2022-2024 (J12) · Series hybrid: 1.5L turbo petrol generator + electric motor (190 hp)
Innovative series hybrid system where petrol engine only charges battery, electric motor drives wheels exclusively. UK's best-selling crossover with good city fuel economy (46-56 mpg) but less efficient on motorways (37-40 mpg). Main concerns for 2022-2023 models: generator failures, 12V battery drain issues, and e-Power system voltage faults requiring traction battery replacement. Front brake squeaking is a known issue with revised parts on backorder. 2024 facelift claims many early issues resolved. Avoid early 2022-2023 production if possible.
Generator motor fails at low mileage on early models, replacement parts take 10-12 weeks · more· less
From 2023 through most of 2024, the Qashqai e-Power suffered from drivetrain problems, specifically failure of the generator motor. One case involved generator failure at just 10,000 km. The primary fault appears to be insulation breakdown causing internal short circuits or stator overheating, likely from vibrations and thermal expansion. This is a common fault on late 2022 and early 2023 models. Replacement parts are set at 10-12 weeks wait time plus fitting. Facebook groups exist specifically for this fault. Nissan dealers indicate the problem has been fixed with the 2024-25 facelift version. Under warranty, Nissan covers this, but if it occurs later, owners face significant expense. MGU replacement for hybrid vehicles typically costs €1,500-€3,000 for parts and specialized labor.
Traction battery voltage fault (2022-2023)€3,000 - €6,000
Battery pack needs replacement due to voltage fluctuations, causes "e-Power System Fault" error · more· less
A Facebook group exists dedicated to a common e-Power fault displaying the error message "e-Power System Fault. Unable to restart after power off." Multiple UK owners (more than 3) have experienced voltage fluctuations from the 2.1 kWh traction battery that may result in battery pack replacement. In one case involving a late 2022-23 model, battery replacement didn't resolve the problem. The higher-than-normal number of such faults suggests this is a batch issue affecting early production vehicles. Nissan hybrid battery replacements historically start at €3,000, with some reaching €6,000 depending on whether dealer or third-party service is used. These systems are sensitive, and even a low 12V auxiliary battery can trigger such warnings. Most covered under warranty, but significant risk for older vehicles.
12V battery drain and failure€150 - €300
Battery undersized for car, goes flat after 7-10 days parked, common on new deliveries · more· less
The biggest issue with new models is flat or low charged 12V batteries at point of delivery. Nissan is aware of the problem, with dealers reporting about 1,000 cars impacted. The 12V battery is undersized for the car, leading to premature failure. Cars not starting and batteries appearing flat after 7-10 days is common. Causes include: pressing start button without brake pedal (only auxiliary mode active), keyless entry drawing power when battery low, and dashcam parking mode draining battery. The backup brake power supply unit can also create permanent drain. If car stands unused for 28 days, battery should be charged. Many hybrid owners now carry a small 12V battery pack for quick re-energization. AGM battery required for cars with stop-start. Replacement costs €150-200 for battery plus €50-100 labor. Battery location is in luggage area.
Front brake pad hardware fault€200 - €400
Brake pad wobbles and squeaks, scores discs, revised part on backorder affecting 50+ cars · more· less
There is a hardware issue around the front brake pad that makes the pad wobble, not stay in place, and causes squeaking that scores the discs. This is a very known issue with a revised part available, however the part is on backorder with dealers reporting 50 other cars with the same problem. Parts are coming from Japan. It started when turning right with a squeal then got worse. Some owners don't understand why this is not a recall. In some cases, front disc pads weren't seated properly after new shims were fitted. Once pads and shims were readjusted, noise was resolved. Front brake pad replacement averages €100-150, but if discs are scored, add €150-250 for disc replacement per axle.
Touchscreen unresponsive, CarPlay disconnects randomly, screen doesn't boot or shows loading · more· less
Week-old e-Power models have reported the infotainment system losing location, phone connection, and favorites, returning to home screen constantly, not recognizing USB then recognizing it, and play button not working. The screen can fail to boot up or have menu shortcuts and time blacked out with screen unresponsive to touch. Apple CarPlay loses connection randomly, sometimes showing "loading" with CarPlay connected and showing it was playing but no sound. Android phones have issues accepting calls where the other side can hear you but you can't hear them. Soft reset: hold audio power button for 10 seconds until Nissan logo appears. Hidden menu for touchscreen calibration exists. Software update from dealer can fix issues. Most fixes are software-related and covered under warranty. Out of warranty, dealer diagnostic and software update costs €100-200. Screen replacement if hardware failure costs €600-800.
Rear suspension shock absorber rattle€250 - €500
Known issue with rear dampers on early J12 models, rattling sounds from rear · more· less
There is a known issue with the rear suspension shock absorbers. Listen for rattling sounds from the back of the vehicle as this is a common symptom, especially on early pre-facelift J12 versions. This often results from worn-out components or insufficient lubrication. Bushings and shock absorbers might wear over time, causing squeaks or clunks. Some owners noticed the right front suspension sounding louder when driving on uneven roads, with a loud thud over dips sounding like a solid tire or something loose. Most would have been changed under original warranty, but some used examples may still exhibit this issue. Average shock absorber replacement cost is €260 per pair at independent garages. Dealer prices run €400-500 for rear pair replacement.
Emergency braking false activation€0 - €150
Autonomous emergency braking activates with clear road, can force car across lanes · more· less
Some owners report dangerous experiences where the car suddenly brakes and forces itself across lanes on a standard road. The emergency braking system alarm sounds, usually in the same spot on the road with clear road ahead. On some occasions it applies brakes automatically, which is very disconcerting and happens on other roads completely randomly. This is likely related to radar/camera sensor calibration. Usually resolved by dealer recalibration of sensors, typically covered under warranty. Out of warranty, sensor recalibration costs €100-150 at dealer. In rare cases, sensor replacement may be needed (€500+), but this is uncommon.
Promising technology but early production has teething problems
The e-Power system is proven in Japan since 2017 and was named UK's most reliable car in 2023 by Which?. However, 2022-2023 models experienced generator failures, battery voltage issues, and 12V battery problems at higher rates than expected. Nissan dealers indicate the 2024 facelift resolved many issues. Buy a 2024+ model or ensure early models have complete service history showing repairs under warranty. The J12 generation is otherwise well-regarded for comfort and refinement.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Nissan dealer or authorized specialist records essential. Verify all warranty repairs documented.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), and uneven wear. Sizes vary: 215/60R17 or 215/55R18 depending on trim.
Cold start
Start engine completely cold and check for error messages on dash during startup sequence.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds, city and highway driving to test hybrid system under different loads.
12V battery check
Verify car starts easily with no hesitation. Ask when 12V battery was last replaced.
Specific for this vehicle
Check for "e-Power System Fault" error message
During test drive, watch dash for any e-Power system warnings. This is the most critical check. If present, walk away or demand full diagnostic report and proof of battery replacement under warranty.
Verify production date (avoid very early 2022-2023)
Check VIN to determine build date. Late 2022 and early 2023 models had highest rate of generator and battery issues. 2024 facelift preferred.
Test 12V battery health
If car has been sitting for more than a week, this is actually ideal for testing. See if it starts without jump. Check battery voltage (should be 12.6V+ when off, 14.4V when running).
Listen for front brake squeaking
Drive at low speed and brake gently, especially while turning. Listen for any squeaking or grinding from front brakes.
Test infotainment system thoroughly
Test touchscreen responsiveness, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connection, navigation, and all menu functions. Press all areas of screen.
Check for rear suspension rattles
Drive over bumps and uneven surfaces. Listen carefully for any rattling from rear suspension, especially on rough roads.
Verify all recalls completed
Contact Nissan with VIN to confirm child lock, steering wheel hand detection, and any e-Power specific recalls completed.
Check warranty status and coverage
Verify remaining factory warranty (3 years) and hybrid battery warranty (8 years/100,000 miles for 2022+ models). Critical for e-Power system.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Steering wheel hand detection fault (Oct 2019 - Jun 2023 builds)Verify completed
Steering rack trial parts (Sep 2021 builds)Verify completed
Radiator fan motor controller (various)Check with dealer
Contact a Nissan dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls and service campaigns have been completed. This is especially important for e-Power models due to early production issues.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty3 years unlimited km
Hybrid battery warranty (2022+)8 years / 160,000 km
Hybrid battery warranty (pre-2022)5 years / 100,000 km
e-Power system warranty5 years / 100,000 km
Paint warranty3 years
Corrosion warranty12 years perforation
Warranty coverage is critical for e-Power models due to expensive hybrid components. Verify exact remaining coverage before purchase, especially for traction battery and generator. Extended warranty available through Nissan dealers. Note that warranty coverage cannot be extended beyond original terms according to Nissan.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.