Credov's researched list of the 5 faults the Nissan Qashqai is known for (2007–2014), 5 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 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;
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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: Hold a steady 50-70 km/h on light throttle and feel for shudder, and listen for a rising whine.
Why it matters: The noise comes from pulley bearings and the push belt wearing, often after missed fluid changes. A pause of more than a second before drive or reverse bites is another sign of a tired unit (low or worn fluid, valve body or solenoid wear); one 223,000 km Dualis needed a solenoid at about A$800.
What to look for: Idle the warm engine in a queue and check the cooling fan cuts in and air-con stays cold.
Why it matters: Driving on with an overheating engine risks head gasket damage. ADAC breakdown data also lists engine cooling faults for the Qashqai.
What to look for: Accelerate gently from a stop and feel for shudder or hesitation, and ask for an OBD scan for CVT codes.
Why it matters: In Australia CarsGuide says the fault is linked to CVT fluid overheating warping internal parts, and recommends an external fluid cooler plus good servicing. A software update and fluid change sometimes help early on.
Got a question about a Nissan Qashqai? 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.