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What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, dominated by widespread and severe reliability issues across multiple generations.
8 problems reported (4 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCVT Transmission Failures (2011+ models)
Transmission slipping, loss of power, strange noises, and complete failure. Cited as a known weakness of Nissan/Jatco CVTs.
- Very frequentCamshaft Position Sensor Failures
Causes intermittent stalling, no-start conditions, rough running, and illumination of the VDC/SLIP warning lights. A very common point of failure.
- Very frequentGeneral Electrical Gremlins & Sensor Failures
Includes mass airflow (MAF) sensors, throttle position sensors (TPS), oxygen sensors, and unexplained electronic control module (ECM) issues leading to erratic behavior, stalling, and poor running.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentPoor Overall Reliability & Quality Control (Pre-2007 models)
Widespread issues with engines, transmissions, sunroofs, power accessories, suspension, and rust. Described as having "horrible" quality control similar to "British Leyland.".
- RecurrentIntermittent Stalling & Loss of Power
Vehicle dies while driving or loses throttle response despite the engine continuing to run, often requiring a restart. Linked to sensor and electrical faults.
- RecurrentCatalytic Converter Problems
Failure and clogging, sometimes without triggering a check engine light initially.
- IsolatedEngine Mount Failure
Specifically mentioned for 2012 model year, with high replacement cost cited.
- IsolatedECM (Engine Control Module) Mounting Location (2004-2009)
Mounted in the cowl under the hood where it is exposed to moisture, leading to corrosion and sporadic electrical issues.
The version owners recommend
2008-2009 Nissan Quest (third generation, post-refresh). Community feedback indicates the 2007-2009 models, particularly the 2008 and 2009 model years, represent the most reliable period for the third generation following a refresh that addressed some quality control issues. Earlier third-generation models (2004-2006) and fourth-generation models (2011-2017) are associated with more frequent and severe problems.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Dodge Caravan/Town & Country, Chrysler Pacifica and Kia Sedona/Carnival.
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Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, dominated by widespread and severe reliability issues across multiple generations. The vehicle is characterized as a high-risk purchase with frequent, expensive failures, particularly concerning electrical systems, sensors, and the CVT transmission in later models. While a small number of owners report positive long-term experiences with specific vehicles, these are presented as exceptions. The consensus is that the Quest is significantly less reliable than its primary Japanese competitors, leading to high maintenance costs and frustration. Positive remarks are isolated and typically focus on subjective aspects like interior comfort, spaciousness, or unique styling, but are heavily outweighed by mechanical criticisms.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a less reliable, higher-risk alternative to the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey, which are consistently cited as superior for long-term durability despite often commanding higher prices. Compared to domestic minivans (Dodge, Chrysler), the Quest is often viewed as having different, but equally severe or more perplexing, failure patterns, particularly with electronics. It is generally considered a vehicle to avoid unless acquired for very low cost with the explicit expectation of major repairs. Its primary appeal in the used market is its lower initial purchase price compared to a Sienna or Odyssey, but owner discussions strongly caution that total cost of ownership quickly negates this advantage.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available for specific trim or package recommendations. The only configuration advice present is to seek a 2008 or 2009 model year if considering a third-generation Quest. There is no consensus on preferred drivetrain or option packages.
General recommendations
Only recommended for buyers with a very low acquisition budget (e.g., under $4,000 USD) who have significant discretionary income for repairs, possess DIY mechanical skills, or treat the vehicle as a secondary "project" car. Not recommended as a primary, reliable family vehicle. If purchasing, prioritize 2008-2009 model years and obtain a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the transmission, engine sensors, and electrical systems. Budget immediately for impending repairs. Strongly consider alternative vehicles (Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey) if reliability and predictable cost of ownership are priorities. Avoid fourth-generation models (2011-2017) due to CVT transmission concerns.
Remarks
Owner discussions span multiple generations, creating a complex reliability picture. The third generation (2004-2009) is notorious for poor quality control in its early years (2004-2006), with a noted improvement after a 2007 refresh. The fourth generation (2011-2017) inherits Nissan's widespread CVT transmission reliability concerns. The vehicle's reputation for unreliability is so entrenched in owner feedback that it is frequently used as a benchmark for what to avoid in the minivan segment. Many reports are from owners struggling to diagnose persistent, intermittent problems, indicating complex failure modes that are difficult and expensive to repair. Analysis based on approximately 52 substantive owner discussions and reports.