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Nissan · Supermini · 2010–2017

Nissan Micra K13

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations


Engine Overview

The Nissan Micra K13 is available with one engine variant at 80 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

1.2L · Benziner· 80–98 PS Engine Change
2010 2017
Be Careful 3 weaknesses
2010 2017
Be Careful 5 weaknesses

The Nissan 1.2L (Benziner, 80–98 PS) comes with 2 different engines: HR12DE (2010–2017, Be Careful) und HR12DDR (2010–2017, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 1.2L!

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
CVT drive belt worn

The CVT drive belt in the K13 can wear prematurely due to insufficient hydraulic pressure. This replaces the earlier torque-converter automatic and is more susceptible to damage.

Symptoms: Grinding noises, jerking on pull-away, sudden loss of drive, gearbox warning light
from 100,000 km
High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,863 complaints · 2010–2017
Airbags
571 ⚠ 108
Powertrain
455 ⚠ 7
Other
227 ⚠ 13
Engine
204 ⚠ 5
Suspension
168 ⚠ 6

Top Reported Issues

Airbags (571 complaints)
Powertrain (455 complaints)
Other (227 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 14 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan Micra K13 (2010–2017) — 8 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Suspension, Electronics, Rust.

Micra (HR12DE, 2010–2017) — Be Careful: CVT drive belt premature wear (recall), Camshaft timing solenoid stuck, Timing chain noise / chain wear. Power: 80 PS.

Micra (HR12DDR, 2010–2017) — Be Careful: CVT drive belt premature wear (recall), Recall: ignition coil short circuit risk, Intake valve carbon buildup (direct injection). Power: 98 PS.

What to watch out for with the Nissan Micra? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Nissan Micra K13 have? +
The Nissan Micra K13 has 8 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Micra K13? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: HR12DE (1.2L), HR12DDR (1.2L). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the HR12DDR (1.2L).
Which Nissan Micra K13 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Nissan Micra K13 — rated: "Decent". {description} 98 hp supercharged from 1.2 litres — lively in everyday use and as economical as a diesel.
Is the Nissan Micra K13 worth buying used? +
The Nissan Micra K13 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Micra K13? +
The Nissan Micra K13 is available with engine variants from 80 to 98 hp. Petrol: HR12DE (1.2L), HR12DDR (1.2L).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee