Nissan Micra
Renault-Nissan 1.5 dCi diesel engine — fitted in millions of vehicles. Fundamentally solid, but EGR valve and injectors are weak points.
Diesel in a small car — in 2017?
90 hp diesel — designed for long motorway runs, not for fun.
Engine Weaknesses 6
The K9K high-pressure pump can generate metal swarf that contaminates the entire fuel system. Pump, all four injectors, fuel lines, and tank must all be replaced.
Symptoms: Engine failure, starting difficulties, black smoke, metal particles visible in fuel filter.
The K9K timing belt can break prematurely if the injection pump is not correctly aligned. Misalignment causes the belt to fray at the edge and snap well before the replacement interval. Engine damage as it is an interference engine.
Symptoms: Belt noise, visible edge wear on timing belt, sudden engine shutdown
The K9K EGR valve clogs with soot deposits, especially during frequent short-trip driving. A stuck valve causes power loss and increased consumption.
Symptoms: Power loss, rough running, increased fuel consumption, check engine light with EGR fault code.
The K9K DPF does not regenerate sufficiently during frequent short-trip driving and clogs up. First problems often arise between 50,000 and 80,000 km.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, power loss, black smoke, regeneration cycles fail, vehicle enters limp mode.
The K9K charge air hose splits frequently, especially on older build years (FE0C version). Newer FE1C versions are more robust. The hose often tears at clamps or pinch points.
Symptoms: Sudden severe power loss, hissing noise under load, increased fuel consumption, check engine light.
The K9K camshaft sensor fails repeatedly from around 100,000 km. Sporadic starting problems and rough running are the result. Aftermarket sensors often last only a short time.
Symptoms: Sporadic starting problems, engine misfires, check engine light, occasional stalling
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
The K14 continues the pattern of its predecessors: MOT inspectors flag suspension components, road springs, and dampers at an above-average rate. The well-known Micra suspension issue carries over into the fifth generation.
The K14 shows oil loss from ageing drivetrain seals at higher mileage. Valve cover gaskets and crankshaft seals are frequently affected.
The Micra K14 rear brake drums corrode from road salt. Rear braking performance deteriorates; MOT-relevant.
The Micra K14 infotainment system spontaneously reboots while driving. Software updates partially fix the issue; on some vehicles it persists.
The Bluetooth connection of the K14 infotainment system is unstable with some smartphones. Connection drops and pairing problems have been reported by owners.