2017 INFINITI QX50 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 INFINITI QX50: Common Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 INFINITI QX50 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 INFINITI QX50 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What steps should I take to diagnose the check engine light on my 2017 INFINITI QX50?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2017 INFINITI QX50, start with the simplest solutions. Begin by inspecting the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can trigger the light. If the cap is secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner, which connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port. This tool will provide you with specific error codes that indicate the nature of the problem. Once you have the error code, research it in your vehicle's manual or online to gain insight into the issue. Additionally, pay attention to any other warning lights on your dashboard, as they may offer further clues about the underlying problem. If these steps do not lead to a clear diagnosis or if the issue appears to be more complex, it is wise to seek assistance from a professional mechanic or dealership. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the check engine light, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 INFINITI QX50?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2017 INFINITI QX50, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can help you take appropriate action. One frequent culprit is a loose or damaged gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system and trigger the light. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to more significant engine problems if left unaddressed. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can illuminate the check engine light, indicating a need for immediate attention. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can also impact the engine's air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. Furthermore, worn-out spark plugs or a defective ignition coil can cause engine misfires, resulting in the check engine light activation. It is crucial to diagnose and resolve these issues promptly, as neglecting them can lead to further damage and decreased vehicle performance. If you notice the check engine light illuminated, consider having your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure a thorough diagnosis and effective resolution of the underlying problem.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 INFINITI QX50?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 INFINITI QX50, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light indicates that there may be an underlying issue with your vehicle's engine or emissions system, which can significantly affect performance and fuel efficiency. Ignoring this warning can lead to more severe problems, including costly repairs or unexpected breakdowns that could leave you stranded. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, it is advisable to start by using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. However, it is essential to understand that while some minor issues may be manageable at home, others may require the expertise of a qualified mechanic to prevent further damage. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's health but also ensure your safety on the road, making it a priority for any responsible car owner.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2017 INFINITI QX50 Check Engine Light Causes & Solutions