The Nissan Rogue, introduced in 2007 for the 2008 model year, has become one of the most popular compact crossover SUVs on the market. Known for its family-friendly design, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency, the Rogue has won the hearts of many. However, despite its appeal, not every model year delivers the reliability that consumers expect. We will just discuss the Nissan Rogue Years to Avoid, particularly the 2008 to 2018 models, and explain the most common issues found in these vehicles.
Why Certain Nissan Rogue Years Should Be Avoided
Though the Nissan Rogue boasts an affordable price tag and numerous features, several model years between 2008 and 2018 are known for recurring problems. Owners of these models have reported issues ranging from transmission failure to electrical malfunctions, resulting in costly repairs. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at each of these problematic years and why potential buyers should steer clear of them. If you’re considering a Nissan Rogue, it’s important to be aware of the Nissan Rogue Years to Avoid to save yourself from potential headaches and expensive fixes.
2008-2018: A Range of Problematic Models
Between 2008 and 2018, the Nissan Rogue experienced a series of issues that affected its reputation for reliability. The most significant recurring problem across these years was the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which plagued almost every model. These transmission issues, along with other mechanical and electrical problems, make these models less appealing for used car buyers.
2008-2009 Models: Transmission and Electrical Woes
- The 2008 and 2009 Nissan Rogue models are known for their severe transmission problems. The CVT, which is designed to provide smooth acceleration and better fuel efficiency, has been a significant pain point for owners. Many reported that their transmissions failed prematurely, leading to expensive repairs or replacements. In some cases, owners had to deal with transmission failure as early as 80,000 miles.
- Aside from transmission issues, these early Rogue models were also prone to electrical problems. Battery drainage, malfunctioning electronics, and faulty wiring were common complaints, leading to frustration for drivers.
NHTSA Recalls: Both 2008 and 2009 models were subject to several recalls, particularly concerning the electrical system, airbags, and powertrain.
2010-2012 Models: Continued CVT Problems and Steering Issues
- The transmission issues continued into the 2010–2012 models, with CVT failure still one of the most reported problems. Even after Nissan extended its warranty on the CVT, many owners faced high repair costs once the warranty period expired.
- Beyond the CVT, owners of the 2010–2012 Rogue models reported problems with the power steering system, which could cause the vehicle to become difficult to handle, especially at lower speeds. There were also complaints about the quality of the interior materials, with many noting that the cabin felt cheap and outdated.
Fuel Economy Complaints: While Nissan marketed these models as fuel-efficient, many owners found that their real-world fuel economy did not live up to expectations, adding to the list of grievances.
2013 Model: Air Conditioning and Transmission Issues
The 2013 Nissan Rogue was notorious for air conditioning system failures, with many drivers reporting that the A/C would stop working altogether. In hotter climates, this was a significant issue, leading to costly repairs. If you’re looking to avoid similar problems, it’s wise to consider Nissan Rogue years to avoid when purchasing a used model.
Transmission problems persisted, with the CVT continuing to be a weak point in this model year. Owners also noted excessive noise from the transmission, adding to their dissatisfaction. Moreover, people can look at Buick Enclave Years to Avoid.
2014-2015 Models: Suspension and Infotainment Glitches
- The 2014 and 2015 models saw a slight redesign, but they were not immune to issues. One of the more common problems during these years was related to the suspension system. Drivers reported that the Rogue’s suspension was weak, leading to a rough, uncomfortable ride, especially on uneven roads.
- Another major complaint was the infotainment system, which was prone to glitches. Freezing screens, system shutdowns, and malfunctioning navigation were frequently reported. These issues affected the overall driving experience, particularly for tech-savvy drivers.
Rust and Paint Problems: In certain climates, especially in northern areas where salt is used on roads, these models experienced premature rusting and paint peeling.
2016-2017 Models: Airbag and Transmission Issues
- In the 2016 and 2017 models, Nissan attempted to address some of the earlier transmission problems, but the CVT issues continued to linger, albeit with fewer complaints compared to earlier models.
- However, a new problem emerged with safety recalls related to airbags.
- In certain models, the airbags were prone to malfunction, potentially failing to deploy in an accident.
- This was a serious concern that led to multiple NHTSA recalls.
2018 Model: Electrical System Malfunctions and Persistent Transmission Issues
The 2018 Nissan Rogue saw improvements in design and features, but it still suffered from electrical system malfunctions. Owners reported issues with various sensors, the battery, and other electrical components, leading to frequent trips to the mechanic.
Despite attempts to improve the transmission, the CVT issues persisted, with some owners experiencing transmission failure shortly after purchasing the vehicle.
Common Problems Across All Years (2008-2018)
While each model year has its own specific issues, there are several recurring problems across the entire 2008-2018 range that are worth noting:
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CVT Transmission: The most significant problem affecting nearly all Nissan Rogue models from 2008 to 2018 is the CVT transmission. Known for premature failure and costly repairs, this transmission issue is a major reason why many of these years are best avoided.
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Safety Recalls: Airbag malfunctions, electrical system failures, and engine stalling were common problems that led to safety recalls, making these vehicles less reliable and, at times, unsafe.
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Expensive Repairs: Repairing the CVT transmission, addressing electrical issues, and fixing safety recalls were often expensive. These costs add up, making these model years a risky investment.
Slight Improvements in Later Years
- It’s worth mentioning that Nissan made gradual improvements to the Rogue in its later years, particularly in 2017 and 2018.
- While these models still have their share of issues, the frequency and severity of complaints decreased compared to earlier years.
- However, the lingering CVT transmission problems remained a concern.
Better Years to Consider
If you’re set on buying a Nissan Rogue, consider models outside of the 2008–2018 range. The 2019 and later models saw significant improvements in reliability, design, and transmission quality. These newer models are a better choice for those seeking a dependable and family-friendly SUV.
While the Nissan Rogue Years to Avoid are often cited as the 2008–2018 models, it’s primarily due to recurring transmission issues, electrical malfunctions, and safety recalls. If you’re in the market for a used Rogue, consider either purchasing a model with a clean history and thorough inspection or opting for newer models with a stronger reliability record.
Is the Nissan Rogue reliable after 2018?
Yes, post-2018 models have seen significant improvements in reliability and performance, particularly with the CVT transmission.
How much does it cost to fix a Nissan Rogue CVT?
Repairing or replacing a CVT transmission can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the extent of the damage.
Are Nissan Rogues expensive to maintain?
Maintenance costs for the Nissan Rogue are generally average for the class, but repairs, especially for transmission issues, can be costly.
