2015-2019 INFINITI Q70 Tail Finish Panel: Decoding Color Codes and Trim Packages

Symptoms of a Failing Tail Finish Panel

Failure of the Q70's tail finish panel is typically either physical damage or a problem with the electronic components it houses. Here are the most common symptoms:

• Physical Damage: Cracks, scuffs, or chips are common results from minor rear-end impacts. Because the panel is a prominent part of the vehicle's rear, it's often the first point of contact.
• Peeling or Faded Finish: The chrome or painted surface can degrade over time due to UV exposure and harsh weather, leading to a faded appearance or peeling clear coat.
• Backup Camera Malfunction: If your backup camera image is foggy, distorted, or not showing up at all, the issue could be damage to the camera lens or its wiring, which is integrated into the panel. Note that a software-related camera issue was the subject of a recall.
• Trunk Release Button Failure: The electronic trunk release button located on the panel may stop working due to moisture intrusion or wear, preventing you from opening the trunk from the outside button.
• Water Leaks: A cracked panel or a degraded seal can allow water to seep into the trunk lid, and potentially into the trunk itself. This can cause musty smells or damage to the trunk's contents and liner.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

While this specific panel has not been the subject of widespread complaints or TSBs, there is one highly relevant recall concerning the backup camera system it houses.

NHTSA Recall 19V654000: Rear View Camera Image May Not Display

This recall affects certain 2019 INFINITI Q70 and Q70L vehicles. The backup camera and display settings could be adjusted in such a way that the rear-view image is no longer visible, and the system would save that setting for the next time the vehicle is put in reverse. This increases the risk of a crash while backing up. The fix is a simple software update performed by an INFINITI dealer, free of charge. If you are experiencing a blank backup camera screen on a 2019 model, this recall should be your first area of investigation before replacing any hardware.

No other recalls or TSBs directly address defects or common failures of the tail finish panel itself for the 2015-2019 model years.

Variant Differences: Color Codes & Spoilers Are Critical

Compatibility for this part depends almost entirely on two factors: your vehicle's paint color and whether it has a factory spoiler, typically associated with the 'Premium Select Edition' package.

• Paint Color: The tail finish panel is a pre-painted part from the factory. You must match the part to your vehicle's specific color code.
• Spoiler vs. Non-Spoiler: The part numbers listed in this guide are primarily for models without the factory rear spoiler. Models with the 'Premium Select Edition' package or other spoiler options may use a different finisher. Always verify compatibility with the donor vehicle's configuration.
• Q70 vs. Q70L: The tail finish panel is the same for both the standard wheelbase (Q70) and long wheelbase (Q70L) models.

Buying a Used Tail Finish Panel

A used OEM tail finish panel is an excellent choice, as it guarantees factory fitment and color match, something aftermarket options (which are mostly non-existent for the full panel) cannot offer. Here’s what to check before you buy:

1. Verify the Part Number and Color Code: This is the most important step. Get the 3-digit paint code from the seller's donor vehicle and ensure it matches yours. Do not rely on color names alone.
2. Inspect for Cracks: Carefully check the entire surface for cracks, especially around the mounting points for the camera and trunk release button. Stress cracks can form here and lead to water leaks.
3. Check All Mounting Tabs: Turn the panel over and inspect the plastic mounting studs and clip locations. If these are broken, the panel will not sit flush against the trunk lid and may vibrate or allow water entry.
4. Examine the Camera Lens: Look for deep scratches, hazing, or yellowing of the backup camera lens. A damaged lens will impair your rear visibility.
5. Check the Wiring: Ensure the wiring harness for the camera and trunk release button is intact and the connector has not been cut or damaged. A clean, unplugged harness is ideal.
6. Assess the Chrome and Paint: Look for signs of peeling clear coat, deep scratches that go through the paint, or bubbling chrome trim. Minor scuffs can often be polished out, but major finish damage cannot.

Cost Comparison

Replacing the tail finish panel can be expensive if buying new, making a quality used OEM part a very attractive alternative.

Replacement Overview & Difficulty

Replacing the tail finish panel is a straightforward job suitable for a DIYer with basic tools. The process involves removing the trunk lid's inner liner to access the panel's mounting nuts and electrical connector.

• Difficulty: 2/5 (Easy to Moderate)
• Estimated Time: 1 hour

Basic Replacement Steps:

1. Open the trunk.
2. Remove the plastic cover for the interior emergency trunk release handle and remove the handle.
3. Carefully pry out the plastic fasteners holding the trunk lid liner in place using a trim removal tool.
4. Remove the trunk lid liner to expose the back of the tail finish panel.
5. Disconnect the electrical connector for the backup camera and trunk release button.
6. Remove the nuts securing the tail finish panel to the trunk lid. There are typically 4-6 nuts.
7. Carefully pull the old panel off the trunk lid from the outside.
8. Clean the mounting surface on the trunk lid.
9. Install the new panel, ensuring it is seated correctly, and reinstall the nuts. Do not overtighten.
10. Reconnect the electrical harness and test the camera and trunk release button before reinstalling the liner.
11. Reinstall the trunk liner and emergency release handle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)