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2013 Nissan Qashqai problems

A 2013 Nissan Qashqai is now 13 years old, so an average example has covered around 175,500 miles. This is the first model year of the generation · early-build cars carry the highest share of teething faults and the most recall activity, so check the service history for completed recall work. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2013 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.

Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

The 2013 Nissan Qashqai is 13 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 175,500 miles. At that mileage 5 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.

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Faults a 2013 example has usually reached

Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~176k miles an average 2013 car has covered.

TransmissionCritical

Xtronic CVT judder, overheating and failure

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Drive under load uphill and feel for slipping or flaring revs
ExhaustHigh

1.5 dCi DPF blockage and injector faults on town cars

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check for limp mode, look at regen and injector history
SuspensionMedium

Front lower arm bushes and rear shock wear

Typically appears
80,000+ miles
What to inspect
Bounce test and check for knocking on lock
Engine (1.2 DIG-T)High

Timing chain stretch causing cold start rattle and engine misfires.

Typically appears
40,000-70,000 miles
What to inspect
Open the bonnet and perform a completely cold start. Listen closely to the right-hand side of the engine for a distinct metallic rattling or slapping noise lasting 3 to 5 seconds before oil pressure builds.
InteriorMedium

Panoramic glass roof sunblind jams, sags, or the motor fails.

Typically appears
50,000+ miles or 5+ years
What to inspect
Operate the roof blind switch to fully open and fully close the shade. Watch the runners for uneven tracking, listen for straining or clicking motor noises, and inspect the fabric for creases or sagging when closed.

Faults that appear at any mileage

Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.

ElectricalLow

Around-view camera and infotainment failures

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Test every camera view and the touchscreen
HVACMedium

Air conditioning fails to blow cold due to condenser stone damage or leaks.

Typically appears
3-5 years
What to inspect
Set the climate control to 'Lo' with the A/C button illuminated. Check the vents for ice-cold air within 60 seconds. Shine a torch through the lower front grille to look for dark, oily patches on the condenser fins.
Safety SystemsMedium

Forward Emergency Braking (FEB) radar failure or misalignment.

Typically appears
4+ years
What to inspect
Turn the ignition on and check the instrument cluster for a persistent collision warning light. Inspect the front Nissan grille badge for physical impact damage, loose mounting, or heavy condensation behind the emblem which houses the radar.

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Nissan Qashqai · frequently asked questions

Should I buy a CVT Qashqai?

Only with a full test drive under load and evidence of CVT fluid changes. Failures are expensive.

Which Qashqai engine is safest?

The 1.3 DIG-T petrol for retail buyers doing shorter journeys.

What is the common MOT failure?

Suspension wear and worn front tyres from misalignment.

How do I check if the 1.2 DIG-T engine has an oil consumption problem?

While a forecourt check cannot definitively prove oil burning, you should pull the dipstick to verify the current level and oil condition. Look for heavy, wet soot deposits inside the exhaust tailpipe. If the engine idles roughly or emits blue smoke during a hard rev, walk away from the vehicle.

Are there any specific checks for the J12 mild-hybrid system?

Yes. On 1.3 DiG-T MHEV models, ensure the dashboard shows no hybrid system warning messages on startup. Take it for a short drive to confirm the stop-start system engages seamlessly when halting and restarts without hesitation. A sluggish restart often points to a degraded lithium-ion battery under the passenger seat.

Why is the electronic parking brake sticking on some models?

The J11 Qashqai frequently suffers from sticking rear electronic parking brake calipers or wiring loom faults near the rear axle. During your inspection, engage and disengage the parking brake several times. Any groaning, delayed release, or an EPB warning light indicates imminent caliper or actuator failure requiring immediate replacement.

Other Qashqai model years

202420202017

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