NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Infiniti Qx80 Safety Ratings
The 2021 Infiniti Qx80 scores 79 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Average), with a 4-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 3 recalls, and 6 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2021 Infiniti QX80 earned a NHTSA Safety Index of 80/100, placing it in the Strong band. This assessment is based on a solid crash-test profile, though two recalls and a one-point dip from the 2020 model year warrant attention. For used-market shoppers prioritizing safety, verifying recall completion is crucial to realizing the vehicle's full protective potential.
The 2021 Infiniti QX80 SUV AWD received an overall NHTSA crash-test rating of 4 out of 5 stars and a NHTSA Safety Index of 80 out of 100, sourced from NHTSA federal safety data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 118 SUVs from 2021 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2021 Infiniti Qx80 ranks 79 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 79 / 100 (Average) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 4 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 3 / 5 / 3 stars |
| Rollover risk | 21.9% |
| Recalls on file | 3 |
| Owner complaints | 6 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 79 of 118 SUVs tested for 2021 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2021 Infiniti Qx80?
The 2021 Infiniti QX80 represents a one-point retreat in the NHTSA Safety Index, slipping from 81 to 80 out of 100 compared with the 2020 model year, though both years remain in the Strong band. The score architecture reveals where this year stands: crash protection accounts for 52 of a possible 70 points, a figure that reflects the mixed NHTSA results, specifically the 3-star frontal and 3-star rollover ratings pulling against an excellent 5-star side score. The avoidance technology sub-score reaches a perfect 10 out of 10, reflecting standard fitment of forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control across the lineup. The defect record sub-score of 18 out of 20 is solid but not perfect, shaped by the two recall campaigns issued this model year. One recall addresses a software fault capable of disabling the backup camera, a direct safety-system concern. The other targets the fuel pump control module on V8-equipped units, a powertrain-level issue shared with the 2020 Nissan Armada. Together, these two campaigns are the defining safety story of this specific model year and distinguish the 2021 QX80's defect record from a clean-sheet year.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2021 Infiniti Qx80 perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Infiniti QX80 received a 4-out-of-5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its side impact protection earned a perfect 5-star rating. Frontal crash protection and the rollover resistance assessment each rated 3 out of 5 stars. The QX80 carries a 22 percent rollover risk, though it did not tip in the dynamic test.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15555
Index breakdown
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2021 Infiniti Qx80 have any recalls?
The 2021 Infiniti QX80 carries two recall campaigns. The first targets a software error that may deactivate the backup camera display, affecting back-over prevention. The second covers vehicles equipped with V8 engines and addresses a potential fuel pump control and drive module failure in the gasoline delivery system. Neither campaign was designated a do-not-drive order, but both warrant VIN verification before purchase.
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS26V455000
Risk: An overloaded vehicle can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install new labels, free of charge. Additionally, Nissan will mail replacement labels to owners. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed September 2, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated Fall 2026. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are R26B1 and P6A13/4
Reported 2026-07-15
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION21V599000
Risk: A rear-view camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 14, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R21A9.
Reported 2021-08-02
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE21V373000
Risk: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 4, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R21A2. Owners may contact INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200. INFINITI's number for this recall is R21A3.
Reported 2021-05-20
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2021 Infiniti Qx80?
Six owner complaints have been reported to NHTSA for the 2021 QX80. The most frequently alleged problem areas are Vehicle Speed Control and Engine, each drawing two unverified reports, followed by single allegations involving the Power Train, Fuel and Propulsion System, Visibility, and an unknown category. No crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths are reported.
6 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2021 Infiniti Qx80?
Anyone considering a used 2021 Infiniti QX80 should run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup tool to confirm that both the backup camera software recall and the fuel pump module recall have been remedied. An unresolved recall on a 5-year-old vehicle transfers full responsibility to the new owner.
- The 2021 QX80 carries two active recall campaigns from this model year: one for a backup camera software error and one for a V8 fuel pump control module fault, both issued under Nissan North America.
- The Safety Index dropped one point year-over-year, from 81 in 2020 to 80 in 2021, driven by the two-recall defect record reducing the defect sub-score to 18 out of 20.
- The 5-star NHTSA side-crash rating is the strongest result in this year's crash-test profile, while the 3-star frontal and 3-star rollover ratings, paired with a 22 percent rollover risk, are the areas of relative weakness.
- All six owner complaints reported to NHTSA for this model year are unverified allegations, and none involve a reported crash, fire, injury, or death, though Vehicle Speed Control and Engine are the most frequently cited components.
RANKINGSWhere the 2021 Infiniti Qx80 places
The 2021 Infiniti Qx80 qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2021 Infiniti Qx80 safety questions
Was the 2021 Infiniti Qx80 crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2021 Infiniti Qx80, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100, placing it in the Average band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2021 Infiniti Qx80 crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2021 Infiniti Qx80 earned 4 out of 5 stars for overall, 3 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 3 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 21.9%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2021 Infiniti Qx80 have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 3 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Infiniti Qx80. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2021 Infiniti Qx80?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 6 owner complaints are on file for the 2021 Infiniti Qx80. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Qx80 years
Rivals in SUV (2021)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Tesla Model X 5-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 6-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 7-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Nissan Murano | 96/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Mazda CX-3 | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 15555), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Infiniti Qx80 2021.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 79 of 118 in the SUV class for 2021.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.