Nissan X-Trail Common Problems and Solutions
TurboChargers on Diesel
Problem:
The engine is making whistling noises, and there is excessive smoke coming from the exhaust and a loss of engine power.
Solution:
This only affects diesel versions of the X-Trail, but it’s a problem across every model released. It’s not that common, but it will mean that you need to replace the turbocharger completely. This is a job that can take under ten minutes to do, but you will need to buy the replacement turbocharger. Shop for your turbocharger here.
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Stalling Problem
Problem:
When pulling away, you are experiencing excessive stalling.
Solution:
This was a common issue in X-Trails produced between 2001 and 2007 and is usually caused by the engine angle tripping misaligned engine management sensors. In most cases, a slight adjustment to the sensors will resolve the problem, though in some instances, you may need to replace the sensors entirely. This is very low-cost, and sensors are easily available on our website.
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Engine sensor
DPF warning light
Problem:
If you notice the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) warning light on your dashboard, this is because the DPF is blocked due to frequent short journeys. This means the DPF isn't getting hot enough to burn off the unwanted particles.
Solution:
You can take the vehicle onto a motorway or A-road and drive at about 2500rpm for at least 15 minutes. This will allow the DPF to heat up sufficiently to burn off all unwanted particles. If this doesn't work, you can remove the DPF and give it a good clean. Follow the instructions in the video below.
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Suspension problems
Problem:
If you notice a knocking noise from the suspension when driving over speed bumps or rough roads, this usually indicates that the anti-roll bar links need replacing.
Solution:
Fitting a replacement anti-roll bar link will fix the issue.
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Anti Roll Bar
Lack of power/black smoke from exhaust
Problem:
If your turbo is faulty, you will likely experience at least one of these signs: reduced power when accelerating, visible black smoke from the exhaust, or a whistling sound emanating from the top of the engine.
Solution:
Any of these symptoms indicates that you need to replace your turbo.
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Turbo leaking
Problem:
If you notice oil leaking from the turbo, which is in a silver box mounted on top of the engine, then the intercooler is leaking.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement intercooler to resolve the issue. Replacing the intercooler can be quite costly. This is where we can assist you.
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Intercooler
Fuel Leak
Problem:
Fuel leaks from the bottom of the car whenever you fill it up.
Solution:
This is typically caused by a small hole in the filler tube. X-Trails manufactured between 2000 and 2004 often develop rust in the filler tube, especially near the mounting bracket. Usually, a simple glue repair will fix the issue, but if the rust is extensive, you'll need to buy and replace the filler tube entirely. This is a straightforward repair. You can find your filler tubes here.
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Car Not Starting
Problem:
The engine either fails to start or stalls often.
Solution:
This is likely a problem with the camshaft. Models produced between 1999 and 2002 are known to have had serious issues with the camshaft, especially with the faulty timing chain tensioner. This can cause a jam that results in engine failure. It may also impact the brakes, so you should have it checked promptly. Replacing the timing chain tensioner usually solves the problem, but you might also need to have your camshaft sensors adjusted to prevent this from happening again.
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Changing Gears
Problem:
When the clutch fails to engage properly, it causes issues with gear selection. This is especially common when moving into first gear from a cold start.
Solution:
In some cases, this simply involves making adjustments to your clutch or checking that the mechanism linking the gear-shifter to the gearbox hasn’t been worn or damaged. If these two solutions do not resolve the problem, then you will need to replace the clutch. The process of replacing a clutch is quite a substantial task, but there are plenty of guides available online, and you can purchase your clutch here.
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Clutch Kit
Pumping the Clutch
Problem:
When driving, to change gears, you have to ‘pump’ the clutch. If this happens regularly, then you have an issue with your hydraulics.
Solution:
Bleeding the hydraulics and removing the air from the system should be your first step, as it may resolve the issue entirely. X-Trails are known for having a flimsy clutch, which can wear out more quickly than you might expect. Check the throw-out bearing, as it may need greasing. If these steps don't lead to smoother gear changes, then your clutch may need replacing. Many drivers worry about replacing a clutch themselves, but it’s not as difficult as you might think. Simply purchase a replacement clutch from our site and follow a step-by-step guide.
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Overheating and Lost Compression
Problem:
When a car repeatedly overheats, it can produce steam from beneath the bonnet, a ticking noise, loss of engine power, or a hot bonnet—sometimes all at once. Usually, this is caused by a blown head gasket. However, in some cases, it indicates that the engine has been ‘cooked’, resulting in a loss of tension in the piston rings.
Solution:
Replacing the head gasket will usually resolve the issue. It is far more cost-effective to buy and replace a head gasket yourself. If the piston rings have melted, then the entire engine must be replaced, which you can find on our website.
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Particulate Filter Warning Light
Problem:
The warning light for the particulate filter is illuminated on the dashboard.
Solution:
This is a problem for diesel versions of the X-Trail built from 2007 onwards. The particulate filter is known to clog very easily, especially if you make many short journeys. Try taking the car out for a long drive to see if this turns the warning light off. If that doesn’t work, then cleaning the filter will have to be done manually, but you will then need a dealer to turn off the warning light for you.
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Non-Working Trailer Hazard Lamps
Problem:
When towing a trailer, the hazard lights are not working.
Solution:
This isn’t a very common issue and mainly affects X-Trails manufactured between March 2007 and April 2008. Usually, simply replacing the fuse will resolve the problem. You can purchase the correct fuses here.
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Fuses Multipack
Noisy Steering & Free Play
Problem:
The steering feels looser than before and makes quite a bit of noise.
Solution:
This is a common steering shaft problem in X-Trails made in 2007. It is dangerous because it affects the vehicle's safety while driving. Luckily, replacing the steering shaft is quite simple, and replacement shafts are very affordable to buy from our website.
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Power Steering Failure
Problem:
The power steering has failed, making the car much harder and more dangerous to drive.
Solution:
Nissan has addressed a serious issue affecting only X-Trails manufactured between August 2008 and August 2011, caused by the casting for the heat sink on the power steering control unit being out of specification. If your vehicle hasn't had this repair, take it to a Nissan dealer, and it should be repaired free of charge.
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Excessive Oil Leakage
Problem:
Excessive oil leaks are typically recognisable when you notice a puddle of oil on the road after being parked for some time. Alternatively, you might find you're topping up the oil more frequently than usual.
Solution:
Inspect for external leaks beneath the car. If none are found, you will need to have a compression and leak-down test performed at a garage. This will help determine whether worn internal parts are consuming or leaking your oil. Once identified, you’ll know which parts to purchase from our range.
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