Reliability Comparisonother · How we score

2015 Infiniti QX80 vs 2017 Lincoln Navigator vs 2017 Infiniti QX80

Our Recommendation

2017 Infiniti QX80

Higher AutoScore, low risk, and a stronger overall profile make it the clear pick.

Reliability Side-by-Side

2015

Infiniti QX80

78/ 100
MODERATE RISK

Grade C+

A potent luxury SUV with a solid heart, but its sophisticated suspension is a ticking financial time bomb for many.

2017

Lincoln Navigator

78/ 100
MODERATE RISK

Grade C+

A comfortable and capable luxury SUV, but budget for the inevitable air suspension and electrical repairs.

2017

Infiniti QX80

Winner
88/ 100
LOW RISK

Grade B+

A powerhouse of reliability for core components, but be diligent in inspecting its complex suspension and electronics to avoid luxury-level repair bills.

Best For

Best for Reliability

2017 Infiniti QX80

Score 88/100 vs 78/100

Best for Lowest Risk

2017 Infiniti QX80

low risk

Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer

Sell your car for what it's worth.

Log every service. Sell with a signed PDF. Every receipt, mileage-verified, in the buyer's hands.

Cost of Ownership

Line Item2015 Infiniti QX802017 Lincoln Navigator2017 Infiniti QX80★
Annual Maintenance$600-900 (for routine services, premium fuel)$600-900$600-900
Moderate Repairs$1,000-2,500 occasionally (brakes, suspension bushings, major service items)$800-2,500 occasionally (e.g., power running board, minor electrical fixes)$800-2,000 occasionally for HBMC sensors, electrical modules, or multiple wear items.
MPG (City/Hwy)14 / 2016 / 2214 / 20
MSRP (New)$63,250$63,600$64,000

Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.

Biggest Risks on Each

2015 Infiniti QX80

  • Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) System

    60,000-100,000 mi

  • Braking System

    20,000-40,000 (pads), 30,000-60,000 (rotors) mi

  • Electrical System & Infotainment

    40,000-80,000 mi

2017 Lincoln Navigator

  • Air Suspension System

    60,000-100,000 mi

  • Electrical System

    40,000-80,000 mi

  • Timing Chain (3.5L EcoBoost)

    90,000-140,000 mi

2017 Infiniti QX80

  • Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) System

    60,000-100,000 mi

  • Electrical / Infotainment System

    50,000-90,000 mi

  • Brake System Wear

    30,000-60,000 mi

Get the Full Report on Each

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.

Free · Instant delivery · No account required

Autojunket

Free

per report

Carfax

$44.99

per report

OSC

$9.99/mo

unlimited

Not sure yet? See a real, unblurred sample report →

Editorial Take

These three large luxury SUVs appeal to buyers seeking immense passenger and cargo capacity, commanding road presence, and premium amenities. The 2015 and 2017 Infiniti QX80 represent the Japanese take on full-size luxury, emphasizing V8 power and a distinctive, opulent interior. The 2017 Lincoln Navigator offers a more traditional American luxury experience, with a focus on spaciousness, a robust turbocharged V6, and a softer ride. Key decision factors among these vehicles include engine preference, interior design and technology, third-row usability, and long-term reliability expectations. HEAD-TO-

Reliability & Common Issues

2015 Infiniti QX80: A common complaint for this generation involves premature wear of brake components, including rotors, pads, and sometimes calipers. Owners have reported needing brake services more frequently than expected, sometimes as early as 20,000-30,000 miles. Infotainment system glitches, such as freezing or slow responses, were also reported, though often resolved with software updates. 2017 Infiniti QX80: Similar to the 2015 model, the 2017 QX80 can suffer from premature brake wear. While not as widespread, some owners have also reported issues with the liftgate struts failing prematurely, leading to the power liftgate not staying open reliably. 2017 Lincoln Navigator: The 3.5L EcoBoost engine in the Navigator can be susceptible to carbon buildup on the intake valves over time, potentially leading to reduced performance or misfires, especially at higher mileage (e.g., beyond 70,000 miles). Turbocharger wastegate actuator issues are also known to occur, manifesting as a rattling noise or reduced boost. The air suspension system, while providing a comfortable ride, can develop leaks or compressor failures, particularly in older or higher-mileage examples, leading to expensive repairs.

Value & Cost of Ownership

When new, all three vehicles had comparable starting MSRPs in the mid-$60,000 range. However, significant depreciation has occurred across all models. Today, a 2015 Infiniti QX80 can be found for roughly $18,000-$25,000, while a 2017 QX80 typically commands $25,000-$35,000 depending on mileage and condition. A 2017 Lincoln Navigator also falls into the $25,000-$35,000 range. All are large luxury SUVs, meaning insurance costs will be higher than average due to repair costs and vehicle value. Maintenance costs for the Infiniti QX80 models are generally reasonable for a luxury vehicle. Infiniti parts can be specific, but the drivetrain is well-proven. The known brake wear issue can add to routine service expenses. The Lincoln Navigator, being a Ford product, benefits from widely available parts, but the EcoBoost engine and air suspension system can lead to more expensive specialized repairs if issues like carbon buildup or air strut failures occur. Fuel economy differences are slight, with the Navigator holding a marginal advantage. Resale value for this generation of Navigator depreciated heavily, making it a good used buy, while the QX80, though also depreciating significantly, often held a slight edge in value retention for its segment.

Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Autojunket OSC

You maintain your car. Make sure you can prove it.

The ownership record that lives with your VIN. Every service, every receipt, every mile — logged from day one and transferable to the next owner. $9.99/mo or $79.99/yr.