The 2018 Infiniti Q60 is a performance coupe that demands precision maintenance, particularly when equipped with the 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. The turbocharger operates at extremely high temperatures and speeds, placing significant stress on the engine’s internal components. Using the correct synthetic lubricants ensures that moving parts receive a durable film of protection, reducing wear and maintaining the vehicle’s dynamic response. Proper fluid selection also supports the engine’s thermal management system, which is critical for the longevity of a high-output engine designed for spirited driving.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
For the 2.0L turbocharged engine of your 2018 Infiniti Q60, AMSOIL offers top-tier European formula oils designed to handle the unique demands of modern turbocharged powerplants. These fluids provide superior protection against high temperatures and help prevent the sludge and deposits that can accumulate in small, high-stress engines.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – This oil is specifically designed for the unique demands of gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European vehicles. It features a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives to ensure protection in the Q60’s turbocharged engine.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Ideal for all temperatures, this viscosity offers immediate protection during cold starts while maintaining a robust oil film in high-heat conditions generated by the turbocharger.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – This fluid is engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures, making it a robust choice for the 7-speed RE7R01A transmission found in this vehicle.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A premium option that protects against wear and resists harmful sludge, ensuring smooth, shudder-free shifts in the Q60’s automatic transmission.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Required for the rear differential, this synthetic gear lube provides advanced protection against wear, controls thermal runaway, and contains friction modifiers essential for limited-slip differentials.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Recommended for the front differential, this lube helps reduce operating temperatures and extends the life of seals and equipment in high-load applications.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – This pre-mixed formulation protects the cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses, ensuring the engine stays at an optimal operating temperature even under heavy load.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – This synthetic brake fluid provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range.
Maintaining the correct fluid levels and specifications is essential for the health of your 2018 Infiniti Q60. The engine oil capacity for the 2.0L turbo engine is 7 quarts with a filter replacement, or 6.7 quarts without the filter change, depending on the service. It is crucial to check the oil level after the refill to ensure proper lubrication. The cooling system requires a substantial amount of fluid, with 9.5 quarts for the engine and an additional 3.4 quarts for the intercooler, utilizing either ethylene glycol-based or propylene glycol-based antifreeze formulations.
The automatic transmission system is a complex component that requires specific attention. The 7-speed RE7R01A transmission has a total fill capacity of 10.7 quarts. Using a synthetic automatic transmission fluid designed for this application helps prevent the shifting issues and wear that can occur with standard fluids under stress. For the differentials, the front unit requires 1.4 pints, while the rear unit requires 2.2 pints of synthetic gear lube. The transfer case, if equipped, holds 2.1 pints. Proper torque specifications are also vital during service; the drain plugs typically require a torque of 30 ft/lbs for the oil drain and 26 ft/lbs for differential and transfer case plugs, with new washers recommended for each service.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Infiniti Q60 represents a significant evolution in the brand’s coupe lineup, taking over from the G37 to serve as the sporty flagship for Infiniti’s North American market. Based on the Nissan FM platform, the Q60 is engineered for drivers who prioritize handling dynamics and acceleration. The introduction of the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine marked a strategic shift towards efficiency without sacrificing the driving engagement that defines the coupe segment.
This model is often chosen by enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of luxury and performance. The interior typically features high-quality materials and supportive seating designed to hold the driver in place during spirited cornering. The exterior styling is aggressive, characterized by a “diamond” grille and sculpted body lines that give the car a muscular appearance. The 2.0L variant brings a unique balance, offering decent fuel economy for a sport coupe while delivering 268 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, allowing for quick acceleration and responsive throttle inputs.
Owners of the Q60 often report that the vehicle offers a refined yet exciting driving experience. The suspension is tuned to provide a firm, athletic feel, making it a joy on winding roads. The infotainment systems and driver-assist features in the 2018 model year added modern connectivity to the classic coupe formula. While the V6 options provided even more power, the turbo four-cylinder is frequently praised for its punchy performance in daily driving and on the track.
Like many modern turbocharged vehicles, the Q60 can be susceptible to specific issues that synthetic lubricants help mitigate. One common concern is carbon buildup on the intake valves and in the turbocharger system, a known characteristic of direct-injection engines. Regular use of AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver can help restore fuel injector flow and reduce the need for more costly higher-octane fuel, keeping the engine running smoothly. Another potential issue is oil consumption or sludge formation in the turbocharger bearings if standard oils break down under heat. The thermal stability of AMSOIL FS European motor oils helps maintain oil integrity, protecting critical turbo components. Furthermore, the Q60’s transmission can sometimes exhibit shudder or harsh shifts if the fluid degrades; switching to a premium synthetic ATF ensures consistent frictional properties for smooth operation. Finally, the vehicle’s braking system benefits from the high boiling point of synthetic brake fluid, which prevents brake fade during aggressive driving or track use, ensuring consistent pedal feel and stopping power.
By selecting the right fluids for your 2018 Infiniti Q60, you are investing in the long-term performance and reliability of this sophisticated vehicle. Whether you are commuting through the city or taking the car for a weekend drive on a mountain pass, AMSOIL synthetic lubricants provide the protection needed to keep your Q60 running at its peak.