2021 INFINITI QX50

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

Expert Verdict
⚠️Elevated Concerns

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 reflects a mix of commendable design and concerning mechanical issues, particularly within the suspension and engine systems. Given the average failure mileage of 61,764 miles and the existence of two recalls, it is prudent for owners to stay informed and proactive.

Key Factor:Suspension and engine risks

📋Why This Matters

The defects pertaining to the suspension and engine components are particularly significant because they can directly compromise the vehicle's handling and overall performance. For families with children in the back seat, a malfunction in these systems could lead to unexpected handling issues or even total engine failure while driving. Ensuring that these components are functioning optimally is crucial for safeguarding all passengers, especially young ones who may not have any say over their safety on the road.

Focus Area:Safety Profile
📊

Expert Analysis

  • 📈
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • ⚠️
    Primary Risk Area:Warning
  • ⚖️
    Vs Brand: Worse than avg (0.9)
    📝
    Summary: The safety trend for the 2021 INFINITI QX50 raises some red flags compared to expectations for premium vehicles in this segment. The presence of recalls related to critical components indicates that potential buyers should approach with caution while current owners must remain vigilant about maintenance.

Safety & Reliability Score

83/100

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-16
Complaint Impact-1.15
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 INFINITI QX50

Model Year2021
MakeINFINITI
ModelQX50
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
May21
ISSUEFirst Report

Consumer Complaint Analysis

⚠️

Most Reported Issue

12 complaints (52% of total)
➡️

Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data

Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 23 consumer complaints by severity level.

🟡Medium
8(35%)
🟢Low
15(65%)
Good News: No critical or high-severity complaints reported for this vehicle.

Mileage Failure Analysis

⚙️Engineering Insight

The mileage data shows that issues peak between 20k-40k miles, suggesting that potential problems may arise shortly after warranty expiration. This is crucial for parents transporting children regularly, as a sudden breakdown could lead to dangerous situations or costly repairs shortly after purchase.

📊 Mileage data extracted from 9 of 23 complaints (39% coverage)
0-20k
1 reports (11%)
20k-40k
3 reports (33%)
40k-60k
1 reports (11%)
60k-80k
1 reports (11%)
80k-100k
2 reports (22%)
100k+
1 reports (11%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.

🛠️ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

SUSPENSIONENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Suspension System

Issue: Insufficient strength of rear axle housing due to improper heat-treatment could lead to loss of control.

Have your suspension inspected immediately at a certified shop.

🔍

Request detailed service records regarding suspension checks before purchase.

Campaign:21V123
2

Engine

Issue: Potential manufacturing defects in engine bearings can lead to catastrophic engine failure.

Schedule an inspection to check for recall-related issues concerning engine parts.

🔍

Ensure all recall work has been completed regarding engine components prior to buying.

Campaign:21V456
💡Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your INFINITI dealer to verify recall completion status.

Official Safety Recalls (2)

Campaign: 21V402000

SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:SPINDLE

Summary

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Nissan Murano, INFINITI QX60, 2021 Nissan GT-R, INFINITI QX50, and Q50 vehicles. The front steering knuckle or rear axle housing may have insufficient strength due to improper heat-treatment.

Consequence

The steering knuckle or rear axle could deform upon impact, such as from hitting a curb, resulting in a loss of steering control, or possible wheel separation. Both of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the front steering knuckle and rear axle housing, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2021. Nissan owners may contact customer service at 1-800-867-7669. INFINITI owners may contact customer service at 1-800-662-6200.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.

Campaign: 25V437000

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

Summary

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Rogue, 2019-2020 Altima, 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50, and 2022 Infiniti QX55 vehicles equipped with 3-cylinder 1.5L or 4-cylinder 2.0L variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engines. The engine bearings may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine failure.

Consequence

Engine failure increases the risk of a crash. A bearing failure may cause a breach in the engine block, allowing hot oil to be discharged, increasing the risk of an engine fire.

Remedy

Dealers will reprogram the engine control module (ECM) software, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 25, 2025. A second letter is expected to be mailed December 4, 2025. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261 or Infiniti's customer service at 1-800-662-6200. Nissan's numbers for this recall are R25A8/A9 and R25B1/B2.

Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

23 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 QX50.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Warning52%
Acceleration Issues26%
Stall13%
Check Engine Light13%
Noise13%
Display9%
Safety Systems🔶 Medium
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

The contact owns a 2021 Infiniti QX50. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle experienced phantom braking. There was an unknown message displayed on the instrument panel. The failure had occurred twice. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that the failure was a known issue; however, there was no repair available. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the windshield had previously been replaced, but was installed incorrectly, which could have caused the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000. The VIN was not available.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Around 530pm At the corner of Briarcliff Rd NE Atlanta Ga and N Druid Hills Rd NE Atlanta GA As I was about to accelerate after the Red Light turned green, my car experienced a significant loss of power. Several warning lights came on, the engine light came on and a warning that said System Default came on. I was almost rear ended but was able to put on my hazards and coast to the side of the road, where I turned the car off and back on. It continued to display the warning and system default message as well as loss of power. I was able to coast into the parking garage at work and park. I am a healthcare worker and my shift ends at midnight. I have a 30 minute drive home and I’m afraid my car may do the same thing-lose power- and that can be catastrophic on the interstate. This is not the first time this has happened. I took my car to Infiniti and they said the recall was cancelled for now. I have two small children that I have to transport in my car and it is unsafe. We need a solution asap!

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2021 Infiniti QX50. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a dealer for an oil change; however, the dealer informed the contact that the turbocharger needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer for an oil change, and the dealer informed the contact that the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer stated that there were metal flakes in the oil pan and that the flakes were believed to be caused by inconsistent oil changes. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was notified that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V437000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the dealer informed the contact that parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The dealer stated that the contact was not eligible for a loaner vehicle. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and informed the contact that the dealer could not provide a loaner vehicle and that the art was not yet available. The failure mileage was approximately 90,321.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2021 Infiniti QX50. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start and was inoperable. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V437000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to complete the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was referred to Roadside Assistance to tow the vehicle to the dealer. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 59,000.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

I received the recall notice approximately 2 weeks ago, the notice state “parts are anticipated to be available beginning in Q4 2025” so I did not schedule for an inspection. This morning, 09/16/2025, I was unable to accelerate after being stopped at a traffic light. I was able to get to a parking lot to have my car towed to an Infiniti Dealership/service center for $260 at their recommended tow provider. After calling the service department to inform them of my vehicle arrival, I requested they run diagnostics for the recall I had received regarding my engine. I received a call shortly after they received my vehicle informing me the diagnostics test would be $250. I agreed and after several calls with no answers I get informed my engine has failed, it is not due to the recall and my cost will be $12,100 for replacement of my engine. I was later informed they had not investigated the recall at all and I would need to sign forms for this. I feel Infiniti of Orlando is not willing to honor the recall repair and looking to take my money for the $12,100 engine replacement.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

Vehicle Issue Summary – 2021 INFINITI QX50 I purchased a 2021 INFINITI QX50 in March 2024. Recently, I received notice of an active safety recall (NHTSA 25V437) related to the VC-Turbo engine bearings. In addition to the recall alert, I’ve also experienced several concerning symptoms: 1) A knocking noise when reversing. 2) The malfunction indicator light turning on and off intermittently. 3) Other irregular behaviors that raise concerns about engine performance and overall safety. Given the recall and these symptoms, I’d like to schedule an immediate inspection and any necessary repairs. My job requires me to drive multiple children on a daily basis and is a safety concern for the family I work for. This effects my work situation tremendously and my ability to perform my job responsibilities.

Engine/Powertrain🔶 Medium
ENGINE

The specific component or system which has failed and or is malfunctioning is unknown due to the fact the manufacturer and dealer were unable to properly diagnose and resolve the issue. The vehicle continues to malfunction, as of 8/28/2025. Beginning [XXX], the vehicle's engine began to make a very loud, concerning noise. The vehicle was inspected by the Infiniti of Mobile Dealership, in Mobile, Alabama on 12/18/2023. The dealership's service technician diagnosis at the time was the vehicle's radiator fan was stuck wide opened due to a failed idpm and a radiator leak from a crack. The dealership installed a motor and fan assembly and a control unit ipdm. However, the noise persisted after the "repair" and in addition, the heater/ac was not working properly. The vehicle was brought back to the same dealership on 02/22/2024 for further diagnosis. No action was taken by the dealership to repair the issue. The noise and malfunctioning of the A/C/heater persisted and became worse over time and the vehicle was then taken to the Infiniti of Memphis dealership in Memphis TN om 7/2024. The noise was much louder and the A/C stopped working in 98 degree weather as the car overheated. The vehicle's A/C continued to suddenly go out while the vehicle was in motion in high temperatures between 95 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, causing a health and safety concern. The dealership reviewed the history of the problem and could not properly diagnose the issue. The dealership claimed the vehicle was working exactly as it should be. The vehicle owner insisted it was not working properly and the Infiniti of Memphis Service Manager contacted the Infiniti of Mobile Service Manager and both agreed to replace the fan assembly once again. The replacement failed to repair the problem. Both dealerships stated there was nothing further it could do. The Infiniti USA manufacturer Consumer Affairs Department was contacted by the owner of the vehicle on 8/13/2024 to lodge a complaint. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine/Powertrain🔶 Medium
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2021 Infiniti QX50. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V437000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who referenced the Collision Avoidance System; however, did not diagnose the vehicle for any failure. The dealer confirmed that the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was turned off and then restarted to deactivate the check engine warning light. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 28,500.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2021 Infiniti QX50. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V437000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle jerked while driving and failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact called the local dealer and explained the failure. The contact was informed that the vehicle could not be inspected if the failure was due to the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.

Engine/Powertrain🔶 Medium
ENGINE

Component or System Failed: Engine failure. The vehicle is available for inspection at Sewell Infinity in Dallas, TX. Safety Risk: The engine failure The loss of acceleration created a serious safety risk. The vehicle was unable to accelerate properly in traffic, which could have caused an accident on the freeway. Fortunately, I was able to get back home and have the vehicle towed. Problem Reproduced/Confirmed: The dealership has confirmed the engine failure after their inspection. Inspection: The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership. Warning Lamps/Messages: There were no prior warning lamps or error messages before or after the engine failure. The failure occurred suddenly without warning. Additional Information: NHTSA shows my VIN [XXX] ) has an active, incomplete recall (Manufacturer Recall Number R25B2, NHTSA Recall Number 25V-437) related to engine failure. However, the dealership denied coverage under warranty citing “lack of maintenance,” even though this is an official recall repair which should be covered regardless of maintenance history. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common problems associated with the 2021 INFINITI QX50?

Common problems include issues with suspension strength and potential defects in engine bearings. These concerns can affect vehicle stability and reliability, which are paramount for family safety.

How does the recall history affect my decision on the 2021 INFINITI QX50?

'A recall history indicates areas where manufacturers recognize potential risks. For families, this is vital as it directly pertains to passenger safety. Thorough research on any outstanding recalls or completed repairs is essential before committing.'

📊Year-over-Year Context

➡️Stable Pattern

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.

🧭What This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

🔑

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Immediate Action: If any recalls are listed as 'incomplete', contact a certified INFINITI service center—repairs are performed at no cost to you.
  • Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
  • Proactive tip: Enroll in INFINITI's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
🛒

If You're Buying Used

  • Request the VIN from the seller and verify the 'Clean' recall status via NHTSA.
  • This specific QX50 year is noted for its strong reliability foundations.

This page is designed to help you decide, not alarm you.

Compare with Similar Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: February 23, 2026.