Nissan Quest Reliability and Common Problems

When you want a minivan that can comfortably seat your family or haul large cargo, you can’t go wrong with the Nissan Quest. Model years from the last generation (2011-2017) are quite fun to drive and have the most luxurious interiors. Earlier Quests aren’t too far behind and can always be upgraded to suit your needs and preferences. Getting a Nissan is worthwhile as CarEdge.com states that their vehicles have average resale values.

Are Nissan Quests Reliable Minivans?

For a minivan, the Nissan Quest is considered above average in terms of reliability. RepairPal gave it a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, putting it in 5th place out of 8 different minivan models. Thanks to its average severity of repairs and low frequency of issues, the Quest enjoys low ownership costs.

Minivans are not the most fuel-efficient vehicles, although they generally consume less fuel than full-sized vans. Despite this, TrueEdge.com reports that the Nissan Quest is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its segment and many drivers are satisfied with its powerful and responsive engine.

The Nissan Quest can go past 200,000 miles, and there’s at least one that has racked up more than 400,000 miles. If you follow the maintenance schedule set by Nissan and replace faulty parts immediately, you can keep your Quest running like new for years.

Top Nissan Quest Problems

Manufactured from 1993 to 2017, the Nissan Quest is a fairly common vehicle in the used vehicle market. While many consider it one of the better minivan models, it has its share of problems. Depending on the particular Quest model year, certain problems tend to show up more often.

More people complained about the 2004 Nissan Quest than any other model year. However, CarComplaints.com considers some units belonging to the 2007 model year the worst of the line. Problems tended to show up earlier in the latter model year, were more likely to prove serious, or cost more to repair.

Here are some of the most common problems that can show up in your Nissan Quest:

Transmission Troubles

Many Nissan Quest drivers consider transmission-related problems the worst thing that can ever happen to their minivan. The Quest can develop various issues like hesitation when shifting gears, rough transition during a shift, abrupt deceleration, reduced acceleration, and transmission failure. Replacing faulty Nissan Quest transmission parts can be costly and drivers have reported the problem persisting or returning despite costly repairs.

In particular, some 2007 Nissan Quest transmissions tend to jerk while driving. This problem is often accompanied by other transmission issues like hesitation, slippage, and failure to engage gears. Sooner rather than later, the minivan can become impossible to drive safely.

Even the improved automatic transmission of a late-generation unit like the 2016 model year can jerk and hesitate while shifting between gears. Some 2012 Nissan Quests may also develop similar issues that can lead to premature transmission failure.

Engine Problems

Of all the engine problems that a Nissan Quest can develop, rattling noises are considered the worst of the lot. These unpleasant noises are often caused by worn-out timing chains, timing chain guides, or timing chain tensioners. While the engine can sometimes still run fine despite the background rattling, it can potentially get damaged. Many units belonging to the 2004, 2006, and 2007 model years are particularly prone to engine noises.

Accessories and Interior Issues

A bevy of convenient accessories and a pleasantly designed interior make the Nissan Quest a comfortable ride for drivers and passengers alike. Bad parts can make the driving experience less fun and can even affect the minivan’s performance on the road.

For example, the instrument cluster on the electrical dashboard provides important information like vehicle mileage and fuel levels. In some 2006 Nissan Quests, the cluster may malfunction and fail to display this relevant information. You may need to replace the entire cluster, which can cost hundreds of dollars.

A cracked dashboard is far less dangerous than a faulty instrument cluster. However, it’s still an annoying problem that shows up on many 2011 Nissan Quests. Cracks tend to appear in the area over the passenger side airbag, which some drivers fear can damage the safety device. Other areas on the dashboard where cracks can form are the seams and over the instrument cluster.

Brake Problems

Few things are scarier than the brakes acting up during driving. While Nissan Quest brakes are generally reliable, some brake problems can show up fairly often in certain model years.

Some 2004 Nissan Quest drivers have reported severe vibrations when hitting the brakes. This is likely caused by overheated brake rotors which end up warping. Excessive vibrations put more stress on other brake parts, which may lead to premature wear and additional issues. In some cases, installing new brake pads and brake rotors did not solve the problem.

Brake rotor problems also showed up in the much later 2013 Nissan Quest. Both front and rear brake rotors could require replacement earlier than the driver would expect.

Take good care of your Nissan Quest and it will carry you and your family in comfort that comes close to luxury. Don’t hesitate to look up the most commonly reported problems of the model year you own or plan to buy to get a better idea of its average cost of ownership. Replace faulty parts as soon as possible to get the most mileage out of your Nissan Quest.

Why Was the Nissan Quest Discontinued?

The Nissan Quest was discontinued after 2017 because of low sales. Reportedly, Nissan only sold 79,349 units since the fourth-gen model arrived in 2011. That’s about the same number of Grand Caravans Dodge sold each month.

Nissan Quest Years to Avoid

Based on owner reviews online, the model years that should be avoided are the 2004 and 2007 Nissan Quests as well as units manufactured before 2002.

2004 and 2007

The 2004 model reportedly garnered over 700 NHTSA complaints. The most common complaint was engine problems, with the number of paint issues and transmission trouble not far behind. The 2004 model also had four recalls, with two of them having to do with seating issues.

The 2007 model was similar, as it reportedly had transmission problems and engine issues. This model year had close to 400 complaints and one recall because of an issue with a loose transverse link bolt.

This caused drivers to hear rattling noises and experience more severe vibration. The worst-case scenario was that the bolt would come off completely, which could result in a crash due to the difficulty controlling the vehicle.

Pre-2002

Pre-2002 Nissan Quests aren’t quite as problematic, but they don’t hold their value well. As expected, old car models typically don’t have the modern features you’ll find in newer cars.

However, the pre-2002 models are still reliable if depreciation isn’t too big of an issue for you. The first version had a 3.0-liter V6 engine with good handling and a quiet cabin. These models are also spacious, making them a good family vehicle.

Get Nissan Quest Replacement Components Online

The Nissan Quest’s brake rotors might need to be replaced earlier. Warped brake rotors tend to create steering vibrations and brake pedal pulsations, which can be both unsettling and annoying. You don’t have to live with this issue any longer because you can get affordable Nissan Quest parts like brake rotors here at CarParts.com.

CarParts.com is a trusted source for all sorts of brake components like brake rotors, brake disc and pad kits, brake calipers, and brake caliper pistons, among other brake parts. We offer brake components from the leading aftermarket brands. Our brake components are made with modern manufacturing techniques and match the precise specifications of the original part. This ensures that the replacement will fit and function like the original.

Don’t ignore your faulty brakes and shop for replacement Nissan Quest brake discs here at CarParts.com today!