2016 Infiniti Q50 Safety Report

The 2016 INFINITI Q50 presents a mixed safety picture based on NHTSA data. While it has a relatively low number of total complaints at 34, with only 1 reported crash and 1 injury, its recall history is notable with 4 separate recalls. Crash test performance is strong in specific areas, achieving a 5-star rating for Side impact and Rollover, though overall and frontal ratings are not available. A significant concern arises from the recall related to 'STEERING:AUTOMATED/ADAPTIVE STEERING,' which directly impacts vehicle control and has a consequence of increased crash risk if the vehicle does not steer as anticipated. This is corroborated by complaints describing the vehicle pulling or steering independently. Common complaint patterns revolve around the ENGINE (4 complaints), AIR BAGS (3 complaints), and STEERING (3 complaints). Engine issues include stalling, loss of power, check engine light illumination, and even reports of porous blocks leading to coolant mixing with oil and subsequent engine failure. The AIR BAGS complaints often relate to the passenger airbag light illuminating or sensor malfunctions, directly aligning with a recall (16V244000) concerning the Occupant Classification System, which could prevent proper airbag deployment and increase injury risk. Steering complaints, including the vehicle pulling or having limited turning capability, are also directly addressed by a recall (14V766000) regarding the automated/adaptive steering system. The recall history is a critical aspect of this vehicle's safety. Beyond the steering and airbag recalls, there's a recall for the 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP' (18V622000) due to incorrect software that could lead to an engine stall, increasing crash risk. Another recall (18V601000) addresses the 'POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT,' where a broken driveshaft could cause a loss of drive power or a vehicle roll away. These recalls indicate significant safety vulnerabilities identified by the manufacturer and NHTSA, even if the complaint numbers are low. The presence of multiple recalls for critical safety systems like steering, airbags, and fuel delivery suggests that while the reported incident count is low, the potential for serious safety issues was recognized.

Our recommendation: Given the 4 safety recalls addressing critical components like steering, airbags, and the engine, ensure all recalls have been completed before purchase. Be vigilant for signs of engine or steering issues, which are common complaints.