Nissan cube Problems: Common Issues and Repair Costs

The Nissan Cube is a compact, quirky city car known for its standout design and practicality. While it makes a great daily driver, especially in urban areas, the Cube isn’t without its faults. Whether you own one or are considering buying used, here are the most common Nissan Cube problems and what they cost to fix in the UK.

1. CVT Gearbox Problems

What to look for:

  • Jerking or hesitation during acceleration
  • High revs but poor response
  • Dashboard warning lights

Why it happens:
Many Nissan Cube models come with a CVT (continuously variable transmission), which is known for being sensitive to fluid condition and heat. If not serviced regularly, the gearbox can develop slipping or complete failure.

Repair costs:

  • CVT fluid and filter change: £150 to £250
  • Valve body or transmission control repair: £350 to £700
  • Full CVT replacement or rebuild: £1,500 to £2,800

2. Air Conditioning Not Working

What to look for:

  • Warm air even when AC is on
  • Unusual noises from the dashboard
  • Airflow is weak or erratic

Why it happens:
Common faults include a failing compressor, clogged condenser, or worn blower motor. These issues are more likely to occur in older models or those not serviced regularly.

Repair costs:

  • AC re-gas: £80 to £150
  • Blower motor replacement: £100 to £200
  • Compressor or condenser fix: £300 to £600

3. Engine Mount Wear

What to look for:

  • Knocking sounds during gear changes or hard acceleration
  • Engine movement when revving
  • Light vibration in the cabin

Why it happens:
City driving with constant stop-start movement puts strain on engine mounts. They begin to wear or crack over time, especially on high-mileage models.

Repair costs:

  • One mount replacement: £80 to £150
  • Full set of mounts with labour: £250 to £400

4. Electrical Issues

What to look for:

  • Warning lights randomly appearing
  • Dashboard flickering
  • Central locking or windows not working

Why it happens:
The Cube can suffer from poor grounding, worn fuses, or corroded wiring. Faults are more common on older vehicles or those left standing for long periods.

Repair costs:

  • Diagnostic scan: £60 to £100
  • Sensor or wiring repair: £120 to £400

5. Power Steering Faults

What to look for:

  • Stiff steering, especially at low speeds
  • Whining noise when turning
  • Power steering fluid visible under the car

Why it happens:
Hydraulic power steering systems can wear out over time, especially pumps and hoses. Some models may also have early electric systems with faulty sensors.

Repair costs:

  • Fluid top-up and seal repair: £60 to £100
  • Pump or hose replacement: £200 to £400

6. Brake Wear and Vibration

What to look for:

  • Squealing brakes
  • Pulsating brake pedal
  • Long stopping distances

Why it happens:
The Cube is often used in city driving, which puts extra wear on brake pads and discs. If not changed in time, it leads to vibration and poor performance.

Repair costs:

  • Front brake pads: £70 to £120
  • Front discs and pads: £150 to £260
  • Rear brake service: £100 to £180

Nissan Cube Repair Cost Summary

ProblemSymptomsRepair Cost (UK)
CVT gearbox issuesJerky shifting, poor acceleration£150 to £2,800
Air conditioning faultsNo cold air, blower noise£80 to £600
Engine mount wearKnocking, vibration£80 to £400
Electrical problemsWarning lights, locking faults£60 to £400
Power steering faultsStiff steering, whining noise£60 to £400
Brake wear and vibrationSquealing, pulsating pedal£70 to £260

What to Check Before Buying a Used Nissan Cube

  • Test the CVT gearbox at low and high speeds
  • Run the air con and check for cold airflow
  • Look for movement or knocking from the engine
  • Check for warning lights or electrical faults
  • Turn the wheel both ways to test steering
  • Brake hard at low speed to feel for vibration

Final Thoughts

The Nissan Cube is a smart little car with loads of personality, but it does come with typical small Nissan problems. The CVT gearbox, air conditioning system, and engine mounts are the top concerns. If you’re planning to buy one, get a full inspection and service history. Most problems are fixable and not too expensive if caught early.

Buying a used VW. Buying used vauxhallBMWJaguarFordVolvoRange roverBentleyAston MartinPorscheFerrariLamborghiniMaseratiHyundai, TeslaHondaPagani

Leave a Reply