2011 Nissan Quest

The 2011 Nissan Quest is a minivan that offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for families. It was only available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate the Quest’s smooth ride, roomy cabin, and ample cargo space. Common complaints often revolve around the CVT’s reliability, electrical issues, and some concerns regarding the interior quality.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can manifest as the low oil light illuminating or the engine running rough due to insufficient lubrication.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, solutions range from using a higher viscosity oil and monitoring oil levels to more extensive repairs like replacing valve stem seals or piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or fail, leading to rough running, a check engine light, and potential engine damage if left unaddressed. Listen for rattling noises, especially upon startup.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT can experience premature failure, exhibiting symptoms like slipping, jerking, hesitation during acceleration, and a general lack of responsiveness. The transmission warning light may also illuminate.
  • Solution: In most cases, CVT failure necessitates a complete transmission replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls:
  • Recall Number: PC682 (Applies to multiple Nissan vehicles with CVT transmissions. It involves a software update to improve CVT performance and prevent potential issues.)

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The power sliding doors may fail to open or close properly, or may exhibit erratic behavior. This can be due to faulty door motors, damaged wiring harnesses, or issues with the door control module.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is necessary to determine the root cause. Replacement of the faulty component (motor, wiring, or module) is typically required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing unexplained battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Thorough electrical system diagnosis is needed to identify parasitic draws. Common culprits include aftermarket accessories, faulty relays, or a malfunctioning alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera display may show a distorted image, no image at all, or intermittently fail. This can be caused by a faulty camera unit, damaged wiring, or a problem with the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Replacing the backup camera unit and checking the wiring harness for damage is usually required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may become difficult to open or close, or may stop working altogether. This can stem from a failing liftgate motor, damaged struts, or problems with the liftgate control module.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty liftgate motor, struts, or control module may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Warning Light
  • Description/Symptoms: The airbag warning light illuminates on the dashboard, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system. This requires immediate attention as it can compromise the functionality of the airbags in the event of a collision.
  • Solution: Diagnosis with a specialized scan tool is necessary to pinpoint the specific problem. Common causes include faulty sensors, wiring issues, or a malfunctioning airbag control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2011 Nissan Quest, while appreciated for its comfort and spaciousness, presents several potential issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The CVT transmission problems are a significant concern due to the high cost of repair or replacement. Other areas of concern include potential engine issues like oil consumption and timing chain problems, as well as electrical malfunctions with the sliding doors, liftgate, and airbag systems. While some issues may be relatively minor, the potential for costly CVT failures should be a primary consideration.