2021 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Nissan Rogue represents the beginning of the Rogue’s third generation and is generally well-received. It comes standard with a 2.5-liter inline-4 cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). For the 2022+ model years, a 1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine was offered in addition to the 2.5L. Owners often praise the Rogue’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and updated technology features. However, some common complaints include concerns about the CVT’s reliability and the engine’s performance, especially when fully loaded.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Cylinder Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, smoky exhaust, and potentially engine knocking if oil levels are critically low.
  • Solution: A temporary fix is to monitor and top-off the oil level frequently. The long-term fix often involves replacing piston rings or the entire engine in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing engine misfires. The check engine light will illuminate and the car will shudder and shake.
  • Solution: The engine misfires can be caused by faulty spark plugs or ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Juddering/Shuttering
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience a juddering or shuddering sensation during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can feel like the transmission is slipping or hesitating.
  • Solution: In some cases, a CVT fluid change can alleviate the symptoms. However, more severe cases may require CVT replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$500 (fluid change), $4,000 - $8,000+ (CVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure, resulting in the vehicle being unable to accelerate or move. This can be preceded by loud noises, slipping, or erratic shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the front struts, leading to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and unusual noises (clunking or squeaking) when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the issue in some cases. In others, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera may fail to display an image, show a distorted image, or intermittently stop working.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace the camera or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The AEB system may activate unnecessarily, causing the vehicle to brake suddenly even when there is no obstacle.
  • Solution: Calibration of the AEB system or replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks from the sunroof, particularly during heavy rain. This can lead to water damage to the headliner and interior components.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the sunroof seals and drainage tubes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2021 Nissan Rogue is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners have reported some notable issues. The most concerning are potential CVT problems and engine oil consumption, which can be costly to repair. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and automatic emergency braking (AEB) system have also been reported. While not all vehicles will experience these problems, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues. Addressing minor issues early can prevent more serious and expensive problems later.