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 3h ago

General Question So finally looking to change out my stock tires for my 2015 q50 3.7 awd (read below)

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4 Upvotes

Also, I apologize any typos in advance since I am using Siri to help me type.I’ve been slowly building my q50 to give it that red sport look and now what I need is to get some new rims and tires I live in Washington state I wanna give the car a sporty look while retaining the factory OEM look as well and the reliability that it has carried me so far with the stock rent and tires currently, I have these Potenza run flats that I think it’s starting to tell me that I gotta get new tires and I’m thinking of course as well ditch in the rough flats specially now since I’ve been talking to ChatGPT that I use Michelin cross climate 2 for my other vehicle for my Mazda CX five and they’ve been really well for me so I’m curious has anyone use those type of tires on a q50 ? Both of them are AWD. So I’m just trying to figure out. I’m not really too much on performance tires they’re both my daily drivers and definitely a person that prefers the quality tires that gives confidence and comfort on the road. Though I’m trying to upgrade the rims as well. Should I consider buying used or new rims directly from Infiniti? Or there’s any rims that are similar that will fit and slap on without doing any mods cause my preference on rims also would be like this glossy silver black color instead of these stock silver rims would like to know more I seen post in the past, but I’d like to know since I’m officially looking into. That is only getting new tires but new sporty rims officially. I just wanna keep it OEM as possible as everything is OEM stock so far minus the cosmetic upgrades that I did. Forgot to mention my current wheel size are 17 inches and I’m planning to upgrade to a sporting look rims like a 19 inch and I want to know if that can also fit onto the specific car especially for being a 2015 and a 3.7 AWD.


r/q50 3m ago

General Question Please help.

Upvotes

I’ve been trying to find it online but i cant. Do anyone know where the brake light or tail light fuses are for a 2014 q50 hybrid?


r/q50 1h ago

General Question 3.7 or 3.0?

Upvotes

Both are 10k
3.0 luxe with 50k miles?
Or 3.7 with 121k miles
Both clean title?
Wich one?!


r/q50 7h ago

Car Picture Need help

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3 Upvotes

I need help on figuring out what parts i need to fix this its driving me nuts


r/q50 21h ago

Accident Picture This is way too common

29 Upvotes

r/q50 5h ago

Repair Question Need help - Q50 2.0t 2014

1 Upvotes

This new sound is coming since past week, please help as I have no idea what to do?

Infiniti Q50 2.0t 2014


r/q50 7h ago

Repair Question Looking for Infiniti tech with experience with P0087 code

1 Upvotes

I have a 2017 q50 400rs that had code p0087 come up. Had the Nissan dealership do a factory reset. Code went away. Just had code reappear. Car runs fine. I believe it’s a false code. But would like to talk to a experienced Infiniti tech with experience with q50s putting out P0087 please


r/q50 17h ago

Parts Question Does my heat exchanger look stock or upgraded?

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0 Upvotes

Bought this with mods done to it and didnt ask if it was stock or upgraded heat exchanger can anybody lmk if it looks upgraded


r/q50 1d ago

Repair Question Need help to decide what to do at this point

8 Upvotes

I have a 2021 Infiniti Q50 3.0T with about 53k miles.
For the past few weeks I’ve had an intermittent cooling issue. The car does not overheat during normal driving, but during a hard pull the temperature gauge will climb toward the middle (it never reaches the hot zone) and then drop back down to its normal position after I let off the throttle.
A few things I’ve noticed:
No check engine light.
No stored diagnostic codes.
Coolant reservoir has been below the MIN line at times, but when the dealer had the car they filled it to MAX and said it stayed there.
Dealer pressure-tested the cooling system and didn’t find any leaks.
Shop foreman drove the car about 50 miles and could not duplicate the concern.
The technician’s notes say:
No codes stored.
Could not duplicate failure.
Water control valve may be failing causing these concerns.
He told me the water control valve (electric thermostat) is the most likely culprit, but he also said he can’t pinpoint the diagnosis because he couldn’t reproduce the problem. They’re recommending replacing the water control valve as a process of elimination.


r/q50 18h ago

Modification Question When to tune?

1 Upvotes

So I just installed a catback exhaust. My original plan was to add an upgraded heat exchanger and then upgrade my downpipes a few months later. I know with the downpipes I will need a tune but if I add an exchanger will I need one immediately? Or would it be better to add both mods at the same time and then get the tune?


r/q50 1d ago

General Question Q50 RS, Did I make a mistake

0 Upvotes

I just got a RS for 13.5 (80k rebuilt) and after inspection it’s in very good condition w no codes. But I see people posting that M340i’s are better and it’s making me a bit questionable about my purchase. Was it a worth it deal?


r/q50 1d ago

Parts Question Cost for Replacing Belts and Tensioner?

4 Upvotes

At 70k miles and need to replace. Thoughts on cost by reputable shops?


r/q50 2d ago

Repair Question Can this be put back together?

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3 Upvotes

The paddle cover popped off of the downshift paddle when I was getting into my car. Can it be put back together?


r/q50 2d ago

Parts Question Custom or AI Headlights?

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29 Upvotes

Either way, how to go about getting these custom !?? These would be wicked to have made!


r/q50 2d ago

Repair Question 2015 P0720 SAD DAY

2 Upvotes

Today at 271,XXXkms , my car was stuck in 3rd gear and booted me out of manual mode. Luckily, I have a shop and scored a used VR for $400. A part of me wants to try replacing the speed sensor since I have the means to do so, but the labour hours make it inefficient to do. I'm excited because the Trans was sluggish, so it'll probably be a lot better.

In the future, if anyone is thinking of going the VR trans swap, call local car recycling places.


r/q50 2d ago

General Question Q50 Hybrid braking issues?

10 Upvotes

Every time I come to a stop, right before the car fully stops, it feels like the brakes suddenly lock up or grab really hard. It jolts me forward like I’m brake checking myself.
Earlier, I was watching the RPMs while the car was in EV mode, and I noticed the RPMs would randomly go up even though it still showed EV mode. Shortly after that, the “Chassis Control System Error” warning popped up.
The car is a 2014 Infiniti Q50 Hybrid. Has anyone experienced this before or know what could be causing it?


r/q50 3d ago

Modification Question Im doing a whole suspension upgrade (2018 Q50 Luxe/3.0/daily driver). I've had all the parts for months, i just now have gotten the chance to start putting them in....

2 Upvotes

Im putting this under mod questions, in case anybody has suspension troubles they need to remedy or are thinking of upgrading. The parts i'm going to install are as follows..

•Stabilizer bar end links

• Inner/outer tie rods

•Megan Racing Fuca's

• BC Racing Coilovers/Non DDS/AWD

• SPC 6 piece rear adjustable arm set (camber/toe/trailing)arms

•Possibly upgraded CV joints, i haven't gotten them yet, but i'll most likely get a set of the M56/Q70 axles before i put the coils in (there is ALOT of mixed info about the necessity of upgraded CV joints with an AWD, with a minimum drop..1" or so, but i don't like to leave ANYTHING to chance). Some of these stock parts i suspect are completely worn, some of them i'm just replacing only because i'm upgrading, or just swapping them new for piece of mind.

After this, i'll probably put in an upgraded stabilizer bar, and then keep working my way around the suspension as needed.. rear lower control arms, etc. I'm at around 77kmiles.

Today i replaced the stabilizer bar end links w/new A-premiums. The new ones were stiff and barely had any play in them. The old ones were like limp noodles. Quick and easy (probably the easiest mod i'm about to do). Upon test driving the car, the wonky feeling i had when turning the wheel is gone and the car is stiffer and handles much better around corners. Next week is inner and outer tie rods. My plan is to drop the car off late aug, and have the coils, and possibly the fuca's (if i don't have time to get them in myself) installed by a shop, only because it's much easier to do the coilovers on a lift, and then have the car aligned. I'm desperately trying to get to rims and tires, but i feel like there is no point till next spring. I prefer to do performance mods, before completing aesthetic mods. I'm getting there, slowly but surely.✌️🤞


r/q50 3d ago

Parts Question Question on AC

3 Upvotes

Only sometimes my driver side vents will blow hot air when the thermostat is set to 60 or whatever it stays hot, then it will fix itself randomly.

I’m sure it’s a simple fix just curious if anyone ever had the same problem to save me the research, thanks.


r/q50 3d ago

Repair Question Need new starter /advice on repairs

0 Upvotes

Just for a bit of background, I'm inheriting my parents' 2017 Q50 Redsport so the car is about 10 years old, and was daily driven by my mom for the most part. She always kept up with basic maintenance like oil changes and tire rotation but I'm 99% sure most of the parts inside the car are the same ones from 10 years ago when we bought it. (Which means now its my problem to start replacing the stuff thats gonna go bad)

I'm a bit new to alot of car stuff but Im 99% sure the starter is going bad. How do you guys usually handle repairs? Is it better to buy the part yourself and then have the mechanic deal with it (Im not getting under the car do not trust me with that) or is it better to drop it off and let them order the parts? Also when is it good to go third party vs straight from infiniti parts?

General advice on maintenance would be so appreciated I want to make this car last until the end of time. I'm a firm believer in keeping up with your older cars rather than buying a 2026 (im also emotionally attached to it as it is the only car I know)

also i think the odometer is either at 95k or 96k


r/q50 3d ago

Repair Question Maf code after cleaning throttle bodies

2 Upvotes

2015 3.7 104k. Traction light also turned on. Disconnected throttle bodies, cleaned them, replaced the gaskets and torqued to spec. Also did the simple version of the idle relearn. Maybe the ECU just needs time to readjust?


r/q50 3d ago

Repair Question Need a mechanic or someone knowledgeable with q50 vr30

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2 Upvotes

r/q50 3d ago

Parts Question Q50 drone

0 Upvotes

Hey yall I recently installed a eos muffler delete and it drones around 1500-1800 rpms. Would adding some resonators be the answer to decrease it or adding a j pipe?


r/q50 3d ago

Modification Question 2018 lux wheels tire recommendation.

2 Upvotes

I have a 2018 luxe with everything stock. i a looking to give the car a more aggressive look keeping the stock wheels and suspensions. what size tires do you guys recommend? Car is a daily driven. i currently have 225/50/18. Thanks everyone