Is the 2014 Infiniti Q50 reliable?

It can be reliable with consistent maintenance, but as a first-year model it’s more likely to have tech and steering-related complaints than later Q50s, so condition and service history matter a lot.

What are the most common 2014 Infiniti Q50 problems?

The most reported issues include steering-system complaints on models with Direct Adaptive Steering, infotainment freezing/slow response, and brake wear or vibration that can show up earlier than expected.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2014 Q50?

Costs are typically higher than a mainstream sedan but comparable to other luxury sport sedans; budgeting for premium tires, quality brakes, and regular fluid service helps avoid bigger expenses later.

What are the best years of the Infiniti Q50 to buy?

Many shoppers prefer later years of the same generation after early bugs were addressed, but a well-maintained 2014 with documented service and verified steering/tech operation can still be a good value.

What should I check before buying a used 2014 Infiniti Q50?

Test every infotainment function, confirm steering feel is consistent (especially on DAS-equipped cars), inspect brake condition and tire wear, scan for warning lights, and prioritize examples with complete maintenance records. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trims, fluid capacities, and the recommended maintenance schedules for the 2014 Infiniti Q50.

HomeVehicles

Vehicles Compare Blog Get Report

Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2014 Infiniti Q50 Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A stylish and powerful luxury sedan, but the 2014 model year comes with early tech issues that require careful consideration.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2014 Infiniti Q50

The system most likely to surface first: direct adaptive steering (das) (major severity).
Has 5 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the steering:automated/adaptive steering.
Scores roughly in line with adjacent Infiniti Q50 years — consistency that often signals a stable platform generation.

Is the 2014 Infiniti Q50 Worth Buying?

The 2014 Infiniti Q50 offers an appealing blend of luxury and performance, but it's crucial to approach this first model year with caution. While its core mechanicals are generally robust, early Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) and infotainment glitches can be significant headaches. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable to avoid potential frustrations.

While the 2014 Infiniti Q50 delivers on performance and luxury, its early tech implementation, specifically the Direct Adaptive Steering and InTouch infotainment system, prevents a confident recommendation. If you can find a well-maintained non-DAS model with confirmed software updates, and are prepared for potentia…

Best Model Years

2017-2020 (post-DAS refinement, VR30 engine has more time to mature, infotainment improved)

Years to Avoid

2014 (early model year kinks)

Biggest Strengths

Robust VQ37VHR 3.7L V6 engine (non-hybrid)
Generally strong 7-speed automatic transmission
High-quality interior materials and comfortable ride

What Tends to Fail First on the 2014 Infiniti Q50

The systems that tend to fail first on the 2014 Infiniti Q50, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.

Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS)major~20,000-70,000 mi

The innovative 'steer-by-wire' system in early Q50s suffered from software bugs leading to inconsistent steering feel, loss of calibration, and in rare cases, complete failure requiring expensive replacement. Recalls and software updates…

Infotainment System (InTouch)moderate~0-100,000 mi

The dual-screen InTouch system, especially in early 2014 models, is prone to freezing, lagging, unexpected reboots, and touch responsiveness issues. These are often software-related, but can be a persistent daily frustration for owners.

Engine Carbon Buildup (3.7L V6)moderate~60,000-100,000 mi

The direct-injection VQ37VHR engine is susceptible to carbon buildup on intake valves, which can lead to reduced performance, rough idle, misfires, and decreased fuel economy over time. This is a common characteristic of many GDI engines.

Full repair-cost ranges, fix-before-you-buy notes, and inspection checklists are in the report.

2014 Infiniti Q50 Mileage Danger Zones

The mileage windows when the 2014 Infiniti Q50 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.

30,000

Early Warning Zone

This is where initial software bugs, particularly with the InTouch infotainment and Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system, tend to manifest. Some early owners may have already experienced these and had updates.

60,000

Maintenance & Assessment Zone

Beyond routine maintenance (tires, brakes), this mileage range introduces the potential for carbon buildup on the intake valves of the 3.7L engine. Minor suspension component wear may also start.

90,000

Elevated Risk Zone

Key maintenance items like spark plugs are due. The risk of VVEL actuator issues, though uncommon, increases. This is also where any lingering electrical gremlins or more advanced carbon buildup issues might become prominent.

120,000+

High Risk Zone

At this mileage, expect comprehensive suspension component wear (shocks, bushings). The likelihood of a DAS module failure, if it hasn't happened yet, increases, as does the need for professional carbon cleaning for the engine.

2014 Infiniti Q50 Ownership Cost Outlook

What it typically costs to keep the 2014 Infiniti Q50 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.

Annual Maintenance

$500-800

Moderate Repairs

$600-2,000 occasionally

How Long Does the 2014 Infiniti Q50 Last?

Focus on cars with comprehensive service records. Lower mileage (under 60k) is preferable for the 2014 model to minimize the likelihood of encountering carbon buildup or advanced DAS issues, but still requires vigilant inspection of known weak points.

What 2014 Infiniti Q50 Owners Actually Say

What Owners Love

Powerful and smooth VQ37VHR V6 engine (non-hybrid)
Attractive, sporty styling that still looks modern
Comfortable and supportive front seats, good driving position
Impressive value for money on the used market compared to German rivals

Common Frustrations

Frustrating and slow InTouch infotainment system
Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) often feels artificial or inconsistent
Smaller trunk space on hybrid models
Interior rattles and squeaks can develop over time

Who Should Buy the 2014 Infiniti Q50?

Best For

Drivers seeking a powerful V6 luxury sport sedan on a budget
Individuals who prioritize driving dynamics over cutting-edge infotainment
Owners who are mechanically inclined or have access to a trusted Infiniti specialist

Not Ideal For

Tech-averse drivers who expect seamless, modern infotainment
Individuals seeking Lexus-level 'set it and forget it' reliability

How the 2014 Infiniti Q50 Compares to Rivals

The 2014 Q50 offers strong performance and a luxurious feel at a competitive price in the used market, often outshining rivals in terms of raw power and interior comfort, but it lags behind some competitors in terms of initial model year tech reliability.

More Reliable Than

2014 BMW 3-Series (N20 engine issues)
2014 Audi A4 (older generation, some oil consumption issues)

Comparable To

2014 Acura TLX (though TLX is later model and different segment)
2014 Cadillac ATS (similar luxury/sport balance, some CUE issues)

2014 Infiniti Q50 Recall History

5 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

STEERING:AUTOMATED/ADAPTIVE STEERING

Nissan North America, Inc.'s (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Infiniti Q50 vehicles manufactured December 26, 2012, to December 11, 2015, and Infiniti Q50 Hybrid vehicles manufactured December 10, 2012, to December 17, 2015. The Direct Adaptive Steering system may experience an error at vehicle start up altering the vehicle's steering responsiveness and turning radius.

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.

What breaks on the 2014 Infiniti Q50?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time

Just bought a 2014 Infiniti Q50? Keep it that way.

Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.

Other Infiniti Q50 Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Infiniti Q50. Click any year for its full report.

All Infiniti Q50 years ranked →Infiniti Q50 years to avoid →Infiniti Q50 common problems →

2014 Infiniti Q50 Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

Relevant Products for Your 2014 Infiniti Q50

Parts and accessories matched to your 2014 Infiniti Q50

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report