Nissan Qashqai Common Problems: DPF, CVT and More

Why we see so many Qashqais

The Nissan Qashqai has been one of the best-selling cars in the UK for years, and it is built in Sunderland, so there are a lot of them about. Around Northfield, Rubery and Frankley it is one of the most common family cars we look after. The first-generation (J10, 2007–2013) and second-generation (J11, 2014–2021) cars share a few typical problems.

Diesel particulate filter (DPF) blockages

Most Qashqais on the road are diesels — mainly the 1.5 dCi and 1.6 dCi. Their diesel particulate filter traps soot and needs longer drives at a steady speed to burn it off. Qashqais used mostly for school runs and short trips often cannot complete these regenerations, and the filter gradually blocks.

You will usually get a DPF warning first, then a loss of power or limp mode if it is ignored. A rising oil level on the dipstick is another sign: failed regenerations can put diesel into the oil. Caught early, a forced regeneration or a clean normally sorts it. We also check sensors, the EGR valve and injectors, because a problem there can make the filter block again quickly.

Xtronic CVT gearbox judder

Automatic Qashqais use Nissan's Xtronic CVT, a continuously variable transmission. Some develop judder when pulling away, a whine, or a hesitation before the car moves off. Fluid condition plays a big part in a CVT's health, so a fluid check and change at the right time is worthwhile. If yours is showing symptoms, a diagnostic check is the first step.

Clutch and dual-mass flywheel

Manual diesel Qashqais use a dual-mass flywheel to smooth out vibration. As it wears, you may notice a rattle at idle that stops when you press the clutch, judder pulling away or a knock when you switch off. It is usually replaced together with the clutch.

Petrol models

The later 1.2 and 1.3 DIG-T petrol engines avoid DPF problems altogether, which makes them a better fit for short-trip drivers. As with any modern turbo petrol, regular oil changes with the right oil are the best way to keep them healthy.

Keeping your Qashqai on the road

If you have a diesel, give it a decent run of twenty minutes or more at a steady speed every week or two. Deal with a DPF warning as soon as it appears. Keep up with servicing, and have a CVT looked at if it starts to judder. We work on Nissans every day — call us on 0121 476 2287 or book online.

Other things we check on a Qashqai

At every service we also look at the suspension, as front lower arm bushes and drop links wear on higher-mileage Qashqais, and at the brakes, including the rear calipers, which can stick on cars that are not used much. We check the air conditioning is blowing cold as well, since many owners only notice a problem on the first hot day of the year.

None of this is unusual for a car of the Qashqai's age and popularity. Picking it up at a service is simply cheaper and easier than finding out at the MOT, and we will always tell you what needs doing now and what can wait.