TransmissionHigh
CVT judder on automatic cars
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Drive uphill under load and feel for slipping
2016 Nissan Micra problems
A 2016 Nissan Micra is now 10 years old, so an average example has covered around 135,000 miles. An early car in the generation · most of the launch teething issues were still being worked through, so recall completion and dealer rectification history matter. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2016 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2016 Nissan Micra is 10 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 135,000 miles. At that mileage 6 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.
Faults a 2016 example has usually reached
Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~135k miles an average 2016 car has covered.
EngineMedium
0.9 IG-T turbo misfire and coil faults
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check idle and engine light history
SuspensionLow
Rear beam and shock wear
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Bounce test
EngineHigh
Timing chain stretch and rattle (1.2 HR12DE)
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from stone cold with the bonnet open. Listen closely to the timing cover side for a distinct metallic rattle lasting 3-5 seconds before oil pressure builds.
BrakesMedium
Premature front brake disc warping
- Typically appears
- 25,000-40,000 miles
- What to inspect
- During a short test drive, apply the brakes firmly from 40mph. Feel for pulsation through the brake pedal and a noticeable vibration or shimmy in the steering wheel.
Exhaust/EmissionsHigh
DPF blockage and EGR faults (1.5 dCi)
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine and check the dashboard for DPF or glow plug warning lights. Rev the engine to 3000rpm and check for hesitation or excessive soot at the tailpipe.
Faults that appear at any mileage
Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.
ElectricalLow
Infotainment and central locking faults
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test locks from both keys
BodyworkMedium
Water ingress into the boot area
- Typically appears
- 4-6 years
- What to inspect
- Lift the boot floor carpet and inspect the spare wheel well for standing water, dampness, or a musty smell. Check the high-level brake light seal for visible perishing.
Inspecting a 2016 Nissan Micra?
Generate a tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact year, mileage and variant · add photos and notes as you inspect.
Check this exact carNissan Micra · frequently asked questions
Is the Micra good retail stock?
At the budget end yes, especially manual petrols with low mileage.
Should I avoid the CVT?
Test it hard. A juddering CVT is a walk-away at trade money.
What do buyers check?
Service history and MOT advisories.
Which engine is the most reliable for urban buyers?
The naturally aspirated 1.0-litre petrol in the K14 is the most robust choice for city driving. It lacks the complexity of the IG-T turbos and completely avoids the DPF issues associated with the 1.5 dCi diesel when subjected to short journeys. It is sluggish but highly dependable for retail.
Are there any specific servicing requirements dealers should verify?
Yes, always check the brake fluid and coolant intervals. Nissan specifies a brake fluid change every two years or 18,000 miles, and engine coolant every five years. Missing these on the K14 can lead to ABS pump internal corrosion and premature water pump failure on the IG-T engines.
How does the K14 compare to the K13 for preparation costs?
The K14 generally incurs higher preparation costs. It shares its platform with the Renault Clio, meaning parts like front suspension components and brake discs wear faster and cost slightly more than the older, simpler K13. However, the K14 commands a higher retail margin, offsetting the increased reconditioning expenditure.