PROBLEM GUIDE

2011–2016 Nissan Quest Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated February 2026

66

complaints filed for the 2011 model year

2011–2016

Model years affected

$1,300 – $5,905

Typical repair cost, by problem

This generation uses a fully redesigned platform, distinct from the first generation. The vehicle stalls when the fuel tank is at a quarter tank or less, particularly on inclines or at idle — a confirmed recall covers this fuel pump control module software issue, distinct in cause and remedy from the mechanical fuel-gauge problem reported on the previous-generation Quest.

Quick Scan: 14 Issues

Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Vehicle stalls when the fuel tank is a quarter full or less

Particularly on inclines/declines or at idle

Check engine light: On

The vehicle stalls when the fuel tank is at a quarter tank or less, particularly on inclines/declines or at idle — a confirmed recall covers this fuel pump control module software issue (12V076000).

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CVT transmission failures, jerking

Delayed acceleration response, inability to downshift

Check engine light: On

CVT transmission failures and jerking occur, with delayed acceleration response (a 2-3 second lag from a stop) and an inability to downshift for passing or climbing.

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Vehicle stalling without warning

Battery drain, complete electrical failures

Check engine light: On

Vehicle stalling without warning occurs, unrelated to the fuel-level recall in some complaints; battery drain requires multiple replacements, and complete electrical system failures occur mid-drive.

$1,30058,000 mi

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Excessive oil consumption

Candidate new instance, small sample size

Check engine light: On

Excessive oil consumption is documented in a small subset of the sample.

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AC compressor failures with freon leaks

Corroded AC lines, a recurring failure mode

Check engine light: Off

AC compressor failures with freon leaks corrode AC lines — a recurring, multiply-documented failure mode.

$1,800 – $5,90569,440 – 86,000 mi

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Vehicle computer (ECU) stops working

Vehicle would not start

Check engine light: On

The vehicle computer (ECU) stopped working, and the vehicle would not start.

$1,30058,000 mi

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Failing Engine Mounts Will Cause Thumping in Floor

Failing engine mounts will cause thumping in the floor

Check engine light: Off

Failing engine mounts will cause thumping in the floor. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 72 owner reports on file.

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Fuel Injectors May Fail and Cause Drivability Concerns

Fuel injectors may fail and cause drivability concerns

Check engine light: On

Fuel injectors may fail and cause drivability concerns. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 38 owner reports on file.

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Timing Chain Rattle and Tapping Noise

A timing chain rattle and tapping noise occurs

Check engine light: Off

A timing chain rattle and tapping noise occurs. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 30 owner reports on file.

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Exhaust Manifold Can Warp and Cause the Studs to Break Off

The exhaust manifold can warp and cause the studs to break off

Check engine light: Off

The exhaust manifold can warp and cause the studs to break off. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 28 owner reports on file.

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Radio and Entertainment System Malfunction With Persistent Issues

The radio and entertainment system malfunctions with persistent issues

Check engine light: Off

The radio and entertainment system malfunctions with persistent issues. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 23 owner reports on file.

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Erratic or High Idle After Cleaning Throttle Body

Erratic or high idle occurs after cleaning the throttle body

Check engine light: On

Erratic or high idle occurs after cleaning the throttle body. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 19 owner reports on file.

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Dirt Buildup in Front Hub Splines May Cause Noise on Acceleration

Dirt buildup in the front hub splines may cause noise on acceleration

Check engine light: Off

Dirt buildup in the front hub splines may cause noise on acceleration. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 12 owner reports on file.

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Coolant Leak From Plug Behind Timing Cover

A coolant leak occurs from a plug behind the timing cover

Check engine light: Off

A coolant leak occurs from a plug behind the timing cover. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 12 owner reports on file.

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Recall 12V076000 covers a fuel pump control module software issue causing low-fuel stalling. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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