Nissan Qashqai J10 (2007-2014): known problems and buying guide

Before you buy

1. On a 2.0 MR20, ask for timing chain or timing service records. A stretched chain needs a workshop to check it.
2. On a 2.0 CVT, look for oil under the car and ask for fluid change records, about every 30,000 km. Walk away from a CVT with no fluid history.
3. On a 1.5 dCi, ask for oil change records. Blue, white or black smoke, whistling, or high oil use are bad signs.
4. On a 2.0 MR20, check the oil level after a drive and ask for oil records. Heavy oil use is a bad sign. Two sites also name cracked heads, which let coolant into the oil.
5. On a 1.5 dCi or 1.6 dCi, ask for injector and high-pressure pump records before you accept a rough idle.
6. On a manual, test the clutch on a hill. Slipping is a bad sign. On the 5-speed, a second gear that is hard to engage points to a worn synchro ring.
7. With the front wheels off the ground, rock each wheel and check the tie rod ends. Play means a repair is due. Check the steering rack for play too.
8. Bounce each corner of the car. Shock absorbers wear early on this model, so a car that keeps bouncing needs new ones.
9. Look under the sills and the rear subframe. Rust is reported on older cars, mainly the sills. Walk away from flaking metal or holes.
10. Check every recall campaign for the VIN with a Nissan dealer before you buy. The brake-line and steering-wheel campaigns are in the table below.