Japanese minivan Nissan Cube - one of the most recognizable cars due to its unusual design and compact dimensions. Despite the fact that the model has been discontinued (the last generation was produced until 2019), it remains popular in the secondary market, especially among hobbyists city cars with a spacious interior and original style. In this article we will look at what features the salon has Cube, what to look for when buying a used one, and how to properly care for the interior so that it lasts longer.
Salon Nissan Cube stands out among competitors (Toyota bB, Honda Fit) not only with an asymmetrical dashboard, but also with the use of high-quality materials - even in basic trim levels. However, the model also has weaknesses: plastic squeaks, seat upholstery wear and electronics problems. If you are planning a purchase or are already an owner, this article will help you avoid common mistakes and save on repairs.
Interior design and ergonomics Nissan Cube: pros and cons
Interior Cube was developed taking into account Japanese standards of compactness and functionality. Main feature - asymmetrical center console, shifted towards the driver. This decision increased the space for the front passenger, but caused a mixed reaction among European buyers. The driver's seat is located almost in the center of the cabin, which is unusual for minivans, but improves visibility.
Key design benefits include:
- 🔹 High rise — convenient for city driving, visibility is better than that of sedans.
- 🔹 Adjustable steering column (in top trim levels) and armrest.
- 🔹 Spacious rear row — despite its compact dimensions, three passengers can be accommodated comfortably.
- 🔹 Large windows and a panoramic sunroof (optional) create an open effect.
However, there are also disadvantages:
- ⚠️ Inconvenient location of the gearshift lever — in some trim levels it is too high.
- ⚠️ Average quality plastic — over time, squeaks appear, especially in the dashboard area.
- ⚠️ Limited legroom for driver with height above 185 cm.
⚠️ Attention: In models 2009–2014, a problem with peeling of adhesive on the ceiling lining. This is due to the use of low-quality adhesive composition. When buying a used car, be sure to check the ceiling for sagging.
- Design and originality
- Ergonomics and convenience
- Quality of materials
- Space for passengers
Finishing materials: what is used and how long it lasts
Depending on the year of manufacture and configuration, in Nissan Cube different materials were used. In basic versions it predominates hard plastic with minimal sound insulation, and in top-end (Cube Krom, SL) — soft pads on the dashboard and leather steering wheel. The seats are mostly upholstered fabric upholstery (sometimes with leather inserts), which withstands use well, but requires regular cleaning.
The service life of materials depends on care:
- 🧼 Fabric upholstery — with proper cleaning, it lasts 7–10 years, but is afraid of direct sunlight (fades).
- 🪑 Plastic dashboard — over time it becomes dull and creaks, especially in the attachment points.
- 🔧 Levers and buttons — in early models (before 2010), the climate control panel mounting clips often break.
To extend the life of the interior, it is recommended:
- 🛡️ Use sun blinds on the windshield and side windows.
- 🧴 Process plastic antistatic 1–2 times a year.
- 🚗 Clean regularly drainage holes underfoot (humidity accelerates wear and tear of materials).
| Material | Service life (years) | Typical problems | Care instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fabric seat upholstery | 7–12 | Fading, scuffs, stains | Steam cleaning, using covers |
| Plastic dashboard | 5–10 | Creaks, cracks, loss of color | Silicone grease treatment, UV protection |
| Leather steering wheel | 8–15 | Abrasion, cracking | Using leather conditioner |
| Rubber door seals | 4–8 | Delamination, loss of elasticity | Treatment with glycerin or silicone |
If there is a damp smell in the cabin, check drainage holes under the feet of the driver and passenger. B Cube They often become clogged with leaves and dirt, which leads to moisture accumulation and mold.
Typical interior problems Nissan Cube and how to avoid them
Even with careful use Cube Over time, characteristic faults appear. Most of them are related to wear and tear of materials And design features. Let's look at the most common ones:
1. Creaks and knocks in the dashboard
The reason is the weakening of the fastenings of the plastic panels. In 80% of cases the problem is solved tightening bolts under the dashboard (you need keys 10 and 12). If squeaks remain, treating the joints will help. silicone grease or installing additional dampers.
2. Peeling of the ceiling paneling
As mentioned earlier, this the most common problem for models 2009–2014. The solution is to completely dismantle the sheathing, clean off the old glue and re-glue it using high-quality glue (for example, 3M Super Weatherstrip Adhesive).
3. Electronics malfunctions
Most often they fail:
- 🔌 Dashboard lighting - LEDs burn out.
- 🎛️ Climate control buttons - contacts oxidize.
- 🔊 Audio system — in basic configurations, radios often “glitch” at low temperatures.
⚠️ Attention: If after washing the interior the electronics stop working (for example, power windows or mirrors), most likely Water got into the fuse box. Its location is under the dashboard on the driver's side. It is necessary to dry the unit and check the fusesF10AndF20(responsible for powering cabin systems).
☑️ What to check when buying a used Nissan Cube
How to choose a car service for interior repairs Nissan Cube
Interior renovation Cube has its own nuances, so not every car service will cope with the task efficiently. When choosing a workshop, pay attention to the following criteria:
1. Experience with Japanese cars
Many service stations specialize in European or Korean brands, but have no experience working with Nissan. Check if the craftsmen have repair experience Cube, Note or Juke — these models have similar design solutions.
2. Availability of original spare parts or high-quality analogues
For Cube fit parts from:
- 🔧 Original (Nissan) - expensive, but quality guaranteed.
- 🔧 Dorman or Febi - good analogues for plastic parts.
- 🔧 Japanese used (from disassembly) - a budget option, but there is a risk of wear and tear.
3. Feedback on the quality of work
Check independent sites (eg. Drive2 or Auto.ru) regarding complaints about:
- 🛠️ Unqualified electronics repair (a common problem after “handicraft” intervention).
- 🎨 Sloppy painting of plastic (for example, after repairing cracks).
- 🕒 Delaying deadlines — interior renovation Cube rarely takes more than 3–5 days.
Where to look for spare parts for Nissan Cube?
Original parts can be ordered from official Nissan dealers (part numbers are indicated in the catalog ETKA or Nissan Parts Europe). Analogues are searched for Exist.ru, Autodoc or in Japanese online stores (for example, Amayama). For used spare parts, dismantling yards in Moscow, St. Petersburg or Vladivostok (where there are many Japanese cars) are suitable.
Cleaning and caring for the interior: step-by-step instructions
Regular salon care Nissan Cube not only preserves its presentable appearance, but also prevents wear and tear of materials. Below is a proven cleaning scheme:
1. Dry cleaning
Use a vacuum cleaner with an attachment for hard-to-reach places. Pay special attention to:
- 🚗 Gaps between seats — sand and debris accumulate there.
- 🔧 Ventilation grilles - they can be removed and washed with water.
- 📄 Glove compartment and door pockets — there are often crumbs or leaves there.
2. Wet cleaning
For different materials use:
- 🧴 Fabric seats - foam cleaner (for example, Autoglym Interior Shampoo).
- 🧽 Plastic - alcohol-free product (for example, Sonax Plastic Cleaner).
- 🧤 Leather inserts - leather conditioner (Leather Honey).
3. Wear protection
After cleaning, apply:
- 🛡️ On plastic - antistatic agent or silicone grease.
- ☀️ On fabric - impregnation from UV rays (303 Fabric Guard).
- 🚪 For seals - glycerin for elasticity.
Never use for interior cleaning Nissan Cube products with abrasive particles or chlorine - they destroy the protective layer of plastic and cause premature aging of materials.
Interior tuning Nissan Cube: ideas and recommendations
Thanks to the non-standard design, Cube - an excellent platform for tuning. Here are a few ideas that do not require a large investment, but will transform the interior:
1. Lighting
Installation LED strips under the dashboard or at the passengers' feet adds a modern look. Popular colors are blue, white or RGB (with remote control). The main thing is not to overdo it with brightness, so as not to distract from driving.
2. Updating materials
Replacing standard fabric upholstery with Alcantara or skin with contrast stitching visually transforms the interior. For Cube kits from Katzkin or Russian studios.
3. Multimedia system
In basic configurations Cube comes with a simple radio. Replacement with 2-DIN system with Android Auto (For example, Pioneer AVH-X5800DAB) adds navigation, rear view camera and smartphone support.
4. Decorative elements
Installation chrome trim on the levers or ventilation grilles gives the interior a premium look. Also popular carbon inserts on the dashboard (can be ordered according to size).
⚠️ Attention: When tuning electronics (for example, installing additional speakers), be sure to use fuses of the correct rating. B Cube standard wiring is not designed for high loads, and incorrect connection can lead to fire.
Comparison Nissan Cube with competitors in the cabin
To objectively evaluate the salon Cube, let's compare it with the main competitors in the compact minivan class:
| Model | Interior space | Quality of materials | Ergonomics | Resale price (2010–2014) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Cube | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (inconvenient location of the checkpoint) | 450–700 thousand rubles. |
| Toyota bB | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | 500–800 thousand rubles. |
| Honda Fit | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (best ergonomics in class) | 400–650 thousand rubles. |
| Suzuki Wagon R | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | 350–550 thousand rubles. |
As can be seen from the table, Cube loses Honda Fit in ergonomics, but wins in originality of design and spaciousness. If you care custom style and comfort for passengers, Cube - an excellent choice. More suitable for pragmatic drivers Fit or Toyota bB.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the salon Nissan Cube
Is it possible to install in Cube seats from another Nissan model?
Yes, but with reservations. Armchairs from Nissan Note (2010–2016) are suitable for mounting, but may differ in height and shape. Seats from Juke, but the electrical wiring will need to be modified (if the seats are heated). Please check VIN compatibility before purchasing.
How to remove a squeak in the dashboard without any analysis?
Temporary solution - processing plastic joints silicone grease (For example, WD-40 Specialist). For a long-term effect, you will have to remove the dashboard and install additional dampers (rubber gaskets) at the mounting points. In the service, this work will cost 3–5 thousand rubles.
What to do if there is a smell of gasoline in the cabin?
B Cube this problem is often associated with leaking fuel tank or crack in the fuel line. Inspect the area under the rear seat (the tank flap is located there) and check the integrity of the hoses. If the smell is strong, do not operate the vehicle - there is a risk of fire!
Which covers are best to choose for seats? Cube?
The best option is covers made of neoprene (for example, from Covercraft or WeatherTech). They protect against moisture, dust and mechanical damage. Suitable for winter sheep covers (keep warm), but they require regular cleaning.
Where to order original ceiling lining for Cube?
The original casing can be purchased from an authorized dealer (article number 68110-4M000 for models 2009–2014). Price - about 15-20 thousand rubles. An alternative is used parts from Japanese disassemblies (websites CarFromJapan or JDM Buyer). Use glue when installing 3M — it holds better than stock.