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Nissan · Van · 2011–2017 Custom Search

Nissan Quest E52

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Engine Overview

The Nissan Quest E52 is available with one engine variant at 280 hp.

Quest · Petrol· 264 PS
2011 2017
Stay Away! 12 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Nissan Quest (Petrol, 264 PS) has the VQ35DE (3.5L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 12 known weaknesses.

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Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖CVT failure — most expensive repair on the E52 Quest

The E52 Quest CVT most commonly fails between 80,000–100,000 miles. At up to $7,500 in repair costs, this is the single most expensive repair on this vehicle. In documented cases a replacement CVT failed again after only 11,000 miles.

Symptoms: Jerking and slippage on take-off; transmission fails to respond to throttle; complete loss of drive on the highway; CVT overheating with dashboard warning
from 90,000 km
Ad CVT replacement transmission Nissan Quest E52 2012Jatco RE0F09B CVT Quest 2013CVT fluid NS-2 Nissan Quest E52
 High

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 18 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan Quest E52 (2011–2017) — 12 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: VQ35DE (3.5L). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Body, Brakes, HVAC.

Quest (VQ35DE, 2011–2017) — Stay Away!: Severe oil consumption from defective piston rings, Con rod bearing wear from oil starvation, Plastic timing chain guides fracture. Power: 264 PS.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Nissan Quest E52 have? +
The Nissan Quest E52 has 12 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Quest E52? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the VQ35DE (3.5L). Problem engine: VQ35DE (3.5L) — stay away!
Which Nissan Quest E52 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Nissan Quest E52 — rated: "Decent". {description} Surprisingly quick for a minivan. The CVT is less stressed here than in the SUVs. Solid long-distance vehicle.
Is the Nissan Quest E52 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Nissan Quest E52 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Quest E52? +
The Nissan Quest E52 is available with engine variants from 280 to 280 hp. Petrol: VQ35DE (3.5L).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee