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Infiniti · Known Issues

2014 Infiniti QX50 Problems: 4 Known Issues

2014 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2014 Infiniti QX50 has 4 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Steering Wheel Lock / Ignition No-Start from Electronic Steering Lock Failure ($600-$1,800 repair) and Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR ($900-$2,800 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $2,800. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • QX50 Electrical1
  • QX50 Engine1
  • QX50 Body/Panels1
  • QX50 Suspension1
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical1
  • Engine1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Suspension1
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS2026202520242023202220212020201920182017201620152014

When Issues Typically Appear

Sunroof Drain / HVAC Evaporator Water Intrusion Causing Wet Carpets and Electrical Faults
20K-100K
Steering Wheel Lock / Ignition No-Start from Electronic Steering Lock Failure
30K-90K
Premature Front Lower Control Arm / Compression Rod Bushing Wear Causing Clunks and Tire Wear
40K-100K
Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR
60K-130K
038K75K113K150K mi

On the 2014-2016 Infiniti QX50 3.7L VQ37VHR V6, infiniti/Nissan vehicles using the electronic steering column lock system have a well-documented failure mode where the vehicle will not recognize the lock state, leaving the car unable to start even though the battery and key fob appear normal. The issue is widely discussed across Nissan/Infiniti owner communities and tied to the steering lock control unit used on related FM-platform vehicles. Owners typically report a sudden no-start with the steering wheel locked or the ignition staying in ACC/ON behavior without cranking.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX50, Infiniti G37, Infiniti Q70

Common Symptoms

  • push-button start does nothing
  • vehicle stuck in ACC or ON mode
  • steering remains locked
  • intelligent key warning
  • intermittent no-start that becomes permanent

How to Fix

Confirm battery voltage and key fob operation first, then scan BCM/IPDM/steering lock modules for communication or lock-status faults. Repair usually involves replacing or bypassing the failed electronic steering lock assembly depending on model applicability and local repair practice, followed by key/immobilizer relearn if required. Because symptoms mimic a weak battery or bad brake switch, proper diagnosis is important before replacing parts.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipBefore condemning the steering lock, verify the 12V battery is fully charged and load-tested; low voltage can trigger misleading intelligent-key and lock errors.
  • TipIf the vehicle intermittently fails to start, scan BCM and immobilizer modules immediately while the fault is active; stored history can disappear after battery disconnects.
Typical repair cost:$600 - $1,800

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2014-2018 Infiniti QX50 3.7L VQ37VHR V6, owners of the 3.7L VQ37VHR-equipped QX50 report a metallic rattle at cold start and oil seepage from the front timing cover area. On this engine, timing chain guide/tensioner wear and RTV-sealed front cover leaks can develop with age and heat cycling; because the VVEL/timing components sit behind the front cover, diagnosis often starts with distinguishing harmless brief startup noise from persistent chain or guide wear. Multiple owner complaints and repair discussions note oil smell, visible seepage down the front of the engine, and expensive labor because the front cover must be resealed and timing components inspected at the same time.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX45, Infiniti G35, Infiniti G37

Common Symptoms

  • metallic rattle for 1-3 seconds on cold start
  • oil smell after parking
  • oil seepage on front of engine
  • small oil spots under front of vehicle
  • low oil level between services

How to Fix

Inspect for oil seepage around the front timing cover, upper oil pan junction, and valve cover areas to confirm the leak source before authorizing repairs. If startup rattle is persistent or worsens, check chain tensioner operation and timing correlation, then reseal the front cover with OEM-equivalent RTV and replace worn guides/tensioners as needed. Because labor overlap is substantial, many owners replace the water pump, drive belt, and related seals during the same job.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Infiniti VQ37 lower primary timing-chain tensioner
    OEM13070-1MR0A

    Confirmed lower primary hydraulic-tensioner failure branch Fitment/availability: 13070-1MR0A is the lower/primary tensioner cataloged for the VQ37 timing system. Confirm 2014-2017 QX50 3.7L VIN and failed position; it is not either bank'…

    Official Infiniti Parts Store
  • Genuine Infiniti VQ37 primary timing chain
    OEM13028-JK20A

    Confirm QX50 VIN and measured primary-chain wear; it is one chain rather than a complete timing kit and does not justify automatic replacement of secondary chains, sprocket

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti VQ37 water-pump kit
    OEMB1010-JK20A

    Confirmed leaking/noisy water-pump or approved labor-overlap branch Fitment/availability: B1010-JK20A is the genuine water-pump kit cataloged for 2014-2017 QX50 3.7L VQ37VHR.

    InfinitiPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipHave the leak source dye-tested first; valve cover seepage can mimic a front cover leak, and misdiagnosis can turn a moderate repair into a very expensive one.
  • TipIf the front cover is being removed, ask the shop to inspect timing chain guides, tensioners, and water pump at the same time to avoid duplicate labor later.
Typical repair cost:$900 - $2,800

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2014-2018 Infiniti QX50 3.7L VQ37VHR V6, a recurring complaint on Infiniti crossovers and sedans of this era is water entering the cabin from clogged or poorly routed sunroof drains, and in some cases from HVAC evaporator drain issues. QX50 owners report soaked front footwells, musty odor, fogging windows, and intermittent electrical problems when water reaches connectors or modules under the dash or carpet. Left unresolved, the issue can damage harnesses, audio components, and interior trim while promoting mold growth.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX50, Infiniti G37, Infiniti Q70

Common Symptoms

  • wet front or rear carpets
  • musty smell inside cabin
  • water sloshing noise
  • foggy windows
  • intermittent electrical glitches after rain or car wash

How to Fix

Inspect all four sunroof drains, drain grommets, A-pillar routing, and the HVAC evaporator drain for blockage or disconnection. Clear drains with low-pressure air or line, repair cracked hoses, and dry the carpet and underlayment thoroughly; if water reached connectors, inspect for corrosion and repair affected wiring. Many owners also modify or extend drain outlets to reduce repeat clogging.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Infiniti sunroof drain hose
    OEM91390-5UB1A

    Confirmed split, disconnected or damaged sunroof drain-hose branch Fitment/availability: 91390-5UB1A is cataloged in quantity two for 2015-2017 QX50. Use the VIN-specific roof diagram to confirm the failed position and required quantity …

    InfinitiPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDo not use high-pressure compressed air directly into the drain tubes; it can separate old hoses behind trim and make the leak worse.
  • TipAfter fixing the leak, pull up the carpet and dry the padding completely with fans or a dehumidifier, otherwise odor and corrosion often return.
Typical repair cost:$150 - $1,400

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2014-2018 Infiniti QX50 3.7L VQ37VHR V6, the FM-platform suspension used under the QX50 is known for front lower control arm and compression rod bushing wear, especially on rough roads or vehicles with larger wheel packages. Owners report clunking over bumps, vague steering, braking shimmy, and uneven front tire wear. Once the fluid-filled bushings crack or leak, alignment stability suffers and the vehicle can feel unsettled during braking or lane changes.

This issue also affects: Infiniti G37, Infiniti Q70, Infiniti QX70

Common Symptoms

  • front-end clunk over bumps
  • steering wander
  • brake shimmy
  • uneven front tire wear
  • thump when entering driveways

How to Fix

Inspect front lower control arm bushings, compression rod bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links with the suspension loaded. Replace worn arms or bushings in pairs, then perform a four-wheel alignment and inspect tires for cupping or inner-edge wear. Many owners choose complete arm assemblies to reduce labor and avoid pressing bushings.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Infiniti AWD front lower transverse arm, passenger/right
    OEM54500-1BA8A

    Confirmed AWD passenger-side lower-arm/ball-joint branch Fitment/availability: 54500-1BA8A is the passenger/right complete transverse link cataloged for 2014-2017 QX50 3.7L AWD. Confirm VIN, drivetrain and side; it is not the driver arm,…

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti AWD front lower transverse arm, driver/left
    OEM54501-1BA8A

    Confirmed AWD driver-side lower-arm/ball-joint branch Fitment/availability: 54501-1BA8A is the driver/left complete transverse link cataloged for 2014-2017 QX50 3.7L AWD. Confirm VIN, drivetrain and side; it is not the passenger arm, eit…

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti RWD front lower transverse arm, passenger/right
    OEM54500-JL03B

    Confirmed RWD passenger-side lower-arm/ball-joint branch Fitment/availability: 54500-JL03B is the passenger/right complete transverse link cataloged for 2014-2017 QX50 3.7L RWD. Confirm VIN, drivetrain and side; it is not the driver arm,…

    InfinitiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Infiniti RWD front lower transverse arm, driver/left
    OEM54501-JL03B

    Confirmed RWD driver-side lower-arm/ball-joint branch Fitment/availability: 54501-JL03B is the driver/left complete transverse link shown in the 2014-2017 QX50 RWD catalog. Confirm VIN, drivetrain, side, current supersession and live che…

    InfinitiPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipReplace worn suspension arms in pairs and align the vehicle immediately afterward; replacing only one side often leaves the steering feel inconsistent.
  • TipIf you have repeated inner-edge tire wear, ask the shop to inspect compliance bushings and toe settings, not just the tires.
Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,600

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Infiniti QX50 problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2014 Infiniti QX50 has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Steering Wheel Lock / Ignition No-Start from Electronic Steering Lock Failure, Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR, Sunroof Drain / HVAC Evaporator Water Intrusion Causing Wet Carpets and Electrical Faults. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Infiniti QX50 reliable?

The 2014 Infiniti QX50 has 4 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Steering Wheel Lock / Ignition No-Start from Electronic Steering Lock Failure and Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Infiniti QX50 problems?

Repair costs for known Infiniti QX50 issues range from $150 to $2,800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Steering Wheel Lock / Ignition No-Start from Electronic Steering Lock Failure, typically costs $600-$1,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2014-2016 Infiniti QX50 Steering Wheel Lock / Ignition No-Start from Electronic Steering Lock Failure?

Infiniti/Nissan vehicles using the electronic steering column lock system have a well-documented failure mode where the vehicle will not recognize the lock state, leaving the car unable to start even though the battery and key fob appear normal. The issue is widely discussed acro… Repairs typically run $600-$1,800. Severity: high.

What is the 2014-2018 Infiniti QX50 Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR?

Owners of the 3.7L VQ37VHR-equipped QX50 report a metallic rattle at cold start and oil seepage from the front timing cover area. On this engine, timing chain guide/tensioner wear and RTV-sealed front cover leaks can develop with age and heat cycling; because the VVEL/timing comp… Repairs typically run $900-$2,800. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

What is the 2014-2018 Infiniti QX50 Sunroof Drain / HVAC Evaporator Water Intrusion Causing Wet Carpets and Electrical Faults?

A recurring complaint on Infiniti crossovers and sedans of this era is water entering the cabin from clogged or poorly routed sunroof drains, and in some cases from HVAC evaporator drain issues. QX50 owners report soaked front footwells, musty odor, fogging windows, and intermitt… Repairs typically run $150-$1,400. Severity: medium.

What is the 2014-2018 Infiniti QX50 Premature Front Lower Control Arm / Compression Rod Bushing Wear Causing Clunks and Tire Wear?

The FM-platform suspension used under the QX50 is known for front lower control arm and compression rod bushing wear, especially on rough roads or vehicles with larger wheel packages. Owners report clunking over bumps, vague steering, braking shimmy, and uneven front tire wear. O… Repairs typically run $500-$1,600. Severity: medium.