2018 Nissan Micra

The 2018 Nissan Micra is a subcompact hatchback known for its affordability and fuel efficiency. In Canada, it came standard with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. People often appreciate the Micra’s nimble handling and ease of parking, while some dislike its basic interior and limited features. Common complaints revolve around engine noise and the lack of modern safety technologies.

Engine

1.6L Four-Cylinder

• Rough Idle/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing a rough idle or hesitation upon acceleration, particularly when the engine is cold. This can sometimes be attributed to issues with the mass airflow sensor (MAF) or dirty throttle body.
  • Solution: Cleaning the throttle body and/or replacing the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (depending on the severity and shop rates)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, especially at idle, can indicate worn or broken engine mounts. This can lead to increased noise and discomfort.
  • Solution: Replacing the engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (depending on which mounts need replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly between gears. In some cases, the transmission may slip, leading to a loss of power.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update or fluid flush can resolve the issue. However, in more severe cases, transmission replacement or rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noticed premature wear in the suspension bushings, leading to clunking noises, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (depending on the specific bushing and labor rates).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the car’s battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven regularly. This can be due to a parasitic drain or a faulty battery.
  • Solution: Test the battery’s health. Diagnose and repair the source of any parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 (battery replacement), $100+ (diagnosing and fixing parasitic drain).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Window Switch
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not function normally.
  • Solution: Replace the window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $250+ (depending on switch location).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature rust formation, especially around the wheel wells and door edges.
  • Solution: Rust repair, paint, and rust prevention treatment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity, $200 - $2000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2018 Nissan Micra presents a mixed bag of potential issues. While the Micra is generally regarded as an affordable and reliable subcompact car, some owners have experienced problems with the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences, such as rough idling, to more significant concerns, such as transmission slippage. Costs to address these problems can vary greatly, with some repairs being relatively inexpensive while others can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a qualified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.