Infiniti QX56 Common Faults: Problems, Breakdowns And Solutions!

How good is the Infiniti QX56?

The Infiniti QX56 is considered mediocre in terms of reliability. Consumers rate it 2.5 out of 5.0, ranking it 12th out of 19 full-size luxury SUVs. Meanwhile, JD Power gives the 2011 Infiniti QX56 a quality and reliability score of 75 out of 100, which is considered average.

This model has above average cost of ownership . You are more likely to develop a problem that needs to be fixed or replaced, and there is a greater chance that the problem is serious and needs major repairs. It can reach 100,000 miles or more with regular maintenance and immediate replacement of bad or old parts.

Common failures of the Infiniti QX56

The QX56 saw production from 2004 to 2014 before Nissan redesigned and rebadged it as the QX80. And Infiniti QX56 reliability issues vary in severity and frequency between model years.

Some reports revealed that the 2011 Infiniti QX56 received the highest number of complaints. Meanwhile, the 2005 QX56 is considered the least reliable model year. Below are some of the common failures of the Infiniti QX56 through its model years:

1. Noise problems in the timing chain

The 2013 Infiniti QX56’s timing chain is an important part of the engine system, and usually cannot be heard over the other sounds made by the engine. However, some drivers have reported hearing loud hissing, hissing, or popping sounds when their SUV was started.

The strange sounds would last for several minutes and the engine would not produce as much power as it should . Reports show that the noises can appear from 31,000 kilometers.

Replacing the timing chain usually fixes the problem. It may also be necessary to replace the variable timing camshaft sprockets. Some owners of 2005, 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2012 Infiniti QX56s have also reported this issue.

2. Problems with chipping and peeling paint

The paint on the 2011 Infiniti QX56 amplifies its elegant and luxurious style. This is why some drivers are disappointed when the paint on their SUV has a tendency to peel.

Affected owners have reported bubbling, peeling and flaking paint on the roofline above the windshield, the hood near the windshield, the tailgate below the window, and both sides of the rear hatch.

At first, drivers thought something hard (such as hail or debris) had hit the QX56’s body panel, allowing moisture to seep under the paint and reduce its adhesion.

However, upon inspection, the flaking issue was actually caused by a manufacturer defect . Air bubbles formed under the paint during the painting process. These bubbles made it much more likely that the paint would come off the body panel.

3. Power liftgate failure

One of the best features of the 2010 Infiniti QX56 is its abundant cargo space, especially after folding down the second and third row seats. A rear power door makes it easy to access the cargo space, but several drivers have reported that their door stopped working properly.

Bad tailgate could not be fully closed or opened again, causing warning noises. Automatic openers and closers may stop working. In some cases, pressing the control button would cause a screeching noise while the gate was closed. The rear door could also stop locking.

Other Infiniti QX56 model years where the same problem has been reported include the 2004-2009, 2011 and 2013 models.

4. Transmission Radiator Fluid Leak Problems

The 2008 Infiniti QX56’s radiator helps keep the engine running at a safe temperature. However, some drivers have reported that their radiator is leaking transmission coolant.

The radiator stores both engine coolant and transmission fluid. If the barrier between the two fluids cracks due to wear or damage, the refrigerant and oil could mix.

Increased friction and the resulting heat will wear transmission parts more quickly and reduce the excellent performance of the Infiniti QX56’s transmission. When this happens, both the radiator and the transmission need to be replaced.

Some drivers of the 2004 and 2005 model year Infiniti QX56 have reported similar issues with the radiator and transmission. In at least one case, the transmission failed while driving and the driver lost control of his vehicle.

5. Front suspension failure

The 2007 Infiniti GX56 typically has a smooth ride on all but the roughest terrain. However, the coil springs in the front suspension can wear out, causing the suspension to make knocking or clicking noises whenever the vehicle hits a pothole or falls into a pothole. Many owners had to replace their coil springs to fix this problem .

6. Exhaust manifold problems

Exhaust manifolds transfer the gases produced by the 2006 Infiniti QX56 engine to the exhaust system. In some cases, the manifolds could develop cracks that let exhaust gases escape and make noise. Drivers of affected units have reported hearing a ticking noise when accelerating with a cold engine. Some compared the sound to that of a diesel engine.

7. Problems with the fuel gauge

Several drivers have complained about problems with the fuel gauge on the 2005 Infiniti QX56. When filling up the fuel tank, the gauge took a long time to update . It could also show inaccurate readings, such as indicating that the fuel tank was 1/4 full when it was actually empty.

To complete

The Infiniti QX56 is a good choice for an SUV and can serve you for many years if well maintained. Whether you’re a new driver or a veteran of the road, it’s worth reading up on common Infiniti QX56 faults. This will help you prevent problems from escalating and help you get the most out of the life of your SUV.