The Infiniti Q70 Years to Avoid
Infiniti Q70 by Thesupermat - CC-BY-SA-4.0
Infiniti, created as a luxury department of Nissan to compete with giants like Acura and Lexus, has seen its share of highs and lows in terms of popularity. The Infiniti lineup predominantly features crossovers and sedans.
Recently, Infiniti has been proactive in updating its offerings. For example, 2022 saw the introduction of the Q50 luxury sedan and its counterpart, the Q60 coupe. On the SUV front, the brand unveiled a revamped QX60 and the brand-new QX55, adding a fresh vibe to their lineup.
However, one can argue that one of the most robust models of Infiniti is the Q70 sedan. The Q70 is a midsize luxury sedan, which is the updated M series. It goes head-to-head with other luxury sedans in its class, such as the Lexus GS, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. However, with a shift in consumer demand and stiff competition, the Q70 was discontinued after its 2019 model year.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE INFINITI Q70
Used car buyers only have a few options when purchasing a used Q70. So, to help you with shopping, we determine the most reliable Infiniti Q70 year and the ones to avoid.
If you’re looking to buy a used Infiniti Q70, you have a few options to choose from. However, some years are less reliable than others. Today, we walk you through the Infiniti Q70 years to avoid when buying a used model.
Which Infiniti Q70 Years to Avoid?
In general, the Infiniti brand is a mixed bag regarding reliability. As a luxury brand, it goes with the territory that Infiniti cars are less reliable than most commercial cars. However, they can be reliable and provide much-needed longevity with proper maintenance. Check out our previous write-up to learn more.
As for the Q70 years to avoid, below are the models you should approach with caution as a used car buyer:
- 2014 Infiniti Q70
- 2015 Infiniti Q70
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2014 Infiniti Q70
Like we always say here at CoPilot, it’s advisable for used car buyers to steer clear of purchasing vehicles from their first production years. New models or redesigns can have unexpected mechanical problems that aren’t evident during testing but may emerge in real-world conditions. These issues are usually resolved in later production years. This is the case with the 2016 Infiniti Q70.
Common Problems of 2014 Q70
After much digging around, the 2014 Q70 isn’t the most popular model out there due to a lack of complaints and reported issues. However, users from the Nissan Infiniti forum, Nicoclub, have compiled a list of common problems for the Q7 below:
- Bluetooth connectivity: Some users have reported problems with Bluetooth music streaming and phone functions.
- Side mirrors: There have been mentions of motors on side mirrors weakening or breaking over time. Additionally, one of the power mirrors might operate slower than the other.
- Steering wheel covers: Issues have been noted where steering wheel covers get caught during movement, potentially hindering the adjustability of the steering wheel.
- Fuel filler issue: An extended warranty or recall about a fuel filler problem was mentioned.
- Electronics sensitivity: One user advised caution when working on electrical components, including changing bulbs, as the control modules are sensitive and easily damaged.
- Creaky armrest: A creaky armrest was identified as a bothersome issue by a user, though it’s more of an annoyance than a fault.
- A/C hum: A loud AC hum was mentioned, and there’s a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that might address this problem.
- Traction & ABS lights: These lights can illuminate acceleration if brake pads are low, even if the fluid level appears full when the vehicle is stationary.
Remember, these are just potential issues, as reported by forum users. These reports don’t indicate that these issues are widespread, but they are worth knowing if you buy a used 2014 Infiniti Q70.
Safety Recalls of 2014 Q70
Another good reason to avoid the 2014 is that it has the most recalls compared to other model years. Below is a summary of safety recalls for this model year:
- Driveshaft Issues (December 7, 2020): A problem with the driveshaft can lead to a loss of propulsion, which increases the risk of a crash. Additionally, it may disable the parking brake, raising the chances of a rollaway and potential injury.
- Unexpected Gradual Acceleration (September 22, 2014): The vehicle might experience gradual acceleration due to the throttle chamber reopening. Such unexpected acceleration can elevate the crash risk.
- Transmission Housing Concerns (September 22, 2014): Damaged transmission housings could crack and fracture. This creates road debris and can disable the vehicle, heightening the risk of an accident.
- Electric Drive Motor Issues (September 22, 2014): There’s a possibility that the electric drive motor might stop functioning, leading to a stall-like condition. This can increase the likelihood of a collision.
Visit the NHTSA website for more information.
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2015 Infiniti Q70
Based on the NHTSA website, the 2015 Q70 has received the most complaints, mainly regarding its powertrain and vehicle speed control.
Powertrain Complaints
Based on a few user complaints, the 2015 Q70 grapples with powertrain issues, especially with noticeable vibrations at 40-65 mph speeds. These aren’t minor shuddering; they’re strong enough to be felt in the interior.
One owner stated the vibrations intensify when driving uphill at 40 mph in ECO mode. This unsettling sensation also affects the steering wheel, impacting the driver and front passenger. Even after attempts like tire rebalancing by the dealer, the issue persists.
Another complaint detailed that the vehicle unexpectedly stalled while executing a left turn, indicating a potential powertrain woe. An unidentified yellow light flashed on, hinting at some underlying system or component problem, but the cause remained unclear. After the incident, while the contact could restart the car, it was restricted to a slow pace of just seven mph.
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Forum Complaints
Moreover, a 2015 Q70 owner expressed their disappointment about their vehicle. In summary, these are their pain points:
- Transmission issues: The user mentioned that the transmission is “clunky” and doesn’t shift smoothly, especially when downshifting.
- Infotainment system: The infotainment system needed to be updated. The user pointed out that it looks like it’s from 2005 and lacks modern features.
- Navigation system: The navigation system was criticized for being slow and not user-friendly. The user also mentioned that it doesn’t provide traffic updates.
- Fuel economy: The vehicle’s fuel economy was another point of contention. The user was disappointed with the mpg they were getting.
These issues make the 2015 model one of the worst Infiniti Q70 years to avoid. As usual, individual experiences can vary, and this is just one user’s perspective on the 2015 Q70.
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