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

The Nissan Qashqai has been one of the most popular compact SUVs in the market since its introduction in 2006.

Over the years, the Qashqai has undergone numerous updates, upgrades, and redesigns, each with its own pros and cons. 

If you’re in the market for a used Nissan Qashqai or are just interested in the car’s history, it’s essential to know which years were the best and which ones to avoid. 

In this article, we’ll explore the stats and examples of the best and worst Nissan Qashqai years, so you can make an informed decision before purchasing your next vehicle.

The Best and Worst Years for Nissan Qashqai Are:

Based on consumer and reliability statistics, the best and most reliable Nissan Qashqai years are the 2014, 2017, and 2019 – 2022 model years. On the other hand, the 2006 – 2009, 2011 – 2012, and 2015 model years should be avoided due to poor reliability statistics and a host of safety recalls. 

What Nissan Qashqai Years Are the Most Reliable?

When it comes to buying a car, reliability is a crucial factor to consider. 

Nobody wants to spend their hard-earned money on a vehicle that’s going to break down frequently, leaving them stranded on the side of the road. 

Fortunately, some car models have proven to be more reliable than others. Below, we’ll take a closer look at the most dependable Nissan Qashqai models based on customer reviews, industry ratings, and reliability surveys. 

2014 Nissan Qashqai

The 2014 Nissan Qashqai is one of the more reliable models in the Qashqai lineup. 

According to industry data and customer reviews, the 2014 Qashqai model is well-built, dependable, and requires minimal maintenance.

One factor that contributes to the 2014 Qashqai’s reliability is its engine. 

The 2014 model comes with a 1.5-liter diesel engine that is known for its fuel efficiency and durability. This engine is also relatively simple, with fewer moving parts that can break down, making it less prone to mechanical issues.

Another contributing factor to the 2014 Qashqai’s reliability is its transmission. 

The six-speed manual transmission is known for its smooth shifting and durability, with few reported issues. This transmission is also less complex than the continuously variable transmission (CVT) found in some Qashqai models, which can be more prone to problems.

The 2014 Qashqai model’s suspension system is also well-regarded for its dependability. Many owners report little to no issues with the suspension, which is designed to handle rough roads and provide a comfortable ride.

Overall, the 2014 Nissan Qashqai is a reliable and durable vehicle that requires minimal maintenance. 

Furthermore, based on customer reviews and industry ratings, the 2014 Qashqai model has generally received positive marks for reliability, with many owners reporting few problems and high levels of satisfaction. 

2017 Nissan Qashqai

The 2017 Nissan Qashqai is another reliable model that has received positive reviews from owners and industry experts. According to reliability statistics, this model has a good track record and is known for being dependable and durable.

This is owed to the following characteristics of the model: 

Engine: The 2017 model features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a smooth and efficient performance. This engine has been known to be reliable and long-lasting, requiring minimal maintenance over time.

CVT Transmission: Provides a seamless and efficient driving experience. Known to be reliable and robust, with fewer issues reported compared to traditional automatic transmissions.

Well-built and sturdy body: The chassis and suspension are designed to provide a comfortable and smooth ride, while also being strong and durable enough to handle rough terrain and adverse weather conditions, which contributes to its dependability.

Moreover, the 2017 Qashqai has a good safety record, with advanced safety features such as:

• Rearview camera
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Automatic emergency braking

These safety features have helped prevent accidents and ensure the vehicle is safe and reliable on the road.

Overall, the 2017 Nissan Qashqai is a reliable vehicle that has received positive reviews for its performance, durability, and safety. 

2019 – 2022 Nissan Qashqai

The 2019-2022 Nissan Qashqai models are some of the most dependable vehicles on the market today. 

These newer models feature cutting-edge technology and engineering, contributing to their high-reliability ratings.

Additionally, according to industry data and owner reviews, the 2019-2022 Qashqai models have a low rate of reported issues and are considered highly reliable.

One significant factor contributing to the Qashqai’s reliability is its advanced safety features. 

These models come equipped with features such as:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Forward collision warning
• Lane departure warning

These safety features help prevent accidents and contribute to the Qashqai’s high safety ratings.

Another factor contributing to the Qashqai’s reliability is its powertrain. 

The newer models come equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides a smooth and comfortable ride.

The Qashqai’s suspension and steering systems are also notable for their reliability. Many owners report that these systems are durable and long-lasting, with few reported issues.

Furthermore, the Qashqai’s electrical system is reliable, with few reports of battery or sensor issues. 

Overall, owners of the 2019-2022 Nissan Qashqai models have found them to be dependable vehicles.  They cite features such as advanced safety systems, a smooth ride, and a user-friendly infotainment system as contributing factors to their satisfaction. 

Additionally, the Qashqai’s low rate of reported issues and high-reliability ratings make it an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a dependable and safe compact SUV.

What Nissan Qashqai Years Should You Avoid?

Buying a car is a significant investment, and the last thing anyone wants is a vehicle that constantly requires expensive repairs. 

Unfortunately, some car models have earned a reputation for being unreliable, and the Nissan Qashqai is no exception.

Below, we’ll delve into the least dependable Nissan Qashqai models based on customer feedback, industry ratings, and reliability surveys. 

2006 – 2009 Nissan Qashqai

The 2006-2009 Nissan Qashqai model years are considered to be unreliable due to several typical problems and safety issues. 

These models are known to have issues that can lead to costly repairs. These issues include:

• Engine problems
• Suspension problems
• Gearbox problems

In addition, there have been safety issues reported with these models, including problems with the airbags, which can fail to deploy in the event of an accident. 

The 2007-2009 models are also prone to issues with the air conditioning, which can stop working unexpectedly, leading to discomfort for the driver and passengers.

Furthermore, several recalls have been issued for these models, including one for faulty brake hoses, which can result in a loss of braking power and increase the risk of an accident. 

Another recall was issued for a faulty fuel gauge, which can cause inaccurate readings and result in drivers running out of gas unexpectedly.

Overall, the 2006-2009 Nissan Qashqai model years have proven to be unreliable due to several typical problems, safety issues, and recalls. 

It is important to thoroughly research any used Qashqai models from this period before purchasing and to have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle for potential issues.

2011 – 2012 Nissan Qashqai

The 2011-2012 Nissan Qashqai models are considered unreliable due to several reported issues. 

One significant problem reported by owners is with the timing chain, which can cause significant engine damage if not addressed promptly. 

Additionally, these models have experienced significant problems with:

• Air conditioning system
• Electrical system
• Engine performance

In terms of safety issues, the 2011 Qashqai was subject to a recall due to a problem with the fuel system, which could cause a fire. 

The 2012 Qashqai was also recalled for issues with the brake pedal bracket, which could cause a loss of braking ability and increase the risk of an accident.

Furthermore, these models have been found to have higher than average maintenance costs, which can add up over time.

If you’re considering purchasing a 2011-2012 Nissan Qashqai, it’s essential to do your research and carefully inspect the vehicle before making a purchase. 

It’s recommended that you have a trusted mechanic inspect the timing chain and other potential problem areas before buying the vehicle.

Additionally, make sure that any recalls have been addressed and that the vehicle has been properly maintained to avoid potentially costly repairs in the future.

Please also check out our article about the best and worst years for the Nissan Terrano.

2015 Nissan Qashqai

The 2015 Nissan Qashqai is another model year that has been associated with several reliability issues that have caused concern among owners and potential buyers. 

One of the most significant issues with the 2015 Qashqai is related to the fuel system. 

Several owners have reported problems with the fuel pump, which can fail and lead to a loss of power and potential stalling of the vehicle.

The 2015 Qashqai has also been subject to various recalls, further highlighting its reliability issues. 

One of the most significant recalls was related to the side curtain airbags, which may not deploy correctly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Other recalls have been related to: 

• Potential fuel leaks
• Problems with the steering column
• Issues with the passenger airbag sensor

However, the safety concerns are not limited to the airbag issue. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there have been several complaints related to the braking system. This can cause the vehicle to vibrate or pull to one side during braking.

While it’s important to note that not all 2015 Qashqai models will experience these issues, it’s crucial to do your research and seek advice from a trusted mechanic before making any purchase.

What Are Some Typical Problems With the Nissan Qashqai Models?

No car model is perfect, and even the Nissan Qashqai, one of the most popular compact SUVs on the market, has its fair share of problems. 

As a Qashqai owner or potential buyer, it’s essential to be aware of the typical issues that owners experience, from minor annoyances to significant concerns. 

Understanding these issues can help you identify potential problems before they become more significant and make informed decisions when buying, maintaining, or repairing a Qashqai. 

So, let’s take a closer look at the typical problems Nissan Qashqai owners experience:

• Electrical issues
• Alternator faults
• Turbo faults
• Steering issues
• Fuel leaks
• Suspension issues
• Stalling

For a more in-depth analysis, please look at our article about common problems with Nissan cars.

It’s worth noting that not all Qashqai models are affected by these issues, and some owners report no problems at all. 

However, it’s essential to be aware of these common problems and to have them checked out if you notice any symptoms to prevent further damage or potential safety issues.

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.