Nissan brand mark

Is the 2013–2017 Nissan Note reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

5.2/ 10
Mixed

On our documented-fault scoring the Nissan Note rates 5.2 out of 10 · mixed. We hold 8 known faults for it and 2 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around suspension, transmission and engine. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Negotiate · budget for the known faults

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
2
Medium
4
Low
2

Weak points cluster around suspension, transmission, engine, electrical.

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The faults that decide it

TransmissionHigh

CVT automatic gearbox overheating and juddering under load

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Drive up a long incline and feel for juddering or whining from the CVT
Typical repair
Head gasket / cooling system repair · £900–£2,600
Exhaust / EmissionsHigh

DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) blockage and EGR valve clogging on 1.5 dCi models used primarily for short urban journeys.

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Start the engine from cold, check the instrument cluster for DPF or engine management lights, and rev steadily to 2,500 rpm to check for hesitation or excessive soot.
Typical repair
DPF forced regen or replacement · £250–£1,600
EngineMedium

1.2 DIG-S supercharged engine timing chain and supercharger wear

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Listen for chain rattle on start-up and whine from the supercharger
Typical repair
Timing chain, tensioner & guides · £900–£2,400
SuspensionMedium

Front strut top mount wear causing knocking over bumps

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check for knocking noises when turning the steering at low speed
Typical repair
Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
BodyworkMedium

Rear wheel arch corrosion on higher-mileage examples

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Inspect rear wheel arches closely for bubbling paint and rust
Typical repair
Body & corrosion repair · £250–£1,800

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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