Used Nissan Micra 2017-2022 reliability
Category: Small car
The Micra is affordable and well equipped, but it isn't a class leader.
What should I look for in a used Nissan Micra hatchback?
When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.
Some versions of the Micra use light colours on bits of the dashboard and seats to brighten up the interior and make it a more pleasant place to spend time. However, if you don’t keep the car clean, it can begin to look grubby in places, so check for any marks and stains.
What are the most common problems with a used Nissan Micra hatchback?
The 1.5-litre diesel engine is fitted with a diesel particulate filter (DPF). To ensure that this can regenerate (burn off trapped soot), regular motorway journeys are necessary, because this process is only triggered when the exhaust is hot enough. Check how the previous owner has used the car if you're unsure, because lots of urban journeys will clog up the filter, potentially leading to an expensive repair bill.
Other potential problems with the DPF come if it has been shut off part-way through regeneration. The result is contamination of the oil system with fuel, and this leads to the oil level rising gradually over time. This can cause damage to the engine, so it’s worth checking the oil level or have the car inspected if you're unsure.
The passenger airbag might tear during deployment
A recall from 2019 states the model's passenger airbag might develop a tear when deployed. A total of 12,119 cars are said to have been affected, with owners able to contact their local Nissan dealer to check and replace the passenger airbag at no cost.
Insecure ignition switch wiring harness
A total of 1615 Micras are said to have been affected by insecure ignition switch wiring. This could cause the engine to shut down unexpectedly and not restart – in extreme cases. This recall was issued in 2017 and can be fixed (at no cost) by having your local Nissan dealer rework the ignition switch retaining latch.
Incorrect masses on VIN label
Some Micras – a total of 1985, according to a 2019 recall – might have had their masses applied on their VIN labels incorrectly. To fix this problem, the VIN label needs to be replaced with a new one; your local Nissan dealer can do this for you at no cost.
Click here for more information. Contact your local Nissan dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.
Is a used Nissan Micra hatchback reliable?
The Micra is a generally reliable car. It didn't appear in our latest What Car? Reliability Survey, but it finished mid-table in the small car class in the last survey it appeared in.
As a car brand, Nissan placed 19th out of 32 brands. Its overall reliability score was 90.7% and it ranked higher than Vauxhall and VW, but below Ford, Seat and Skoda.
