2017 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2017 Infiniti QX50 has 4 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR ($900-$2,800 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $80 to $2,800. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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.
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.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
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.
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.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
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.
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.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2014-2018 Infiniti QX50 3.7L VQ37VHR V6, qX50 owners commonly report the rear hatch failing to stay fully open, especially in colder temperatures, or dropping unexpectedly as the gas-charged lift supports weaken with age. On vehicles with power-assisted liftgate components, weak struts can overload the motorized system and cause erratic opening height or reversal. While usually not a major mechanical failure, it is a nuisance and can become a minor safety concern if the hatch falls while loading cargo.
Inspect both lift supports for oil seepage, weak extension force, and uneven operation side to side. Replace struts in pairs with quality units matched to the hatch configuration, and recheck liftgate alignment and power operation if equipped. If the hatch still struggles after strut replacement, inspect hinges and the power liftgate spindle/motor assembly.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
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According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2017-2017 Infiniti QX50 has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR, Sunroof Drain / HVAC Evaporator Water Intrusion Causing Wet Carpets and Electrical Faults, Premature Front Lower Control Arm / Compression Rod Bushing Wear Causing Clunks and Tire Wear. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 2017-2017 Infiniti QX50 has 4 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 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.
Repair costs for known Infiniti QX50 issues range from $80 to $2,800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR, typically costs $900-$2,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
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.
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.
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.
QX50 owners commonly report the rear hatch failing to stay fully open, especially in colder temperatures, or dropping unexpectedly as the gas-charged lift supports weaken with age. On vehicles with power-assisted liftgate components, weak struts can overload the motorized system… Repairs typically run $80-$450. Severity: low.
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.
