Much like any car, owners of the Nissan Qashqai SUV have experienced common problems. But what are they? And how easy are they to fix? The issues seem to range from minor annoyances to serious safety concerns. If you are one of the unlucky owners, don’t worry! We’re here to help. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common 2014 – 2021 Nissan Qashqai problems that have been reported by garages and owners alike. We will also provide information on how to address these issues such as advice and quick fixes. Stay safe and drive happy!
Is the Nissan Qashqai reliable?
The Nissan Qashqai is known for having a number of issues that can occur. The most common problem areas seem to be the brakes, suspension, and transmission. which we will discuss in more detail.
When the Nissan Qashqai was first manufactured, it was given a three-year warranty on the powertrain. This is to ensure that any problems that may occur with the engine, transmission, or drive system are fixed under warranty.
However, if your car is out of warranty, or you have already passed the three-year mark, then you will need to pay for these repairs yourself. The repair cost will start to drastically increase after this point, so if you are looking at a second-hand model, you should definitely be aware of this.
Unfortunately, the Nissan Qashqai of this generation did not fare well in the most recent reliability surveys. It was ranked 21st out of 28 cars in the family SUV class in petrol form, and 24th in diesel form. These are rather unsatisfactory outcomes. This is due to the issues we will list below.
Common Issues with the Nissan Qashqai
Now it’s time to take a closer look at some of the common problems that have been reported with the Nissan Qashqai. By knowing the common issues, not only can you be prepared if they happen to you, but also be sure to address them when buying a used model. Below are the most common problems with the Nissan Qashqai.
Engine problems
If you notice that your car surges ahead when you softly press the accelerator, or that it seems to be over-revving, this is due to an issue with the ECU. In layman’s terms, the ECU (engine control unit) is also known as the powertrain control module. If you suffer from these symptoms it will probably mean a replacement ECU is needed. If your vehicle is out of warranty, this could prove costly.
The Qashqai 1.5 DCI powerplant has been known to be particularly troublesome. We have dedicated an entire article to identifying and fixing these problems.
Excessive stalling
Now, if your engine is cutting out or stalling altogether, this could be a sign of an issue with the fuel pump. When the pump is not working correctly, it means that the engine is not getting the right amount of fuel. This will cause it to stall.
If you notice that your car is stalling more frequently or that the problem is getting worse, then it’s important to take it to a mechanic and have it checked as soon as possible.
The air-conditioner compressor is another reason why the Nissan Qashqai engine keeps dying. You can order a new air conditioner compressor for a relatively low price and have a local garage install it for you.
Transmission and drivetrain problems
Another common issue with the Nissan Qashqai is problems with the transmission and drivetrain. This includes issues such as gearbox failure, fluid leaks, and jerking when changing gears.
The first step in addressing these types of problems is to take your car to a mechanic for a diagnosis. From there, they will be able to advise on the best course of action.
An obvious sign of transmission problems includes a burning smell coming from the transmission. Another sign is if the gearbox starts to make strange noises.
This is commonly caused by low transmission fluid levels. If the fluid levels are low, it can cause the gears to grind and eventually fail.
Electrical problems
Many owners of the Nissan Qashqai have also reported electrical problems. This can include issues such as the car not starting, “no key detected”, the dashboard lights flickering on and off, or the air conditioning not working.
One reason this may be happening is electrical problems with a faulty alternator. If your car isn’t starting, it’s worth checking to see if the alternator is working properly. Another electrical issue that has been reported is problems with the stereo system. This can include the stereo not turning on, the sound cutting out, or the stereo not being able to read CDs.
If you are experiencing any of these problems, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic or Nissan dealer to get it checked out, as electrical problems are often technical and dangerous issues to solve on your own.
Suspension issues
Suspension issues are also common with the Nissan Qashqai. This can include problems such as the car bouncing around when driving, or the steering wheel not being straight when driving on a straight road.
One possible reason for this is that the suspension needs to be replaced. The rear shock absorbers on the Nissan Qashqai are infamously prone to failure. This is a common symptom of a broken rear shock absorber. If you hear a rattling noise coming from the back of the car or it is simply not moving as it should over poorly paved roads, then get the car to a mechanic before the damage to the suspension is irreversible.
Brake system malfunctions
Another common issue with the Nissan Qashqai is brake system malfunctions. This can include problems such as the brakes not working properly, the brake pedal going to the floor, or fluid leaks from the brake system.
The brakes are easy to wear down, so it’s important to keep an eye on the brake fluid levels and have them topped up as necessary. This Nissan Qashqai issue is also related to vehicles manufactured before September 23, 2016. The right rear wheel arch protector may distort and rub against the right rear brake hose in these models, damaging it and potentially causing a brake fluid leak. A modified liner would be installed on affected automobiles at no cost.
CV joint and driveshaft noise
A problem that is most specific to the Nissan Qashqai 2014 model is drivetrain noise. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as driving on a rough road, or simply wear and tear over time.
Your initial step should be to drive in a wide open space while rotating the steering wheel completely to the left. Then try steering all the way to the right using the steering wheel. If you hear a clinking or clunking sound, your CV joints are the source of the problem. If there is no noise, the issue is most likely caused by a bent driveshaft, both of which can be replaced easily.
Issues with the infotainment system
Symptoms of this can include the screen freezing, the sound cutting out, or the system simply not working at all.
The best way to fix this problem is to take your car to a Nissan dealer or a qualified mechanic and have them update the software on the infotainment system. This is a common problem with newer cars and is usually an easy fix.
Indicator failure
A less common problem with the Nissan Qashqai is indicator failure. This can include problems such as the indicators not working at all, or only working some of the time. (a habit usually reserved for Audi drivers)
If you are experiencing this issue, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic or Nissan dealer and have them check the wiring and replace any faulty bulbs, if necessary. This is a simple and easy fix, so it’s best to get it sorted as soon as possible.
For some reason, indicator failure may be happening when the heated rear screen is turned on. The indication in the door mirror may not work. The indicator connections on Qashqais manufactured between June 12 and June 28 2016 must be examined by a dealer and may be modified as part of this recall.
Rear oxygen sensor failure
Another common problem with the Nissan Qashqai is rear oxygen sensor failure. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as a bad connection, or simply wear and tear over time.
On vehicles manufactured between April 10, 2014, and May 7, 2016, the rear oxygen sensor may fail due to an electrical short. Furthermore, the ECU may fail to advise the driver of the problem, so Nissan dealers should update the system to correct the problem and display a warning signal.
Overheating engine
Last but not least, is the overheating engine. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as a faulty ceramic capacitor or insufficient coolant.
Overheating can affect numerous models of the Nissan range, but the issue is more common in the Qashqai. The best way to prevent this problem is to keep an eye on your car’s temperature gauge and pull over if it starts to get too high. If the issue persists, take your car to a mechanic or Nissan dealer for repairs.
The ceramic capacitor installed on the radiator fan assembly is to blame for this. To switch the units, you’ll need to purchase a replacement radiator fan assembly from any car parts store.
We know this is an extensive list, and some issues may be more technical than others, but don’t let that intimidate you. Most of these problems can be easily fixed and are generally not more expensive than comparative models.
What Should I Look for When Purchasing?
When looking for a Nissan Qashqai, there are a few things you should look for. Firstly, make sure that the SUV is in good condition. Check for any damage or signs of wear and tear. Also, be sure to test drive the vehicle before you buy it. This will help you to determine if it’s a good fit for your needs.
Finally, take into account the cost of repairs and maintenance if any and seek a reduction in price. Dealers will have a 3 month warranty as standard if the vehicle is over 3 years old, though its worth checking what this covers. If the car is under the 3 year mark, it will still be covered by Nissan’s manufacturers warranty.
How Long Will the Nissan Qashqai Last?
This all depends on how well you take care of your vehicle and how often you bring it in for maintenance check-ups. On average, a Nissan Qashqai should last between 10 and 15 years with good care. However, as we mentioned above, the repair cost will increase after the three-year mark as the warranty ends.
If you want to keep your Qashqai running smoothly, we recommend bringing it in for regular maintenance check-ups to identify any small issues before they turn in to costly repairs.
How Much Does It Cost to Maintain?
The cost of maintaining a Nissan Qashqai will vary depending on the year and model of your vehicle. However, on average, you can expect to pay between £200 and £400 per year for maintenance and repairs. This includes things like servicing and tyres. Of course, if you are unlucky enough to experience major problems with your Qashqai, the cost of repairs can be significantly higher.
The recommended service intervals are once a year or every 18,000 miles, although some engines may differ. It is worth checking your service schedule or vehicle handbook to be sure.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing any of these issues with your Nissan Qashqai, don’t hesitate to take it to a dealership for repairs. Keep an on your service schedule and bring it on time to avoid invalidating your warranty.
We hope you found this article helpful. If you have suffered your own Nissan Qashqai problems, feel free to leave a comment below. Thanks for reading.
