Nissan Qashqai Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
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Nissan Qashqai Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs

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The Nissan Qashqai is one of the UK’s best-selling SUVs. It’s known for practicality, good fuel economy and family-friendly design. But as with any popular vehicle, certain issues come up more often than others, especially in used models. This guide breaks down the most common Qashqai problems and typical repair costs in the UK so you know what to expect before you buy or book a garage visit.

Book inspection

1. CVT Gearbox Problems (Automatic Versions)

What to look for:

  • Jerky or hesitant acceleration
  • Engine revs increase without speed
  • Gearbox warning lights

Cause:
The CVT (continuously variable transmission) used in many Qashqai automatics from 2010 to 2016 can wear prematurely, often due to overheating or old fluid.

Repair cost:

  • Fluid change and reset: £150 to £250
  • Full CVT replacement or rebuild: £1,000 to £2,400
  • Software update: £100 to £180

2. DPF Blockages (Diesel Models)

What to look for:

  • Poor acceleration
  • Engine light or limp mode
  • High fuel use

Cause:
The diesel particulate filter (DPF) can clog if the car is mostly used for short journeys. Without high-speed driving, the DPF doesn’t get hot enough to clean itself.

Repair cost:

  • Forced clean or regeneration: £100 to £200
  • Sensor or valve replacement: £150 to £300
  • Full DPF replacement: £900 to £1,300

3. Turbo Failure (1.5 and 1.6 dCi)

What to look for:

  • Loss of power
  • Whistling noise
  • Black or blue smoke from the exhaust

Cause:
High mileage, poor oil quality or EGR issues can lead to turbo wear.

Repair cost:

  • New turbo: £800 to £1,300
  • Reconditioned unit: £500 to £800
  • Oil system flush and filters: £100 to £200

4. Clutch and Flywheel Issues (Manual Models)

What to look for:

  • Clutch slipping under load
  • Vibration or shudder when moving off
  • Burning smell in traffic

Cause:
Worn clutch plate or dual-mass flywheel, common in higher mileage cars.

Repair cost:

  • Clutch only: £600 to £900
  • Flywheel: £500 to £800
  • Clutch and flywheel package: £1,000 to £1,400

5. Timing Chain Rattle (1.2 DIG-T Petrol)

What to look for:

  • Rattling noise when starting
  • Warning light
  • Poor throttle response or misfiring

Cause:
Chain stretch or failed tensioner. Mostly affects 1.2 DIG-T engines from 2014 to 2018.

Repair cost:

  • Full timing chain kit: £700 to £1,200
  • Diagnostic test: £80 to £150

6. Battery and Start-Stop Issues

What to look for:

  • Stop-start not working
  • Dashboard battery warning
  • Car struggles to start

Cause:
AGM battery degradation or a fault with the stop-start module. Happens more in cars used for short trips or stored for long periods.

Repair cost:

  • New AGM battery: £120 to £180
  • Control unit reset or replacement: £100 to £250

7. Suspension and Steering Faults

What to look for:

  • Clunking over bumps
  • Loose steering feel
  • Uneven tyre wear

Cause:
Worn drop links, top mounts or steering rack components, especially on cars with high miles or UK road exposure.

Repair cost:

  • Drop links or bushings: £80 to £150
  • Shocks: £150 to £300 per wheel
  • Steering rack replacement: £600 to £1,000

8. Infotainment and Electrical Glitches

What to look for:

  • Frozen or flickering screen
  • Bluetooth not connecting
  • Random warning messages

Cause:
Outdated NissanConnect software, loose wiring or failing control units.

Repair cost:

  • Software update: Free to £100
  • Screen or unit replacement: £400 to £900
  • Electrical diagnosis and fix: £80 to £150

Summary Table: Qashqai Problems and Repair Costs

ProblemWhat to Watch ForUK Repair Cost Range
CVT gearbox issuesJerky drive, rev hang£150 to £2,400
DPF clogging (diesel)Power loss, warning lights£100 to £1,300
Turbo failureSmoke, whine, low boost£500 to £1,300
Clutch or flywheel wearSlipping, vibration£600 to £1,400
Timing chain rattleStart-up noise, misfiring£700 to £1,200
Battery and stop-startFails to restart, warning light£120 to £250
Suspension or steeringClunks, uneven tyre wear£80 to £1,000
Infotainment glitchesFrozen screen, pairing issues£80 to £900

Which Qashqai Models Are Most Affected?

  • 2010 to 2016 diesels: Known for DPF and turbo issues
  • 1.2 DIG-T petrol engines: Timing chain stretch and oil use
  • Early automatics: CVT problems with age and miles
  • First generation models: Interior trim and electric bugs

Post-2019 Qashqai models are generally more reliable. Updated engines and improved electrical systems reduce many of the earlier faults.

Pro Tip Before You Buy a Used Qashqai

If you’re looking at a used Nissan Qashqai, always book a pre-purchase inspection. Services like CAREXAMER offer mobile vehicle checks across the UK. They will check CVT wear, DPF status, turbo boost pressure and timing chain noise so you don’t get caught out with a big bill after buying.

Final Thoughts

The Nissan Qashqai is still one of the best all-round family SUVs on the UK market. But like any car, it’s important to understand the common problems and what they cost to fix. From CVT issues to timing chain rattle, early detection and regular servicing will go a long way in keeping your Qashqai reliable and affordable to run.

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