2016 Infiniti Qx60 Safety Report

The 2016 INFINITI QX60 presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved strong crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating, 5-star side impact, and 4-star frontal and rollover ratings, there are significant concerns stemming from owner complaints and a critical recall. The vehicle has a total of 28 NHTSA complaints, with 3 reported crashes, 1 fire, and 6 injuries. A major pattern in complaints revolves around the 'AIR BAGS' component, accounting for 11 of the 28 complaints (39%). This aligns directly with the single recall issued for the vehicle (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V244000) concerning the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, which could prevent the passenger frontal airbag from deploying. Several complaints explicitly mention the passenger airbag indicator light malfunctioning or the system failing to detect an adult passenger, directly referencing the recall. Beyond the airbag issue, other concerning complaints include power train problems, specifically CVT transmission issues leading to 'limp mode' at 93,000 miles, and AWD coupling failures. There are also multiple reports of unexpected vehicle movement, such as the car accelerating in reverse on its own, leading to a crash, and rolling backward while parked, resulting in severe injuries (fractured ribs, collar bone, clavicle). A notable number of complaints also describe spontaneous sunroof explosions while driving, which, while not directly safety-critical in terms of crash protection, pose a significant hazard due to flying glass and driver distraction. The 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' category accounts for 5 complaints, suggesting some issues don't fit neatly into standard categories. In summary, while the 2016 INFINITI QX60 performs well in controlled crash tests, the real-world complaint data reveals serious potential safety defects, particularly with the airbag system, unexpected vehicle movement, and structural integrity issues like exploding sunroofs. The high number of airbag complaints directly linked to an active recall is a critical concern, indicating that many vehicles may still have unaddressed safety defects despite the recall.

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the critical airbag recall and investigate if the specific vehicle's recall has been addressed. Also, be cautious of reports regarding unexpected vehicle movement, CVT issues, and exploding sunroofs, which indicate potential reliability and safety concerns.