2016 Infiniti Q50 marked a transition year for the model, with improvements in some areas but still experiencing lingering issues from earlier models.
Transmission and Engine Concerns
Although the 2016 Q50 saw some improvements, the transmission was still a weak point. Some owners reported gearbox failures and rough shifting, although these problems were less frequent than in the previous two model years.
Additionally, the introduction of the new 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine brought its own set of issues. While the engine offered impressive performance, some owners experienced turbocharger failures and oil leaks, which led to expensive repairs.
Electronic and Sensor Failures
Much like the 2014 and 2015 models, the 2016 Q50 suffered from sensor malfunctions. Issues with the backup camera, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring were commonly reported, which could compromise driver safety.
Why Is the 2016 Q50 Still a Risk?
- Improved but still unreliable transmission.
- Early issues with the twin-turbo V6 engine.
- Recurring sensor failures.
While the 2016 Infiniti Q50 showed some progress in addressing earlier problems, it remains a risky option for used car buyers. Expensive repairs related to the transmission and engine issues continue to plague this model year.
Other Years to Approach with Caution
2017 Infiniti Q50: Minor Transmission Quirks
The 2017 Infiniti Q50 introduced further refinements to the engine and transmission, but some owners continued to report minor transmission issues, such as delayed gear shifts and rough acceleration. Although these problems were less severe than in previous years, they’re still worth noting for potential buyers.
Why 2017 Is Borderline
While the 2017 model year showed improvement, it isn’t entirely free from electronic and transmission issues. It’s considered a borderline year, where performance and reliability can vary depending on the individual vehicle’s maintenance history.
Infiniti Q50 Model Years to Consider
If you’re looking for a used Infiniti Q50, there are certain model years that are much more reliable than the ones mentioned above.
2018 Infiniti Q50: An Improved Driving Experience
The 2018 Infiniti Q50 brought several important upgrades that addressed many of the issues seen in earlier years. The transmission was refined, resulting in smoother gear shifts and fewer reports of mechanical problems. Infotainment system glitches were also reduced, and owners reported fewer electrical failures.
Why the 2018 Q50 Is a Safer Bet
- Improved transmission with fewer shifting issues.
- More reliable infotainment system.
- Reduced electronic failures.
The 2018 Q50 offers a more stable and reliable driving experience, making it a solid choice for those seeking a used luxury sedan.
2019-2021 Infiniti Q50: Fewer Issues, Better Value
The 2019-2021 Infiniti Q50 models have proven to be far more reliable than their predecessors. These newer models have significantly fewer complaints, particularly regarding the transmission and electronics.
Engine and Technology Advancements
The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine found in these years delivers impressive performance, and most of the early engine issues have been resolved. The infotainment system was also refined, resulting in a more user-friendly and stable experience.
Why to Buy a 2019-2021 Q50
- Fewer mechanical problems.
- Refined transmission and engine performance.
- Improved technology and safety features.
The 2019-2021 Infiniti Q50 models provide a better balance between performance and reliability, making them a better option for long-term ownership.
Common Problems Across Infiniti Q50 Model Years
While specific model years have unique issues, there are several common problems that tend to appear across multiple Infiniti Q50 model years.
Transmission Issues
The 7-speed automatic transmission used in the Q50 is prone to problems, especially in the earlier models. Symptoms include:
- Jerky gear shifts.
- Gear slippage.
- Delayed shifting.
In severe cases, the transmission may require a complete replacement, which can be a costly repair.
Infotainment System Glitches
The dual-screen Infiniti InTouch infotainment system is another weak point in many Q50 models. Owners have reported:
- Frozen or lagging screens.
- Software crashes.
- Problems with Bluetooth and navigation.
Regular software updates can help mitigate some of these issues, but persistent problems may require hardware replacement.
Electronic and Sensor Failures
Across multiple model years, the Infiniti Q50 has been plagued by sensor malfunctions. Commonly affected systems include:
- Backup cameras.
- Parking sensors.
- Lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring.
These issues can compromise the vehicle’s advanced safety features and increase repair costs.
Tips for Buying a Used Infiniti Q50
If you’re considering purchasing a used Infiniti Q50, there are several steps you should take to minimize your risks.
How to Spot Problematic Models
- Check the vehicle’s maintenance history and confirm that any recalls have been addressed.
- Look for signs of transmission problems, such as rough shifting or gear slippage during a test drive.
- Test the infotainment system thoroughly to ensure it operates smoothly.
Importance of Pre-Purchase Inspections
Always schedule a pre-purchase inspection with a trusted mechanic before buying a used Infiniti Q50. They can check for transmission, engine, and electrical issues that may not be immediately obvious during a test drive.
Reading Owner Reviews and Reliability Ratings
Research customer reviews and reliability ratings from trusted sources like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. These resources can provide valuable insights into which model years are prone to problems and which are more reliable.
FAQs: Infiniti Q50 Years to Avoid
What are the worst years for the Infiniti Q50?
The 2014 and 2015 Infiniti Q50 models are widely regarded as the worst years due to significant transmission and electrical problems.
Is the 2016 Infiniti Q50 reliable?
While more reliable than earlier models, the 2016 Q50 still suffers from transmission issues and electronic malfunctions, making it a risky choice.
What year did Infiniti fix the Q50 transmission problems?
Major improvements to the transmission came after 2018, with fewer complaints in the 2019 and 2020 models.
Are the 2019 and 2020 Q50 models better?
Yes, the 2019 and 2020 Infiniti Q50 models are much more reliable, with far fewer mechanical and electronic issues compared to earlier years.
