2018 Infiniti QX60 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2018 Infiniti QX60
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip.
- Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2016 Infiniti QX60 earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (critical severity).
Should You Buy the 2018 Infiniti QX60?
The 2018 Infiniti QX60 offers a comfortable, spacious, and generally well-appointed luxury crossover experience, but its long-term reliability is significantly overshadowed by the persistent risk of Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) failure. Owners must proceed with caution, understanding that while the engine is robust, the transmission can present a major, expensive setback.
The 2018 Infiniti QX60 is a tempting used luxury SUV, delivering on comfort and family utility. However, the known and widespread issues with the Jatco CVT prevent a wholehearted recommendation. If you're considering this vehicle, prioritize a verifiable service history and prepare for the possibility of a costly tr…
Best Model Years
2019-2020 (later iterations had minor CVT tweaks, though fundamental risk remains) or earlier years with documented CVT replacement.
Years to Avoid
Early model years of the JX/QX60 (2013-2017) are generally considered higher risk for CVT issues without documented service or replacement.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust VQ35 V6 engine
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Smooth ride quality
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2018 Infiniti QX60, 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.
The Jatco CVT is prone to shuddering, slippage, and eventual catastrophic failure due to internal component wear and overheating. This is by far the most significant reliability concern.
Owners report issues with various sensors (ABS, TPMS), infotainment glitches, and occasional parasitic battery drains. While rarely stranding the vehicle, these can be frustrating and costly to diagnose.
Premature wear of struts, control arm bushings, and sway bar links can lead to clunking noises, reduced ride quality, and uneven tire wear, especially in areas with poor road conditions.
2018 Infiniti QX60 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2018 Infiniti QX60 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the QX60 should still be in excellent condition, primarily requiring routine maintenance. However, it's wise to start thinking about the CVT and its first fluid change.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often coincides with significant factory service intervals. Crucially, the CVT fluid should have been changed by now, and closer inspection for suspension wear is advised.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond 90k, the risk of CVT-related issues significantly increases. Other wear items like struts and control arm bushings are also likely to require replacement, adding to ownership costs.
High Risk Zone
Entering this zone, a major CVT repair or replacement becomes a strong possibility. Expect to address a range of age and mileage-related wear items, making maintenance costs unpredictable.
2018 Infiniti QX60 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2018 Infiniti QX60 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
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., suspension work, brake overhaul)
How Long Does the 2018 Infiniti QX60 Last?
Focus on lower mileage examples (under 70,000 miles) with impeccable CVT service records, and prepare for increased maintenance costs as the vehicle approaches six-figure mileage.
What 2018 Infiniti QX60 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Comfortable and quiet ride, excellent for long trips
- Spacious interior with usable third-row seating
- Smooth V6 engine performance
- Luxurious feel and quality materials for the price
Common Frustrations
- CVT's perceived unreliability and expensive failure potential
- Fuel economy is only average for its class
- Dated infotainment system graphics and interface
- Lackluster driving dynamics, not engaging to drive
Who Should Buy the 2018 Infiniti QX60?
Best For
- Families needing a comfortable and spacious third-row SUV on a budget
- Buyers prioritizing luxury amenities and quiet ride over performance
- Individuals who understand and are prepared for potential CVT expenses
Not Ideal For
- Long-term owners seeking absolute bulletproof reliability
- Buyers on a very strict maintenance budget
How the 2018 Infiniti QX60 Compares to Rivals
The QX60 offers a compelling package of luxury and space for its price point, but its CVT often places it below segment leaders like the Lexus RX for overall long-term reliability and peace of mind.
More Reliable Than
- Cadillac XT5 (for powertrain refinement)
- Acura RDX (for third-row seating capacity)
Comparable To
- Acura MDX (in terms of luxury and comfort, but MDX has a more reliable conventional automatic)
- Audi Q7 (size and family utility, but Q7 has higher maintenance costs)
NHTSA Recalls
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
What breaks on the 2018 Infiniti QX60?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Infiniti QX60 by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Infiniti QX60. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
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Frequently Asked Questions
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