Summary
The INFINITI QX50 has 9 recalls covering 2019 through 2024 model years, with the most serious being a steering knuckle defect on 2021 models where a hard impact like hitting a curb can bend or break the knuckle, causing the steering wheel to go off-center, complete loss of steering control, or a wheel separating from the vehicle.
The 2023-2024 model years have a driver's airbag inflator that can absorb moisture and deploy improperly in a crash, reducing the protection it offers. On 2022 models, an incorrect door latch was installed in the front passenger door that prevents the automatic locking function from working, leaving that door vulnerable to opening in a crash.
The 2020 model year has a tire and loading information label with printing errors that make the tire size and load capacity difficult or impossible to read, which can lead to overloading the tires and a resulting loss of control or tire failure.
On 2019 models, two separate issues stand out. Certain vehicles equipped with the 1.5L or 2.0L variable compression engine can develop abnormal noises and eventually suffer outright engine failure, which can cause a sudden loss of drive power or a fire. Also on 2019 models, the trim cover over the passenger-side knee airbag can detach completely during deployment in very cold temperatures rather than splitting cleanly at its designed tear seam, turning the cover into a loose object that can strike the occupant.
