Nissan problems
Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. (日産自動車株式会社, Nissan Jidōsha kabushiki gaisha) is a Japanese multinational automobile manufacturer headquartered in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan. The company sells its vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands, and formerly the Datsun brand, with in-house performance tuning products (including cars) under the Nismo and Autech brands. The company traces back to the beginnings of the 20th century, with the Nissan zaibatsu, now called Nissan Group.
Since 1999, Nissan has been part of the Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance (Mitsubishi joining in 2016), a partnership between Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors of Japan, with Renault of France. As of November 2023, Renault holds a 15% voting stake in Nissan, while Nissan holds the same stake in Renault. Since October 2016 Nissan holds a 34% controlling stake in Mitsubishi Motors.
In 2017, Nissan was the sixth largest automaker in the world, after Toyota, Volkswagen Group, Hyundai Motor Group, General Motors and Ford. In 2014, Nissan was the largest car manufacturer in North America. With a revenue of $78 billion in 2022, Nissan was the ninth largest automobile maker in the world, as well as being the leading Japanese brand in China, Russia, and Mexico. As of April 2018, Nissan was the world's largest electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, with global sales of more than 320,000 all-electric vehicles. The top-selling vehicle of the car-maker's fully-electric lineup is the Nissan LEAF, the No. 2 top-selling electric car globally, just behind the Tesla Model 3.
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Nissan models
Common Nissan problems
Nissan cars, while generally reliable, are not immune to common problems that can affect their performance and safety. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues by Nissan owners:
- Engine Failure: Engine failure is another significant issue in Nissan cars, with the Altima again being particularly affected. Engine failure can be caused by various factors, including faulty position sensors, catalytic converter malfunctions, fuel pump problems, and issues with the fuel injector. The 2002, 2005, 2009, 2013, and 2016 models of the Altima are known to have engine failure issues.
- Faulty Interior Components: Faulty interior components are also a common problem in Nissan cars. These issues can include malfunctioning airbags, easily peeling and chipping interiors, and problems with the car's body lacking normal structural integrity. The Frontier, in particular, is known to have issues with faulty interior components, with the 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 models being particularly affected.
- Oil Leaks: Oil leaks are a common problem in Nissan vehicles, affecting both older and newer models. In 2011, Nissan issued a recall for over 15,000 vehicles due to excessive oil leaks, mostly from their luxury division. Regular maintenance checks and consulting a qualified mechanic can help prevent any further damage or complications caused by oil leaks.
- CVT Issues: Nissan's Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) has been designed to enhance efficiency and overall performance in their vehicles. However, this innovative technology has also presented some challenges, with owners reporting issues such as coolant leaks, slipping transmissions, and power failures. These problems can pose serious safety risks, and it's important to be aware of them.
- Rusting: Despite their reputation for lasting power, Nissan vehicles have been known to be susceptible to rusting. Models like the Nissan Navara truck, particularly those released between 2005 and 2008, have faced significant rust-related issues. Regular inspections of your Nissan vehicle are crucial to prevent rust from causing extensive damage.
- Faulty Hood Latch: A faulty hood latch can pose a safety hazard in Nissan vehicles. This issue can cause the hood to suddenly open while driving, obstructing the driver's view and potentially causing an accident. It's essential to address this problem promptly by consulting a qualified mechanic.
- Electrical Issues: Nissan vehicles can also suffer from electrical issues that may affect performance, safety, and overall driving experience. These issues can include problems with the battery, alternator, sensors, and wiring harness. It's important to seek expert assistance to accurately identify and rectify any electrical malfunctions, thereby ensuring that your vehicle remains a reliable means of transportation.
In conclusion, Nissan cars, like any other vehicle, can suffer from common problems that can affect their performance and safety. Regular maintenance checks, prompt repairs, and consulting qualified mechanics specializing in Nissan vehicles can help address these issues and ensure your car remains a reliable and safe means of transportation.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan models
We have analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan models:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan brand.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan models
We have also compiled a table for you with the number of complaints about specific models of Nissan cars:
Distribution of Nissan car problems by type
Based on an anlyse of all Nissan related complaints and concluded that the most common problems with Nissan cars are the following:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
Below is a graph with statistics on all Nissan vehicle components and the number of complaints about them.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Nissan models
A total of 3760 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Nissan models
There were a total of 1356 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Nissan models
There were a total of 3457 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Nissan models
There were a total of 135 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
The NHTSA has received 69393 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Nissan. Below are 15 recent complaints about various Nissan models. In order to research complaints about a particular brand you need to select it from the list of available models above.
List of the last 15 complaints about Nissan models
Nissan Altima 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-04
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP1DN
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlamps are so dim, you can't even see the road at night. This is a well known issue to Nissan that the headlamps for this make and model are defective. The headlamp assemblies need to be replaced and this should be a recall. There was a civil lawsuit and I, like many others, tried getting the headlamps replaced during the acceptable time period, but my Nissan dealership was not able to get the parts in time. Looking online, this happened to the majority of people and people weren't able to get the proper repairs needed at no fault of their own. This is a major problem that Nissan needs to address. NHTSA also has a responsibility to be pushing Nissan on this recall. My automotive repair company said they've never seen so many complaints with the NHTSA without there being a full recall. It is an extreme safety hazard to not have the road visible at night. I, along with others, have received warnings from the police as well for not having proper lighting. Please help fix this issue.
Nissan Altima 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-02
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP6DC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlights are very dim and it's very hard to see when it's dark outside
Nissan Altima 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-01
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP1DC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Delamination of headlight units has left low beam use unsafe. Seeing more than 20-25ft ahead of vehicle is impossible at night. There was a class action suit for this issue but I was not notified and now the window for replacement had passed. This seems like it should have been a safety recall. I attempted to get relief from Nissan but was stonewalled. Not even a discount on replacing the units.
Nissan Altima 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP7DC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Unsafe to drive due to transmission not registering lower gears when at complete stop, takes full minute before gears accelerate. I have unexpectedly stalled in the middle of traffic and was almost rear ended. Going under the legal miles per hour on standard roads causing delays in traffic and potential Fire Risk due to overheating because of transmission issues. Potential harm to myself and others by causing collisions. Big O's in Boise Idaho (208) 996-1306 has confirmed it is unsafe to drive 10/29/2024. appointment with Nissan dealership 10/30/2024 Check engine light has failed to appear. The closure of a class action lawsuit over CVT transmission issues in vehicles like the 2013 Nissan Altima, without a recall, poses significant safety risks. Without a recall, critical transmission problems such as stalling, power loss, or erratic shifting remain unresolved for many drivers. Financial constraints may prevent owners from paying out-of-pocket for expensive repairs, leaving unsafe vehicles on the road. Unlike recalls, which require manufacturers to notify all affected owners and provide free repairs, lawsuits end without ongoing accountability, meaning these safety risks can persist indefinitely. Additionally, future owners, especially in the used car market, may be unaware of the defect, unknowingly operating cars with hidden risks. The lack of consistent resolution means thousands of vehicles with potentially faulty transmissions continue to pose dangers not only to their drivers but also to other road users. A recall would ensure that all affected vehicles are inspected and repaired, but without one, the burden unfairly shifts to owners, compromising road safety on a large scale.
Nissan Rogue 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5N1BT3BA6PC
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: While driving on busy highway the warning of the collision sensor and emergency brake sensors goes off, reduces speed tremendously while driving and never goes off. When this happened to me I was over miles from home stranded and had to drive under 30 mph to make it to an exit for safety and call a tow truck.
Nissan Altima 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1N4BL4BW5LC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Car phantom brakes. There are multiple cases of it online where people are complaining when the front emergency brake warning light comes up at times and the car brakes automatically in empty highways. This happens fairly often
Nissan Murano 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: JN8AZ08W87W
- Components: ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My timing chain/belt is shot, my car started slowing down and I pulled over on the side of the highway.
Nissan Rogue 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5N1AT3BA7MC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The engine revs a s will not accelerate. I have to stop put car in park and turn it off and on. This has happened many times. Dealership says they can’t do anything unless an engine light or code is present. I even showed them videos.
Nissan Rogue 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5N1AT3BA2MC
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: As I was driving my daughter to school suddenly a warning popped up in the dash that there was a forward collision malfunction and the system turned itself off. There were no other vehicles near me or in front of me and the sensors were not blocked by rain (we are in drought conditions) or snow.
Nissan Rogue 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5N1BT3AB6PC
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Back windshield shattered
Nissan Altima 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1N4AL3APXHC
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Hello, I have a 2017 Nissan Altima, VIN# 1N4AL3APXHC185845 and a few years ago there was a safety recall on the headlight system. The lights are very dim, they will not get bright after changing the bulbs multiple times and still not a fix. The lights are very dim at night and very hard to see. I tried scheduling an appointment and the Nissan dealership says this recall expired. My 21 year old daughter is driving the car and she keeps asking me that she cannot see with the lights on and working fine. Multiple times she has almost hit something close to the side of the road or another parked car because the lights are so dim but working fine. How can a safety recall expire, if an accident happens and Nissan refused to fix the safety issue and had a recall then Nissan Corporation may be liable for any injuries due to this accident. I just want to get the headlights fixed according to the safety recall but every time I call, it gets disconnected or I cannot get thru to anyone and they just keep me on hold.
Nissan Pathfinder hybrid 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5N1AR2MM0EC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 3 of my door handles have broken once before I had taken ownership of the vehicle. Since owning the vehicle those same 3 door handles have broken again. This is a cause for concern because if you were in a motor vehicle accident you wouldn’t be able to get the doors open from the inside of the vehicle. For the past few months I have been rolling the windows down to open the door from the outside handle..
Nissan Pathfinder 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5N1AR2MM0EC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 3 of my door handles have broken once before I had taken ownership of the vehicle. Since owning the vehicle those same 3 door handles have broken again. This is a cause for concern because if you were in a motor vehicle accident you wouldn’t be able to get the doors open from the inside of the vehicle. For the past few months I have been rolling the windows down to open the door from the outside handle..
Nissan Pathfinder 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5N1DR2CN8LC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL has once again developed problems with the Emergency forward Brake System. The ABS AEB was replaced in January 2024 at Southwest Nissan in Weatherford Tx . Today, [XXX] the AEB light came back on. This is also the second time I have had to replace the Brake light located under the brake pedal. This is the second time I am reporting this problem to NHTSA. Research on several car repair sites shows this is a common problem with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder, but NHTSA has failed to issue a recall. The original cost for repair at the dealership was over $4000. Please review and confirm problems with this model and year. This is an ongoing safety issue. Southwest Nissan Weatherford, Tx was where my car was repaired in January 2024. They will be able to provide all documentation. The mechanic also stated in writing that this was a common occurrence with the Pathfinder. Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Nissan Kicks 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU4KL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Issues with MAF sensor. All the lights on dashboard illuminated while the car was difficult to accelerate down the driveway. Reader at auto parts centers showed fault with the mass airflow sensor. Sensor and battery have been replaced 3x since getting the vehicle in 2019. Lights on dashboard and reader code shows fault with the MAF sensor again! Car lags when accelerating and doesn’t feel like it has full power. Car has had issues not turning on in parking lot. ALL Dash lights turn on immediately after driving vehicle. Message “malfunction see owner’s manual”.
Latest 5 Nissan recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1255 recalls involving various Nissan models.You can learn more about the model you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Nissan Leaf 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-19
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2020 LEAF vehicles equipped with a Level 3 quick charging port. The lithium-ion battery may overheat during Level 3 charging.
- Consequence: A quick charging battery that overheats increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use Level 3 quick charging until the remedy is completed. Dealers will update the battery software, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed in October 2024. A second notice will be sent once the remedy becomes available, anticipated in November 2024. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R24B2.
- Model: Nissan Leaf 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-19
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2020 LEAF vehicles equipped with a Level 3 quick charging port. The lithium-ion battery may overheat during Level 3 charging.
- Consequence: A quick charging battery that overheats increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use Level 3 quick charging until the remedy is completed. Dealers will update the battery software, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed in October 2024. A second notice will be sent once the remedy becomes available, anticipated in November 2024. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R24B2.
- Model: Nissan Titan 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-05
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 and 2024 Titan vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) may be missing a spacer, which can allow the fastener to loosen and result in an unsecured ACU.
- Consequence: An unsecured ACU can prevent or delay air bags from deploying as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ACU, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 19, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PD120.
- Model: Nissan Titan 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-05
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 and 2024 Titan vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) may be missing a spacer, which can allow the fastener to loosen and result in an unsecured ACU.
- Consequence: An unsecured ACU can prevent or delay air bags from deploying as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ACU, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 19, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PD120.
- Model: Nissan Ariya 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-25
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:INVERTER
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2023 Ariya vehicles. The inverter software may misdiagnose an error, which can shut down the EV system, resulting in a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the vehicle's inverter software version and update the software, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 12, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R24A8.
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