2019 Infiniti Qx80

The dual-screen infotainment system, carried over from previous generations, is extremely slow and prone to freezing and crashing. The upper screen frequently goes black when switching between navigation and audio. Boot-up time after starting the vehicle can exceed 30 seconds.

Infiniti has released software updates to improve system responsiveness, but the underlying hardware limitations persist. A full system reset by disconnecting the battery for 15 minutes can temporarily improve performance. Some owners have opted for aftermarket head unit upgrades.

QX80 models equipped with the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system develop fluid leaks from the interconnected shock absorbers and hydraulic lines. Symptoms include a bouncy ride, uneven vehicle stance, and wet spots on the shock bodies. The HBMC system is complex and costly to service.

Identify the leaking component (shock absorber, hydraulic line, or accumulator) and replace it. The HBMC fluid must be bled and refilled correctly using the Infiniti procedure. Some owners convert to conventional shock absorbers for reduced maintenance cost.

The fuel gauge reads inaccurately, often showing significantly more or less fuel than is actually in the tank. Some owners report the gauge dropping suddenly from half to near-empty, while others report it reading full for an unusually long time before dropping. The issue is related to the fuel level sending unit.

Replace the fuel level sending unit in the fuel tank. In some cases, the fuel pump assembly must be replaced as a unit since the sender is integrated. Infiniti service bulletin addresses fuel gauge calibration procedures.

A noticeable clunking or banging noise occurs when transitioning between 2WD, Auto, and 4HI modes, or when making tight turns on dry pavement in 4WD mode. The transfer case shift fork and synchronizer wear prematurely, causing the harsh engagement.

A transfer case fluid change with the correct Nissan/Infiniti-specified fluid can improve shift quality. If the shift fork or synchronizer is worn, internal repair or transfer case replacement is needed. Avoid engaging 4WD on dry pavement.

The VK56VD 5.6L V8 engine's exhaust manifolds are prone to cracking, typically at the weld joints connecting the tubes to the flange. Symptoms include a ticking noise on cold starts that may diminish as the engine warms up, exhaust smell in the cabin, and eventually a check engine light.

Replace the cracked exhaust manifold(s) with updated parts. Both driver and passenger side manifolds should be inspected, as the issue often appears on both sides. Aftermarket stainless steel headers are available as a longer-lasting alternative.

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.

Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200.