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Hello - I have a JX35 with a similar issue. Is there a fuse I can pull to disable this unit ? Or I have to just disconnect it ? Thanks
From CBad’s comment earlier in the thread you have to disconnect it, not pull a fuse.

Easy diagnosis: crawl under rear of vehicle just past passenger door. You'll see RDC bolted onto the end of the diff. They're usually cast silver and have a black 'pizza stand' plate bolted directly to the drive line (4 bolts to driveline, 6 bolts for the other end of RDC to diff).

You will see a typical gray plastic plug (female/male) attached via a plastic push clip. Unclip plug and test drive. If sound/feeling disappears you just diagnosed it for free. New RDC part runs $1500 at your dealer, $1K Infiniti dealer online sales via Ebay search or $300-500 ebay used. Several well made install videos on YouTube (search QX60 rear coupler). Takes about 30min-1 hr.

Note: unplugging does not hurt the car. Just turns it into 2WD front.
Also, It's plug and play. No coding during install needed by dealer.
 
From CBad’s comment earlier in the thread you have to disconnect it, not pull a fuse.

Does anyone know if driving in "SPORT" mode makes it more likely to hear the grinding noise/rear end feeling when turning ? Does "ECO" or "STD" mode mostly keep it in 2wd mode ? My JX35 is at 128K miles.

I see someone posting a new coupler on Ebay saying that his suv needed a transfer case (so I am considering buying this one for $700 as opposed to $1500 from the dealer). Is that a possibility for this rear end noise/feeling ?

Thanks for the help guys.
 
Does anyone know if driving in "SPORT" mode makes it more likely to hear the grinding noise/rear end feeling when turning ? Does "ECO" or "STD" mode mostly keep it in 2wd mode ? My JX35 is at 128K miles.

I see someone posting a new coupler on Ebay saying that his suv needed a transfer case (so I am considering buying this one for $700 as opposed to $1500 from the dealer). Is that a possibility for this rear end noise/feeling ?

Thanks for the help guys.
The drive mode selector on the QX60 AWD cars is more about throttle control than AWD/4WD modes. The rear coupler is designed to engage the rear wheels when either 1 or both front wheels show a rotational speed difference compared to the rear wheels, such as would be expected if the 1 or both front wheels are spinning as if on ice or snow. The rear coupler disconnects when all wheels are rotating at the same RPM, and continuously checks to see if rear axle should be turning. It's just like your mother-in-law always telling you how to drive without tapping your shoulder.
 
All wheel drive QX60's only- Any noise you feel or hear from the undercarriage while turning at low (40mph and under) speed is indicative of a bad Rear Differential Coupler (RDC). $2,700 dealer repair or male) attached via a plastic push clip. Unclip plug and test drive. If sound/feeling disappears you just diagnosed it for free. New RDC part runs $1500 at your dealer, $1K Infiniti dealer online sales via Ebay search or $300-500 ebay used. Several well made install videos on YouTube (search QX60 rear coupler). Takes about 30min-1 hr. Note: unplugging does not hurt the car. Just turns it into 2WD front. Also, It's plug and play. No coding during install needed by dealer. Technical Service Bulletin: Classification: RA12-003f Reference: ITB12-072f Date: September 23, 2020 2013 JX35, 2014-2019 QX60, 2014-2019 QX60 HYBRID; VIBRATION AND/OR NOISE WHEN MAKING LOW SPEED TURNS
I have a 2020 qx60- taken to dealership twice- both times was told that’s normal when driving in sport. Recently it has started that ‘slip’ when driving straight at 30+ and when accelerating. I haven’t noticed any noise (& I like to drive w/ widows down!) they replaced a rod about 8 mo ago 4K miles but that didn’t make a difference. Any advice -other than try a different dealership- would be greatly appreciated!
 
All wheel drive QX60's only- Any noise you feel or hear from the undercarriage while turning at low (40mph and under) speed is indicative of a bad Rear Differential Coupler (RDC). $2,700 dealer repair or male) attached via a plastic push clip. Unclip plug and test drive. If sound/feeling disappears you just diagnosed it for free. New RDC part runs $1500 at your dealer, $1K Infiniti dealer online sales via Ebay search or $300-500 ebay used. Several well made install videos on YouTube (search QX60 rear coupler). Takes about 30min-1 hr. Note: unplugging does not hurt the car. Just turns it into 2WD front. Also, It's plug and play. No coding during install needed by dealer. Technical Service Bulletin: Classification: RA12-003f Reference: ITB12-072f Date: September 23, 2020 2013 JX35, 2014-2019 QX60, 2014-2019 QX60 HYBRID; VIBRATION AND/OR NOISE WHEN MAKING LOW SPEED TURNS
 
All wheel drive QX60's only-

Any noise you feel or hear from the undercarriage while turning at low (40mph and under) speed is indicative of a bad Rear Differential Coupler (RDC). $2,700 dealer repair or <$500 DIY.

Easy diagnosis: crawl under rear of vehicle just past passenger door. You'll see RDC bolted onto the end of the diff. They're usually cast silver and have a black 'pizza stand' plate bolted directly to the drive line (4 bolts to driveline, 6 bolts for the other end of RDC to diff).

You will see a typical gray plastic plug (female/male) attached via a plastic push clip. Unclip plug and test drive. If sound/feeling disappears you just diagnosed it for free. New RDC part runs $1500 at your dealer, $1K Infiniti dealer online sales via Ebay search or $300-500 ebay used. Several well made install videos on YouTube (search QX60 rear coupler). Takes about 30min-1 hr.

Note: unplugging does not hurt the car. Just turns it into 2WD front.
Also, It's plug and play. No coding during install needed by dealer.

Technical Service Bulletin:
Classification: RA12-003f
Reference: ITB12-072f
Date: September 23, 2020

2013 JX35, 2014-2019 QX60, 2014-2019 QX60 HYBRID;
VIBRATION AND/OR NOISE WHEN MAKING LOW SPEED TURNS
I am getting mix messages. Will decoupling make it 2 wheel drive. Will it ruin the transmission? I necessarily do not need all wheel drive. Thank you.
 
I am getting mix messages. Will decoupling make it 2 wheel drive. Will it ruin the transmission? I necessarily do not need all wheel drive. Thank you.
Removing the rear driveshaft will not harm the transmission. It might prompt traction control light to come on when slipping occurs, naturally more often without AWD. The resale value - if you care - will also drop.
 
I thought I would copy and post this as it deals with this issue directly and the CPO warranty specifically, these are my impressions of the problems and repairs applied they are in no way confirmed by any one from Infiniti
 
Hello there,
Congratulations on your new QX60! It's understandable that you want to ensure everything feels right with your recent purchase.
The sensation you're describing, where turning feels less smooth and akin to the sensation of turning in 4x4 mode on dry pavement, could be influenced by various factors. Here are a few possibilities to consider:
  1. Tire Condition:
    • Check the condition of your tires. Uneven tire wear or tires in need of replacement can affect how the car handles during turns.
  2. Wheel Alignment:
    • Improper wheel alignment may contribute to a less smooth turning experience. Have the wheel alignment checked to ensure it meets the manufacturer's specifications.
  3. Suspension Components:
    • Issues with suspension components, such as worn-out shocks or struts, can impact the handling of the vehicle during turns.
  4. Transfer Case or Differential Issues:
    • While it's less common, issues with the transfer case or differentials in an AWD system could potentially lead to unusual sensations during turns.
Considering this is a used vehicle, it might be beneficial to have a qualified mechanic or a dealership service center inspect the vehicle. They can conduct a more detailed examination to identify any specific issues related to the handling you're experiencing.
If there are no apparent issues with the components mentioned above, it's also worth noting that different vehicles can have slightly different handling characteristics, and what might feel unusual to one driver could be considered normal for another. However, if the sensation is significant and concerning to you, seeking a professional opinion is a prudent step to ensure your peace of mind and the safety of your vehicle.
I hope your QX60 provides you with many enjoyable miles on the road!
 
To clarify, I just started searching the forum (should have done that first). I dont think I have the shudder. I have never experienced an issue when driving slow in a straight line. The issue I am describing only happens when turning (corners, etc.).
What year and model do you have? We have a 2015 QX60 that had that issue. The problem was a known transmission issue (was not recalled, but dealers know about it and are authorized by Infinity to repair it). It took a day and a half.
 
What year and model do you have? We have a 2015 QX60 that had that issue. The problem was a known transmission issue (was not recalled, but dealers know about it and are authorized by Infinity to repair it). It took a day and a half.
When you say know about it and authorized to repair what do you mean by that?? As a warranty item? When did you have this done? Just found out from our mechanic that this has failed as well
 
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