2014-2017 Infiniti Q50 Dash Panel: Decoding Production Date Splits and Sticky Surfaces
This guide covers the common causes of dash panel failure, including melting and cracking, and explains the critical production date differences you must know before buying a replacement.
- There is a critical production date split: one dash fits vehicles made up to 07/31/2015, and a different one fits from 08/01/2015 onward. They are not interchangeable.
- The most common failure is the surface becoming sticky or melting from heat, which can cause a dangerous glare on the windshield.
- Replacement is a highly complex, expert-level job (5/5 difficulty) due to the need to remove the center console, infotainment screens, and the passenger airbag system.
- Always verify the interior TRIM code from the driver's door jamb sticker to ensure the color of a used panel matches your car's interior.
Symptoms of Dash Panel Failure on the 2014-2017 Q50
Failures of the Q50 dash panel are typically cosmetic and related to material degradation from heat and UV exposure, a known issue on many Infiniti and Nissan vehicles of this era. While not mechanically critical, these issues can affect safety and resale value.
Sticky or Melting Surface
The most widely reported problem is the dash surface becoming soft, sticky, or appearing to melt. This is caused by the breakdown of vinyl and adhesives under prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight. A melting dash feels tacky to the touch, can release a chemical odor, and may ooze a shiny, glue-like substance. This sticky surface traps dust and debris, making it impossible to clean.
Safety Warning: A melting, shiny dashboard can create a severe glare on the inside of the windshield, significantly impairing driver visibility, especially in direct sunlight. This is a serious safety concern.
Cracking and Warping
In addition to becoming sticky, the dash material can become brittle and develop cracks, particularly around stress points like the passenger airbag seam, speaker grilles, and defroster vents. These cracks often start small and can spread quickly with temperature fluctuations. In some cases, the entire panel may warp or pull away from the windshield.
Rattles and Buzzing Noises
As the vehicle ages, clips and fasteners holding the dash panel and its internal components can loosen, leading to rattles, buzzes, or creaks, especially when driving on rough roads. While sometimes a minor annoyance, these noises can also indicate broken mounting tabs on the dash panel itself.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
While there are no official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Infiniti specifically for the cosmetic condition of the Q50 dash panel, several related safety recalls are important to be aware of. These recalls often require the removal of the dash panel for the repair, increasing the chance that a used vehicle has had its dash taken out and reinstalled.
- NHTSA Recall 17V572000: Affects some 2017 Q50 models. The driver's frontal airbag inflator may have been improperly welded, which could cause it to fail during deployment. The fix involves replacing the inflator, a procedure that requires accessing components within the steering wheel and dash.
- NHTSA Recall 16V244000: Affects 2014-2016 Q50 models. The Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger, potentially suppressing airbag deployment in a crash. This system's sensors are integrated with the passenger seat and vehicle electronics.
- NHTSA Recall 16V472000: Affects 2014-2016 Q50 models with Direct Adaptive Steering. A software error could affect steering responsiveness. The fix requires reprogramming the steering ECU, which is located behind the dash.
Pro Tip: When inspecting a used Q50, check the vehicle's service history for these recall repairs. A professionally performed recall is not a concern, but it's good to know if the dash has been previously removed.
Decoding Part Numbers and Production Date Splits
Compatibility is the single most important factor when purchasing a replacement dash panel for a 2014-2017 Q50. There was a significant design change during the 2015 model year.
Critical Compatibility Warning: Dash panels are split by production date. One version fits vehicles produced up to 07/31/2015, and a different version fits vehicles produced from 08/01/2015. These parts are not interchangeable.
You can find your vehicle's production month and year on the black and silver certification label located in the driver's side door jamb.
| Part Number | Fitment Notes |
|---|---|
| 68200-4GF0A, 68200-4GF1A | Fits 2014 and 2015 models produced up to 07/31/2015. This part is discontinued and superseded by the later number in some catalogs, but the fitment remains distinct. |
| 68200-4GF5A | Fits 2015 models produced from 08/01/2015, as well as all 2016 and 2017 models. This part number replaces earlier versions for the later production run. |
Buyer's Guide: What to Check When Buying a Used Q50 Dash Panel
A used OEM dash panel is often the only cost-effective solution, as new parts are extremely expensive and may be discontinued. Follow these steps to ensure you get a good part.
- Confirm Your Production Date: Before you even start looking, check the sticker in your driver's door jamb to confirm if your Q50 was built before or after August 1, 2015. This determines which part number family you need.
- Match Your Interior Color Code: On the same door jamb sticker, find the "TRIM" code. This is typically a single letter (like 'G' for Gray or 'C' for Wheat). Ensure the donor vehicle has the same trim code for a perfect color match.
- Perform a Thorough Physical Inspection:
- Check for Stickiness: Run your hand over the entire top surface. It should be dry and smooth, not tacky or soft. Avoid any panel that shows signs of melting.
- Look for Cracks: Pay close attention to the areas around the defroster vents and the passenger airbag outline. These are the most common places for cracks to form.
- Inspect All Mounting Tabs: Carefully turn the panel over and check every mounting point, especially around the instrument cluster and center stack openings. Broken or stressed tabs will result in a poor fit and persistent rattles.
- Verify Airbag Status: A used dash panel should NEVER be sold with an airbag. The passenger airbag from your original dash must be carefully removed and professionally installed into the replacement panel. This is a critical safety step.
Cost Comparison for a 2014-2017 Q50 Dash Panel
Replacing the dash panel is a labor-intensive job, making labor a significant portion of the total cost.
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $1,800 - $2,300+ | Extremely expensive and may be discontinued or on backorder. |
| Used OEM | $375 - $620 | The most common and affordable option. Price depends on condition and color. |
| New Aftermarket | Not Available | Complete aftermarket dash panels are generally not manufactured for this vehicle. |
| Shop Labor | $850 - $1,200 | This is a complex, 8-10 hour job for an experienced technician. |
Dash Panel Replacement Overview
- Difficulty: 5 out of 5 (Expert Level)
- DIY Feasible: Not Recommended
- Estimated Time: 8-10 hours
This is one of the most complex interior jobs on a modern vehicle. The procedure involves disconnecting the battery, deactivating and removing the passenger airbag, and removing the A-pillar trim, steering column covers, instrument cluster, both infotainment screens, center console, and glove box before the main dash assembly can be unbolted and removed from the vehicle.
Warning: Improper handling of the airbag system can lead to accidental deployment, causing serious injury. This repair should only be performed by a qualified professional technician with experience in SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my Infiniti Q50 dashboard sticky and shiny?
The sticky, melting condition is due to a material defect where the vinyl and underlying adhesives break down from long-term exposure to heat and UV radiation. It's a common problem on many vehicles from this period, not just the Q50.
How do I find my Q50's production date and interior color code?
Both pieces of information are on the vehicle certification label, which is a black or silver sticker located on the pillar inside the driver's side door jamb. The production date is usually printed at the top as MM/YY. The interior color is listed next to "TRIM".
Can I install a dash panel from a 2016 Q50 into my 2014 Q50?
No. There was a design change effective August 1, 2015. Dashboards from vehicles made after this date will not fit vehicles made before it, and vice-versa. You must match the part to your vehicle's specific production period.
Is it safe to replace the dash panel myself?
It is strongly advised against. The replacement process is extremely complex and requires the handling of the passenger airbag module. Mishandling an airbag can be extremely dangerous. This job should be left to a professional technician.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68200-4GF0A 68200-4GF1A 68200-4GF5A 682004GF0A 682004GF1A 682004GF5A
Material: Soft-touch vinyl over a rigid plastic and metal frame. Houses dual infotainment screens, instrument cluster, and passenger airbag.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- INFINITI Q50:
- Symptoms of Dash Panel Failure on the 2014-2017 Q50
- Sticky or Melting Surface
- Cracking and Warping
- Rattles and Buzzing Noises
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
- Decoding Part Numbers and Production Date Splits
- Buyer's Guide: What to Check When Buying a Used Q50 Dash Panel
- Cost Comparison for a 2014-2017 Q50 Dash Panel
- Dash Panel Replacement Overview
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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