2018 Infiniti Qx80 Safety Report

2018 INFINITI QX80 shows low complaint volume but concerning electrical and air bag issues, alongside a recall for back-up camera failure.

8Complaints
1Recalls
65/100Reliability Score
1Crash Reports
1Injuries
Most reported components: Electrical System (2)Electrical System,Exterior Lighting (1)Steering (1)Unknown Or Other (1)Electrical System,Communication (1)Air Bags (1)Air Bags,Seat Belts (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Infiniti Qx80

The 2018 INFINITI QX80 presents a mixed safety picture based on the available NHTSA data. With only 8 total complaints, the volume is relatively low for a vehicle of its age, suggesting that widespread, systemic issues might not be prevalent. However, the complaints do highlight some concerning patterns, particularly within the electrical system. Two complaints specifically detail instrument cluster illumination failure, with one owner reporting a repeat occurrence at 32,000 and 55,000 miles, indicating a potential design flaw. Another electrical system complaint relates to the Telematics Control Unit (TCU) becoming inoperable due to 3G network shutdown, which, while a network issue, impacts vehicle functionality. Recall history for the 2018 QX80 includes one recall for 'BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA'. This recall, affecting a broad range of Nissan and Infiniti models, addresses a critical safety concern where the lack of a back-up camera image increases the risk of a crash. This is a significant safety defect that Nissan has proactively addressed. Crash test performance data from NHTSA is incomplete, with 'N/A' for Overall and Frontal ratings. However, the vehicle did achieve a 5-star rating for Side impact and a 3-star rating for Rollover, which are important indicators of occupant protection in specific crash scenarios. Despite the low complaint volume, the nature of some issues, such as the air bag light illuminating and a dealer quoting over $5000 for repair with a warning of non-deployment in an accident, is serious. The single reported crash involved a frontal air bag deployment but not the side air bag, which is concerning given the side impact. The sunroof exploding without impact is also a rare but severe incident. Overall, while the vehicle has a low complaint count, the identified issues, particularly electrical and air bag concerns, warrant attention.

Reliability Score

The 2018 Infiniti Qx80 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2018 Infiniti Qx80

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Infiniti Qx80:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Instrument Cluster Illumination Failure
Dashboard bulbs or instrument cluster lighting goes dim or completely out, particularly at night, affecting speedometer and tachometer visibility. One owner reported a repeat failure.		 Medium Occasional 30000-55000 miles
Air Bag System Malfunction
Air bag light illuminates, with dealer diagnosis indicating potential non-deployment in an accident and high repair costs (over $5000).		 High Rare 40000-50000 miles
Back-Up Camera Display Failure
Recall issued for lack of image in the back-up camera display, increasing crash risk. Affects all 2018 QX80 models.		 High Common N/A miles
Telematics Control Unit (Tcu) Inoperability
TCU becomes inoperable due to 3G network shutdown, impacting connected services.		 Low Rare N/A miles
Steering Wheel Trim Cracking
Plastic trim on the steering wheel cracks, potentially lifting and causing distraction.		 Low Rare N/A miles
Sunroof Explosion
Sunroof glass spontaneously shatters and bows outward without external impact.		 High Rare N/A miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Infiniti Qx80:

Electrical System 25% of complaints

Two out of eight complaints (25%) are related to the electrical system, specifically instrument cluster illumination failure and TCU inoperability.

Air Bags 25% of complaints

Two out of eight complaints (25%) involve the air bag system, including an air bag light illumination and a crash where a side air bag did not deploy.

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera 100% of complaints

All 2018 QX80 vehicles are subject to a recall for back-up camera display failure, indicating a widespread issue with this component.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Infiniti Qx80

Is the 2018 INFINITI QX80 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 INFINITI QX80 has a low number of overall complaints (8 total). It received a 5-star side crash rating and a 3-star rollover rating, though frontal and overall ratings are unavailable. There is one significant recall for back-up camera failure, which has been addressed. While the low complaint volume is positive, specific issues like instrument cluster failures and air bag system concerns have been reported.

What are common problems for the 2018 INFINITI QX80?

The most reported issues based on NHTSA complaints are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints, 25% of total), specifically instrument cluster illumination failure, and AIR BAGS (2 complaints, 25% of total), including a malfunction indicator light and a non-deployment in a crash. All models are also affected by a recall for back-up camera display failure.

Are there any recalls for the 2018 INFINITI QX80?

Yes, there is one recall for the 2018 INFINITI QX80. It is for 'BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA', where the back-up camera display may not show an image, increasing the risk of a crash. This recall affects all 2018 QX80 vehicles.

How does the 2018 INFINITI QX80 perform in crash tests?

The 2018 INFINITI QX80 received a 5-star rating for Side crash tests and a 3-star rating for Rollover tests from NHTSA. However, the Overall and Frontal crash test ratings are not available ('N/A').

What should I look out for when buying a used 2018 INFINITI QX80?

When considering a used 2018 INFINITI QX80, pay close attention to the instrument cluster for any dimming or non-functional lights, and ensure all recall work, especially for the back-up camera, has been completed. Also, check for any illuminated air bag warning lights and inquire about the vehicle's service history regarding electrical system repairs.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but specific electrical and air bag concerns, ensure all recall work is completed and thoroughly inspect the instrument cluster and air bag warning lights before purchasing a 2018 INFINITI QX80.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Infiniti Qx80

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Infiniti Qx80. The data includes 8 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.