Nissan Cube reliability: common problems by model year
Across 2 model years, the Nissan Cube has 308 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 5 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and steering. 2009 drew the most complaints (198), 2010 the fewest (110).
2
Model years tracked
308
Owner complaints
5
Recalls
198
Median per year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Nissan Cube vehicles (US, public record).
Which Cube years have the most problems?
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Sentiment is polarized, with a strong divide between owners who cherish the vehicle's unique character and practicality and those who have faced significant mechanical failures. A dedicated group of owners expresses deep affection for the Cube's boxy design, e
CVT Transmission Failure: Complete failure requiring replacement, slippage, whining noise, lack of acceleration, error codes. Very frequent concern, cited as the model's primary weakness. Frequency: very frequent.
General CVT Reliability Concerns: Anxiety over long-term durability, reports of shops refusing service, advice against fluid changes by some mechanics. Frequency: very frequent.
Rear Door Latch Failure: A known defect causing the rear hatch door to become inoperable; repair cost estimated around $400+. Frequency: recurrent.
Parts Availability & Cost: Difficulty sourcing parts due to the model's rarity and discontinuation, leading to higher costs and longer repair times (e.g., starter motor). Frequency: recurrent.
Sluggish Performance: Described as slow, especially for highway merging and passing; handles "like a slab-sided bus." Frequency: recurrent.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Cube. Individual model years are broken down above.