Nissan Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Nissan cars?

Our database covers 37 Nissan models and 228 documented faults across the range. Of these, 51 are classified as dangerous and a further 118 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Nissan models fail at an average rate of 25.4%, which is above the 22.7% average across all manufacturers in our database. Reliability varies considerably between models. The 370z is the strongest performer at just 4.7%, while the Vanette has the highest failure rate at 36%.

If you are considering a used Nissan, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are suspension and body & rust, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Nissan reliability summary

Where Nissan problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Nissan's 228 known issues break down by area.

Suspension problems dominate, accounting for 56 of the 228 faults we track (25%). Issues in this area include Suspension bush and joint wear and Wheel bearing excessive play. The most affected models are the Note (4), the Nv300 (3), the 350z (2).

Body & Rust is the next most common area, with 34 documented faults (15%). Common faults here include Structural corrosion near suspension mounting points and General body corrosion. The most affected models are the Micra (3), the 200sx (2), the 300zx (2).

We also track 31 steering faults across the range (14%). Problems to watch for include Power steering system failure (Z33) and Steering rack gaiter and linkage deterioration (N16). The most affected models are the Serena (3), the Almera (2), the Elgrand (2).

Brakes rounds out the top problem areas with 28 known issues (12%). Notable issues include Brake caliper binding and Brake hose and pipe corrosion. The most affected models are the Nv400 (3), the Leaf (2), the Primastar (2).

Known Nissan faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Nissan range

The most common and severe problems found across all Nissan models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Nissan model

We track faults across 37 Nissan models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Nissan

Every used Nissan deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since suspension faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 51 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Structural corrosion near suspension mounting points, Structural corrosion compromising rigidity, Subframe mounting point corrosion. Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Nissan has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 25.4% average failure rate across the Nissan range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Nissan repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Nissan repair costs between £466 and £996 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £8,000 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Nissan repair in our database is DCT gearbox solenoid and clutch failure (R35), which can cost £8,000–£15,000 at a main dealer.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.