According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2019 Infiniti Q50 has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Accessory Drive Belt Walks Off Pulleys and Shreds (TSB ITB18-012) ($250-$1,200 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $250 to $1,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2016-2019 Infiniti Q50 VR30DDTT, early-production VR30DDTT engines leave the factory with the A/C compressor pulley bracket slightly out of plane with the rest of the accessory drive. The misalignment makes the serpentine belt track toward the edge of the smooth idler pulley, where it frays, walks off, and eventually shreds. Because a single belt drives the water pump, alternator, and A/C compressor, losing it means immediate charging failure and rapid overheating, and the shredded belt can damage the pulleys, alternator, and water pump on its way out. Infiniti issued TSB ITB18-012 covering the alignment inspection and correction procedure. Nissan later revised the lower smooth idler pulley with raised lips to keep the belt captive — the design that shipped on the RZ34 Z.
Belt squeal or chirp, often worse on cold start or under A/C load
Visible fraying on one edge of the serpentine belt
Belt riding off-center on the smooth idler pulley
Battery and temperature warning lights together after the belt departs
Rapid overheating and loss of power steering assist
How to Fix
Inspect the belt at every oil change for fraying on either edge and check that it runs centered on the smooth idler. If it is tracking off, have the shop perform the ITB18-012 alignment procedure rather than just fitting a new belt — a fresh belt on a misaligned bracket fails again. Replace the smooth idler with the revised lipped-flange pulley (the later Z-spec part) or fit an aftermarket anti-jump pulley kit, and replace the tensioner at the same time if it shows play or rough bearing feel. Carry the belt failure seriously: if the belt goes while driving, stop as soon as it is safe rather than continuing on a dead water pump.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Z1 Q50/Q60 VR30 anti-jump belt upgrade kit
OEMZ1 assembled VR30 anti-jump kit
Revised lipped-idler and new-belt branch after alignment is measured/corrected Fitment/availability: Fits listed 2016-2021 Q50 VR30DDTT and includes the revised smooth lower idler plus selectable belt. Confirm engine and belt option; it …
Confirmed grooved-idler wear branch Fitment/availability: Fits 2016-2024 Q50 3.0L VR30. This is the grooved idler and is not interchangeable by description with the smooth/lipped lower pulley; replace it only if its bearing, surface or r…
Confirmed rough, loose or weak-tensioner branch Fitment/availability: For VR30DDTT Q50/Q60 applications; replace only when inspection shows roughness, play, damage or inadequate tension.
On the 2014-2026 Infiniti Q50, the dual-screen InTouch infotainment system suffers from significant lag, freezing, and occasional black screens. The system uses an outdated processor that struggles with modern navigation and connectivity demands.
Perform a system reset by holding the power button for 10 seconds. Update to the latest firmware via USB. In persistent cases, the infotainment module may need replacement. Some owners have had success with aftermarket head units.
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2019 Infiniti Q50 has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Accessory Drive Belt Walks Off Pulleys and Shreds (TSB ITB18-012), InTouch Infotainment System Lag and Freezing. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Infiniti Q50 reliable?
The 2019 Infiniti Q50 has 2 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Accessory Drive Belt Walks Off Pulleys and Shreds (TSB ITB18-012). 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 Q50 problems?
Repair costs for known Infiniti Q50 issues range from $0 to $1,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Accessory Drive Belt Walks Off Pulleys and Shreds (TSB ITB18-012), typically costs $250-$1,200 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2016-2019 Infiniti Q50 Accessory Drive Belt Walks Off Pulleys and Shreds (TSB ITB18-012)?
Early-production VR30DDTT engines leave the factory with the A/C compressor pulley bracket slightly out of plane with the rest of the accessory drive. The misalignment makes the serpentine belt track toward the edge of the smooth idler pulley, where it frays, walks off, and event… Repairs typically run $250-$1,200. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2026 Infiniti Q50 InTouch Infotainment System Lag and Freezing?
The dual-screen InTouch infotainment system suffers from significant lag, freezing, and occasional black screens. The system uses an outdated processor that struggles with modern navigation and connectivity demands. Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: medium.
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.
