Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Fuel, maker's test (11.2 L/100 km)
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with significant concerns overshadowing positive attributes.
7 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCVT transmission failures
Very frequent reports of complete failure, slipping, jerking, and long-term reliability concerns. Described as prone to wearing out faster than traditional automatics.
- Very frequentCharging system and electrical faults
Recurrent and severe issues involving alternators failing and outputting excessive voltage (16.1+ volts), which subsequently damages the ECU and other electronics. Also includes chronic battery drain and failure.
- RecurrentMajor rust issues
Severe corrosion of the rear subframe and suspension control arm bushings, requiring complete replacement of the subframe assembly: a repair costing $4,000-$10,000.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentComplex electrical/ECU failures
Includes "Key System Error" messages preventing engine start, failure of the IPDM (Intelligent Power Distribution Module), and various sensor error cascades potentially linked to alternator over-voltage events.
- RecurrentBluetooth connectivity problems
Persistent audio glitching, fast-forwarding, and failure to display song metadata with smartphones.
- IsolatedEngine knocking noises
Isolated reports of knocking from the engine bay, potentially linked to fuel rail dampeners, internal engine issues, or exhaust leaks. Diagnosis appears inconsistent.
- IsolatedAir conditioning system failures
Involving compressor and IPDM, leading to expensive and repeated repairs.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available. No specific trim or model year within the JX generation (2013-2015) is singled out as superior. Discussions focus on the model line's inherent mechanical issues rather than trim advantages.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda Pilot, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover.
Is the JX right for you?
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Overall sentiment
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with significant concerns overshadowing positive attributes. The vehicle is acknowledged for its practicality as a 7-seat SUV, comfortable ride, good highway cruising manners, and respectable fuel economy for its class, with reports of up to 26 MPG on road trips. However, owner feedback is dominated by severe and recurrent reliability issues, primarily centered on the JATCO CVT transmission, which is described as problematic and prone to early failure. Additional widespread complaints involve complex and expensive electrical system failures, chronic issues with the charging system (alternator and battery), and significant rust problems affecting critical structural components. The consensus indicates that ownership can be satisfactory if major components remain trouble-free, but the high risk and cost of catastrophic failures lead to strong caution and frustration among many long-term owners.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more feature-luxurious and comfortable alternative to mainstream three-row SUVs like the Honda Pilot and Nissan Pathfinder, but at a significant reliability disadvantage. Compared to European luxury competitors (Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover), it is viewed as a more affordable, comfortable, and fuel-efficient option, but one that sacrifices long-term durability, interior refinement, and brand prestige. The shared platform and CVT with the Nissan Pathfinder are frequently cited as a major drawback, undermining its luxury positioning. It is often described as a value-oriented luxury people-mover with mainstream mechanicals that prove to be its Achilles' heel.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available for specific recommended configurations. Implicit advice from discussions strongly suggests ensuring any purchase has a comprehensive, transferable extended warranty that explicitly covers the CVT transmission and major electrical components. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with the model's common failures is considered essential.
General recommendations
Suitable only for buyers who prioritize interior space, comfort, and features at a low purchase price and who are prepared for potentially high repair costs. NOT recommended for those seeking long-term, trouble-free ownership or who are risk-averse to major drivetrain failure. Essential to verify complete service history, with emphasis on regular transmission fluid changes. A must to obtain an independent mechanical inspection focusing on the transmission, charging system, and for rust on the rear subframe and suspension components. Negotiating a purchase price that factors in the cost of an extended warranty is advised. Owners strongly recommend always using premium fuel despite the engine's ability to run on regular.
Remarks
The Infiniti JX was renamed the QX60 for the 2014 model year, and the discussed vehicles (2013-2015) are mechanically identical. The JATCO CVT is the single most criticized component, with its reputation severely impacting the model's resale value and owner satisfaction. The alternator/ECU failure mode appears to be a known, catastrophic fault where a failing alternator can send damaging voltage spikes through the vehicle's electrical system, necessitating extremely costly repairs. Rust severe enough to require subframe replacement is a notable structural concern for vehicles in regions where road salt is used. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions specifically addressing the JX35/QX60 (2013-2015).
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 296 | 1 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices1 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2013 · service brakescampaign 13V139000
Nissan is recalling certain model year 2013 Pathfinder and Infiniti JX vehicles manufactured December 3, 2012, through January 29, 2013. The front brake torque member was improperly cast resulting in structural weakness. This can lead to premature failure and cracking.
Specifications
35 V6
3.5L 6-cylinder · 265 hp · FWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2012–2013