2015 Nissan NV1500

The 2015 Nissan NV1500 is a full-size cargo van known for its practicality and spacious interior. Available with either a 4.0L V6 engine producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque or a 5.6L V8 engine generating 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque, both paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, the NV1500 offers a balance of power and utility. Owners appreciate its versatility for commercial use and ample cargo capacity. However, some common complaints include concerns about fuel economy and certain electrical issues.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from valve cover gaskets and timing chain cover gaskets. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and/or timing chain cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

5.6L V8

No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Applies to Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear. This can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush & TCM reprogramming) - $3,000+ (transmission rebuild/replacement)

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Front Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported premature wear of front suspension components, particularly ball joints and tie rod ends. Symptoms include clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints and tie rod ends, followed by a wheel alignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced unexplained battery drain, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain by a qualified technician. This may involve checking for faulty relays, aftermarket accessories, or other electrical components drawing power when the vehicle is off.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
• Sliding Door not opening
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that their sliding door isn’t opening.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair of the sliding door mechanism and electronics.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, particularly in cold weather or after prolonged use. May involve worn rollers, cables, or latches.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the sliding door components, replacement of worn rollers, cables, or latches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+

Interior

No Issues Found

Recalls:

• NHTSA Recall Number: 21V948
  • Description: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2014-2017 NV1500, NV2500, and NV3500 vehicles. The wiring harness that powers the side curtain air bag(s) may have insufficient clearance from the vehicle’s B-pillar. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the side curtain air bag(s), the harness may be damaged, preventing proper deployment of the side curtain air bag(s).
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and secure the side curtain air bag wiring harness, as necessary, free of charge.
• NHTSA Recall Number: 17V040
  • Description: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Nissan NV200 and 2012-2017 Nissan NV3500 vehicles. Improper manufacturing of the seat-mounted airbag inflators may prevent the side airbag from deploying properly in the event of a crash.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the side airbag inflator and replace it as necessary, free of charge.
• NHTSA Recall Number: 16V082
  • Description: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016 Nissan NV200 and Taxi vehicles manufactured December 14, 2015, to January 19, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with tires that were cured for a longer period of time than specified by the tire manufacturer. As such, these tires may experience a sidewall failure.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires and replace them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 7, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. Nissan’s number for this recall is PC517.

Summary

The 2015 Nissan NV1500 has some potential issues to be aware of. Oil leaks on the 4.0L V6, harsh transmission shifting, premature front suspension wear, battery drain, and sliding door issues are the most common complaints. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, like a transmission rebuild, can be costly. Prior to purchase, a thorough inspection is highly recommended to assess the condition of these components. The recalls listed, especially regarding the airbag system, should also be verified as completed.