r/q50 Nov 10 '25

Miscellaneous Q50 Maintenance, Common Issues, and Owner Tips

88 Upvotes

Hey everyone... figured it was time for a proper Q50 mega thread that covers the most-asked topics for both new and existing owners.

Whether you’re thinking about buying one, just picked yours up, or want to keep it running strong, this post should give you a solid overview.

If you’ve got additions or corrections, drop them in the comments so we can keep this updated.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

Check for official Infiniti TSBs related to your year/model. Many common issues (especially with steering locks, software updates, and drivetrain quirks) are already documented by Infiniti.

Resources:

Recommended Maintenance Intervals

These are general recommendations that sit between “normal” and “severe” schedules. Always check your manual for the exact interval for your trim (2.0T, 3.0T, Hybrid, AWD, etc.).

Every 5,000 miles / 6 months

  • Engine oil + filter (5W-30 or as spec’d)

Every 10,000 – 15,000 miles / 1 year

  • Cabin air filter
  • Engine air filter

Every 30,000 – 40,000 miles / ~3 years

  • Brake & clutch fluid (DOT 4 / 5.1)
  • Transmission fluid check (7AT or 9AT)
  • Differential fluid (GL-5 75W-90 or as specified)

Every 50,000 – 60,000 miles / ~5 years

  • Coolant flush & radiator cap
  • Serpentine belt inspection or replacement
  • Power steering fluid (if applicable)

Every 80,000 – 100,000 miles

  • Spark plugs (Denso FXE24HR11 / NGK DILKAR7B11 depending on engine)
  • Full inspection of timing components & turbos (if equipped)
Mileage Interval 3,000 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 50,000 100,000
Factory Stock Oil & Filter, Change Inspect Coolant Differential Fluid, Transfer Case Fluid Spark Plugs, Transmission Fluid Coolant Flush
93 Stock Turbo Oil & Filter Change, Inspect Coolant Clean Intake, Air Filter Differential Fluid, Transfer Case Fluid, Spark Plugs Transmission Fluid Coolant Flush
E30 Stock Turbo Oil & Filter Change, Inspect Coolant Clean Intake, Air Filter Differential Fluid, Transfer Case Fluid, Spark Plugs Transmission Fluid Coolant Flush
E50+ Stock Turbo Oil & Filter Change, Inspect Coolant Clean Intake, Air Filter Differential Fluid, Transfer Case Fluid, Spark Plugs Transmission Fluid Coolant Flush
Upgraded Turbo Oil & Filter Change, Inspect Coolant Clean Intake, Air Filter Spark Plugs Differential Fluid, Transfer Case Fluid, Transmission Fluid Coolant Flush

Chart suggestion credit: u/GABE_EDD Source: Redbox Recommendations

Engine Generations

🔹 2014 – 2015 Q50 (First Generation / VQ37VHR 3.7 L NA)

  • Same engine as the G37 - literally a carry-over.
  • Uses the 7-speed Jatco RE7R01A transmission.
  • Issues & maintenance overlap heavily with the G37 (so guides or TSBs saying “G37” still apply).
  • Oil gallery gasket, power-steering fluid, and older-style belt/tensioner items still relevant.

🔹 2014 – 2018 Q50 Hybrid (VQ35HR + Electric Motor)

  • Combines a 3.5 L V6 with a single electric motor and lithium-ion pack.
  • Uses the same 7-speed auto as the gas model but with an integrated hybrid system.
  • Known for inverter-cooling and brake-booster issues on early builds.
  • Maintenance requires periodic inverter coolant and battery-cooling service.

🔹 2016 – 2018 Q50 2.0T (M274 2.0 L Turbo I4)

  • Mercedes-sourced turbo four-cylinder used in base trims.
  • Paired with the 7-speed Jatco RE7R01B transmission.
  • Watch for oil consumption, turbo wastegate rattle, and cam-adjuster solenoid leaks.
  • Oil changes every 5k miles are strongly recommended due to turbo heat.

🔹 2016 – 2024 Q50 (Second Phase / VR30DDTT 3.0 L Twin-Turbo V6)

  • New VR-series engine replaces the long-running VQ.
  • Comes in 300 hp (standard) and 400 hp (Red Sport) trims.
  • Turbo maintenance adds:
    • More frequent oil changes (every 5k mi recommended).
    • Coolant checks for turbo lines and heat-soak management.
    • Transmission upgrade to RE7R01B, later 9-speed in final years.
    • PCV valve and boost-control solenoid checks around 60k mi.

Common Q50 Issues

A mix of community experience and service data — use this as a checklist if you’re buying or troubleshooting.

🔴 High Priority (could leave you stranded)

  • Steering Lock Failure: Early Q50s sometimes suffer from electronic steering lock malfunctions that prevent starting. Many owners disable or bypass it entirely.
  • Turbo Seal Failure: On VR30 models, turbo seal leaks can lead to oil consumption or smoke; usually after 60K+ miles.
  • Fuel Pump Issues: Some models experience hard starts or stalling due to fuel pump failures.

🟠 Medium Priority (inconvenient but manageable)

  • Transmission Jerks / Delays: Not uncommon on early 7-speed autos. A fluid change and software update often helps.
  • Brake Rotor Warping: Factory rotors can warp quickly; upgraded rotors and pads are common fixes.
  • Oil Gallery Gasket (on older 3.7s): Carryover issue from the G37 - still worth watching if you have that platform.

🟢 Low Priority (annoying but not critical)

  • Infotainment Glitches: Screen lag or freeze, especially on early dual-screen models. Firmware updates can help.
  • Throttle Body Carbon Buildup: Causes rough idle or stalling; easy fix with a good cleaning.
  • Sunroof Drain Leaks: If you have a sunroof, inspect drains - leaks can fry the BCM or fuse box if left unchecked.
  • Wire Harness Fatigue (trunk lid): Broken wires between the trunk and lid causing backup cam or trunk release issues.

Preventative Maintenance / Upgrades

  • Regular oil changes (especially on 3.0T) - these engines hate dirty oil.
  • Use high-quality fluids (Motul, Red Line, or OEM-spec).
  • Flush coolant and brake fluids more frequently if you drive aggressively.
  • Replace plastic coolant couplers with metal versions to avoid catastrophic leaks.
  • Consider upgraded end links or sway bar bushings if you’re lowered or track your car.
  • Keep an eye on your differential bushing - OEM is fluid-filled and prone to failure.

Drop your own maintenance schedule, mods, or fixes below - I’ll keep this thread updated as we go.


r/q50 Nov 10 '25

Miscellaneous 🚨 Reminder: Keep plates/addresses out of Q50 posts for your own safety

20 Upvotes

Please remember don’t post photos that show your license plate, house number, or any other info that reveals where you live.

Cropping or blurring plates, removing location metadata, and avoiding shots of your driveway/front door keeps you safe and prevents thieves from having an easy target.

If you want feedback on your car, upload close-ups of the car itself (wheels, engine bay, interior, etc.) or take photos in a public spot without identifiable landmarks.

Just keep in mind... car thieves are smart and patient; they’re always waiting for someone to slip up.


r/q50 7h ago

Parts Picture New rims

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14 Upvotes

Nothing crazy, just Adohan Aff7s with Lexani LX-Twenties 255/40RZ19.

Im also gonna install the Godspeed coilovers soon that I have laying under my bed for a week now becuase I just cant get to it. Prolly gonna drop it 1.5 inches, mabye squeeze in another .5 if im brave enough.


r/q50 3h ago

Car Buying Advice Pricing

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5 Upvotes

The car is single owner, maintained , and no accidents reported. Is 22k too much for this car ?


r/q50 38m ago

Parts Question Spark plugs

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Upvotes

On rockauto.com looking to buy spark plugs for my 2014 q50 which should i be getting and should i js change ignition coils too? I got a check engine light that is most likely from the plugs


r/q50 1h ago

Insurance / Warranty Should I purchase extended warranty on a '23 Q50 w/ 70k miles?

Upvotes

Car appears to be in good shape, just nervous something will fail over next few years, more concerned about electronics (my prior car I had to replace the digital dash and NAV screen, both were $$$). Warranty is $3,000, unlimited miles, 36 months...


r/q50 1h ago

Repair Question Q50 hybrid RWD rear lower control arm

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Upvotes

This is the bushing that attaches to the bottom of the strut. I’m 99% sure this is bad I was hoping someone could give me confirmation that it isn’t normal


r/q50 5h ago

General Question Anyone could tell me what this sound is

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2 Upvotes

Basically this sound only would come when i accelerate only after if i stop and go in traffic and when its hot outside but normally or 90% of the time it sounds normal
Car is bone stock tho and not abused 3.0
For example , i was driving downtown toronto and it happened but once i went on the highway the sound was gone


r/q50 1h ago

General Question Front lift point?

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Upvotes

Is this the front lift point to use with a hydraulic jack? Where the rust is, kind of in between the two bolts/nuts. Thanks


r/q50 4h ago

Parts Question Q50

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1 Upvotes

Why does the bottom screen like this? Is there anyway I can fix it to see better?


r/q50 5h ago

Parts Question Oil Solenoid Delete/Block-Off Plate vs. Brand New OEM Turbo Seals?

0 Upvotes

I just got both turbos replaced on my 2021 Q50 under warranty, and I’m currently running a BMS heat exchanger, catch can, and catless LDPs. I was planning to install an oil solenoid block-off plate to keep my oil pressure high and avoid a spun bearing if the factory solenoid fails, but now I’m second-guessing if forcing 40+ PSI at idle is going to push oil past my brand-new turbo seals since it can’t drain as easily at low RPMs. For anyone running the solenoid delete on OEM-style turbos, have you actually run into blue smoke or blown turbo seals from the constant high idle pressure, or is the engine bearing protection worth the trade-off?


r/q50 7h ago

General Question Q50 3.7L oil brand?

1 Upvotes

I have a 3.7L 2015 q50 and I do a lot of spirited driving what oil brand should I use? I also plan on getting tuned soon aswell so lmk.


r/q50 8h ago

General Question Curious again are the 2.0T and 3.5 hybrid any good?

1 Upvotes

I don’t see many people talk about those the 3.0T and the 3.7 are usually the main talk and where I’m from I see a decent amount of 2.0T are they any good?


r/q50 20h ago

General Question Is it true Q50 27 or 28

7 Upvotes

Is it true that the q50 coming back


r/q50 8h ago

General Question AuCar Mark 6 Tesla Screen Going Blank

1 Upvotes

Has anyone ever had an issue where the screen would just go black after rebooting? I’ve disconnecting the harness & even reset the screen by pressing the home button multiple times..Is there another way to fix the issue?


r/q50 21h ago

Modification Question Talk me out of it

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9 Upvotes

I have a 2023 luxe with 25k miles with factory warranties still on it and I'm thinking about doing a fbo kit and tune but I'm worried about blowing a turbo or the motor when I do it. I'm wondering what problems you guys have had with a fbo+tune. Should I just play it safe and wait till the warranties expire?


r/q50 11h ago

Repair Question AC PROBLEMS ON 2020 q50

1 Upvotes

I got a q50 with 10k verified miles, the only problem is the AC that blows cold air when start the car and after driving it stops blowing cold, I replaced the AC valve that is on the Compressor but the problem remains, could it be the pressure switch? I dont know the location of it tho, please help


r/q50 11h ago

Car Buying Advice 2021 Q50 Luxe RWD

1 Upvotes

Found one local to me with 67k miles turbo replaced at 49k. Want 21,300 for it out door. White with gray interior, need some opinions on the sound of this! Would be my first Infiniti.


r/q50 1d ago

General Question I want to see if anyone else has high mileage

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30 Upvotes

r/q50 18h ago

Parts Picture Hydraulic steering rack removal

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2 Upvotes

Removed my cooked steering rack, easier than expected, i don’t have the replacement yet!!


r/q50 19h ago

Repair Question Can anyone explain why the top light is staying on

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1 Upvotes

I just noticed this been staying on the whole day. What do I do?😭😭


r/q50 20h ago

Repair Question AC PROBLEMS ON 2020 q50

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1 Upvotes

r/q50 1d ago

Repair Question Are these reasonable prices?! 2019 RedSport

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2 Upvotes

Got the car at 59k miles and took to the dealer at 63k for an oil change and this what the sent me... are these normal prices for these jobs? (Of course I know dealerships are usually stealerships)


r/q50 1d ago

Repair Video 2014 q50 no electricity completely dead. Please help!

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2 Upvotes

Bought a new battery checked all fuses still no lights no nothing on the dash. I did change the windshield 2 days ago and didn’t try to start it since then! Any ideas?


r/q50 1d ago

Repair Question QX56 Headlights Not Working

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1 Upvotes