2016 Infiniti QX50Recalls, problems, MPG & safety
NHTSA lists 0 safety recalls and 19 owner complaints for the 2016 Infiniti QX50. Most complaints involve engine (5) and electrical system (4). The EPA rates it 20 mpg combined.
Safety recalls
Owner complaints by component
- Engine5
- Electrical system4
- Power train3
- Air bags3
- Vehicle speed control3
- Fuel/propulsion system3
- Service brakes1
- Seats1
- Other / unknown6
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
What owners report most
Engine
“My qx50 is currently back in the shop. So far I’ve spent about $12,000 on engine and transmission repairs and the NHTSA doesn’t seem to be doing anything about it. Now it needs a new “ignition coil” for another $1,000. I’m just at a loss for words!! I’m attaching the “Review of services” that was conducted earlier this month, when my Infiniti was in the shop and the diagnostic codes that came up when I had to have the vehicle towed there, less than a week later.”
Electrical system
“The contact owns a 2016 Infiniti QX50. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she attempted to engage the horn to prevent a collision; however, the horn was inoperable. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the clockspring had melted onto the horn relay. The vehicle was not repaired. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,274.”
Power train
“so after my initial report about my engine catching fire on the highway, I received an invoice for $5,000 for a used engine with 80k miles on it; plus another $2800 for the service fee. I already put down about $3900 for the engine repair. The mechanic sent me pictures of the engine with the holes on it that caused the damage (or the holes might have happened during the fire). I’m attaching photos sent to me, from my mechanic, showing the holes/damage on the engine, for your consideration and a photo of the initial repair bill (including receipt of my deposit) for your review … also, I still need to pay another $4300 to pick it up, but he said my check engine light is still on due to a transmission, that may be related to the valve body failing. What are these qx50s still being sold?? On the car forums and YouTube, there are so many issues with the engines and the transmissions (including the 450k that are currently under investigation). And their consumer affairs dept is extremely hostile about the situation, when you call into the infiniti office/headquarters. These defective engines/ transmissions need to be recalled, as soon as possible. They’re extremely…”
Engines, transmissions & drive
- EPA class
- Small Station Wagons
- Engines
- 3.7L 6-cyl
- Transmissions
- Automatic (S7)
- Drive
- Rear-Wheel Drive · All-Wheel Drive
- Fuel
- Premium Gasoline
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
EPA fuel economy by version
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QX50 Auto (S7), 6 cyl, 3.7 L · Rear-Wheel Drive | 17 | 24 | 20 | $3,850 | 448 |
| QX50 AWD Auto (S7), 6 cyl, 3.7 L · All-Wheel Drive | 17 | 24 | 20 | $3,850 | 452 |
- 20mpg comb.
- 20mpg comb.
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings
Maintenance basics
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
- Engine oil & filter5,000–10,000 mi
6–12 months - Tire rotation5,000–7,500 mi
Every oil change - Engine air filter15,000–30,000 mi
1–2 years - Cabin air filter15,000–25,000 mi
1–2 years - Brake fluid—
2–3 years - Coolant60,000–100,000 mi
5–10 years - Spark plugs60,000–100,000 mi
— - 12V battery—
3–5 years
2016 QX50 questions
How many recalls does the 2016 Infiniti QX50 have?
0 recalls found in NHTSA data as of Nov 7, 2026.
What are the most common 2016 Infiniti QX50 problems?
Owners filed 19 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are engine (5), electrical system (4), power train (3). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
What MPG does the 2016 Infiniti QX50 get?
The EPA rates the 2016 Infiniti QX50 at 20 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (2 versions rated).