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2021 Infiniti QX50 Report

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

Updated Jun 4, 2026·Ryan Davis·12 Critical Recalls
2021 Infiniti QX50 Report

Overall Score

7.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • With 17 recalls, confirm all manufacturer-issued service bulletins have been addressed by a qualified technician.
  • The QX50 achieves a commendable 26 mpg combined, helping to mitigate fuel costs.
  • Its 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating provides peace of mind, but verify specific crash test results for individual priorities.
  • The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard, offering smooth operation but potentially requiring specific maintenance knowledge.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Infiniti QX50

The 2021 Infiniti QX50 presents itself as a stylish and comfortable luxury crossover. It boasts a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive, delivering respectable 26 mpg combined. Its safety scores are impressive, with an overall 5-star NHTSA rating. However, a significant number of recalls (17) warrants careful pre-purchase inspection and verification of completed repairs.

Critical Failure Risk

Over time, CVT fluid can degrade, leading to reduced lubrication and potential transmission issues. Regular fluid changes are critical for CVT longevity.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$700 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls17
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
26
MPG
City
23
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.8/ 10

Practicality

4.7/ 10

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a comfortable and stylish luxury crossover with good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers who prefer a vehicle with a simpler mechanical history and fewer recalls.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Infiniti QX50 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Infiniti QX50.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
26

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

Most Common Issues

1. CVT Fluid Degradation

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. VC-Turbo Engine Carbon Buildup

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 - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

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
17 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Infiniti QX50 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Infiniti QX50 is 6.8/10. Reliability score is 6.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 17. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Infiniti QX50 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.7/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Infiniti QX50?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Infiniti QX50 is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 4.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Infiniti QX50?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: CVT Transmission (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $5,000).

What engine is in the 2021 Infiniti QX50?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2021 Infiniti QX50 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Infiniti QX50, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 QX50 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Infiniti QX50?▾

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Infiniti QX50?▾

15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Infiniti QX50?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Infiniti QX50, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Infiniti QX50?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Infiniti QX50, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Infiniti QX50 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Infiniti QX50, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Infiniti QX50?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Infiniti QX50?▾

This model year has 17 official safety campaigns listed.

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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