Crossover Nissan Qashqai second generation (index J11) became a real bestseller on the Russian market from 2013 to 2019. This model combined compact size, practicality and an affordable price, making it an ideal choice for urban environments. But like any used car, Qashqai J11 has its own characteristics, which are important to know about before purchasing.

In this article we will analyze all the key aspects: from technical characteristics to typical “diseases” of the model. You will learn which engines are considered the most reliable, what to look for when inspecting a used vehicle, and how to properly maintain a car so that it lasts longer. We will pay special attention to the differences between the restyled versions of 2017-2019 and the pre-restyled versions of 2013-2016.

Technical characteristics of Nissan Qashqai J11 (2013-2019)

The model was offered with three body types: standard Qashqai, extended Qashqai+2 (7 seats) and sports Qashqai N-Connecta with improved finishing. The basic parameters remained unchanged:

  • 📏 Length: 4377 mm (standard) / 4596 mm (+2)
  • 📐 Wheelbase: 2646 mm / 2706 mm (+2)
  • ⚖️ Curb weight: 1320-1520 kg
  • 💺 Ground clearance: 200 mm (real 185-190 mm)

Gasoline and diesel engines were installed under the hood, but gasoline versions predominated on the Russian market. The most popular were 1.2 DIG-T (115 hp), 1.6 (114-130 hp) and 2.0 (144 hp). Transmissions - 6-speed manual transmission or CVT Xtronic (except for 1.6 with 130 hp, where they installed a classic “automatic”).

Engine Power Box Flow (mixed) Drive
HR12DE (1.2 DIG-T) 115 hp Manual6 / CVT 5.9-6.5 l/100km Front
HR16DE (1.6) 114-130 hp Manual transmission6 / automatic transmission4 / CVT 6.8-7.5 l/100km Front/Full
MR20DD (2.0) 144 hp CVT 7.2-8.0 l/100km Front/Full

A special feature of the model is the all-wheel drive system All-Mode 4x4-i, which automatically engages the rear axle when slipping. In manual mode, the drive can be locked in a 50:50 ratio. However, owners note that the actual behavior of the system depends on the ECU firmware - in some versions it works too aggressively.

📊 Which Qashqai J11 engine do you consider the most reliable?
  • 1.2 DIG-T
  • 1.6
  • 2.0
  • Diesel 1.5 dCi
  • I don't know

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the popularity Qashqai J11 has a number of “childhood diseases” that appear after 80-100 thousand kilometers. The main complaints of the owners are related to:

  • 🔥 CVT: overheating, jerking during acceleration, belt wear (lifetime 150-200 thousand km)
  • 🔊 Suspension: knocking shock absorbers, leaking struts, rapid wear of stabilizer bushings
  • 💡 Electronics: multimedia glitches, spontaneous turning on of headlights, sensor errors
  • 🔋 Battery: rapid discharge due to energy-intensive Start/Stop system

Critical problem: the Jatco JF016E variator on engines 2.0 and 1.6 (130 hp) requires an oil change every 60 thousand km, otherwise the risk of failure increases 3 times. Many dealers did not inform customers about this, which led to massive breakdowns after 100 thousand km. Check your service history!

⚠️ Attention: When buying used Qashqai with a variator, be sure to check:
  1. Availability of records of oil changes in the variator (must be every 60 thousand km)
  2. No jerking when switching "D→R" to cold
  3. Oil color and smell (burnt smell = death sentence)

Another common problem was engine 1.2 DIG-T. For all its advantages (efficiency, dynamics), it is sensitive to fuel quality. The turbine and injection system require the use of gasoline not lower than AI-95, otherwise carbon deposits on the valves and loss of power will occur. Owners recommend cleaning the intake manifold every 30 thousand km.

More about 1.2 DIG-T issues

The HR12DE engine is prone to overheating when driving in traffic jams due to the compact radiator. Frequent cases are cracks in the intercooler (after 120 thousand km) and oil leaks through the valve cover. Solution: Install an additional cooling fan and replace the cover gasket at the first sign of a leak.

Restyling 2017: what has changed?

In 2017 Nissan Qashqai underwent restyling, which affected both the appearance and the technical part. Main changes:

  • 🎨 New front optics with LED running lights (in top versions)
  • 📱 Updated multimedia system with support for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • 🛡️ Improved noise insulation (15% quieter at 100 km/h)
  • 🔧 Modified suspension with new shock absorbers

The most important update concerned variator: engineers have improved the control algorithm, which has reduced jerks during acceleration. There is also new firmware for the system All-Mode 4x4-i, which became less “nervous” when switching between modes.

Externally restyled Qashqai received a more aggressive bumper, a new radiator grille and taillights with a 3D effect. The interior has new finishing materials and a heated steering wheel (in the version Tekna). However, the main platform and engines remained the same.

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The restyled versions of 2017-2019 are more reliable than the pre-restyle version thanks to a modified CVT and improved electronics. But problems with the suspension and 1.2 DIG-T remained.

Which engine to choose: comparison of options

The choice of power unit depends on your priorities. Let's look at the pros and cons of each option:

Engine Pros Cons Who is it suitable for?
1.2 DIG-T ✅ Economical (5.9 l/100km)
✅ Dynamic (acceleration 10.9 s)		 ❌ Sensitive to fuel
❌ Expensive turbine repair		 For city driving, if you are willing to watch the oil
1.6 (114 hp) ✅ Simple design
✅ Cheap service		 ❌ Weak for all-wheel drive
❌ Noisy at high speeds		 For low-cost operation without loads
2.0 ✅ Reliable (resource 300+ thousand km)
✅ Good traction		 ❌ High consumption (8 l/100 km)
❌ CVT requires maintenance		 For long trips and all-wheel drive

If you choose between 1.6 and 2.0, consider your driving style. For the city and highway without loads, 1.6 is enough, but if you plan to tow or frequent trips with a full load, take 2.0. 1.2 DIG-T Suitable only for those who are ready for regular maintenance and the use of high-quality fuel.

Separately worth mentioning diesel 1.5 dCi (110 hp), which was offered in Europe. It is more economical than gasoline versions (4.5 l/100 km), but there are few such cars in Russia, and diesel repairs are more expensive due to the specifics of the fuel equipment.

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When purchasing a Qashqai with a 2.0 engine, check the CVT version. Since 2018, a modified JF017E box with an improved heat exchanger has been installed - it is more reliable than the previous JF016E.

Checklist when buying a used Nissan Qashqai J11

Be sure to check this list before purchasing. Even if the car looks perfect, hidden problems can result in costly repairs.

☑️ Inspect Nissan Qashqai before purchasing

Done: 0 / 5

Pay special attention to:

  1. Body condition: Qashqai J11 prone to corrosion in the area of the rear arches and sills. Check the paintwork with a thickness gauge - the factory coating should be 120-140 microns.
  2. All-wheel drive operation: for a test drive, turn on the mode LOCK and check how the car behaves when cornering (there should be no clicks in the drive).
  3. Interior condition: The armrest, gear knob and door trim often wear out. On versions with light fabric, check for stains on the seats.
⚠️ Attention: If the seller refuses to provide service history or insists on purchasing "as is", this is a reason to be wary. This is often how cars are sold after an accident or with hidden problems with the variator.

Average price on the market (at the beginning of 2026):

  • 💰 2013-2015, mileage 100-150 thousand km: 900,000 - 1,200,000 ₽
  • 💰 2016-2017, mileage 60-100 thousand km: 1,200,000 - 1,500,000 ₽
  • 💰 2018-2019, mileage up to 60 thousand km: 1,500,000 - 1,800,000 ₽

Maintenance and operation: advice from owners

To Nissan Qashqai J11 lasted longer, follow these recommendations:

  1. Oil in the variator: change every 60,000 km (regardless of dealer recommendations). Use only original fluid NS-3.
  2. Fuel: for 1.2 DIG-T - only AI-95/98. For 1.6 and 2.0, 92 is allowed, but 95 is better.
  3. Suspension: every 30 thousand km, check the condition of the stabilizer bushings and struts - they wear out faster than other elements.
  4. Battery: If the Start/Stop system is unstable, check the battery capacity (must be at least 60 Ah).

Owners also recommend:

  • 🔧 Install an additional cooling radiator for 1.2 DIG-T if you often get stuck in traffic jams.
  • 🔊 Check the fastening of the exhaust system - over time, rattling appears on uneven surfaces.
  • 💡 Replace the lamps in the headlights with LEDs (original halogens fade after 2-3 years).

For winter use it is important:

  • ❄️ Use winter tires no wider than 215/65 R16 - wider wheels worsen handling in the snow.
  • ⚙️ Before frost, check the condition of the drive shafts - rubber boots crack in the cold.
  • 🔋 If the car spends the night on the street, turn off the Start/Stop system so as not to drain the battery.
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When changing the oil in the variator, be sure to also change the filter (part number 31726-3MX0A). Many services save on it, but this reduces the resource of the box.

Owner reviews: pros and cons

Based on owner surveys (forums Drive2, Qashqai Club) we can highlight the following pros and cons of the model:

Pros:

  • ✅ Comfortable interior with good ergonomics
  • ✅ Good handling for a crossover
  • ✅ Spacious trunk (430 l)
  • ✅ Reliable 2.0-liter version with proper maintenance

Cons:

  • ❌ Expensive variator maintenance
  • ❌ Noisy suspension on uneven surfaces
  • ❌ Poor sound insulation (before restyling 2017)
  • ❌ Problems with electronics (especially in versions with N-Connecta)

Opinions about 1.2 DIG-T They were divided: some praise it for its efficiency, others criticize it for its expensive repairs. For example, replacing a turbine costs 80-120 thousand rubles. At the same time 2.0 is considered the most balanced option, if you don’t forget about the variator.

⚠️ Attention: On forums people often complain about leaks of the crankshaft front oil seal (after 150 thousand km). The symptom is oil stains under the car in the area of ​​the right front wheel. Solution: replace the oil seal + check the oil pump.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Qashqai 2013-2019

What is the real fuel consumption of the Qashqai 2.0 with a CVT?

In the city - 10-12 l/100 km, on the highway - 6.5-7.5 l/100 km. Consumption depends on driving style and quality of gasoline. When using 92 gasoline, it can increase by 0.5-1 liters.

Is it possible to tow a trailer with the Qashqai 1.6?

Technically it is possible (maximum trailer weight is 1200 kg), but the engine is working at its limit. For regular towing, it is better to choose the version with a 2.0-liter engine.

What kind of oil should I pour into the 1.2 DIG-T engine?

Recommended 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission Renault-Nissan RN0700/RN0710. Popular options: Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30, Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200.

How long does a variator last if properly maintained?

When changing the oil every 60 thousand km, the resource of the variator is 200-250 thousand km. Without maintenance - 100-150 thousand km.

What tires are best for the Qashqai?

Optimal sizes:

  • 🔹 215/65 R16 - the best balance of comfort and handling
  • 🔹 225/55 R18 - for versions with 18-inch wheels (harder, but better grip)

Popular models: Continental ContiCrossContact LX2, Michelin Primacy SUV.