The Juke, Nissan’s new subcompact SUV for the states is in its third running model year for 2013. Though all of us were quite impressed with the quirky and unique packaging initially, things have taken a turn for bad for this SUV in recent times.
Although 2013 Nissan Juke recalls count to two and 90 complaints do seem reasonable, a closer look at the Nissan Juke problems reveals concerning issues that might end up being a deal breaker for most drivers. So, would you spend a minimum of $18,990 on the 2013 Nissan Juke instead of alternates like the Buick Encore, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, or even the Mini Countryman
2013 Nissan Juke Problems and User Complaints
Mechanical Complaints
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Engine Problems- The 2013 Nissan Juke turbo problems has been a nightmare for many. Some manufacturing problems with the 1.6-liter turbo unit's timing chain tensioner cause the unit to build slack and rub against the timing chain cover on high engine RPMs. This leads to massive oil leaks from the timing chain cover or even worse, a slip in the drive could end up in bent valves and busted piston crowns. This issue, as reported is said to have occurred on SUVs with mileages as low as 65,000 miles. Knocking, misfiring or engine overheating are some of the indications of the above-mentioned failure. Turbo issues are also something to watch out for on this SUV as low oil pressure could end up damaging the internal bearings.
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Transmission/CVT problems- The CVT unit, like any other Nissan that uses it, is among the common faults with the Nissan Juke. A few owners have reported transmission failures that needed replacements in under 130,000 miles. Whining noises, intense vibration, or unexpected loss of acceleration coupled with the CVT and engine warning lights are indications of a faulty unit. Excessive wear of internal components which block oil passages and thereby the lubrication cooling efficiency of the unit is the cause of the failure. Replacement costs without a warranty claim are said to be upward of $4,000.
Electric System complaints
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Starting issues- The 2013 Nissan Juke is known for starting issues. Owner’s report of the vehicle failing to crank or making clicking sounds when the ignition key/ button is turned/pressed. Though several users got the battery and the starter (in some cases) replaced, the issue is still said to reappear. Nissan’s ‘Intelligent Power Distribution Module (IPDM) was later found to be the most common cause of these problems while some users also report the need for a new ECU as well. Also, issues with the start/stop button on the Juke do cause random stalls and this specific problem has been given a recall (ID-15V418000) for replacement of the damaged unit.
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AC/Climate control- Trims of the 2013 Nissan Juke equipped with automatic climate control have temperature control issues. As reported, once the compressor cuts off when the desired cabin temperature is attained, it does not cut back in. users are forced to turn the A/C button on and off a few times before it engages again. Since the system showed no error codes, owners had to get the temperature sensor and thermostat replaced for any results. Issues with the blower are also noticed to cause the same issue.
2013 Nissan Juke Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
1st July 2015 |
15V418000 |
The engine start/stop button may stick |
When exposed to hot temperatures, the affected vehicles have an engine start/stop button that may stick inside the button housing, which under road vibrations will cause the engine to shut off while driving, increasing the risk of a crash |
The dealers will modify the start/stop switch housing, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2015. |
|
2 |
28th November 2014 |
14V683000 |
The fuel pressure sensor may leak |
The fuel pressure sensors may not have been sufficiently tightened during production, causing the fuel to leak, which in presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire. |
The dealers will re-torque the fuel pressure sensors free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2015. |
Should you buy a used 2013 Nissan Juke?
The reviews of the 2013 Nissan Juke have been neutral. The Juke 2013 model scored an overall score of 81/100 in the J.D. Power Consumer Rating. However, the 2013 Nissan Juke reliability score of 79/100 is average. Placed in a price segment that values reliability and ease of daily use, the Nissan Juke issues might become a hurdle for most users.
Moreover, after becoming aware of the 2013 Nissan Juke transmission problems and other Nissan Juke issues, we recommend skipping this model year. The new Buick Encore or the Mitsubishi Outlander should offer a better long-term experience, even though the recalls are higher on both given their recent introduction. The 2014-2017 Nissan Juke are not even rated for reliability.
So, which other Nissan Juke years to avoid?
Considering the 2011–2017 Nissan Juke model years, we think that 2011, 2013, and 2014 are best avoided. However, the 2015, 2016, and 2017 Nissan Juke can be somewhat better options to buy if you are on a tight budget. The 2015–2017 model years have just one recall each and very few complaints.
