Nissan navara Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
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Nissan Navara Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs

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The Nissan Navara is one of the UK’s most popular pickup trucks. It’s strong, practical and perfect for work or rural use. But just like any vehicle that handles heavy loads and hard roads, the Navara has its fair share of known problems. This guide covers the most common issues and how much they typically cost to fix in the UK.

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1. Suspension Wear and Clunking Noises

What to look for:

  • Clunks when going over bumps
  • Loose steering feel
  • Uneven tyre wear

Why it happens:
Carrying heavy loads and driving on rough UK roads wears out components like drop links, shock absorbers and control arms quickly.

Repair costs:

  • Drop link or bush: £100 to £200
  • Front control arm or bush: £150 to £300
  • Shock absorber (each): £200 to £350

2. Automatic Gearbox Problems

What to look for:

  • Jerky shifting
  • Delayed gear engagement
  • Gearbox overheating
  • Fluid leaks

Why it happens:
The automatic gearboxes in the Navara, especially 5- and 7-speed versions, can develop problems if the fluid is not changed regularly. Common issues include worn solenoids or overheating torque converters.

Repair costs:

  • Fluid and filter change: £200 to £400
  • Valve body or solenoid repair: £600 to £1,200
  • Full gearbox rebuild: £1,500 to £3,000

3. Timing Chain Failures on Diesel Engines

What to look for:

  • Rattling on cold start
  • Misfires
  • Check engine light
  • Complete engine failure in severe cases

Why it happens:
In D40 and early D23 models, the 2.5 dCi diesel engine is known for timing chain wear or failure around 100,000 to 150,000 miles. It often occurs due to poor oil maintenance.

Repair costs:

  • Timing chain kit with labour: £800 to £1,400
  • Full engine rebuild or replacement: £2,000 to £3,500+

4. Clutch and Flywheel Wear (Manual Gearbox)

What to look for:

  • Slipping clutch
  • Judder when pulling away
  • Clutch pedal feels inconsistent

Why it happens:
The Navara’s dual-mass flywheel can wear out early, especially on models used for towing. Once worn, the clutch often follows.

Repair costs:

  • Clutch kit: £350 to £500
  • Dual-mass flywheel: £450 to £700
  • Labour: £300 to £600
  • Total job: £1,000 to £1,800

5. Chassis Rust and Cracking (Mainly D40 Models)

What to look for:

  • Visible rust around rear chassis and tub
  • Cracking near suspension mounts
  • Failed MOTs due to corrosion

Why it happens:
Early Navaras, especially D40s, have poor chassis protection. Exposure to salt and water causes deep rust, sometimes leading to structural cracks.

Repair costs:

  • Surface rust treatment: £100 to £300
  • Chassis welding: £300 to £700
  • Full repair with plates or sections: £800 to £1,500+

6. Electrical Issues and Warning Lights

What to look for:

  • ABS or ESP warning lights
  • Key fob or locking system failure
  • Intermittent sensor problems

Why it happens:
Sensors can fail due to age or water damage. Electrical modules and wiring can also corrode, especially in high-mileage vehicles.

Repair costs:

  • Diagnostic scan: £60 to £100
  • Sensor/module replacement: £150 to £400

7. Brakes and Steering Maintenance

What to look for:

  • Squeaking or grinding when braking
  • Vibration in the steering
  • Leaking power steering fluid

Why it happens:
Brake pads, discs and steering fluid wear out naturally but need regular checks on working pickups.

Repair costs:

  • Brake pads: £70 to £120
  • Front discs and pads: £150 to £280
  • Power steering leak repair: £60 to £100

Navara Reliability and Long-Term Ownership Costs

According to industry reports and owner surveys, the Navara scores well for reliability overall but has known weak spots in the timing chain, gearbox and chassis rust areas. Common claim costs include:

  • Gearbox repairs: average £900
  • Electrical repairs: average £550
  • Suspension work: average £350

If you own one or plan to buy used, budgeting around £2,000 over several years for major repairs is realistic.

Common Nissan Navara Problems and Typical UK Costs

IssueSymptomEstimated Repair Cost
Suspension wearClunking, uneven tyres£100 to £350 per corner
Automatic gearbox failureJerky, overheating, leaks£200 to £3,000+
Timing chain failure (diesel)Rattle, misfire, engine light£800 to £3,500+
Clutch/flywheel issuesSlipping, judder£1,000 to £1,800
Rust and chassis damageVisible rust, MOT failure£100 to £1,500+
Electrical problemsWarning lights, locking issues£150 to £400
Brake/steering wearGrinding, heavy steering£70 to £280

Final Thoughts

The Nissan Navara is a capable pickup that delivers solid performance on and off-road. But it’s important to stay on top of regular maintenance and check for common problems, especially with the suspension, timing chain, and chassis condition. If you’re buying used, make sure to get a full inspection and service history.

For peace of mind, consider a professional CAREXAMER pre-purchase inspection to spot issues before you buy. It could save you thousands in unexpected repairs.

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