Credov

Nissan Pulsar C12 hatch common problems: what to check before you buy

Credov's researched list of the 4 faults the Nissan Pulsar C12 hatch is known for (2013–2014), 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.

Known problems on the Nissan Pulsar C12 hatch

Fuel pressure sensor leak

Safety risk

2013–2014 · petrol · Engine

What to look for: Ask for the recall record, and smell for fuel and look for wet fuel around the fuel rail at idle.

Why it matters: The recall hazard is a fuel leak near an ignition source (fire).

Sources: 1 2

Start button sticking

Costly if missed

2013–2015 · petrol · Electrical

What to look for: Check the start button springs back flush with no sticking over several presses, and ask for the recall record.

Why it matters: The recall hazard is the engine stopping unexpectedly on the road.

Sources: 1

Gearbox judder, lag or clunk

Costly if missed

2013–2017 · MRA8DE · petrol · Gearbox

What to look for: Drive gently from rest to 60 km/h and feel for shudder, jerks or revs rising without the car speeding up.

Why it matters: A worn or slipping CVT belt means a valve body or complete transmission replacement, the single most expensive item on these cars.

Sources: 1 2

Brake light and airbag sensor

Costly if missed

2013 · petrol · Electrical

What to look for: Check all three brake lights come on with light pedal pressure, and the airbag light goes out after start.

Why it matters: Both are cheap dealer fixes but the airbag item cannot be seen by inspection - only the completion record tells you.

Sources: 1 2

Got a question about a Nissan Pulsar C12 hatch? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.

Also check on every car

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.

Other Nissan models

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.