Is the Nissan Qashqai 2014–2018 reliable?
The Nissan Qashqai J11 (2014–2018) is the car that created the crossover SUV segment in Britain and it remains one of the most popular used family cars on the market. It's practical, comfortable, and relatively cheap to insure for its size. But its popularity also means there are a lot of poorly maintained examples out there.
The key decision is engine and gearbox. The 1.2-litre DIG-T petrol with CVT automatic is the combination that causes the most problems — the CVT is expensive to repair and doesn't suit the engine's character. The 1.6-litre diesel manual is more reliable for motorway-heavy use but will cause DPF headaches in urban environments.
The 1.2 petrol manual is probably the safest choice for most buyers, even if it's a little underpowered for motorway overtaking. The 1.6 petrol is genuinely good if you can find one.
Known faults — what to watch for
These are the issues that come up repeatedly in owner forums, Which? reliability surveys, and DVLA MOT data. Not every car will have them — but every buyer should ask about them.
CVT automatic gearbox failure
The Xtronic CVT gearbox paired with the 1.2 DIG-T engine is the Qashqai's biggest weakness. Juddering, slipping, and eventual failure are documented extensively on owner forums and Which? data. Replacement is eye-wateringly expensive — often approaching the car's market value on older examples. If you want an automatic Qashqai, budget carefully for this eventuality or find a car with low mileage and recent CVT fluid change.
Very high riskDiesel DPF blockage
The 1.6 dCi diesel is not a car for urban driving. Short journeys prevent the DPF from regenerating, leading to blockage, power loss, and expensive repairs. Always ask how a diesel Qashqai has been used — commuting on A-roads or motorways is fine, school-run use in town is a recipe for DPF trouble. Look for evidence of forced regenerations in the service history.
High risk for urban useSteering rack knocking
A knocking or clunking sensation through the steering wheel — particularly on uneven surfaces or during parking manoeuvres — is a known Qashqai issue. The steering rack itself or the column joints can wear. This is a safety-relevant item that will fail an MOT inspection.
Medium riskAround View Monitor camera failure
Higher-specification Qashqais with the 360-degree camera system suffer from individual camera failures — usually the front or rear unit. Replacement cameras are expensive and the calibration process requires specialist equipment. If the car has this system, check all cameras work during the test drive.
Medium risk on high specInterior trim wear and rattle
The Qashqai's interior — while spacious — uses cheaper plastics than rivals like the Golf. Dashboard and door card rattles are common on higher-mileage cars, particularly around the centre console. Not a mechanical issue but affects ownership experience. Take the car over rough road surfaces during the test drive.
Low riskDon't buy blind — check the car's full history first
Finance owing, previous write-offs, and clocked mileage won't show up on a visual inspection. Our report surfaces all of it instantly.
Check this car's history — £9.99 →MOT failure patterns
We analyse real DVLA MOT records across thousands of UK-registered examples from this generation. The data below reflects actual test outcomes — not manufacturer claims.
| Failure item | How common | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre wear (front) | Heavier front end means front tyres wear faster. Check both front tyres carefully. | |
| Brake disc corrosion | Qashqais often sit unused for periods. Corroded discs fail MOT. Budget £200–£350 for fronts. | |
| Steering rack play | Known weak point. Inspector will check for knocking and play. | |
| DPF warning light | Immediate MOT failure if active. Check before any diesel test drive. | |
| Rear shock absorbers | Bouncy rear end on higher mileage cars. Budget £150–£300 per corner. |
Pro tip: Qashqais used as family cars often have deferred maintenance. Check for any outstanding recalls — Nissan has issued several for this generation covering fuel systems and seatbelt pre-tensioners. PlateSure's full check pulls every MOT result, mileage reading, and advisory — instantly, for £9.99.
If you're also weighing up the Ford Kuga, it's a close comparison — the Qashqai wins on running costs, the Kuga on powertrain refinement. The VW Golf is worth considering if you don't need the SUV body — it's more reliable and cheaper to maintain.
What should you pay?
Qashqai prices are strong because demand is consistent. Don't expect significant discounts — but do negotiate on any known faults or missing history.
What to check at the viewing
- CVT or manual? Establish this before anything else. CVT cars need a documented fluid change history.
- Test the CVT extensively — slow-speed crawling, motorway acceleration, hill starts. Any judder or slip is a live fault.
- On diesel models, ask specifically about typical daily use. Short urban journeys are a DPF risk.
- Check the steering carefully during the test drive — any knocking through the wheel warrants investigation.
- If the car has Around View Monitor cameras, check all four cameras produce a clear image.
- Check for outstanding Nissan recalls by VIN — several affect this generation.
- Check brake discs for deep scoring or heavy corrosion — common on cars that sit between uses.
- Drive over rough surfaces and listen for interior rattles — acceptable at this price but useful for negotiation.
Practical and popular — but do your homework on the gearbox
The Nissan Qashqai 2014–2018 is a genuinely practical family car that earns its popularity. The manual petrol variants are solid, straightforward buys. The CVT automatic is the risk that catches buyers out — it's expensive to fix and the failure rate is high enough to be a real consideration. If you're set on an automatic, budget for the possibility of CVT replacement or find a low-mileage example with documented fluid changes. Always run a full history check — the Qashqai's popularity makes it one of the more common vehicles with outstanding finance on the used market.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nissan Qashqai CVT reliable?
The Xtronic CVT paired with the 1.2-litre engine has documented reliability concerns, particularly on higher-mileage examples. The CVT fluid should be changed every 40,000 miles — many haven't been. It can be fine, but it's the single biggest risk on this car and repair costs are high.
Petrol or diesel Qashqai?
For mainly motorway driving, the 1.6 dCi diesel is efficient and competent. For mixed or urban use, the 1.2 DIG-T petrol manual is the safer choice. Avoid the diesel if the car will be used predominantly in town — DPF blockage is a real and expensive risk.
What are common Nissan Qashqai problems?
The CVT gearbox, diesel DPF issues, steering rack knocking, and camera system failures on higher-spec cars are the most documented. None are universal — condition and service history are the best predictors of whether you'll encounter them.