IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2015 Nissan Pulsar (C13)

Expanded in spring 2015 with the 190PS 1.6 DIG-T warm hatch and updated for Euro 6 from autumn 2015, followed by N-Connecta replacing n-tec trim before European production ended in mid-2018.

What changed for 2015

  • •Addition of the 1.6-litre MR16DDT DIG-T 190PS turbo petrol with revised spring rates, 17/18-inch alloys and dark headlamp bezels
  • •Euro 6 engine revisions across 1.2 DIG-T and 1.5 dCi with improved economy, plus n-tec rebranded to N-Connecta for 2016
  • •DVSA recall campaign on September 2015 to March 2018 builds for weak rear door child-lock switch retention

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !DPF soot accumulation and blocked pressure sensors on Euro 6 1.5 dCi cars used primarily for short urban school runs
  • !Corroded rear brake discs and sticking calliper sliders on low-mileage examples
  • !Stop-start system faults and auxiliary 12V EFB battery degradation triggering dashboard warnings
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 2015 Nissan Pulsar (C13)

  • Verify that the rear door child-lock recall has been completed on 2015–2018 cars by testing both rear inside handles with locks engaged
  • Seek out the rare 1.6 DIG-T 190PS manual if you want a reliable petrol Pulsar without the 1.2 DIG-T's oil-consumption design flaw
  • Confirm NissanConnect touchscreen, DAB radio and 360-degree Around View cameras load cleanly without freezing
20142016–2018
Check a 2015 Nissan Pulsar (C13) by Registration