2014 INFINITI Q60

Typical onset: 60,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Check engine light with timing codes P0011/P0021 (VVT system), Rattling at cold start that worsens over time, Oil pressure warning light or erratic gauge readings, Metal shavings in oil, eventual bearing failure and rod knock

Fix: The VQ37 has weak oil gallery gaskets behind the timing cover that leak internally, starving cam phasers and bearings. Many engines grenade before diagnosis. Repair requires complete engine teardown or replacement. Gasket fix alone: 18-22 hours. Most shops recommend short block or used engine at this point—25-35 hours installed.

Estimated cost: $6,500-12,000

Typical onset: 80,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: Milky or strawberry-colored transmission fluid, Transmission slipping, delayed engagement, or shuddering, Coolant level dropping without external leaks, Engine overheating due to coolant loss

Fix: The internal cooler in the radiator fails, allowing coolant and ATF to mix—this kills the 7-speed automatic quickly. Requires radiator replacement, complete transmission fluid flush or rebuild if contaminated, all cooler lines. If caught early: 4-6 hours. If trans is damaged: add 18-24 hours for rebuild.

Estimated cost: $1,200-2,500 early / $4,500-7,000 with trans damage

Typical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking on acceleration or deceleration, Excessive drivetrain movement felt through shifter, Vibration at idle in Drive, Notchy shifts under load

Fix: The hydraulic transmission mount and rear crossmember mount fail predictably on these. Creates harsh shift feel and drivetrain movement. Both mounts together: 2.5-3.5 hours. Common DIY job with basic tools.

Estimated cost: $450-750

Typical onset: 90,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: Harsh or delayed 2-3 and 3-4 shifts, Transmission slipping between gears under light throttle, Hesitation when downshifting for passing, Check engine light with shift solenoid codes

Fix: Jatco JR710E valve body bores wear, causing pressure loss. Requires transmission removal and valve body replacement or reconditioning. Total job: 12-16 hours. Some shops offer valve body exchange programs.

Estimated cost: $2,800-4,200

Typical onset: 70,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: No-start or extended cranking when hot, Rough idle with misfire-like symptoms, Check engine light P0340/P0345 (cam sensor circuit), Stalling at idle or when coming to a stop

Fix: VQ37 cam sensors fail due to heat cycling. Bank 2 (passenger side rear) is most common. Each sensor: 1.0-1.5 hours due to tight clearances. Replace both banks preventively.

Estimated cost: $350-600 per bank

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Rough idle when cold, Loss of power at high RPM, Misfires under load (P0300 series codes), Poor fuel economy compared to when new

Fix: Direct injection means no fuel washing over intake valves—carbon accumulates. Requires walnut blasting both heads with intake manifold removal. 6-8 hours labor. Not a breakdown issue but degrades performance significantly.

Estimated cost: $650-1,100

Typical onset: 80,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking over bumps from rear suspension, Grinding or whining under acceleration, Differential movement visible during hard launches, Vibration through chassis at highway speeds

Fix: Rear subframe bushings and differential mounts deteriorate on performance-driven cars. Requires subframe drop for proper access. 4-6 hours depending on bushing condition and rust.

Estimated cost: $800-1,400