Ensuring your 2016 Infiniti QX60 receives the proper lubrication is essential for maintaining its performance, fuel economy, and longevity. The vehicle’s 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 engine and its sophisticated CVT transmission are engineered to specific tolerances, requiring fluids that offer superior protection under varying driving conditions. Using the correct viscosity and high-quality synthetic lubricants helps prevent wear, reduce operating temperatures, and maintain the precise shifting characteristics the vehicle is known for.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides the highest level of protection with up to 25,000 miles of service life and 75% more protection against horsepower loss and wear.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers extended change intervals up to 20,000 miles with enhanced cleaning power to keep the engine running smoothly.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A high-performance option that outperforms conventional oils and provides protection comparable to factory recommendations.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles to reduce sludge, fight deposits, and help restore engine performance.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Designed with greater capacity for contaminants and 99% efficiency at 20 microns to ensure clean oil reaches critical engine parts.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium alternative featuring improved media that outperforms many original equipment manufacturer-branded filters.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic CVT Fluid – Delivers exceptional metal-to-metal frictional properties to ensure smooth shifting and protect the transmission’s complex internal components.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – An ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix that protects cooling system metals and extends service life up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula offering protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years with excellent corrosion resistance.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for the rear differential and transfer case, providing advanced protection against wear and rust while helping to reduce operating temperatures.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent responsiveness in ABS and traction-control systems with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
Why Proper Lubrication Matters for the QX60
The 2016 Infiniti QX60 is powered by the robust VQ35DE engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 that has been a staple in Infiniti’s lineup for its reliability and smooth power delivery. However, like any high-performance engine, it demands high-quality lubrication to operate at peak efficiency. The recommended 0W-20 viscosity is critical for fuel economy and proper cold-start protection, while the oil filter plays a vital role in removing harmful particles that can cause premature engine wear.
Equally important is the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which uses a chain and pulley system requiring specific frictional properties. Standard transmission fluids may not provide the necessary protection for this unique system, especially under the stress of towing or heavy loads. AMSOIL’s 100% Synthetic CVT Fluid is engineered to handle the extreme pressures of the QX60’s transmission, ensuring smooth acceleration and preventing premature wear of the chain and pulleys.
Transmission and Cooling System Care
For the 2016 Infiniti QX60, the transmission system requires specific attention due to the high fluid capacity and the sensitivity of the CVT. The total fill capacity for the RE0F10E and RE0F10J transmissions is 9.3 quarts. Using a fluid like AMSOIL 100% Synthetic CVT Fluid ensures that the transmission operates within optimal parameters, providing superior thermal stability and friction control compared to conventional fluids.
The cooling system also demands attention to prevent overheating, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. The QX60 requires a total of 10.1 quarts of AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant. Whether you choose the pre-mixed Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant for convenience or the concentrated AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant for maximum value, both products offer protection against freezing and boiling while preventing corrosion in aluminum components.
Drivetrain and Brake System Fluids
The QX60’s all-wheel-drive system and rear differential benefit from high-quality gear lubricants. The transfer case requires 0.6 pints, and the rear differential needs 1.1 pints of AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 gear lube. For these components, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 offers excellent protection against wear, rust, and corrosion while helping to lower operating temperatures. This synthetic SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 contains friction modifiers suitable for limited-slip differentials, ensuring smooth operation and extended equipment life.
Brake safety is paramount in any vehicle, and the QX60’s hydraulic brake system relies on fluid that maintains stability under high temperatures. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is designed to resist moisture absorption and maintain a stable viscosity, ensuring crisp pedal feel and reliable stopping power in all weather conditions.
Filtration and Maintenance
Choosing the right filter is just as important as selecting the correct oil. The AMSOIL Oil Filter is designed to trap contaminants more efficiently than many competitors, allowing for lower restriction and better lubrication of engine parts. For those preferring a different brand, the WIX Oil Filter provides premium media that exceeds OEM standards. Additionally, keeping the engine breathing clean air is crucial; the WIX Air Filter uses high-grade media to improve airflow and filtration, protecting the engine from dirt and debris.
Seasonal and Additional Protection
For owners who store their vehicles or use them for seasonal purposes, AMSOIL offers various additives and protectants. The AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer keeps fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish and gum buildup in the fuel system. The AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil provides long-term rust prevention for engines during storage, ensuring that the next time you start the car, it runs smoothly.
Regular maintenance of the vehicle’s exterior and undercarriage is also important for preserving its value. Products like the AMSOIL Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax Spray offer a convenient way to clean and protect the paint without harsh soaps. For those looking to enhance fuel economy and performance, the AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver can restore horsepower and clean fuel injectors, helping the engine run at peak efficiency.
About the Vehicle
The 2016 Infiniti QX60 represents the second generation of Infiniti’s flagship three-row luxury crossover SUV. Known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, the QX60 was designed to compete in the highly competitive midsize luxury SUV market. Under the hood, the 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 engine delivers a balanced mix of power and refinement, producing a smooth and responsive driving experience that aligns with Infiniti’s reputation for quality engineering.
This model year features a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system that can vary power distribution between the front and rear axles to optimize traction in various driving conditions. The interior is designed with premium materials, offering a quiet and relaxing environment for passengers. The QX60’s platform is built on a unibody construction, which contributes to its car-like handling dynamics while providing the utility and visibility expected of a crossover.
Infiniti owners often praise the QX60 for its blend of luxury and practicality, making it a popular choice for families who need space without sacrificing driving dynamics. The vehicle’s reputation for reliability is bolstered by the enduring legacy of the VQ engine series, which has been a cornerstone of Infiniti’s powertrain lineup for decades. With proper maintenance and the use of high-quality synthetic lubricants, the 2016 QX60 is capable of providing years of reliable service and enjoyable driving experiences.