The Nissan Qashqai is everywhere, and for good reason. Whether it’s the school run, a weekend road trip, or just the daily commute, it does the job without much fuss. It’s also roomy, easy to drive, and doesn’t guzzle fuel – so you get the look and feel of an SUV without the running costs of a big 4x4. Not bad, right?

But no car’s perfect. Like any model that’s been around for a while, a few common faults have caused some headaches. If you’re thinking of getting one – or already have one – you’re probably wondering how reliable it really is. Let’s break down what to expect, what can go wrong, and what it might cost to fix.

• Engine and timing belt problems
• Gearbox and steering faults
• Brake issues you shouldn’t ignore
• Noisy suspension and wear and tear
• Make those unexpected repairs easier to handle

Engine and timing belt problems

Some Qashqais develop engine issues over time. A drop in power when accelerating is one of the first warning signs, along with burning through oil quicker than expected. If you’re constantly topping up your oil level, it’s time to get it checked.

Timing chains and timing belts can also be an issue. If either one fails, you could be looking at some serious damage. Fuel and fluid leaks, and even water damage around the engine bay, have also been reported by some drivers. All of these can lead to a hefty engine repair that can cost up to £1,500 depending on the problem.

Gearbox and steering faults

Manual Qashqais sometimes develop gear change issues, particularly when engaging in reverse. Drivers also report stiff gear shifts or vibrations through the steering wheel, which could point to wear in the transmission or steering system.

If it’s not dealt with, you might be looking at a gearbox repair cost of anywhere from £400 for minor fixes to over £1,000 for more serious transmission work. That’s the kind of bill nobody wants to face in one go.

Looking into a car repair loan? With Bumper, you can split your repair bill into 3–6 interest-free monthly payments, right through your garage. There’s no impact on your credit score when you apply – and absolutely ZERO hidden fees. Get back on the road with Bumper!

Brake issues you shouldn’t ignore

Brakes are something you don’t mess around with. In some Qashqais, there have been reports of early wear on brake hoses and brake fluid leaks. Brake pads can also wear out quicker than expected, especially if the car’s mostly used around town.

If you start hearing grinding noises or feel the brakes becoming less responsive, it’s time for a check-up. Brake repairs can cost anywhere up to £300, depending on what needs replacing. It’s not outrageous – but it always comes at the wrong time.

Noisy suspension and wear and tear

Clunking or knocking noises from the rear wheels or around the wheel arches are fairly common in the Qashqai, especially on higher-mileage or older models. These sounds usually point to worn suspension components like bushings, shock absorbers, or anti-roll bars. In some cases, it’s just a loose fitting or bracket that needs tightening. 

But left unchecked, it can lead to premature wear of key parts and a more expensive fix down the line. If the ride feels less smooth or you're hearing noises over bumps, it's worth getting it looked at before it turns into a bigger issue.

Make those unexpected repairs easier to handle

Even reliable cars throw up surprise costs. That’s why so many Qashqai drivers turn to Nissan repair finance through Bumper – to spread the cost of urgent work without the upfront hit.  

You can spread the cost over 3–6 interest-free instalments with over 5,000 trusted garages and dealerships across the UK. Keep your car on the road with Bumper – apply now!