IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2014–2018 Nissan Pulsar (C13)

Barcelona-built C13 Pulsar launched in the UK in October 2014 across Visia, Acenta, n-tec and Tekna trims, pairing class-leading rear legroom with 115PS 1.2 DIG-T petrol and 110PS 1.5 dCi diesel engines.

What changed for 2014–2018

  • •Long 2,700mm wheelbase on the CMF-C/D platform delivering 692mm of rear knee room and a 385-litre boot
  • •Launch engines comprising the 1.2-litre HRA2DDT DIG-T turbo petrol (six-speed manual or Xtronic CVT) and 1.5 dCi K9K diesel
  • •Forward Emergency Braking, Around View Monitor and Safety Shield camera suite fitted on upper trims

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Headlamp aim and auto-levelling initialisation faults on 2014–2015 LED-equipped n-tec and Tekna models
  • !Rear oxygen sensor electrical short-circuit and emissions faults on early builds without illuminating the MIL
  • !Front suspension lower arm bush wear and uneven inner-shoulder tyre wear from speed cushions
3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

1.2 DIG-T Oil Consumption and Timing Chain Wear

SeriousEngine

The 1.2 turbo petrol can consume excessive oil due to a design flaw, often leading to premature timing chain stretch and engine failure.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,000–£3,500
Warning Signs:

Low oil level on dipstick, Rattle from cold start, Engine warning light

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the dipstick before the drive
  • Listen to the engine from cold
  • Ask about oil top-up frequency
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Xtronic CVT Transmission Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The CVT automatic can suffer from shuddering, slipping, and eventual total failure if fluid changes have been neglected.

Est. Repair Cost: £2,500–£4,000
Warning Signs:

Shuddering under acceleration, Rev flare without speed increase, Whining noise

What to Inspect:
  • Drive the car hot and cold
  • Check for evidence of CVT fluid changes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Air Conditioning Compressor Failure

ModerateCooling System

The AC compressor and condenser are known weak points, often failing and leaving the car with no cooling.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£800
Warning Signs:

Air conditioning not blowing cold, Hissing noise from dashboard, AC compressor not engaging

What to Inspect:
  • Test the AC on its coldest setting
  • Listen for the compressor clutch engaging
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2014–2018 Nissan Pulsar (C13)

  • Avoid early 1.2 DIG-T petrols unless the dipstick shows clean, full oil and there is zero cold-start timing-chain rattle
  • Choose the six-speed manual 1.5 dCi for high-mileage reliability, as it avoids both HRA2DDT oil burn and Jatco CVT judder
  • Test the air-conditioning output and inspect the front condenser behind the lower grille for stone damage
Check a 2014–2018 Nissan Pulsar (C13) by Registration