Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Infiniti Q50
The 2016 Infiniti Q50 has notable recall issues, primarily with the drivetrain and fuel pump, posing a high-risk factor. Be cautious of the electrical, steering, and engine-related problems reported by owners. Ensure all recalls are addressed and verified with documentation before purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Infiniti Q50 has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 39 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #24V470000 Driveshaft Can Break NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V476000 Fuel Pump Control Module Software may cause Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V430000 Software May Reduce Steering Ability NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V244000 Passenger Air Bag may not Deploy due to OCS Error NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 10 complaints
- Electrical System 8 complaints
- Steering 6 complaints
- Air Bags 5 complaints
- Power Train 4 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 3 complaints
Of the 39 complaints on file, 1 reports a crash; across all 39 complaints, owners report 1 injury (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine stalls while driving
How to check: Verify if recall 17V476000 has been performed.
Adaptive steering error
How to check: Check for recall 16V430000 completion and test steering response.
Electronic malfunctions
How to check: Inspect dashboard lights and systems for glitches.
Airbag sensor failures
How to check: Confirm if recall 16V244000 has been addressed.
Driveshaft fatigue and breakage
How to check: Ensure recall 24V470000 is done; inspect for vibrations.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or loud clanking
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Notice dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Warning lights remain on
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check for smooth steering and turning radius.
Red flag: Steering feels unresponsive or heavy
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for engine power loss or stalling.
Red flag: Engine struggles or stalls
- 05
Strong braking
What to check: Assess brake responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Soft brakes or grinding noise
- 06
Extended idling
What to check: Watch engine temperature gauge.
Red flag: Overheating or odd fluctuations
- 07
Parking
What to check: Examine reverse and parking performance.
Red flag: Difficulty in gear engagement
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel pump recall been completed?
- Are there any unresolved recalls?
- Do you have maintenance records?
- Has the adaptive steering recall been done?
- Have there been any steering issues?
- Any history of engine stalls?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall completion documents
- Full service history
- Title and registration
- Vehicle inspection report
- Repair invoices
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Infiniti Q50 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.