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
2013–2024 Nissan Qashqai · common problems & known faults
The UK's original crossover default. The CVT automatic and the diesel DPF are the two decisions that set your price.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2024 Nissan Qashqai are Xtronic CVT judder, overheating and failure, 1.5 dCi DPF blockage and injector faults on town cars and Timing chain stretch causing cold start rattle and engine misfires. Of the documented issues, 1 rated critical and 2 rated high · these are the ones worth inspecting 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 Qashqai.
3.5/ 10
- Critical
- 1
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Nissan Qashqai 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
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
ElectricalLow
Around-view camera and infotainment failures
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test every camera view and the touchscreen
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.
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.
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.
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.
Inspecting a Nissan Qashqai?
Get a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Free preview, full report $9.
Check this exact carFrequently 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.
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.