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2016–2022 Nissan Navara · common problems & known faults

A pickup with a known chassis issue, so structure comes before anything mechanical.

Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026

Quick answer

The most commonly reported faults on the 2016–2022 Nissan Navara are Chassis cracking near the rear suspension mounts, Engine management light illuminated with an AdBlue countdown warning on the dash, usually due to NOx sensor or injector failure and Rear coil spring and damper wear from load use. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.

Reliability snapshot

Based on the documented faults on this page for the Nissan Navara.

4.5/ 10
Buy with caution
Critical
0
High
2
Medium
6
Low
0

Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.

Nissan Navara problems by year

Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.

Known faults to check

ChassisHigh

Chassis cracking near the rear suspension mounts

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Inspect the chassis behind the cab and at the rear mounts
SuspensionMedium

Rear coil spring and damper wear from load use

Typically appears
80,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check ride height and damper condition
EngineMedium

EGR and DPF faults on stop start work use

Typically appears
90,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check for warnings and run it hot
TransmissionMedium

Auto gearbox harshness under load

Typically appears
100,000+ miles
What to inspect
Test kickdown on an incline
Engine IntakeMedium

Loss of power, hissing noise under acceleration, and limp mode due to split intercooler boost pipes.

Typically appears
50,000-80,000 miles
What to inspect
Open the bonnet and visually check the rubber boost hoses near the intercooler for oil misting. Have a colleague rev the engine and listen for hissing.
DrivetrainMedium

Vibration felt through the cabin floor at 40-60 mph or a clunking noise when pulling away, caused by prop shaft centre bearing wear.

Typically appears
60,000-100,000 miles
What to inspect
Reach under the middle of the vehicle and firmly push and pull the prop shaft near the centre bearing to check for excessive play or torn rubber.
EmissionsHigh

Engine management light illuminated with an AdBlue countdown warning on the dash, usually due to NOx sensor or injector failure.

Typically appears
40,000-70,000 miles
What to inspect
Cycle the ignition and check the instrument cluster for any AdBlue countdown messages. Plug in a basic OBD reader to check for stored NOx or SCR codes.
SteeringMedium

Heavy steering feel, whining from the power steering pump, or knocking over rough ground due to steering rack seal failure.

Typically appears
70,000-110,000 miles
What to inspect
Look through the front wheel arches at the steering rack gaiters for weeping fluid. Rock the steering wheel side-to-side with the engine off to check for knocking.

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Frequently asked questions

Is chassis cracking common?

Common enough that every inspection must include a chassis check.

Can it be repaired?

Some cars were repaired under goodwill. Ask for documentation.

Should dealers stock them?

Only after a lift inspection of the chassis.

What is the timing chain replacement interval on the 2.3 dCi engine?

The 2.3-litre YS23 dCi engine uses a timing chain rather than a belt, which is designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle. There is no scheduled replacement interval. However, poor servicing can lead to chain stretch or tensioner failure, so checking for a cold-start rattle is essential during appraisal.

Are there any known issues with the four-wheel drive selector system?

Yes, the electronic transfer case actuator can seize if the vehicle is rarely driven in four-wheel drive. When this happens, the system will fail to engage 4H or 4LO, often displaying a flashing 4WD light on the dash. Dealers should always test the selector switch on a loose surface.

How reliable is the AdBlue system on Euro 6 Navara models?

The Euro 6 Navara suffers from well-documented AdBlue injector blockages and NOx sensor failures. If the system fails, it initiates a mileage countdown that eventually prevents the engine from starting. Repairs can be costly, often requiring a replacement AdBlue tank or pump assembly, so ensure no emissions warnings are present.

Sources & further reading

Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.