P0175 on the 2024 Infiniti QX60: What's Going On?
Your 2024 Infiniti QX60 uses the same proven 3.5L V6 (VQ35DD) with direct injection that debuted in the 2022 redesign, producing 295 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque paired with a 9-speed automatic. A P0175 code means the ECM has determined that Bank 2 — the rear bank of cylinders on the transversely-mounted V6 — is consistently running richer than the target air-fuel ratio, and fuel trim corrections have exceeded their normal range.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Illuminated check engine light
- Decreased fuel economy (expect 2–4 MPG loss)
- Black exhaust smoke, particularly during cold starts
- Rough or unsteady idle
- Fuel odor from the tailpipe
- Possible hesitation on acceleration
Investigating the Causes
1. Dirty or Malfunctioning MAF Sensor — High Likelihood
The 2024 QX60's hot-wire MAF sensor measures incoming air volume and reports it to the ECM for fuel calculations. On a relatively new vehicle, the most common issue is contamination from aftermarket oiled air filters (like K&N) or unusually dusty conditions. Even light contamination on the delicate hot-wire element causes significant airflow measurement errors, leading the ECM to over-fuel Bank 2.
2. Bank 2 Upstream O2 Sensor Drift — Medium Likelihood
Although rare on a 2024 model, manufacturing defects or exposure to silicone-containing sealants can poison an O2 sensor early. The Bank 2 upstream sensor on the QX60 is positioned on the rear exhaust manifold, and a sensor reading falsely lean causes the ECM to compensate by enriching the mixture.
3. Fuel Injector Issue — Medium Likelihood
The VQ35DD's direct-injection system operates at pressures exceeding 2,900 PSI. Even on a new vehicle, a single injector with a manufacturing defect or debris lodged in the pintle can leak fuel, creating a rich condition on that bank. A fuel injector balance test using a professional scan tool can pinpoint the culprit.
4. High Fuel Pressure — Low Likelihood
The high-pressure fuel pump is driven off the camshaft on the VQ35DD. If the pump's internal regulator allows excessive pressure, all injectors on both banks deliver too much fuel. However, this would typically set both P0172 and P0175 simultaneously.
How to Diagnose
- Check fuel trims — Connect a scan tool and monitor Bank 2 STFT and LTFT. LTFT above +20% at idle confirms a chronic rich condition.
- Inspect the MAF sensor — Pull the sensor and look for oil or debris on the element. Clean with MAF-specific cleaner and retest.
- Live-test O2 sensors — The Bank 2 upstream sensor should oscillate quickly between 0.1V and 0.9V. A fixed or slow-moving signal is a red flag.
- Run injector tests — Use manufacturer-level diagnostics (Consult III+ or equivalent) to perform an injector contribution test.
- Verify fuel pressure — Check both low-side and high-side fuel pressure against Infiniti specs.
What Will Repairs Cost?
Infiniti dealer labor rates typically run $165–$210/hour:
- MAF sensor cleaning: $10–$15 (DIY)
- MAF sensor replacement: $220–$420
- O2 sensor replacement: $275–$525
- Fuel injector replacement: $350–$700 per injector
- High-pressure fuel pump: $600–$1,100
Is This Covered Under Warranty?
The 2024 QX60 comes with a 4-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Fuel system and sensor issues related to P0175 would likely be covered under the powertrain warranty, so visit your Infiniti dealer before paying out of pocket.
Driving With P0175
A rich-running engine isn't immediately dangerous but causes premature catalytic converter degradation. On the QX60, each catalytic converter costs $1,500–$2,800 to replace. Get the code addressed promptly, especially while warranty coverage may still apply.