Are Nissan Qashqai Any Good? Common Issues Breakdown

The Nissan Qashqai has been a dominant force in the crossover SUV market for years, offering a blend of practicality, affordability, and style that has resonated with families and urban dwellers alike. But are they really any good? Beyond the appealing price tag and sleek design, potential buyers need to delve into the nitty-gritty: reliability, running costs, and potential pitfalls. This article provides a comprehensive look at the Nissan Qashqai, dissecting its strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

The Qashqai's Allure: What Makes it so Popular?

The Qashqai's success isn't a mystery. It's a carefully crafted package designed to appeal to a broad audience. Here’s a breakdown of some key factors:

Family-Friendly Design: The elevated driving position provides excellent visibility, while the spacious interior (especially in later generations) comfortably accommodates passengers and cargo. It's a practical choice for families who need room for kids, groceries, and the occasional weekend adventure.
Affordable Price Point: Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan or the Toyota RAV4, the Qashqai typically offers a more attractive price, both new and used. This makes it accessible to a wider range of buyers.
Fuel Efficiency: Many Qashqai models, particularly those with smaller petrol or diesel engines, deliver decent fuel economy, making them a relatively cost-effective option for daily commuting.
Stylish Aesthetics: The Qashqai has evolved over the years, with each generation boasting a more modern and sophisticated design. Its sleek lines and contemporary styling make it a visually appealing choice.
Easy to Drive: The Qashqai is known for its light steering, comfortable ride, and user-friendly controls, making it an enjoyable car to drive, especially in urban environments.

Digging Deeper: Common Qashqai Issues to Watch Out For

While the Qashqai has many positive attributes, it's not without its potential problems. Knowing these common issues beforehand can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.

1. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Problems (Diesel Models):

This is a frequent complaint among Qashqai owners with diesel engines, particularly those who primarily drive short distances.

What's the issue? The DPF is designed to trap soot particles from the exhaust. If the car isn't driven at higher speeds for extended periods, the DPF can become clogged, leading to reduced performance, warning lights, and potentially expensive repairs.
Why it happens: Short trips don't allow the DPF to reach the necessary temperature to regenerate (burn off the accumulated soot).
How to avoid it: Regularly take the car for longer drives at higher speeds (e.g., motorway driving) to allow the DPF to regenerate. Consider using premium diesel fuel, which can sometimes help with DPF regeneration.
What to look for: Warning lights on the dashboard (specifically the DPF light), reduced engine power, and increased fuel consumption.

2. CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) Issues (Automatic Models):

Some Qashqai models are equipped with a CVT, which offers smooth and efficient performance in theory, but can be prone to problems in practice.

What's the issue? CVTs can sometimes experience slipping, hesitation, or even complete failure. Overheating can also be a problem.
Why it happens: CVTs are complex transmissions, and proper maintenance is crucial. Neglecting fluid changes or subjecting the transmission to excessive stress (e.g., towing heavy loads) can lead to premature wear and failure.
How to avoid it: Ensure the CVT fluid is changed according to the manufacturer's recommendations (or even more frequently if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving). Avoid aggressive driving and heavy towing.
What to look for: Slipping or hesitation during acceleration, unusual noises coming from the transmission, and warning lights on the dashboard.

3. Turbocharger Problems (Turbocharged Engines):

Qashqai models with turbocharged engines can sometimes experience turbocharger issues.

What's the issue? Turbochargers can fail due to oil starvation, overheating, or general wear and tear.
Why it happens: Lack of proper maintenance (e.g., infrequent oil changes), using low-quality oil, or aggressive driving can contribute to turbocharger failure.
How to avoid it: Use high-quality oil and change it regularly. Allow the engine to warm up properly before driving hard, and let the turbo cool down after a long drive before switching off the engine.
What to look for: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine, and excessive smoke from the exhaust.

4. Electrical Issues:

Electrical gremlins can sometimes plague Qashqai models.

What's the issue? Issues can range from faulty sensors and malfunctioning infotainment systems to problems with the central locking and power windows.
Why it happens: Complex electrical systems are inherently prone to issues. Water ingress, corrosion, and damaged wiring can also contribute to electrical problems.
How to avoid it: Ensure the car is properly maintained and that any electrical issues are addressed promptly. Check for signs of water damage or corrosion.
What to look for: Malfunctioning lights, warning lights on the dashboard, and erratic behavior of electrical components.

5. Suspension Issues:

The Qashqai's suspension can sometimes be a source of problems, particularly on older models.

What's the issue? Worn suspension components, such as shocks, struts, and bushings, can lead to a bumpy ride, poor handling, and excessive tire wear.
Why it happens: Normal wear and tear, especially on rough roads, can degrade suspension components over time.
How to avoid it: Regularly inspect the suspension for signs of wear and tear. Replace worn components promptly.
What to look for: Bumpy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, and unusual noises coming from the suspension.

6. Bodywork and Corrosion:

While not as prevalent as some other issues, corrosion can be a concern, especially on older Qashqai models.

What's the issue? Rust can develop on the bodywork, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and undercarriage.
Why it happens: Exposure to salt, moisture, and road debris can accelerate corrosion.
How to avoid it: Regularly wash and wax the car, especially during winter months. Consider applying rustproofing treatments to vulnerable areas.
What to look for: Bubbling paint, rust spots, and corrosion on the bodywork.

7. Infotainment System Glitches:

The Qashqai's infotainment system, while generally user-friendly, can sometimes experience glitches.

What's the issue? Freezing, slow response times, and connectivity issues are common complaints.
Why it happens: Software bugs, outdated software, and hardware limitations can contribute to infotainment system problems.
How to avoid it: Keep the infotainment system software up to date. Try resetting the system if it's acting up.
What to look for: Unresponsive touchscreen, freezing, and error messages.

Which Qashqai Generation is the Most Reliable?

While all Qashqai generations have their pros and cons, some tend to be more reliable than others. Generally, the newer the model, the fewer the inherent reliability issues.

First Generation (J10, 2007-2013): These models are the oldest and therefore the most likely to have accumulated wear and tear. DPF issues, suspension problems, and electrical gremlins are common concerns.
Second Generation (J11, 2014-2021): This generation saw improvements in reliability compared to the first generation. However, CVT issues (on automatic models) and DPF problems remained concerns.
Third Generation (J12, 2021-Present): The latest generation Qashqai is generally considered the most reliable, benefiting from updated technology and improved build quality. However, it's still relatively new, so long-term reliability data is limited.

Important Note: Regardless of the generation, a well-maintained Qashqai is more likely to be reliable than a neglected one. Always prioritize cars with a full service history.

What to Look For When Buying a Used Qashqai

Buying a used car can be tricky, but here are some key things to look for when considering a used Qashqai:

Full Service History: A complete service history is crucial. It provides evidence that the car has been properly maintained and that any necessary repairs have been carried out.
Independent Inspection: Have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before you buy it. This can help identify any hidden problems that you might otherwise miss.
Test Drive: Take the car for a thorough test drive, paying attention to the engine's performance, the transmission's smoothness, and the suspension's comfort.
Check for Warning Lights: Ensure there are no warning lights illuminated on the dashboard. If there are, find out what they mean and whether the problem has been addressed.
Inspect the Bodywork: Look for signs of rust, damage, or poor-quality repairs.
Listen for Unusual Noises: Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from the engine, transmission, or suspension.
Negotiate the Price: Don't be afraid to negotiate the price. Factor in any potential repair costs when making your offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Nissan Qashqai expensive to maintain? Generally, the Qashqai has average maintenance costs compared to its rivals. Regular servicing and preventative maintenance are key to keeping costs down.
Are Qashqai parts readily available? Yes, parts are generally easy to find and relatively affordable due to the Qashqai's popularity.
Is the Qashqai a safe car? The Qashqai has typically scored well in Euro NCAP safety tests, offering good protection for occupants.
What's the best engine choice for a Qashqai? It depends on your driving needs. The smaller petrol engines are fuel-efficient for urban driving, while the larger engines offer more power for longer journeys.
Does the Qashqai have good resale value? The Qashqai holds its value reasonably well, but resale value can vary depending on the model year, condition, and mileage.

The Verdict: A Solid Choice with Caveats

The Nissan Qashqai is a popular crossover SUV for a reason. It offers a blend of practicality, affordability, and style that appeals to a wide range of buyers. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential issues, such as DPF problems, CVT issues, and electrical gremlins. By doing your research, choosing a well-maintained example, and addressing any potential problems promptly, you can enjoy many years of reliable and enjoyable motoring. Therefore, consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection before making a decision.