2021 Nissan NV350 Urvan
The 2021 Nissan NV350 Urvan is a popular cargo van and passenger van known for its practicality, spaciousness, and reliability, particularly in markets outside North America. Engine options typically include a 2.5-liter QR25DE inline-4 gasoline engine producing around 147 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, as well as a 2.5-liter YD25DDTi diesel engine. These engines are typically paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its generous cargo capacity and comfortable ride, while common complaints center on fuel economy and basic interior features.
Engine
2.5L QR25DE Inline-4 Gasoline Engine
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and noticeable blue smoke from the exhaust in severe cases.
- Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings may resolve the issue. Addressing any valve seal leaks may also help.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Ignition Coils
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, decreased power, and the engine stalling. The check engine light will likely illuminate.
- Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
2.5L YD25DDTi Diesel Engine
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Clogging of the DPF, leading to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and frequent regeneration cycles. Warning lights related to the exhaust system may illuminate.
- Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF by a mechanic, or replacement of the DPF in severe cases. Ensuring the engine is running properly can help prevent future clogging.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuel Injector Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, difficulty starting, and black smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Rough Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, slipping during acceleration, and unusual noises from the transmission.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter change might alleviate minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, particularly when accelerating from a stop. Can also lead to transmission overheating.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Premature Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, particularly when driving over bumps. Reduced handling precision.
- Solution: Replacement of worn bushings in the control arms, sway bar links, and other suspension components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Leaf Spring Sagging (Cargo Van)
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, especially when loaded. Reduced load-carrying capacity and potential for bottoming out.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs with new or uprated springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently drains, especially if the vehicle sits for extended periods. Difficulty starting the engine.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic draws in the electrical system. This could involve faulty relays, aftermarket accessories, or malfunctioning control modules.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Door Lock Actuators
- Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock properly using the remote or interior switches.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Issues (Passenger Van)
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, or unusual noises.
- Solution: Lubricating the door tracks and rollers. Adjusting the door alignment. In more severe cases, replacing the rollers or cables.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rust on Undercarriage
- Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the vehicle’s undercarriage, especially in areas exposed to salt or moisture.
- Solution: Rust removal and application of a rust-inhibiting coating.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Air Conditioning Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Weak or no cold air from the air conditioning system.
- Solution: Recharge the refrigerant. Check for leaks in the system. Replace faulty components such as the compressor, condenser, or evaporator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (recharge) - $1,000+ (compressor replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or use of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1,500+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2021 Nissan NV350 Urvan presents a mix of potential issues. The engine and transmission problems, while not universally reported, can be costly to repair, particularly those related to the DPF on diesel models and significant transmission repairs. Suspension and electrical issues tend to be less severe in cost, while exterior and interior complaints are more related to the vehicle’s aging or environmental factors. Overall, prospective buyers should prioritize thorough inspections and be aware of the potential for these common issues.