Infiniti QX55 years to avoid

How We Rated the Best and Worst Infiniti QX55 Years

The 2022 Infiniti QX55 is the generation’s weakest model year, carrying the most owner complaints and the only safety recall that directly applies to the QX55 engine.

The Infiniti QX55 is a compact luxury SUV introduced in 2022, built on the QX50 platform with a fastback-style roofline. It features a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Because the QX55 launched in 2022 and runs through 2025, every model year is part of a single, continuous generation - there is no prior or discontinued generation for used shoppers to worry about.

Our ratings draw on NHTSA complaint and recall filings, RepairPal reliability data, Edmunds owner reviews, and Kelley Blue Book consumer ratings. CarComplaints ranks the worst year by repair cost and mileage-at-failure (its PainRank system), while NHTSA shows raw complaint volume - they can point to different years. Because CarComplaints does not yet publish a formal PainRank for the QX55 (the model is too new and low-volume for its algorithm), the worst-year designation here is based on NHTSA recall scope and owner-reported problem frequency.

Our years-to-avoid methodology weighs data from reliability databases, owner complaints, and safety records to identify problematic model years.

Every Infiniti QX55 Model Year Ranked

The 2022 model year is the one to avoid; every subsequent year improves on its debut-year shortcomings.

Most Common Infiniti QX55 Problems

The single biggest issue across the QX55’s short production run is the 2.0L VC-Turbo engine bearing defect that triggered NHTSA safety recall 25V-437, covering the 2022 model year. Beyond the engine, infotainment system instability and erratic parking sensors round out the recurring complaint categories.

1. VC-Turbo Engine Bearing Defect (2022)

Nissan recalled certain 2021-2024 Rogue, 2019-2020 Altima, 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50, and 2022 Infiniti QX55 vehicles equipped with the 2.0L variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engine because the engine bearings may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine failure. The symptom to watch for is noise, rough running or vibration, and an illuminated check-engine light - warning signs that can appear before complete power loss. If bearings seize fully, the engine block can be breached.

Engine failure increases the risk of a crash, and a bearing failure may cause a breach in the engine block, allowing hot oil to be discharged, increasing the risk of an engine fire. Under NHTSA recall 25V-437 (Nissan’s internal numbers R25A8/A9 and R25B1/B2), dealers are instructed to inspect the engine oil pan for specific metal debris; if no debris is detected, they replace the engine oil at no charge (under one hour of labor); if debris is confirmed, dealers replace the entire engine, also at no charge, a repair that may take up to 15 hours.

Rod-knock symptoms - a deep knocking that worsens under load - can be an early sign of bearing distress. If you’re buying a 2022 QX55, confirm this recall is closed on the VIN before signing.

2. Infotainment System Glitches and Reboots (2022-2023)

One of the most common complaints among QX55 owners involves the vehicle’s infotainment system. Many have experienced frequent reboots, glitches, and Bluetooth connectivity issues - particularly frustrating when relying on the system for navigation or hands-free calling. Some owners replaced their infotainment systems only to find that the issues persisted, suggesting a more deep-rooted software or hardware problem.

Infiniti issued a service bulletin (ITB23-010A) covering 2022-2023 QX55 vehicles for a software update to address infotainment stability improvements and bug fixes. The 2023 model year saw improved infotainment stability, with owners reporting fewer glitches and better overall reliability than the 2022 model. If you’re looking at a 2022, ask the dealer whether the AV Control Unit has received its latest software update.

A separate TSB (ITB23-002) addresses missing or corrupted map data on 2022-2023 QX55 vehicles equipped with navigation, directing dealers to download updated map data from the ASIST Downloader and update the AV Control Unit. Both bulletins are dealer-performed fixes at no charge to the owner.

3. Erratic Parking Sensor Behavior (2022)

A prevalent issue with the 2022 QX55 is the erratic behavior of its parking sensors, with owners reporting sensors firing off even when the vehicle is stationary and no objects are nearby, such as when waiting at a red light - a distraction that erodes driver trust in the system.

The 2024 model year carried over with further refinements to the infotainment system and parking sensors that reduced reported issues. For a used 2022, test the parking sensors in an open lot before purchase and ask the selling dealer whether any related software calibration has been performed.

4. Front Passenger Door Latch Defect (2023)

Nissan recalled certain 2023 Infiniti QX55 and 2022 Infiniti QX50 vehicles because the incorrect door latch may have been installed in the front right-side passenger door lock assembly, preventing automatic locking. An unlocked door may unlatch and open during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers replaced the front right-side passenger door lock assembly, free of charge.

NHTSA campaign 23V-187 (Nissan manufacturer recall number PC962) covers this defect, with a potential of 48 units affected. This is a narrow campaign with very few vehicles involved, but on any 2023 QX55 you’re considering, verify the VIN to confirm this recall has been closed.

5. 12-Volt Battery and Electrical Gremlins (2022)

The 2022 model year is the least reliable year in the QX55 lineup, with frequent reports of infotainment glitches, battery failures, and parking sensor malfunctions. Some owners reported unexpected battery drain linked to the always-on electronics and telematics modules - a pattern consistent with the broader infotainment software issues on early build dates.

A whining noise when accelerating on early 2022 examples can sometimes trace to electrical accessory loads rather than a drivetrain fault, so a full electrical system check is smart before purchase. No dedicated recall covers battery drain on the QX55; a dealer software update is typically the first step.

6. Steering Wheel Separation Concern (2022)

Some 2022 QX55 owners also reported serious safety issues, including steering wheel separation. A few 2022 QX55s reported steering wheels detaching while driving - a major safety hazard that Infiniti addressed for affected vehicles. No separate NHTSA recall specifically listing only the QX55 for this condition appeared in research; if you own a 2022, run the VIN through NHTSA’s recall checker to confirm your unit’s status and check for any pending investigations.

Which Infiniti QX55 Years Should You Avoid?

The Infiniti QX55 year to avoid is 2022. The debut model carries the only engine-level safety recall (NHTSA 25V-437) in the QX55’s production run, along with the highest concentration of infotainment, parking sensor, battery, and steering complaints. NHTSA complaint volume is also highest for the 2022 model year, consistent with its debut-year status; CarComplaints does not yet publish a formal PainRank for the QX55, so the worst-year call here is based on NHTSA recall scope and owner complaint frequency.

Worst Infiniti QX55 years: 2022

1st-Generation Infiniti QX55 (2022-2025)

The QX55 debuted in 2022 as Infiniti’s new entry in the compact luxury SUV segment. It shares its platform and powertrain with the QX50, using a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and CVT transmission. The QX55 stands out with its sloped rear roofline, all-wheel drive, and a suite of driver-assist features.

The 2022 model year is the problem child of the lineup. Nissan recalled 2022 Infiniti QX55 vehicles equipped with the 2.0L VC-Turbo engine because the engine bearings may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine failure - the most serious defect across the entire QX55 range. RepairPal shows zero reported problems for the 2022 QX55 in its own database, reflecting its low complaint volume in that specific system, but NHTSA’s recall record and owner forums tell a more cautious story on the engine bearing front. Check the VIN for recall 25V-437 on any 2022 NHTSA vehicle page before purchase.

What Are the Best Infiniti QX55 Years to Buy?

The best Infiniti QX55 years to buy are 2023, 2024, and 2025. All three benefit from Infiniti’s infotainment software corrections and carry zero engine-level recalls.

Most reliable Infiniti QX55 years: 2023, 2024, 2025

2023 Infiniti QX55

The 2023 model year saw standard leather seats across all trims and improved infotainment stability. Owners report fewer glitches and better overall reliability than the 2022 model, and mechanical components including the transmission and engine are less prone to early failures. The only recall for the 2023 model is the narrow door-latch campaign (NHTSA 23V-187, affecting just 48 units), which is already remedied at dealers. The 2023 Infiniti QX55 has been recalled 1 time by NHTSA - and that single recall is one of the smallest-scope campaigns in the model’s history.

2024 Infiniti QX55

The 2024 model carries over with further refinements to the infotainment system and parking sensors that reduced reported issues, and the engine and transmission remain robust with fewer complaints about electrical or drivetrain problems. Among the 8 owners who provided feedback on the 2024 Infiniti QX55 on Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 73% recommending the vehicle. Comfort and styling score highest; performance scores lowest, consistent with the CVT’s leisurely character.

2025 Infiniti QX55

The 2025 model is the final year of production and sees no major changes, but benefits from all previous updates. Reliability is rated as average for new cars, with no widespread recalls or major defects reported. Infiniti is discontinuing the QX55, with the 2025 model year being the last, as part of its plan to move upmarket. As a final-year model with a full update history, the 2025 is a clean pick if you find one in your budget.

Infiniti QX55 Pre-Purchase Checklist

Before you hand over a deposit on a used QX55, run through these model-specific checks:

• Run the VIN through NHTSA’s recall checker at nhtsa.gov/recalls and confirm every open recall is resolved - especially NHTSA recall 25V-437 (engine bearing defect) on any 2022 model.
• On a 2022 QX55, request proof the engine oil pan was inspected under recall 25V-437. If no repair record exists, insist the dealer complete it before purchase at no charge to you.
• Test the infotainment system thoroughly: cycle through navigation, Bluetooth pairing, and screen wake from sleep. Glitches on a 2022 may need TSB ITB23-010A (AV Control Unit software update) applied.
• Test the parking sensors in an open parking lot with no nearby objects. False alerts at a standstill are a known 2022 fault; a 2023 or newer should behave cleanly.
• Check the 12-volt battery voltage (a quick dealer scan or handheld tester) on any 2022 with low mileage that sat on a lot - early models had reports of battery drain from always-on electronics.
• Request full service records and confirm routine oil changes used the correct grade. The 2.0L VC-Turbo requires consistent oil maintenance; neglect accelerates bearing wear.
• On a 2023 QX55, confirm recall 23V-187 (door latch) has been closed. The dealer can verify this by VIN in under a minute.
• Ask whether the AV Control Unit has the latest software (ITB23-010A / ITB23-002) if you’re buying a 2022 or early 2023 with navigation. The update is free at any Infiniti dealer.

Better Alternatives to Consider

If the QX55 years in your budget land on the avoid list, consider these alternatives instead:

• Infiniti QX50 - shares the QX55’s platform but has a longer production history, giving used buyers a wider choice of model years with documented reliability records
• Acura RDX - a same-class luxury compact SUV with a longer production run and stronger Consumer Reports reliability scores across recent years
• BMW X4 - a direct coupe-SUV competitor in a similar price bracket, with broader used inventory and a well-established reliability record on the turbocharged four-cylinder variants