Least Reliable Infiniti Models Ranked: From Worst to Best
You’ve probably heard that Japanese cars are built to last, but here’s the uncomfortable truth—not every Infiniti model lives up to that reputation. Some have serious problems that can leave you stranded or facing a hefty repair bill.
TL;DR
While Infiniti makes some solid luxury vehicles, certain models have significant reliability concerns. The biggest issues revolve around turbocharger failures in Q50 and Q60 models with the VR30 engine, particularly from 2016-2018 . The QX80 has received poor reliability ratings after its 2025 redesign . And models with Nissan’s CVT transmission—like the QX50 and QX55—continue to be a concern . This guide ranks the least reliable Infiniti models so you know exactly what to avoid.
Key Takeaways
- The 2016-2018 Q50 and 2017-2018 Q60 have known turbo problems—Infiniti even issued a warranty extension for them
- The redesigned 2025 QX80 is off to a rough start, earning poor reliability scores from J.D. Power
- CVT transmissions in the QX50 and QX55 are a weak point, shared with Nissan’s problematic history
- The 2014 Q70 (first model year) had multiple recalls including unintended acceleration and transmission housing fractures
- Some QX60 owners report transmission failures even on newer models
The Turbos That Haunt Infiniti: Q50 and Q60
If there’s one problem that defines Infiniti’s reliability reputation, it’s the turbocharger issues on the VR30 engine. This 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 powers the Q50 sedan and Q60 coupe, and it’s been a source of headaches for many owners.
The Turbo Failure Problem
On some 2016-2018 Q50 and 2017-2018 Q60 vehicles, the turbocharger bearing can leak engine oil internally due to premature wear . This leads to:
- Excessive smoke from the exhaust
- Service Engine Soon (MIL) light coming on
- In severe cases, lack of engine power or internal turbo damage
Infiniti acknowledged the problem and issued a warranty extension covering turbocharger replacement for 10 years or 120,000 miles . But that doesn’t change the fact that many owners have faced this expensive repair.
“With Infiniti turbos a known failure at this point, why not stop by the nearest Dealership and see what they say” .
Updated Turbos May Not Fix Everything
Infiniti has gone through multiple revisions of these turbos. The original version (Rev. A) was made by Honeywell and included an EGT sensor. Rev. B removed the sensor, and starting in 2023, Infiniti started sourcing turbos from Garrett .
Unfortunately, even the updated turbos haven’t been bulletproof. Some forum members report having multiple turbo replacements on the same car . One owner shared:
“I have a 2019 so I have some time under warranty, but already thinking about getting rid of it prior to the warranty ending” .
Other Q50 and Q60 Problems
The Q50 has had other issues too:
- Warped brakes on 2014-2015 models, causing groaning noises when braking
- Direct adaptive steering problems on 2014-2016 models, making the vehicle hard to control
- Driveshaft failure affecting 2014-2018 models
- Fuel pump failures on 2016-2018 models
The QX80: Big SUV, Big Problems
The Infiniti QX80 is the brand’s flagship SUV, but recent reliability data is concerning.
Poor Reliability Scores
Consumer Reports data shows the QX80 has terrible reliability ratings—right up there with Land Rover Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz GLS . J.D. Power gives the 2026 QX80 a “Fair” quality and reliability rating of just 66 out of 100 .
The 2025 Redesign Made Things Worse
The QX80 was completely redesigned for 2025, replacing the old naturally aspirated V8 with a new twin-turbo V6. While the new engine delivers better power, reliability concerns are already surfacing . Both the 2025 and 2026 model years have been hit with multiple recalls.
The previous V8-powered QX80 wasn’t modern, but it had a reputation for durability over time . The new one? Too early to say, but the early signs aren’t promising.
The CVT Problem: QX50 and QX55
Nissan’s CVT (continuously variable transmission) has been a problem for years. Multiple class-action lawsuits and millions in settlement payouts later, the issues haven’t fully gone away .
Shared Nissan Problems
According to a Denver-based repair shop, Infiniti vehicles are essentially “Nissans,” so problems with the transmission, sensors, and electrical systems are to be expected . One mechanic put it bluntly: “Nissan and Infiniti are known for transmission problems; unfortunately, their CVTs just aren’t as durable” .
The QX50 and QX55 continue to use a CVT, making them risky choices for long-term ownership .
The QX60: Transmission Troubles
The QX60 is often considered one of Infiniti’s better models, but transmission problems have plagued some owners.
Real Owner Horror Stories
One 2020 QX60 owner reported a catastrophic failure:
“I purchased a 2020 in December 2022, in the last 45 days the transmission has failed. ($6000) Less than 700 miles later, the valve actuator went bad. ($4000)” .
She concluded with a blunt “Do not purchase!” and gave the car a 1/5 reliability rating.
CVT vs. Traditional Automatic
The QX60 used a CVT in earlier years, which many owners found problematic. The 2022 redesign switched to a nine-speed automatic, which improved things, but some owners still report delayed shifting or rough transitions .
The Q70: First and Last Years Are Risky
The Infiniti Q70 (formerly the M-Series) has its own set of problems.
2014: The Worst Year
The 2014 Q70 was the first model year and had a host of issues :
- Two separate recalls for driveshaft failures
- Unintended acceleration recall (over 6,500 units affected)
- Hybrid models had electric drive motor problems
- Transmission housings fracturing (fire risk)
2019: Final Year Issues
The 2019 model also had problems, including:
- Backup camera failures
- Leaking driveshafts (fire risk)
- Acceleration problems—including one case where the vehicle slowed to dangerous speeds
Infiniti vs. Lexus: The Reliability Gap
When you compare Infiniti to Lexus, the difference is clear. Over the last five years, Lexus has averaged a 87/100 reliability score from J.D. Power, while Infiniti averaged just 78/100 .
In the 2024 J.D. Power study, Infiniti had 219 problems per 100 vehicles, compared to just 135 for Lexus . The industry average was 190, so Infiniti is below average but not disastrously so .
Ranking the Least Reliable Infiniti Models
| Rank | Model | Years to Avoid | Major Problem |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Q50 / Q60 | 2016-2018 | Turbocharger failure (VR30 engine) |
| 2 | QX80 | 2025-2026 | Twin-turbo V6 reliability concerns, recalls |
| 3 | QX50 / QX55 | All years | CVT transmission problems |
| 4 | QX60 | Pre-2022 | CVT transmission failures |
| 5 | Q70 | 2014, 2019 | Driveshaft, transmission, electrical issues |
Is Any Infiniti Reliable?
Yes! Not all Infiniti models are problematic. The QX60 (with the newer nine-speed transmission) actually ranks as one of the most reliable luxury 6-seater SUVs . The Q50 with the 2.0-liter engine or older VQ-series V6 is more reliable than the VR30 turbo models.
The key is knowing which model years to buy and which to avoid.
Have you owned one of these Infiniti models? What was your experience like? Share your story in the comments below.
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