13 Best & Worst Nissan Note Years (Stats & Examples)

If you’re in the market for a Nissan Note, it’s essential to know which years have been the most reliable and which ones to avoid. 

With so many different models and versions available, it can be tough to know where to start. 

To help you, we’ve compiled a list of the 13 best and worst Nissan Note years, complete with statistics and real-world examples. 

The Best and Worst Years for Nissan Note Are:

Owing to impressive reliability and consumer satisfaction statistics, the 2009-2010, 2017, and 2019-2021 Nissan Note model years are the best and most dependable. On the other hand, due to a host of issues and safety recalls, consumers should avoid models from 2006-2008, 2013-2014, and 2015-2016.

What Nissan Note Years Are the Most Reliable?

Looking for a reliable car that won’t let you down? If you’re considering a Nissan Note, you’re probably wondering which model years are the most dependable. 

With so many different versions and features available, it can be difficult to know where to start. Fortunately, we’ve researched for you and compiled a list of the most reliable Nissan Note years.

So, whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned Nissan owner, keep reading to find out which Nissan Note years are the most reliable.

2009 – 2010 Nissan Note

The 2009-2010 Nissan Note has generally been a reliable car, according to various sources and reliability statistics.

Consumer Reports gave both the 2009 and 2010 Nissan Note models high ratings for reliability, with no reported major issues. 

The 2009 model received a score of 4 out of 5 for reliability, while the 2010 model received a score of 5 out of 5. J.D. Power also gave the 2009 and 2010 models above-average reliability ratings.

The Nissan Note is known for its fuel efficiency, with the 2009 model achieving an estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. 

The 2010 model also achieved similar fuel efficiency ratings.

One of the reasons for the Nissan Note’s reliability may be its solid build quality and durable components. The Note is known for having a comfortable ride and good handling, with responsive steering and good maneuverability.

Overall, the 2009-2010 Nissan Note is a reliable car that can provide years of trouble-free driving if it is properly maintained. 

2017 Nissan Note

The 2017 Nissan Note is also generally considered a reliable car with positive ratings from both industry experts and owners.

According to J.D. Power, the 2017 Nissan Note received an above-average rating for reliability, scoring 3.5 out of 5 in their reliability rating. 

Additionally, the 2017 Note received an overall rating of 81 out of 100 from J.D. Power, which is above average compared to other vehicles in its class.

Consumer Reports also gave the 2017 Nissan Note a high rating for reliability, with no reported major issues or problems. The Note received a score of 4 out of 5 in predicted reliability, indicating that it is expected to be a dependable vehicle.

Owners have also reported positive experiences with the 2017 Nissan Note, with many praising its:

• Fuel efficiency
• Spacious interior
• Ease of handling

Some have reported minor issues, such as occasional problems with the infotainment system, but overall, the 2017 Note has a good reputation for reliability.

2019 –  2021 Nissan Note

Let’s take a closer look at the 2019-2021 Nissan Note models and their reliability track record.

According to J.D. Power, the 2019 Nissan Note ranks as the most reliable small car in Japan, based on the number of reported problems per 100 vehicles.

In addition to this, J.D. Power also rated the 2021 Nissan Note with a score of 82 out of 100 in this study, indicating that it performs well in terms of initial quality and reliability.

Consumer Reports, a trusted source for product reviews and ratings, also provides insights into the reliability of various Nissan Note models.

These model years scored the following: 

• 2021: Overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5, which is considered above average. 
• 2020: Also received a 4 out of 5 rating.
• 2019: Received a 3 out of 5 rating.

Safety is also a crucial factor to consider when evaluating a car’s reliability. All Nissan Note model years received a 5-star overall safety rating from the Japan New Car Assessment Program (JNCAP). 

Overall, the 2019-2021 Nissan Note models have continued the vehicle’s reputation for reliability and safety. 

Car buyers can feel confident in considering these models when searching for a car that offers a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and dependability.

What Nissan Note Years Should You Avoid?

If you’re in the market for a Nissan Note, it’s essential to know which years have had significant issues that you may want to avoid. 

From transmission problems to electrical issues, some Nissan Note models have had more problems than others. That’s why we’ll highlight the years you may want to steer clear of. 

2006 – 2008 Nissan Note

The 2006-2008 Nissan Note model years had some issues with their reliability and safety that potential buyers should be aware of. 

One of the most significant issues with these models was related to their transmissions.

Many Nissan Note owners reported problems with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that caused poor acceleration, stalling and even transmission failure.

In 2008, Nissan also issued a safety recall for the Nissan Note due to concerns over the CVT. The recall affected over 73,000 Nissan Note vehicles in Japan, and it was intended to fix a problem with the transmission that could cause it to overheat and fail. 

While the recall was issued for Nissan Notes in Japan, it is important to note that these issues with the CVT could also affect models sold in other countries.

Another problem with the 2006-2008 Nissan Note model years was related to their electrical systems. 

Some owners reported issues with the dashboard display, including problems with the odometer and other gauges. There were also reports of faulty alternators that could cause the battery to drain, leading to problems with starting the car.

In addition to these specific issues, the 2006-2008 Nissan Note model years also had a relatively poor reliability track record overall. 

According to consumer reports, these models received low ratings for reliability, with issues related to:

• Engine
• Transmission
• Brakes

If you are considering purchasing a used Nissan Note from the 2006-2008 model years, it is important to do your research and have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic. 

While not all Nissan Notes from this era had problems, there were enough issues reported with the CVT, electrical systems, and overall reliability to warrant caution.

2013 – 2014 Nissan Note

The Nissan Note model years of 2013-2014 have also been associated with reliability issues and safety recalls that potential buyers may want to consider before purchasing a used vehicle.

Once again, one of the most frequently reported issues with these model years relates to the CVT transmission. This has been known to cause shuddering and stalling while driving, resulting in a jerky ride and decreased acceleration.

Replacing the transmission can be costly, and some owners have reported having to replace the entire unit.

Additionally, some owners have reported experiencing problems with the steering system, including a loss of power steering while driving. This has been attributed to a faulty power steering pump that may require replacement.

There have also been safety recalls affecting the 2013-2014 Nissan Note, including in:  

• 2014: A potential problem with the passenger airbag sensor, which may not detect the presence of a passenger and fail to deploy in the event of a crash. 
• 2016: A problem with the front passenger seat belt, which may not lock properly and increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Overall, the 2013-2014 Nissan Note model years have had some reported reliability issues and safety recalls, primarily related to the transmission and steering system. 

While not all vehicles of these model years will experience these problems, potential buyers may want to be aware of these issues and take caution before purchasing a used Nissan Note from this period. 

2015 – 2016 Nissan Note

Although the 2015-2016 Nissan Note has generally been a reliable car with good reviews from owners and industry experts, owners should be aware of a few issues with these models.

One of the primary concerns with the 2015-2016 Nissan Note models was a potential airbag issue. And this results in a considerable safety concern.

In 2016, Nissan issued a safety recall for these models due to a problem with the front passenger airbag sensor. This affected over 3 million Nissan vehicles worldwide, including the 2015-2016 Note models.

Again, some owners reported problems with the CVT, and, In some cases, the transmission would fail altogether, which could be an expensive repair.

There were also a few complaints about the electronics in these models. Some owners reported problems with the:

• Infotainment system: The screen freezes or the system restarts on its own.
• Electrical system: Including issues with the battery and alternator.

Despite these issues, it’s important to note that the 2015-2016 Nissan Note models have generally received positive reviews from owners and industry experts. 

If you’re considering purchasing a used Note from these years, it’s essential to conduct thorough research, review maintenance records, and have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before making a purchase decision.

What Are Some Typical Problems With the Nissan Note Models?

If you’re considering buying a Nissan Note, it’s important to be aware of the potential problems that may arise with this popular model. 

While the Nissan Note has many positive features and is generally considered a reliable vehicle, like any car, it can also have its fair share of issues.

Here are some of the most common problems that Nissan Note owners have reported:

• Excessive engine vibration
• Idling problems
• Brake light malfunction
• Fog lights don’t turn off
• Battery problems
• Gear shifting malfunction

For a more in-depth review, please read our article about common problems with Nissan cars.

While these issues may not affect all Nissan Note models, they are problems that some owners have experienced. 

It’s important to stay up to date with regular maintenance, promptly address any issues, and be aware of potential problems when considering buying a Nissan Note. 

Back to best/worst years for all Nissan models.

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ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.