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Nissan · Compact · 2014–2018

Nissan Pulsar C13

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.7 / 5.0 · Based on 3 engine variants
Most Fun Engine

163–218 PS

1.6L Benzin

190 hp DIG-T: best Pulsar engine

Decent
Problem Engine

116 PS

1.2L Benzin

4 weaknesses

Stay Away!

Engine Overview

The Nissan Pulsar C13 is available with 3 engine variants — from 65 to 218 hp.

1.5L · Diesel· 110 PS
2014 2018
Be Careful 6 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.2L · Benziner· 116 PS
2014 2018
Stay Away! 4 weaknesses
1.6L · Benziner· 190 PS
2015 2018
Stay Away! 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Nissan 1.5L (Diesel, 110 PS) has the K9K (1.5L) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.

The Nissan 1.2L (Benziner, 116 PS) has the HRA2DDT (1.2L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 4 known weaknesses.

The Nissan 1.6L (Benziner, 190 PS) has the MR16DDT (1.6L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 4 known weaknesses.

NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,387 complaints · 2014–2018
Powertrain
591 ⚠ 13
Engine
245 ⚠ 4
Other
225 ⚠ 10
Electrical
164 ⚠ 3
Cruise Control
156 ⚠ 9

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (591 complaints)
⚠ Engine (245 complaints)
⚠ Other (225 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 Pulsar C13 (2014–2018). 2 problem engines: HRA2DDT (1.2L), MR16DDT (1.6L).

Pulsar (K9K, 2014–2018) — Be Careful: High-pressure pump metal contamination — total fuel system failure, Timing belt breaks prematurely — injection pump, EGR valve clogged with soot. Power: 110 PS.

Pulsar (HRA2DDT, 2014–2018) — Stay Away!: Timing chain stretches prematurely, High oil consumption from defective piston rings, CVT gearbox jerks and overheats. Power: 116 PS.

Pulsar (MR16DDT, 2015–2018) — Stay Away!: Timing chain — known weak point, Turbocharger susceptible to poor maintenance, High-pressure pump and injectors susceptible. Power: 190 PS.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Nissan Pulsar C13 have? +
The Nissan Pulsar C13 has 14 known engine weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Pulsar C13? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: K9K (1.5L). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the MR16DDT (1.6L). Problem engine: HRA2DDT (1.2L) — stay away!
Which Nissan Pulsar C13 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Nissan Pulsar C13 — rated: "Decent". {description} With the turbo petrol the Pulsar finally becomes a compact with bite — fun in Golf territory.
Is the Nissan Pulsar C13 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Nissan Pulsar C13 — 2 of 3 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Pulsar C13? +
The Nissan Pulsar C13 is available with engine variants from 65 to 218 hp. Petrol: HRA2DDT (1.2L), MR16DDT (1.6L). Diesel: K9K (1.5L).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee