Nissan X-Trail: familiar with these common problems

The Nissan X-Trail is a spacious and practical SUV that is particularly popular with families. However, this car suffers from various technical problems that occur regularly. From engine issues to transmission problems and electronic malfunctions: owners report various complaints that affect the lifespan and driving experience. What are the most common problems and what can be done about them?

Generations and their differences

The Nissan X-Trail has four generations, each produced between 2001 and the present. Each generation has its own technical characteristics and thus specific weak points. The first generation (T30, 2001-2007) and second generation (T31, 2007-2014) mainly featured diesel engines with turbo and injection systems. The third generation (T32, 2014-2022) was sold with petrol and diesel variants. From 2022, Nissan is exclusively introducing the fourth generation as an e-power hybrid: an electric motor provides the drive, while a petrol engine recharges the battery. For a complete overview of Nissan car problems, it is important to know which generation you have, as complaints can differ significantly per generation.

Oil consumption and timing chain

Engine problems are common in the Nissan X-Trail. Particularly the 1.6 dCi diesel engine from the T32 generation has a known weakness: excessive oil consumption. Owners report that the engine consumes significant amounts of oil between services, sometimes as much as one litre per 1,000 kilometres. Too low an oil level causes serious engine damage.

The timing chain is another weak point in some engines. In the 2.0 and 2.5 petrol engines, the chain can stretch or become loose over time. This causes rattling noises during startup or at low engine speeds. If the chain fails completely, full engine damage will follow. Therefore, have the chain checked immediately by a specialist at the first signs.

CVT transmission and shifting complaints

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT, a transmission that shifts seamlessly without fixed gears) found in many X-Trail models is known for various problems. Owners report jerky transitions, slipping clutch, and a roaring sound during acceleration. These complaints are particularly common in models manufactured before 2016.

Common causes include worn transmission fluid (CVT fluid), defective stepper motors, or internal wear of the transmission components. Symptoms include:

• Delayed response when accelerating
• Jerking during acceleration or deceleration
• Increased engine speed without an increase in vehicle speed
• Rattling or roaring noises

Changing the CVT fluid according to the maintenance schedule helps prevent problems. In case of severe complaints, replacing the transmission is often necessary, which is a costly repair.

Electronic malfunctions

Electronic problems mainly affect the more modern generations of the X-Trail. The infotainment system sometimes freezes or responds slowly to input. Sensors for, among other things, the reversing camera, parking sensors, and windscreen wipers can fail or give incorrect signals.

Some owners report problems with the start-stop function. This does not always work correctly. The engine also sometimes switches off at inconvenient moments. Furthermore, the keyless entry can malfunction, preventing the car from unlocking or the engine from starting. Software updates via the dealer can resolve some complaints, but hardware defects require replacement of modules or sensors.

Suspension and chassis

Creaking noises from the chassis are a common complaint with the X-Trail. These noises often arise from worn rubbers in the wishbone, anti-roll bars, or coupling rods. In models with higher mileage (above 100,000 km), the front and rear suspension regularly show wear.

Other problems include:

• Unstable feeling at higher speeds
• Uneven tyre wear
• Ticking or knocking sounds over bumps

If these symptoms occur, have the suspension checked and replace worn parts in good time. This prevents further damage and improves driving stability.

Rust formation and bodywork

Rust formation mainly occurs in older X-Trail models from the first and second generations. Sensitive areas include the wheel arches, sills, tailgate, and the bottom of the doors. Road salt accelerates the rusting process, especially in cars that are frequently used in coastal areas or in winter conditions.

Regularly check for:

• Rust bubbles or paint damage around the wheel arches
• Corrosion on the underside of the sills
• Rust around the tailgate and boot

Preventative maintenance such as regular washing and treating small stone chips prevents larger rust problems. If visible rust appears, have it repaired immediately to stop further deterioration.

Official recall campaigns

Nissan has carried out recall campaigns for various X-Trail models. These relate to, among other things, defective airbags, fuel pump problems, and steering column faults. Check the relevant national authority’s website by entering your registration number to see if your car is part of a recall campaign. Dealers carry out these repairs free of charge.

Important recalls focused on Takata airbags that could malfunction in certain models. There have also been campaigns for the fuel pump that could fail, causing the engine to stop while driving.

Preventative maintenance and tips

Regular maintenance extends the life of your X-Trail and prevents many problems. Adhere to the following advice:

• Replace engine oil and filters according to the prescribed maintenance schedule
• Check the oil level regularly, especially with diesel engines
• Have the CVT fluid changed every 60,000 km
• Annually inspect the suspension for wear and damage
• Wash the car regularly, especially the underside, to prevent rust

Ensure that repairs are carried out by an authorised specialist. This specialist must be familiar with Nissan technology. That prevents incorrect diagnoses and unnecessary costs.

Purchasing a used X-Trail

When buying a second-hand Nissan X-Trail, a thorough inspection is important. Pay attention to the following points during a test drive and visual inspection:

• Check the engine compartment for oil leaks and noises
• Test the CVT transmission for jerky shifting and strange noises
• Try out all electronic functions and systems
• Inspect the wheel arches, sills, and tailgate for rust
• Ask for a complete service history with all maintenance performed
• Have a specialist perform a diagnostic check to read out system errors

Enquire about any recall campaigns and whether they have been carried out. Check if the timing chain has been replaced in models with higher mileage. If in doubt about the condition, it is advisable to engage an inspection body for an independent assessment.

The X-Trail in perspective

Anyone considering purchasing a Nissan X-Trail weighs space and practicality against the risk of the aforementioned complaints. Ensure that a used X-Trail has a full service history and have specific vulnerabilities such as the CVT transmission, timing chain, and electronic systems inspected beforehand. With correctly performed maintenance and vigilant use, the car remains serviceable, but budget for repairs to the engine, transmission, and electronics in the long run.