2014 Infiniti QX80 Reliability ReportKeepScore 82/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2014 Infiniti QX80
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2016 Infiniti QX80 earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: hydraulic body motion control (hbmc) system (major severity).
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator module.
2014 Infiniti QX80: Buy or Avoid?
The 2014 Infiniti QX80 stands as a robust, luxury full-size SUV powered by a legendary V8 engine and a resilient transmission. While its core mechanicals are undeniably strong, potential buyers must be acutely aware of one significant vulnerability: the Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) system, which can lead to substantial repair bills if neglected or failed.
While the 2014 Infiniti QX80 delivers a compelling blend of luxury, power, and capability, the omnipresent risk of a catastrophic and expensive Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) system failure prevents a confident recommendation. If you're prepared to either budget significantly for potential repairs or secure a…
Best Model Years
2017-2020 (later model years received minor refinements and slightly updated tech, but HBMC risk remains consistent).
Years to Avoid
No specific years to outright avoid, but the HBMC system is a factor across all generations equipped with it. Earlier models (2011-2013) had some initial HBMC issues that were addressed in TSBs, but the fundamental design vulnerability persists.
Biggest Strengths
- VK56VD V8 Engine Robustness
- Durable 7-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Luxurious and Well-Built Interior
2014 Infiniti QX80 — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2014 Infiniti QX80, 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.
This advanced suspension system provides a remarkably stable and smooth ride but is prone to leaks from lines, actuators, or the accumulator. Failures result in significant body roll and a very costly repair, as individual components are…
Due to the vehicle's substantial weight, the brake pads and rotors (especially the front) experience accelerated wear. Owners frequently report premature warping of rotors leading to pulsation and reduced braking effectiveness, requiring…
While not catastrophic, common complaints include glitches with the navigation system, infotainment screen freezing or rebooting intermittently, and occasional issues with the HVAC blower motor resistor or power liftgate operation. These…
2014 Infiniti QX80 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2014 Infiniti QX80 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Wear Checkpoint
At this mileage, focus is on basic maintenance and early indicators. High brake wear can already be apparent due to the vehicle's weight. Check for any minor electrical glitches or early HBMC fluid seepage.
Critical Inspection Zone
This mileage often marks the start of more significant component aging. A thorough HBMC system inspection is paramount. Suspension bushings, tires, and all fluid services are crucial. Budget for potentially higher maintenance.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond 90k, the likelihood of major HBMC issues increases significantly. Other common wear items like control arm bushings and engine accessory components (belts, pulleys) will likely need attention. A detailed pre-purchase inspection is…
High Risk / Major Service Zone
At this point, expect nearly all original wear components to need replacement or significant attention. HBMC system failure becomes a more probable event. Proper, consistent maintenance history is absolutely vital for any vehicle at this…
2014 Infiniti QX80 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2014 Infiniti QX80 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-900
Moderate Repairs
$800-2,000 occasionally
How Long Does the 2014 Infiniti QX80 Last?
For any QX80, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by an Infiniti specialist, with a particular focus on the HBMC system, is non-negotiable, especially on vehicles approaching or exceeding 60,000 miles. Budget for higher-than-average maintenance and potential major repairs.
What 2014 Infiniti QX80 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Commanding V8 power and smooth acceleration for merging and towing.
- Luxurious, spacious, and quiet interior with high-quality materials.
- Surprisingly agile handling and composed ride for its size, when HBMC works.
- Strong towing capacity, making it a capable workhorse for boats or trailers.
Common Frustrations
- Abysmal fuel economy (often single-digit MPG in city driving).
- Very expensive HBMC system repairs that can be financially devastating.
- High frequency of brake component replacement due to vehicle weight.
- Dated infotainment system compared to modern rivals, lacking Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
Who Should Buy the 2014 Infiniti QX80?
Best For
- Families needing significant passenger and cargo space for road trips.
- Buyers seeking a luxurious, powerful SUV who are comfortable with higher running costs.
- Owners who regularly tow heavy loads and appreciate a strong V8 engine.
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking minimal maintenance and repair costs.
- Drivers living in areas with high road salt, increasing rust risk on underbody components.
How the 2014 Infiniti QX80 Compares to Rivals
The QX80 offers tremendous luxury and power for its price point in the used market, often undercutting its Japanese and German rivals. However, its sophisticated HBMC system introduces a unique, costly vulnerability that simpler, more robust competitors avoid, making it a high…
More Reliable Than
- 2014 Cadillac Escalade (older models' interior quality and electrical)
- 2014 Lincoln Navigator (overall driving dynamics and powertrain refinement)
Comparable To
- 2014 Lexus LX570 (luxury and V8 power, though LX typically has superior long-term reliability without HBMC)
- 2014 Nissan Armada (mechanically identical, but QX80 adds more luxury)
Safety Recalls on the 2014 Infiniti QX80
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013 Infiniti QX56 vehicles manufactured September 1, 2012, to April 26, 2013, and 2014 Infiniti QX80 vehicles manufactured June 18, 2013, to February 11, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the driver's frontal air bag inflator may have been manufactured with an incorrect part.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Nissan Juke, 2012-2013 Infiniti M56, QX56, and 2014-2015 Infiniti Q70 (V8 engine vehicles only), and QX80 vehicles. The fuel pressure sensors may not have been sufficiently tightened during production. As a result, the fuel pressure sensor may loosen with vehicle usage and cause a fuel leak.
What breaks on the 2014 Infiniti QX80?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Infiniti QX80 — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Infiniti QX80. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2014s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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