The Nissan NV400 is a large panel van that shares its design and features with the Renault Master and Vauxhall Movano. First produced in 2011, it had a facelift in 2014 and another upgrade in 2019.
Available in a good range of specifications, the NV400 is a good choice for those seeking economic fuel consumption in a well-tried format.
Is the Nissan NV400 reliable?
Having a Nissan badge on a van also produced by Renault and Vauxhall is a good reliability indicator. The parts and build of these vans have been well tested and are popular with users who want good value with a decent payload.
One of the testimonials for reliability is Nissan’s unusually generous 5 year/100,000-mile warranty. Over two years more than its rivals, this is an excellent offer for people who want to hold on to their van for a few years.
Nissan NV400 common problems
While Nissan NV400 problems are not too bad, some common issues are experienced.
You should look out for issues with the gearbox, fuel bladder, engine issues and starting problems. Generally, you won’t experience any severe problems, and in the first five years, you can expect major faults to be rectified under the 5-year warranty.
Owners usually give a three or four-star review for reliability.
Nissan NV400 gearbox problems
Garages often report that they see NV400s brought in due to a gearbox problem at under 20,000 miles.
You should always look for early warning signs of a gearbox problem in the NV400, such as whining or humming when moving, sticky gear selection or crunching when changing gear.
Replacing the gearbox oil at services can prevent issues often caused by damage from an accumulation of dirt on the gears.
Nissan NV400 engine problems
The engine on a Nissan NV400 is a 2.3-litre four-cylinder twin turbo-diesel engine.
This turbo-driven engine provides plenty of torque and is a well-tested engine, but the timing chain can fail on high mileage vehicles, or the crankshaft position sensor can cause the engine to stall.
Nissan NV400 starting problems
Starting issues are one of the most common Nissan NV400 problems. Often caused by broken solenoids, a faulty ignition switch, too much power in the wires, or failing battery connections.
You will know if you have a starter problem if you hear a click when you turn on your ignition.
Nissan NV400 brake problems
In some of the most recent models of the Nissan NV400, there has been a significant brake problem. The company has recalled models manufactured in February 2021.
The fault lies with the right-hand rear brake calliper, which may have been incorrectly installed. When the parking brake is activated, some components may fail, causing the van to roll away.
Older models sometimes experience problems with the master cylinder as the seals can be weak.
Nissan NV400 AdBlue problems
One of the more frustrating Nissan NV400 problems is the resetting of the AdBlue counter. Like all modern diesel vehicles, you need to top up the AdBlue to keep it running well and reduce emissions.
Unfortunately, some owners have experienced that when they top up the AdBlue, the counter does not reset, which means that the vehicle will stop working. It is often caused by some crystallisation that affects the sensors, and a garage should be able to rectify the problem.
Nissan NV400 EGR problems
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve (EGR) on the Nissan NV400 has a flap that can jam the turbo. This is especially true on single turbo models.
You will know this is a problem if you experience a loss of power, a check injection warning light or a turbo failure. You may be able to rescue the turbo, but only if caught early, as once the turbo is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Nissan NV400 power steering problems
Power steering problems are dangerous as they can lead to a loss of vehicle control. One of the 2016 and 2017 Nissan NV400 problems was a faulty steering shaft and steering gear box that was not correctly screwed into place.
These models were recalled, but it is always worth checking if buying second hand.
What is the best year for Nissan NV400 vans in terms of reliability?
The Nissan NV400 is the largest van in the range, and it has been on the road since 2011. The five-year warranty ensures that most major faults can be dealt with, but upgrades have improved the specification and reliability of the vans.
The last upgrade in 2019 produced vans with particularly low emissions, and these engines have proved to be both economical and reliable.
How many miles will a Nissan NV400 last?
With a warranty that lasts up to 100,000 miles, you will find plenty of Nissan NV400 vans on the road with high mileage.
Nissan’s reputation for reliability means you can hunt out older vans that have been serviced well and not worry too much about the impact of a higher mileage.