Used Guide: 2017+ Nissan Qashqai

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The Nissan Qashqai hit the road for model-year 2017, slotting in beneath the popular Nissan Rogue in the automaker’s crossover lineup with an all-new model.

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Our Derek McNaughton first covered the Nissan Qashqai in this story back in 2017, and figured the Qashqai would live up to its strong European popularity with its arrival on our side of the pond.

Nearly a foot shorter than the Rogue, not to mention lower to the ground, the Qashqai offered pleasing looks and driving dynamics, and an available six-speed manual transmission to connect with enthusiast drivers after a pleasing driving machine with great manners and quick reflexes.

All models ran a 2L four-cylinder engine making 141 horsepower. The six-speed manual came front-drive only, and all AWD-equipped models use Nissan’s XTronic CVT transmission.

Key competitors include models like the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, and Volkswagen Golf. The Qashqai was offered in S, SV, and SL trim grades, from most sparse to fully loaded. Note that model-year 2020 saw a facelift and update with new styling, wheels, safety features, and lighting added.

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Check out the related links and stories for more reviews, news, specs, and other Nissan Qashqai related information, and read on for 5 tips to help make sure you find the best used Nissan Qashqai you can for the dollar.

Tip 1: Understand transmission maintenance requirements

The CVT-equipped Qashqai you’re considering has occasional maintenance and inspection requirements that are mandatory for a long and healthy life from the vehicle’s transmission, and for maintenance of any remaining warranty in good standing. Before buying a used Nissan Qashqai, and especially a higher-mileage unit, check the service schedule in the owner’s manual against servicing records to confirm that all transmission-related servicing is up to date, and that it’s been performed in a dealer setting.

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If any scheduled maintenance or inspections have been stretched out or skipped, the transmission’s health and warranty may be in jeopardy.

Properly maintaining this type of transmission requires special equipment, parts, fluids, and training. Have all work performed in a licenced setting for maximum peace of mind.

Tip 2: Two checks in one

On your test drive, open the Qashqai’s tailgate and remove all items from the cargo area. Next, remove the cargo floor and any provisions beneath, in order to access the spare tire.

Remove the spare tire, the jack, and any other related parts. Ensure the spare tire is in good shape, properly inflated, and hasn’t been used previously, remembering that temporary spares can only be driven for short distances, and that you’re best to know about any damage, wear, or a flat before you need it.

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With the spare tire removed, carefully inspect the area beneath for signs of moisture, rust, or standing water, which could be evidence of a leak from the sunroof or a window seal.

Tip 3: Recalls

Like most modern vehicles, the Nissan Qashqai was subjected to several safety recalls, intended to correct latent safety defects. Recall work is performed free of charge by dealers, typically after checking to see which (if any) recalls affect the specific model you’re considering, and booking an appointment to address any recall work.

Used Nissan Qashqai owners can contact a dealership or Nissan Canada, to determine which (if any) recall work is outstanding for the specific model they’re considering, and to register their contact information to the vehicle’s VIN, ensuring future recalls can be quickly communicated to you.

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Tip 4: Winter ready?

Some owners have reported problems with their Qashqais in cold-weather use. Most have not.

If the Qashqai you’re considering takes an unexpectedly long time to crank to a start, it could be suffering from a weak or dying battery, or may be in need of updated software for its engine computer. Ensuring your used Qashqai is running the latest software updates and a fresh and healthy battery can enhance reliability.

Some owners have reported poor cabin heat in cold conditions, reporting the need to purposely rev the engine at a higher speed to generate sufficient heat. Others have not. Note that a clogged cabin air filter can severely degrade the performance of the climate control system in any car.

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So, before winter driving your used Qashqai, remember that a healthy battery and a new cabin air filter can go a long way towards a more reliable and comfortable drive.

Tip 5: Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

Some owners have reported trouble with the Qashqai’s AEB system, which may exhibit error messages or prove overly sensitive in certain driving situations.

Software updates may be available from dealerships to correct and optimize the operation of this safety feature, if required.

During your test drive, be sure the model you’re considering doesn’t have any apparent damage to the windshield, front bumper or rear bumper, which can negatively affect the operation of safety features that rely on precisely aligned sensors and cameras behind those components.

During ownership, if you have a problem with one of the Qashqai’s advanced safety features, have a dealer technician investigate, remembering to never disconnect and reconnect the vehicle’s battery hoping to effect a system ‘reset’ before checking with a professional.

Final thought:

These tips are designed to help test-driving shoppers more easily identify possible trouble areas reported by some owners. An attentive test drive and shopping process that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand Nissan Qashqai.