IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2009 Infiniti QX70 (FX)

The S51-generation Infiniti FX launched in the UK in 2009 with 3.7 V6 and 5.0 V8 petrol engines, joined in 2010 by the 235bhp 3.0d V9X V6 turbodiesel for European buyers.

What changed for 2009

  • •UK brand launch with FX37 (316bhp VQ37VHR V6) and flagship FX50 (385bhp VK50VE V8)
  • •Addition of the 3.0-litre V9X V6 diesel (FX30d) in 2010 with 550Nm torque and 7-speed auto
  • •Standard ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive and Rear Active Steer on S Premium models

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Warped front brake discs and seized caliper pistons on heavy 2.1-tonne S51 models
  • !Corrosion on rear suspension subframes, exhaust flanges, and brake pipes on early UK cars
  • !Play in front lower suspension ball joints and wheel bearings accelerated by 21-inch wheels
2
Known Issues
0
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Brake Disc Warping

ModerateBrakes

The FX/QX70 is a heavy car, and spirited driving can lead to warped front brake discs, causing vibration under braking.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£500
Warning Signs:

Steering wheel judder when braking, Pulsing brake pedal

What to Inspect:
  • Apply the brakes firmly from 60mph (where safe) and feel for vibrations
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Dashboard Bubbling

MinorInterior & Trim

A known cosmetic defect where the dashboard material delaminates and creates small bubbles. It is purely aesthetic but very expensive to fix properly.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,500 (Replacement)
Warning Signs:

Small bumps or bubbles appearing on the dashboard top

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the dashboard surface closely in direct light
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2009 Infiniti QX70 (FX)

  • Check top dashboard vinyl for heat-induced bubbling and delamination on 2009–2012 examples
  • Verify Rear Active Steer actuator operation on S models, as replacement racks are very costly
20082010–2012
Check a 2009 Infiniti QX70 (FX) by Registration