Nissan Cube has gained a large following because of its unique design, roomy interior, and cutting-edge amenities. Since its first release in 1998, this compact automobile has undergone several revisions and redesigns until it was discontinued in 2014. However, as is the case with every automobile, some years are more likely to have more problems.
In this post, we’ll lead you through the Nissan Cube’s important years you might want to avoid, some of which will serve as a reliable companion.
The worst years to avoid Nissan Cube are 2009 and 2010. The best years to buy a Nissan Cube are 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, Car Complaints, and Kelley Blue Book.
Worst Years To Avoid Nissan Cube
We’ve gathered the Nissan Cube model years that received the highest negative reviews and ratings from automotive experts for reliability. You can view them here.
- 2009 Nissan Cube
- 2010 Nissan Cube
2. Worst Year: 2010 Nissan Cube (3.73 Rating)
After the 2009 model year, the 2010 model year has the most reported problems. After such a bad model year, Nissan didn’t improve the upcoming year because the problems were still the same as those in 2009.
Some of these issues involve the electronic steering column lock not functioning properly due to a malfunctioning steering lock assembly. Furthermore, Failure of the CVT gearbox has been cited as a problem. There were also electrical faults that wouldn’t allow the engine to turn over, start, or permit the horn to work.
Moreover, Reports of engine troubles include circumstances where the engine surges and generates grinding noise, and the keyless ignition cannot work properly. Some other problems include disruptions to the air conditioner and heater, insufficient braking, problems with internal accents, windows or windscreen, and mechanical difficulties.
The 2010 Nissan Cube is not the best choice for most buyers. Instead, we suggest the more recent models listed under the reliable heading.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 52 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
1. Worst Year: 2009 Nissan Cube (2.98 Rating)
The 2009 Cube has the highest number of customer complaints. This model year has severe steering issues, including a faulty ESCL and a broken steering column lock, which gained 22 NHTSA complaints.
Some owners have reported transmission issues, such as the vehicle failing to shift into gear, hesitating before shifting or slipping gears. Problems with the air conditioning system, such as warm air output, strange noises, and complete inoperability, have also been reported.
Furthermore, some drivers have reported problems, including an engine that surges unexpectedly, a “Service Engine Soon” light that won’t go away, damage to the engine and cooling system, and more. There have been rumors of drivetrain problems due to improper alignment. The Cube’s electrical system has been the source of concern for a number of owners.
Some owners also experienced fuel system problems due to faults with the fuel gauge and fuel pump. We advise prospective customers to pass on the 2009 Cube due to the high number of complaints from current owners and the low-reliability ratings from certain automotive specialists.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 95 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
Best Years To Buy Nissan Cube Used
Some years of the Nissan Cube are considered more trustworthy and well-made than others. As we can see below, there were also fewer complaints from owners over these years.
- 2011 Nissan Cube
- 2012 Nissan Cube
- 2013 Nissan Cube
- 2014 Nissan Cube
4. Best Year: 2014 Nissan Cube (4.06 Rating)
The 2014 Cube maintains the same amenities as the 2013 and 2012 models, like relaxing transportation, spacious cabin, affordable price, simple parking, and extensive default options.
The 2014 Nissan Cube is a tiny, five-passenger wagon offered in two trim levels: S and SL. While the 2014 Nissan Cube’s 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine isn’t exactly a monster on the road, it’s energetic enough to satisfy most consumers when paired with the available continuously variable gearbox (CVT).
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 7 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 3.5/5.0 expert ratings.
3. Best Year: 2013 Nissan Cube (4.12 Rating)
The 2013 Cube is one of the best Nissan Cube years. It has a lot of interesting extras that buyers will appreciate, like relaxing transportation, comfortable seating for a large group, numerous convenient extras, and convenient parking with abundant views in all directions.
This model year had the fewest complaints from owners of any on this list, with only 3. There was also a recall issued for the engine start/stop button, which had the potential to become stuck.
The Nissan Cube gets moderate to good dependability ratings among automotive experts. IIHS gave it its highest rating of Good for this model year.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 3 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 3.6/5.0 expert ratings.
2. Best Year: 2011 Nissan Cube (4.32 Rating)
Few owners had vehicle issues with the 2011 Nissan Cube, and most critics gave them high marks for reliability, making this one of a top-tier model year.
Available in base, S, SL, and Krom Edition forms, the 2011 Nissan Cube is a reasonably adaptable and roomy little hatchback. Each 2011 Nissan Cube has a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 122 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque and is front-wheel drive.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it the highest possible score in every category and gave it the Top Safety Pick award, making it one of the safest cars to drive.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 30 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
1. Best Year: 2012 Nissan Cube (4.43 Rating)
The 2012 Nissan Cube is one of the best Cube models available, with an outstanding 4.9 consumer rating out of 5 from cars.com; 100% of drivers recommend this car.
A revised front passenger seat armrest is standard on S and SL trims, while keyless ignition/entry is included on the range-topping SL. A new limited-edition Indigo option package adds a number of high-end capabilities to the midrange S mode.
The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine in the front-wheel-drive Nissan Cube generates 122 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque. It’s also one of the safest cars on the road since the IIHS gave it a perfect score in all categories and named it a Top Safety Pick.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 17 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 3.6/5.0 expert ratings.
Common Nissan Cube Problems
Some years of the Nissan Cube have more problems than others. Below is a list of them that we compiled.
- Transmission issues
- CVT problems
- Uncomfortable Headrest
- Inadequate electricity
- Having Trouble with the Heat and Air Conditioning
- Inadequate braking
- Steering column locks electronically (ESCL) Malfunction
- Weak suspension
- Issues with the Drivetrain
- Issues with the fuel system
- Too Much Tire Wear
FAQs
Is the Nissan Cube a reliable car?
The Nissan Cube’s reliability is average. It received a 3.5 out of 5 reliability rating from RepairPal, placing it 17th out of 21 vehicles in its class. Moreover, The 2014 Nissan Cube also received a 3 out of 5 on the reliability scale from J.D. Power.
Is the Nissan Cube expensive to maintain?
The Nissan Cube has lower maintenance costs than many other automobiles. It has a lower yearly estimated repair cost of $475 than the typical car repair cost of $650.
Why did Nissan Cube discontinue?
Due to declining sales, production of the Cube ceased in North America at the end of the 2014 model year.
Wrap Up
While the Cube offers a unique style, practicality, and urban maneuverability, there are several elements that potential owners should take into account.
If you’re shopping for a used Nissan Cube, you should know that those from model years 2009 and 2010 have had more problems recorded than other years. Instead, you should look into the more dependable years of the Nissan Cube’s production (2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014).
