ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
2020 INFINITI QX50
Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data
Data refreshed
Overview
Our database contains 30 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2020 INFINITI QX50, most frequently naming the engine, driver assistance and electrical categories. 2 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; 1 NHTSA investigation names it; and 153 manufacturer communications are on file.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Complaint activity over time
When owners filed reports about this model year
View as table
| Month | Complaints filed | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 2020 | 1 | 1 |
| Mar 2021 | 2 | 3 |
| Dec 2021 | 1 | 4 |
| Jan 2022 | 2 | 6 |
| May 2023 | 1 | 7 |
| Jan 2024 | 1 | 8 |
| Jul 2024 | 1 | 9 |
| Sep 2024 | 1 | 10 |
| Jan 2025 | 1 | 11 |
| Jun 2025 | 1 | 12 |
| Aug 2025 | 1 | 13 |
| Sep 2025 | 3 | 16 |
| Nov 2025 | 6 | 22 |
| Jan 2026 | 3 | 25 |
| Feb 2026 | 5 | 30 |
What owners report
Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded
- Engine1950.0%
- Driver assistance821.1%
- Electrical410.5%
- Powertrain (other)410.5%
- Brakes25.3%
- Fuel system12.6%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Safety recalls
2 campaigns cover this model year
Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.
Check a VIN on NHTSA.govEQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS; TIRES
Safety investigations
NHTSA inquiries naming this vehicle. An investigation is not a finding of a defect.
Complete loss of motive power due to engine failure
On December 13, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-023 to investigate allegations of engine failures leading to loss of motive power in model year (MY) 2021-2023 Nissan Rogue; MY 2019-2021 Nissan Altima; and MY 2019-2021 Infiniti QX50 vehicles. At that time, ODI had received 6 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQ) and multiple early warning reports, with consumers reporting engine knocking noises accompanied by a loss of engine power while driving. The investigation identified bearing failures in certain vehicles equipped with the subject 3-cylinder 1.5L or 4-cylinder 2.0L variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engines. ODI also identified early warning reports describing thermal incidents that occurred immediately after the vehicle suffered a catastrophic engine failure. The failures were the result of a manufacturing defect in specific engine bearings (main, A-, C-, and L-link) or other engine components that may cause engine damage and potentially lead to engine failure. Engine failure can result in a loss of motive power event that can increase the risk of a crash. Engine failure might also result in a fire if internal components detach and impact the engine block creating a hole that allows engine oil to reach hot surfaces. In its April 2024, May 2024, and June 2025 responses to ODI’s information requests, Nissan provided 998 customer reports (including complaints, field reports, and legal claims) and 1,107 warranty claims related to the alleged defect. When combining ODI and manufacturer report data, there are 1,878 unique VINs that have experienced failures across all subject vehicles. In one of the early warning reports, ODI identified an incident involving a 2022 Infiniti QX55 that resulted in an engine fire following an alleged engine failure. The 2022 Infiniti QX55 was not included in the scope of this investigation but the vehicle model shares the same 4-cylinder 2.0L variable compression turbo engine. Based on the information included with the early warning report, the fire can be directly related to the alleged defect. A further review of ODI and manufacturer data, identified 12 allegations of engine compartment fires in subject vehicles; three were confirmed as directly related to the engine failure, and nine reports described an under-hood fire that occurred following a loss of power event. Additionally, ODI identified multiple reports describing an engine block crack or hole surrounded by oil residue following an engine failure. On June 27, 2025, Nissan submitted recall 25V-437 involving 443,899 MY 2021-2023 Nissan Rogue, MY 2019-2021 Nissan Altima; MY 2019-2021 Infiniti QX50; and 2022 Infiniti QX55 vehicles. The recall remedy provides the dealer instructions to inspect the engine oil pan for the presence of specific metal debris. For customers with the 3-cylinder 1.5L VC-Turbo engine, if no debris is detected during the inspection, dealers will replace the oil pan gasket, engine oil, and reprogram the vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM). For customers with the 4-cylinder 2.0L VC-Turbo engine, if no debris is detected, dealers will replace the engine oil. In the case where specific debris is detected and confirmed by Nissan Powertrain Call Center, dealers will be instructed to replace the engine. In addition, Nissan will extend the vehicle warranty to 10 years and 120,000 miles for the recall subject vehicle population after the dealer performs the inspection. Nissan has implemented multiple corrective actions to address the identified manufacturing defects of certain engine block internal components. In view of the recall action (25V437) taken by Nissan, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Recent owner complaints
Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words
I am a [XXX] woman who purchased my first vehicle on December 6, 2024, with 43,000 miles. I have driven fewer than 20,000 miles since purchase, and the vehicle currently has approximately 62,000 miles. Until January 19, 2026, I experienced no issues. I have properly maintained the vehicle and followed all recommended service guidelines. I completed three oil changes during my ownership, averaging approximately every 8,500 miles. Two oil changes were performed by a licensed mechanic, and the most recent oil change and inspection were completed on November 29, 2025 at Legend Infiniti. I have receipts for all services. On January 19, 2026, while driving approximately 65 mph on a four-lane highway in Long Island, the vehicle suddenly went into limp mode and dropped to about 10 mph without warning. This created an extremely dangerous situation with a serious risk of collision. I first brought the vehicle to my mechanic, who advised me to take it to an authorized Infiniti dealership due to an engine bearing recall associated with my VIN. I brought it to the same Infiniti dealership that had serviced it two months earlier. After diagnosis, the dealership stated there was engine sludge and that I needed a new engine. They denied any connection to the recall and attributed the issue to poor maintenance. However, two months prior they completed an oil change and inspection with no documentation of sludge, engine concerns, or maintenance deficiencies. I was not informed of any recall at that time. My warranty claim was denied on the basis that sludge is not covered and that maintenance performed outside Infiniti could not be validated, despite providing receipts from licensed facilities. I am also being told there are record-access issues because the vehicle was originally sold in Canada. Given the sudden loss of power at highway speed and the known recall related to engine components, I believe this presents a significant safety concern and warrants investigation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFO
- NHTSA ID
- 11719065
- Incident
- Jan 19, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Infiniti QX50. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign: 25V437000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, other failures occurred. The contact stated that after the vehicle was dropped off by the local dealer, the front passenger’s side tire deflated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was repaired. The contact stated that the underbody shield of the engine guard had detached, allowing road debris to enter the hood. In addition, the contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start as intended, with a rattling sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where the vehicle was lost and misplaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 51,000.
- NHTSA ID
- 11715926
- Incident
- Dec 18, 2025
- Mileage
- 51,000 mi
RECIEVE 5 RECALL NOTICE BUT DEALER WILL NOT LOOK INTO THE RECALL. DEALER IS INFINITI OF FIFE IN TACOMA WASHINGTON. MY CONCERN IS THAT THE VEHICLE BREAKDOWN AND THEY SAID IT'S NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR HOW CAN I PROVE THAT.
- NHTSA ID
- 11715564
- Incident
- Feb 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Infiniti QX50. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V437000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The local dealer was contacted to schedule an appointment, and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was called, but the call was disconnected. The contact had not experienced a failure.
- NHTSA ID
- 11715561
- Incident
- Feb 4, 2026
VEHICLE : IMNFINITI QX50 YEAR: 2020 LOCATION : PUERTO RICO My Infiniti QX50 has an active engine recall by VIN In 2023 the Infiniti dealer in San Juan PR documented oil sludge in the engine and performed and engine flush and internal treatment . The vehicle was returned to service and was not declare unsafe In 2024 , the same Infiniti dealer performed maintenance and again returned the vehicle to service without restriction The vehicle has now develop internal engine damage . The dealer is denying recall coverage , stating the damage is due to oil sludge and alleged lack of maintenance . The denial is inconsistent with service history , as the sludge was documented and treated while the vehicle was under dealer maintenance , and dealer performed maintenance continued after that finding. Additionally , Infiniti Consumer Affair stated they cannot assist because the vehicle is in Puerto Rico. I am concerned about federal safety recall. not being honored in US territory , and about vehicle being unsafe to operate due to engine failure risk I am requesting NHTSA review and assistance to ensure recall compliance
- NHTSA ID
- 11714907
- Incident
- Jan 13, 2026
Received safety recall August 22, 2025. Still no remedy or communication. Recall data was refreshed January 19, 2026 reports unrepaired recall with no remedy plan. Is this a continuing safety risk?
- NHTSA ID
- 11711895
- Incident
- Jan 19, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Infiniti QX50. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V437000 ( Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact called the local dealer and was advised that parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had been changing the oil every 3,000 miles as mitigation for the remedy not being available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
- NHTSA ID
- 11710323
- Incident
- Jun 26, 2025
I received notification from Infiniti there was a recall for engines failing in the model I drive. I promptly took my vehicle to the dealership, and they confirmed there is metal shavings engine and Infiniti refused to replace the engine. An independent review was done by Infiniti and even though the dealership agrees engine needs replaced Infiniti refused. I am attaching invoice and pictures attached of oil pan confirming metal shavings are present.
- NHTSA ID
- 11710207
- Incident
- Dec 16, 2025
Manufacturer communications
A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.
STRUCTURE:BODY
CERTIFICATION LABEL AND VIN PLATE REPLACEMENT SERVICE INFORMATION Because of collision damage or other vehicle repair, a replacement “Certification Label” or “VIN Plate/Label” may be needed. HINT: Certification Label = FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) label. These items may be available from Infiniti by request if certain criteria are met. This bulletin lists the criteria and provides an application form for such replacements. · The “VIN Plate/Label” (metal plate or vinyl label) is attached to the instrument panel or body on the driver side at the base of the windshield (see Figure 1). · The “Certification Label” (vinyl adhesive label) is located on the lower area of the driver side B-Pillar (see Figure 1).
STRUCTURE:BODY
IF YOU CONFIRM The client states that either the rear hatch is inoperative, or the rear hatch closes after opening only a small amount, AND DTC B2426-23 for “SPINDLE SENSOR LH” and/or DTC B2427-23 for “SPINDLE SENSOR RH” is stored, AND/OR There is a growling type noise from the rear hatch area when opening/closing the rear hatch. · DTC B2426-23 for “SPINDLE SENSOR LH” and/or DTC B2427-23 for “SPINDLE SENSOR RH” may also be stored. HINT: If any DTC other than B2426-23 and/or B2427-23 is stored, this bulletin does not apply. ACTION Replace ONLY the spindle unit that is confirmed to be setting one of the DTCs listed above and/or causing the growling noise. Do NOT replace both spindle units when diagnosis leads to replacement of only one. HINT: Rear hatch spindle units are not hydraulic systems. If a rear hatch spindle unit appears to be leaking, this is normal drainage of water (rain, car wash, condensation) and design intended water management. Do not replace spindle units for suspected leaking. IMPORTANT: The purpose of ACTION (above) is to give you a quick idea of the work you will be performing. You MUST closely follow the entire SERVICE PROCEDURE as it contains information that is essential to successfully completing this repair.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
AEB WARNING LIGHT IS ON WITH WARNING MESSAGES DISPLAYED ON COMBINATION METER APPLIED VEHICLES: 2015-2024 Q50 (V37) 2015-2018 Q50 Hybrid (HV37) 2017-2022 Q60 (CV37) 2015-2019 Q70 (Y51) 2015-2018 Q70 Hybrid (HY51) 2019-2024 QX50 (J55) 2022-2024 QX55 (FJ55) 2015-2021 QX60 (L50) 2022-2024 QX60 (L51) 2015-2019 QX60 Hybrid (L50H) 2015-2024 QX80 (Z62) SERVICE INFORMATION The AEB system is designed to turn itself OFF during driving conditions (e.g., rain, snow, fog, etc.) that obstruct its sensors. This behavior is normal, and no repairs should be performed. When the AEB system performs an intentional shutdown, the customer may state the following: The ICC stopped working while driving, The AEB/FEB warning light is ON, or turned ON, while driving (Figure 1), The message “Unavailable Front Radar Obstruction” or “Forward Driving Aids Temporarily Disabled Front Sensor Blocked See Owner's Manual” has displayed while driving (Figure 2). AND DTC C1A16, C1A16-97, C2582, or C2582-97 is the ONLY DTC stored. Figure 1 Figure 2 Forward Driving Aids Temporarily Disabled Front Sensor Blocked See Owner’s Manual
AIR BAGS
DTC B00A0-00 STOREIF YOU CONFIRM DTC B00A0-00 (OCCUPANT DETECTION SENSOR UNIT) is stored, AND OCS zero point reset cannot be performed, (continued on the next page)D
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TELEMATICS CONTROL UNIT RESET AFTER AUTOMATIC COLLISION NOTIFICATION SERVICE INFORMATION The Telematics Control Unit (TCU) has the ability to send an automatic collision notification when the vehicle is involved in an accident. Once an automatic collision notification is performed, the function becomes disabled and the TCU must be reset to re-enable the automatic collision notification function. Some models will store DTC B2E1B-97 for “Automatic eCAll locked” as “CURRENT” when this function is disabled. This bulletin describes how to reset the TCU after an automatic collision notification has been performed. For models with B2E1B-97 for “Automatic eCAll locked” set as “CURRENT”, complete the SERVICE PROCEDURE starting on page 2, and then erase DTCs after confirming the TCU condition is “UNLOCK”.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
AV CONTROL UNIT REPLACEMENT PROCESS This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin. IF YOU CONFIRM The AV control unit needs to be replaced. ACTION 1. Read and save the VIN. 2. Read and save the configuration. 3. Replace the AV control unit. 4. Reprogram the AV control unit. 5. Configure the AV control unit. 6. Write the VIN to the AV control unit. IMPORTANT: Procedures 4-6 above must be performed in the order shown below. ORDER OF COMPLETION REPROGRAM AV Control Unit CONFIGURE AV Control Unit WRITE VIN to AV Control Unit Infiniti
Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.
Compare model years
Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.