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2011 Infiniti M56 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 4, 2026·Ethan Miller
2011 Infiniti M56 Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 5.6L V8 engine provides ample power but demands premium fuel, contributing to higher running costs.
  • With a combined EPA rating of 19 MPG, expect frequent stops at the pump.
  • The driveshaft is a critical component with a history of recalls, making it the highest priority for inspection.
  • While NHTSA reports zero complaints, the extensive recall activity, particularly for the driveshaft, warrants caution.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 Infiniti M56

The 2011 Infiniti M56 presents a luxurious and powerful sedan option for the used car market. Powered by a robust 5.6-liter V8 engine, it delivers strong acceleration and a refined driving experience. While its safety ratings are generally good, with a 5-star side crash rating, the vehicle's reliability assessment is average, largely due to a notable number of recalls. Potential buyers should be aware of the significant recall history focused on the driveshaft, suggesting a need for careful inspection and verification of completed repairs.

Critical Failure Risk

The driveshaft can fracture, leading to a loss of power and potential component separation. This issue has been the subject of multiple recall campaigns.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls11
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.1/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a powerful and luxurious sedan with a strong V8 engine.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing absolute mechanical dependability and minimal repair risk.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Infiniti M56 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Infiniti M56.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S7)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
19

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See the full 2011 Infiniti M56 buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Driveshaft Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $175

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
11 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2011 Infiniti M56 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Infiniti M56 is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 11. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2011 Infiniti M56 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Infiniti M56?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Infiniti M56 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Infiniti M56?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Driveshaft (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2011 Infiniti M56?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 5.6.

What transmission does the 2011 Infiniti M56 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Infiniti M56, transmission is Automatic (S7). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2011 M56 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Infiniti M56?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Infiniti M56?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2011 Infiniti M56?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Infiniti M56, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Infiniti M56 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Infiniti M56, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S7).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Infiniti M56?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Infiniti M56?▾

This model year has 11 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Infiniti M56?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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