Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
Top speed (165 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2021
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided between the gasoline and diesel variants, with the electric e-NV200 forming a distinct third category.
9 problems reported (1 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCVT Transmission Failures (Gasoline models)
Transmission failure reported around 60,000 miles; general concerns about long-term reliability are very frequent.
- RecurrentGeneral Build Quality & Component Failures
Sliding door mechanism failures, door locks freezing in cold weather, TPMS sensor rust, exhaust rattles, warped window seals, and overspray on interior dash from factory.
- RecurrentEngine Mechanical Problems (Gasoline models)
Coolant leaking into spark plug wells causing misfires, rough idle and stalling issues, oil consumption (in larger NV3500, mentioned in context), difficulty starting in extreme cold (-30°C/-22°F and below).
+ 6 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentElectrical & Infotainment Gremlins
Bluetooth audio cutting out after a few minutes of driving, incorrect or blank clock display affecting Android Auto connectivity, complete failure of blower motor/fan speed controls (resistor, wiring polarity issues).
- RecurrentSuspension & Driveline Noises
Unexplained knocking or grinding noises from wheels or drivetrain, particularly when cruising; difficulty diagnosing source.
- RecurrentBattery & Warranty Issues (e-NV200)
Weak or failing battery cells outside of warranty, manufacturer reluctance to honor battery warranty, extortionate repair costs and long repair times from Nissan dealers, lack of local repair capability.
- IsolatedRust & Corrosion
Surface corrosion reported in the cargo area with no clear cause.
- IsolatedFuel System Problems
Difficulty replacing fuel filter due to stubborn connections.
- IsolatedAirbag System Faults
Multiple airbag diagnostic trouble codes causing flashing airbag light.
The version owners recommend
The diesel-powered 1.5 dci variant is consistently presented as the more reliable and durable choice. One owner with over 275,000 miles on a diesel NV200 explicitly chose it over a ProMaster City due to engine quality and lack of issues. There is no discernible preference for specific trim levels or model years within the data; the primary differentiator is the powertrain.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford Transit Connect, Ram ProMaster City, Chevrolet City Express, Mercedes Metris and Ford Ranger.
Is the NV200 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided between the gasoline and diesel variants, with the electric e-NV200 forming a distinct third category. For the gasoline NV200, sentiment is predominantly negative, characterized by widespread reports of mechanical unreliability, poor build quality, and significant issues with the CVT transmission. Owners describe these vans as "a pile of junk" with numerous failures. In contrast, the diesel-powered 1.5 dci variant receives more positive feedback for its durability and longevity, with multiple reports of high mileage (over 275,000 miles/440,000 km) without major engine issues. The e-NV200 is viewed as a niche, utilitarian electric vehicle praised for its low running costs and cargo utility, but criticized for its limited power, range, and complex battery warranty/repair process. The gasoline model's value proposition is heavily criticized, especially at or near original MSRP.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a compact, fuel-efficient cargo van. Compared to the Ford Transit Connect, it is often seen as less powerful and featuring a cheaper interior, but some owners report superior long-term engine reliability in the diesel NV200 versus competitors like the ProMaster City, whose 2.4L engine is cited as a known failure point. It is frequently noted as being more affordable than larger vans like the Mercedes Metris or full-size Transits, but also less capable. The consensus suggests it is chosen for its specific size, perceived reliability of the diesel engine, and lower operating costs rather than for luxury, performance, or premium features.
Recommended configurations
Diesel (1.5 dci) engine over the gasoline engine. For the gasoline variant, strict adherence to transmission fluid service every 30,000 miles is strongly advised due to CVT reliability concerns. For the e-NV200, verifying battery state of health and understanding warranty limitations is critical. For all variants, the compact size is recommended for urban driving and stealth camping due to its "under the radar" appearance.
General recommendations
Suitable for business fleets or owners prioritizing low operating costs and compact dimensions over power and refinement. The diesel variant is recommended for high-mileage commercial use. The gasoline variant should only be considered with a thorough pre-purchase inspection, a verified maintenance history focusing on the CVT, and at a significantly discounted price. The e-NV200 is suitable for short-range, urban commercial duties or as a specialized low-cost EV, but not for highway driving requiring passing power or for owners unwilling to navigate potential battery warranty issues. All buyers should be prepared for higher-than-average repair costs and difficulty sourcing aftermarket parts compared to more common platforms.
Remarks
The owner experience is fundamentally split by powertrain. The gasoline NV200, particularly with the CVT, carries the poor reputation common to other Nissan models of the era, with multiple systemic failures undermining its utility as a work vehicle. The diesel variant, while not without its own diagnostic challenges (e.g., mysterious driveline noises), is reported to be far more robust mechanically. The e-NV200 exists as a separate vehicle with a distinct set of EV-specific concerns, primarily centered on its passively cooled battery pack and Nissan's support infrastructure. The model has been discontinued in the US market, which may further complicate long-term parts availability and resale value. Analysis based on approximately 45 substantive owner discussions and problem reports.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2020Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 4 | 1 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2020 | 1 | 1 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2019 | 9 | 2 | engine |
| 2018 | 14 | 2 | unknown or other |
| 2017 | 7 | 1 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2016 | 25 | 2 | unknown or other |
| 2015 | 27 | 2 | air bags |
| 2014 | 27 | 2 | air bags |
| 2013 | 24 | 5 | tires |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices18 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2021 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 25V676000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2021 NV200 Van, 2014-2017, 2019 NV200 Taxi, and 2015-2018 Chevrolet City Express vehicles. The Fuel Tank Temperature (FTT) sensor harness may have been incorrectly routed, damaging wires and causing a short circuit in the fuel pump fuse.
2020 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 25V676000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2021 NV200 Van, 2014-2017, 2019 NV200 Taxi, and 2015-2018 Chevrolet City Express vehicles. The Fuel Tank Temperature (FTT) sensor harness may have been incorrectly routed, damaging wires and causing a short circuit in the fuel pump fuse.
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V654000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2019 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 25V676000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2021 NV200 Van, 2014-2017, 2019 NV200 Taxi, and 2015-2018 Chevrolet City Express vehicles. The Fuel Tank Temperature (FTT) sensor harness may have been incorrectly routed, damaging wires and causing a short circuit in the fuel pump fuse.
2018 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V654000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 25V676000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2021 NV200 Van, 2014-2017, 2019 NV200 Taxi, and 2015-2018 Chevrolet City Express vehicles. The Fuel Tank Temperature (FTT) sensor harness may have been incorrectly routed, damaging wires and causing a short circuit in the fuel pump fuse.
2017 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 25V676000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2021 NV200 Van, 2014-2017, 2019 NV200 Taxi, and 2015-2018 Chevrolet City Express vehicles. The Fuel Tank Temperature (FTT) sensor harness may have been incorrectly routed, damaging wires and causing a short circuit in the fuel pump fuse.
2016 · air bags:sensor:occupant classificationcampaign 16V244000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
2016 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 25V676000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2021 NV200 Van, 2014-2017, 2019 NV200 Taxi, and 2015-2018 Chevrolet City Express vehicles. The Fuel Tank Temperature (FTT) sensor harness may have been incorrectly routed, damaging wires and causing a short circuit in the fuel pump fuse.
2015 · air bags:sensor:occupant classificationcampaign 16V244000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
2015 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 25V676000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2021 NV200 Van, 2014-2017, 2019 NV200 Taxi, and 2015-2018 Chevrolet City Express vehicles. The Fuel Tank Temperature (FTT) sensor harness may have been incorrectly routed, damaging wires and causing a short circuit in the fuel pump fuse.
2014 · air bags:sensor:occupant classificationcampaign 16V244000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
2014 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 25V676000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2021 NV200 Van, 2014-2017, 2019 NV200 Taxi, and 2015-2018 Chevrolet City Express vehicles. The Fuel Tank Temperature (FTT) sensor harness may have been incorrectly routed, damaging wires and causing a short circuit in the fuel pump fuse.
2013 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 14V138000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, and Sentra, model year 2013 NV200 (aka Taxi) and Infiniti JX35 and model year 2014 Infiniti Q50 and QX60 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the occupant classification system (OCS) software may incorrectly classify the passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult.
2013 · air bags:sensor:occupant classificationcampaign 16V244000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
3 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Not sold in North America: these versions are from other markets.
40 kWh
Electric · 109 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2017–2021