Owners have filed 58 complaints
about the 2016 Infiniti Q50 with NHTSA between 2016 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 7 of 7 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 28
Against the median year of the Infiniti Q50. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 18
3.4% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 94
55% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
413.8%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
413.8%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
26.9%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1034.5%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
413.8%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
413.8%
150,000+ miles
13.4%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Aug 2016peak 4Jul 2026
Recalls on the 2016 Infiniti Q50
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
24V470000
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
Nissan North America, Inc. (INFINITI) is recalling certain 2011-2013 M56, 2012-2013 M35 Hybrid, 2014-2018 Q50, Q70 Hybrid, 2014-2019 Q70, and 2015-2019 Q70L two-wheel drive vehicles. The driveshaft can fatigue and break.
Risk: A broken driveshaft can result in a loss of drive power, or a vehicle roll away when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake applied. Both scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
17V476000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Infiniti Q50 and 2017 Infiniti Q60 vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. Incorrect Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM) software may allow the fuel level in the main tank to be too low to supply fuel to the engine, causing the engine to stall while driving.
Risk: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
16V430000
STEERING:AUTOMATED/ADAPTIVE STEERING
Nissan North America, Inc.'s (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Infiniti Q50 vehicles manufactured December 26, 2012, to December 11, 2015, and Infiniti Q50 Hybrid vehicles manufactured December 10, 2012, to December 17, 2015. The Direct Adaptive Steering system may experience an error at vehicle start up altering the vehicle's steering responsiveness and turning radius.
Risk: If the vehicle does not steer as the driver anticipates, there is an increased the risk of a crash.
16V244000
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
Risk: If the passenger frontal air bag does not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, the passenger is at an increased risk of injury.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2017375958 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, and incorrect fuel pressure map was used in the Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM) software as a result, the pressure regulator may fail to open to send fuel from the sub tank to the main tank. Under certain conditions, the fuel level in the main tank could be too low for the fuel pump to send fuel to the engine resulting in a loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will update the software for the Fuel Pump Control Module.
Recall 20162963,804 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, a combination of low battery voltage at engine start up (~7 volts) and the vehicle being parked with the wheels turned could cause an error in the Direct Adaptive Steering ECU. This could cause the steering wheel to be off centered and the VDC warning lamp to illuminate. If operated this way, this could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will update the Direct Adaptive Steering ECU.
Recall 2016179257,130 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
On certain vehicles, a defect in the occupant classification system could allow an adult sitting in the front passenger seat to be classified as a child or an “empty seat”. This would suppress the airbag, which could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Correction: For affected Altima, Maxima, Murano, Rogue and Sentra vehicles, dealers will reprogram the airbag control unit and the occupant classification system control unit. For affected Leaf, NV200, Pathfinder, Q50 and JX35/QX60 vehicles, dealers will replace the occupant classification system electronic control unit.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 34,000 milesCentennial, COCrash1 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
WHILE ACCELERATING, THE DRIVER SWITCHED THE VEHICLE FROM MANUAL SHIFT MODE TO AUTOMATIC. THE DRIVER NOTED A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN MEASURED RPM VIA THE TACHOMETER AS IF THE VEHICLE "JUMPED INTO A LOWER GEAR OR FAILED TO FIND A GEAR." THE DRIVER NOTED THAT THE REAR TIRES LOST TRACTION, CAUSING THE CAR TO TURN TOWARDS THE LEFT. SHORTLY AFTER, THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED. *DT CONSUMER STATED HE WAS TURNING INTO THE ENTRANCE RAMP WHEN THE VEHICLE FISH TAILED CAUSING IT TO FLIP.
NHTSA complaint #11131953 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Randolph, MA
ENGINE
My 2016 Q50 was driving strangely, but no indicator light came on the dashboard. I took the vehicle to the dealer where I purchased it and was told that the engine is dying. No other information was given to me. I called the service advisor asking what in particular was wrong with my car, but he said he wasn't sure. I took issue with the fact that my engine died, and no warning lights what-so-ever showed on the dash. I would only take my car to the dealer for repairs, maintenance and oil changes. I also learned that cars should not go beyond 3,000 miles for an oil change, but for some reason Infiniti oil changes were 10,000 miles in between. I believe this could be a reason the engine died...there was never an oil change indicator light illuminated as well. I feel that Infiniti is responsible for an engine dying on a vehicle with less than 100,000 miles on it.
NHTSA complaint #11751616 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawrenceville, GA
TIRES
Had 2 new tires installed on the rear of the car and they both busted at the seam. Shredded the tires and damaged 4 wheels.
NHTSA complaint #11743846 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawrenceville, GA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Something happened to cause power loss. I checked the recalls and work that was supposed to be performed but didn’t get done like it was supposed to. I need to have it checked now asap! I see 2 engine replacements and also the turbos and 2 of the catalytic converters. The last 2 need replacing as well or it’s not going to be right.
NHTSA complaint #11743844 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawrenceville, GA
ENGINE
Something happened to cause power loss. I checked the recalls and work that was supposed to be performed but didn’t get done like it was supposed to. I need to have it checked now asap! I see 2 engine replacements and also the turbos and 2 of the catalytic converters. The last 2 need replacing as well or it’s not going to be right.
NHTSA complaint #11743844 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawrenceville, GA
SERVICE BRAKES
Something happened to cause power loss. I checked the recalls and work that was supposed to be performed but didn’t get done like it was supposed to. I need to have it checked now asap! I see 2 engine replacements and also the turbos and 2 of the catalytic converters. The last 2 need replacing as well or it’s not going to be right.
NHTSA complaint #11743844 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cedar Hill, TX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR on 2016 INFINITI Q50t - Took vehicle in for oil and filter change 2 days ago. I drove the car about 40 miles, without incident. Went back to same place for state inspection yesterday. I drove about 2 miles from the inspection place and park in shopping lot. Went in business to shop for about 30 minutes. Returned to vehicle and drove about 100 yards through the parking lot. The car appeared to lose power and made a jerking movement as if it didn't want to go. I drove out onto a very busy street and we were almost rear ended by other traffic. I pulled up in another parking lot to assess the problem. I could not determine what was causing the car not to pick up speed. I drove to an AutoZone: battery checked out at 90 percent good; no electrical problems noted either. I drove off about 1 block from AutoZone: the CEL came on for the first time. I went back to the AutoZone to get them to check it out. The diagnosis code is P0720: vehicle speed sensor. I went back to the inspection shop the next day and I was told the same code. I took the vehicle to the dealership and I was told that I need to replace the whole transmission. I purchased the vehicle about 8-1/2 years ago; garage kept; only put 60k miles on car since purchase. Car has approx. 108k miles now. This is not only a problem with 2014 -2015. When I purchased the car in 2018, I feel like the dealership should have informed me that this was a problem with Q50s. This is not just an issue with previous years; this is a problem with 2016 as well. This vehicle is very clean/outstanding: no accidents, no body damage, immaculate leather seats, no repairs in 8-1/2 years and all of a sudden this fault code comes up with no previous indication that the transmission was not working properly. There needs to be a RECALL for this vehicle due to this common issue.
NHTSA complaint #11738665 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stone Mountain, GA
ENGINE
The vehicle experienced a failure while driving, producing heavy smoke and requiring the car to be stopped immediately. The “Low Oil Pressure – Stop Vehicle” warning light illuminated on 2/19/2026. The vehicle was subsequently taken to an Infiniti dealership for inspection. Upon evaluation, the dealer determined that both turbochargers have failed and are leaking oil. The turbochargers are covered under an existing warranty extension; however, the engine has failed also. The vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure at approximately 50,230 miles, after which both the engine and turbochargers were replaced under warranty with the cause listed as undetermined. Both the original and replacement engines have now failed in the same manner, with turbochargers leaking oil and producing visible smoke, indicating a likely recurring defect or unresolved underlying issue. The replacement engine failed after only 40,000 miles, further raising reliability concerns. Infiniti quality actions (P4A05 and P4A06) identify turbocharger oil leakage as a known issue, aligning with the current failure. The dealership has confirmed the turbochargers are leaking oil but will only replace them if a full engine replacement is authorized by me at a cost of $15,556.49.
NHTSA complaint #11730143 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Las Vegas, NV
SEAT BELTS
* the passenger airbag light came on July 2025. I was not in a accident the light just came on. * 7/29/2025 I took my car in for service at Infinity of Las Vegas (the only Infinity dealership in Las Vegas) I asked to check why the airbag light was on. I was told the occupant sensor unit was abnormal. Sensor and module internally shorted out. Recommend to replace passenger front seat frame assembly (only available as a 1 piece both sensor and module internally shorted seat frame Assy). @ $ 8678.76. Because it’s a different seat from the original seat, I would have to also replace the seat belt. @ 116.87. * It is not recommended to drive a car with the air bag light on. This car is my only source of transportation. * on August 4, 2025 I took my car to Auto Dynamic Services and they suggested initial repair was to replace the Occupant Detection Module. The part was ordered from Nissan, when they received the part it was an updated part design which was slightly larger with more pins than the original part and could not be used on my car. They reordered the part from another Nissan retailer ensuring it matched the original part for my car. Now it’s Aug. 27th, 2025. Auto Dynamic received the correct replacement module. Unfortunately the part was replaced and the airbag light came on again. They also stated the seat would have to be replaced in order for the airbag light to go off. For around the same price. It cost me 1800.00 to find this out. * I do not have money to resolve this issue especially if the driver airbag errors next, I am fearful of the unknown driving around with the airbag light on. If in an accident possibly not being covered because I was driving with a know issue. Or the bags just deploying randomly. * On [XXX] I traded a perfect running car in, I did not receive much on the trade as the airbag light is on. I can drive safely and register the car when required * it looks like there was a recall but the Q50 2.0 turbo was not included. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INF
NHTSA complaint #11686172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Las Vegas, NV
AIR BAGS
* the passenger airbag light came on July 2025. I was not in a accident the light just came on. * 7/29/2025 I took my car in for service at Infinity of Las Vegas (the only Infinity dealership in Las Vegas) I asked to check why the airbag light was on. I was told the occupant sensor unit was abnormal. Sensor and module internally shorted out. Recommend to replace passenger front seat frame assembly (only available as a 1 piece both sensor and module internally shorted seat frame Assy). @ $ 8678.76. Because it’s a different seat from the original seat, I would have to also replace the seat belt. @ 116.87. * It is not recommended to drive a car with the air bag light on. This car is my only source of transportation. * on August 4, 2025 I took my car to Auto Dynamic Services and they suggested initial repair was to replace the Occupant Detection Module. The part was ordered from Nissan, when they received the part it was an updated part design which was slightly larger with more pins than the original part and could not be used on my car. They reordered the part from another Nissan retailer ensuring it matched the original part for my car. Now it’s Aug. 27th, 2025. Auto Dynamic received the correct replacement module. Unfortunately the part was replaced and the airbag light came on again. They also stated the seat would have to be replaced in order for the airbag light to go off. For around the same price. It cost me 1800.00 to find this out. * I do not have money to resolve this issue especially if the driver airbag errors next, I am fearful of the unknown driving around with the airbag light on. If in an accident possibly not being covered because I was driving with a know issue. Or the bags just deploying randomly. * On [XXX] I traded a perfect running car in, I did not receive much on the trade as the airbag light is on. I can drive safely and register the car when required * it looks like there was a recall but the Q50 2.0 turbo was not included. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INF
NHTSA complaint #11686172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Las Vegas, NV
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
* the passenger airbag light came on July 2025. I was not in a accident the light just came on. * 7/29/2025 I took my car in for service at Infinity of Las Vegas (the only Infinity dealership in Las Vegas) I asked to check why the airbag light was on. I was told the occupant sensor unit was abnormal. Sensor and module internally shorted out. Recommend to replace passenger front seat frame assembly (only available as a 1 piece both sensor and module internally shorted seat frame Assy). @ $ 8678.76. Because it’s a different seat from the original seat, I would have to also replace the seat belt. @ 116.87. * It is not recommended to drive a car with the air bag light on. This car is my only source of transportation. * on August 4, 2025 I took my car to Auto Dynamic Services and they suggested initial repair was to replace the Occupant Detection Module. The part was ordered from Nissan, when they received the part it was an updated part design which was slightly larger with more pins than the original part and could not be used on my car. They reordered the part from another Nissan retailer ensuring it matched the original part for my car. Now it’s Aug. 27th, 2025. Auto Dynamic received the correct replacement module. Unfortunately the part was replaced and the airbag light came on again. They also stated the seat would have to be replaced in order for the airbag light to go off. For around the same price. It cost me 1800.00 to find this out. * I do not have money to resolve this issue especially if the driver airbag errors next, I am fearful of the unknown driving around with the airbag light on. If in an accident possibly not being covered because I was driving with a know issue. Or the bags just deploying randomly. * On [XXX] I traded a perfect running car in, I did not receive much on the trade as the airbag light is on. I can drive safely and register the car when required * it looks like there was a recall but the Q50 2.0 turbo was not included. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INF
NHTSA complaint #11686172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Red Oak, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I’m reporting a safety issue with my 2016 Infiniti Q50. Last Friday [XXX], my the car wouldn’t crank and there was minimal dashboard power, but the engine wouldn’t start. After receiving a jump, I had the battery replaced assuming it was the issue. However, six days later, while driving, the vehicle suddenly lost all electrical power mid-drive with no warning or dashboard alerts. The engine shut off, the brake pedal became stiff, and I was unable to use any power-operated functions, such as rolling down the windows (98 degree day in Texas) or opening the trunk, which contained my emergency tools. A police officer had to assist and the vehicle was towed. Upon inspection, the issue was traced to corroded battery terminal cables, which were blocking the signal from the new battery and causing the full shutdown. This is a serious safety concern as complete power failure while driving, with no warning, and no manual trunk release for emergencies, could place drivers at significant risk. I’m submitting this for review and potential recall consideration. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11668023 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Richmond, VA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Then engine light came on. And the vehicle decline in power. It moves very slow.
NHTSA complaint #11652940 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Richmond, VA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The engine check light came. I also received a letter from infinti for recall. The power of the vehicle declined.
NHTSA complaint #11652944 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Richmond, VA
ENGINE
The engine check light came. I also received a letter from infinti for recall. The power of the vehicle declined.
NHTSA complaint #11652944 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawton, OK
ENGINE
Engine manufactured with porous block causing coolant to mix with oil resulting in bearing failure. Vehicle has less than 60k miles and I have seen numerous reports on Infiniti Q50/Q60 forums with people having the exact same issue. Some vehicles have had multiple engine replacements. Vehicle out of warranty due to age. Have not been able to drive vehicle for over a year and was told I should report issue to the government since Infiniti has not stepped up and done a voluntary recall.
NHTSA complaint #11636774 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Auburndale, FL
STEERING
Passenger seat light remain on for 4 months the went away. Then the airbag light came on. Took it to Infiniti of Tampa where they supposedly done diagnostics. They cause additional lights to appear on my dashboard to include the steering hard to turn. When I purchased the vehicle in October 2016 I was unaware of any recalls. I found out about a month ago there approximately four recalls for 2016 Infiniti Q50.
NHTSA complaint #11634463 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Auburndale, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Passenger seat light remain on for 4 months the went away. Then the airbag light came on. Took it to Infiniti of Tampa where they supposedly done diagnostics. They cause additional lights to appear on my dashboard to include the steering hard to turn. When I purchased the vehicle in October 2016 I was unaware of any recalls. I found out about a month ago there approximately four recalls for 2016 Infiniti Q50.
NHTSA complaint #11634463 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Auburndale, FL
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
Passenger seat light remain on for 4 months the went away. Then the airbag light came on. Took it to Infiniti of Tampa where they supposedly done diagnostics. They cause additional lights to appear on my dashboard to include the steering hard to turn. When I purchased the vehicle in October 2016 I was unaware of any recalls. I found out about a month ago there approximately four recalls for 2016 Infiniti Q50.
NHTSA complaint #11634463 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Clewiston, FL
STRUCTURE:BODY
The hood of my vehicle is raised on the upper right side. It was a small opening but now it has gotten bigger. I'm afraid that the entire hood may come off at a high speed. I also have rust spots on the top of my car close to the sunroof. I use Infiniti of the Palm Beaches for all of my services and have reported both concerns and was told it was normal wear and tear. I have owned many cars and never had the problems that I've had with a vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11632034 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kenosha, WI
POWER TRAIN
The car has only 50,000 miles and the valve body of the car just burnt out. I’ve done all the mandatory/ recommended maintenance and with the history of the brand I expected better quality of their product. Would greatly appreciate the accountability on this issue and some effort to fix this for the population.
NHTSA complaint #11615795 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 77,636 milesMontgomery, AL
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2016 Infiniti Q50. The contact stated upon attempting to drive from a complete stop, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that upon attempting to drive the vehicle 30 minutes later, the vehicle responded as needed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the vehicle was diagnosed that the valve body had failed. The mechanic determined that the valve body and the entire transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure and charged a fee for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 77,636. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint #11593371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 77,636 milesMontgomery, AL
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2016 Infiniti Q50. The contact stated upon attempting to drive from a complete stop, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that upon attempting to drive the vehicle 30 minutes later, the vehicle responded as needed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the vehicle was diagnosed that the valve body had failed. The mechanic determined that the valve body and the entire transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure and charged a fee for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 77,636. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint #11593371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bakersfield, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My vehicle has been having issues for several months now. I have taken it to Nissan, an auto shop, and Infiniti and no one has been able to find out what’s wrong with it, why it stalls to start on a cold start. Infiniti has had my car for a month now because they believe it’s the fuel pressure sensor and they are waiting on the part, for which they have no estimated time of arrival, but they are not sure is that is what is wrong with the car.
NHTSA complaint #11569619 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
North Brunswick, NJ
ENGINE
Internal engine mechanical issues, infiniti of bridgewater diagnosis. The engine cut off midway while driving on the highway. Vehicle received an engine replacement 1-2 years ago from Infiniti of edison (ray catena) who were shut down after the replacement. There was absolutely no warnings or problems before hand.
NHTSA complaint #11557870 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesHemet, CA
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2016 Infiniti Q50. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle failed to accelerate and stalled. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of fuel even when the vehicle was driven a short distance. The contact stated that the rear driver’s and passenger’s side door latches were inoperable and failed to securely lock. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #11555445 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.