2024 INFINITI Q50

Typical onset: 30,000-70,000 mi

Symptoms: Metallic knocking at idle that worsens under load, Oil pressure fluctuation or low pressure warning, Metal shavings in oil during changes, Sudden catastrophic failure without warning in some cases

Fix: Complete engine rebuild or short block replacement required. Main and rod bearings fail prematurely, often traced to oil starvation during aggressive driving or inadequate break-in. Expect 25-35 hours labor for short block swap, more for full rebuild.

Estimated cost: $8,000-15,000

Typical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi

Symptoms: Transmission fluid puddles under vehicle, Burnt transmission fluid smell, Harsh shifting or slipping when fluid level drops, Pink or red fluid visible near radiator area

Fix: The quick-connect fittings and rubber lines to the external cooler deteriorate. Line replacement is straightforward at 2-3 hours, but requires transmission fluid flush and proper bleeding procedure. Early catch prevents transmission damage.

Estimated cost: $400-800

Typical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi

Symptoms: Metallic rattle on cold start that disappears when warm, Loss of boost pressure and reduced power, Check engine light with underboost codes P0299, Turbo whistle or howling under acceleration

Fix: Mercedes M274 turbo wastegate actuator arms wear and rattle, eventually failing completely. Requires turbocharger replacement—no separate wastegate available. 6-8 hours labor due to tight engine bay access on the 2.0T.

Estimated cost: $2,200-3,500

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse, Excessive vibration at idle in Drive, Thud felt through cabin during acceleration/deceleration, Visible transmission sag when inspected on lift

Fix: The hydraulic transmission mount deteriorates, especially on Red S models with aggressive driving. Replacement is simple at 1.5-2 hours but requires supporting the transmission. OEM mount required—aftermarket versions fail quickly.

Estimated cost: $350-600

Typical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Rough idle and misfires, especially when cold, Reduced fuel economy and hesitation on acceleration, Check engine light with misfire codes P0300-P0306, Loss of power under load

Fix: Direct injection causes intake valve carbon accumulation with no port injection to clean them. Walnut blasting required through intake manifold. 4-6 hours labor depending on engine (V6 is more involved). Should be paired with spark plug replacement.

Estimated cost: $600-1,200

Typical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi

Symptoms: Cylinder-specific misfire codes, Raw fuel smell from exhaust, Hard starting or extended cranking, Rough running at all RPMs

Fix: High-pressure direct injectors stick open or closed. Diagnosis requires swap testing. Single injector replacement on V6 is 2-3 hours due to intake plenum removal. Injectors are expensive—verify with pressure testing before replacing.

Estimated cost: $800-1,400