Credov's researched list of the 5 faults the Nissan Dualis J10 is known for (2008–2010), 4 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: Check the steering warning light is off, listen for knocking turning lock to lock, and feel for a loose steering wheel.
Why it matters: Each recall's stated hazard is loss of steering control or loss of steering assistance.
What to look for: Check the diesel filter warning light goes out, and feel for a hard rev cut near 3000 rpm when driving.
Why it matters: A clogged DPF needs forced regeneration or replacement plus an oil service; the vehicle cannot be sold with a rev limit in place.
What to look for: Check the wipers work on every speed and park properly, and that the odometer matches the service history.
Why it matters: MLIT recall 2329 (26 June 2009) covers 11,077 Dualis (DBA-KJ10) and 4,594 (DBA-KNJ10). The notification states, first, that the wiper motor's waterproof sealant was under-applied and water can enter and short the motor, or a poorly welded circuit can lose continuity, so the wipers may stop working;
Sources: 1
What to look for: Drive slowly with the air con on, feeling for the engine dipping towards a stall, and listen for compressor knocks.
Why it matters: MLIT recall 3124 (5 April 2013) covers 17,598 plus 8,620 plus 13,705 plus 11,173 Dualis (DBA-KJ10, DBA-KNJ10, DBA-J10, DBA-NJ10) built April 2007 to March 2010 - effectively the whole run. The notification states that the engine control computer's recovery control is inappropriate when engine speed drops suddenly at low revs, for example because the air conditioning compressor has failed internally, so recovery does…
Sources: 1
What to look for: Listen for a rear knock over bumps, and look for oil on the rear shocks or a loose lower bush.
Why it matters: Rear shock replacement is a modest cost, but a knocking rear end on a Dualis is more often this than a worn bush elsewhere, and the source names it as the leading rattle cause.
Sources: 1
Got a question about a Nissan Dualis J10? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.