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Nissan · Compact SUV · 2008–2015 Custom Search

Nissan Rogue S35

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations


Engine Overview

The Nissan Rogue S35 is available with one engine variant at 165 hp.

Rogue · Petrol· 170 PS
2008 2015
Stay Away! 10 weaknesses

The Nissan Rogue (Petrol, 170 PS) has the QR25DE (2.5L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 10 known weaknesses.

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Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
CVT transmission complete failure (Jatco RE0F10A)

The Jatco JF011E CVT is the Rogue's Achilles heel. The metal push belt loses grip on the variator pulleys due to degraded fluid and heat buildup, leading to complete transmission failure typically between 80,000 and 130,000 miles.

Symptoms: Loss of acceleration, vehicle unable to exceed 3,000 RPM (fail-safe mode), loud whining or grinding from transmission, check engine light with codes P0868 or P0746, vehicle will not move
from 120,000 km
High
CVT transmission overheating and fail-safe activation

The CVT fluid temperature protection logic activates after sustained high-RPM or highway driving, per TSB NTB14-002d. The transmission enters limp mode to protect itself, but the underlying cooling is inadequate for the vehicle's weight.

Symptoms: Transmission temperature warning light, reduced power after 60-90 minutes of highway driving, jerking and hesitation during acceleration, vehicle enters limp mode at highway speeds
from 100,000 km
Medium
!CVT judder and shudder during acceleration

Vibration and shuddering during acceleration, especially between 20-40 mph. Caused by worn variator pulleys and degraded CVT fluid. Often the first sign of impending CVT failure.

Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration, jerking sensation between 20-40 mph, RPM fluctuations without corresponding speed change, delayed engagement when shifting from Park
from 80,000 km
Low

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan Rogue S35 (2008–2015) — 10 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. One problem engine: QR25DE (2.5L). Typical issues affect Gearbox, HVAC, Body, Electronics.

Rogue (QR25DE, 2008–2015) — Stay Away!: Intake manifold swirl flap screws come loose, Pre-catalyst disintegration elevates oil consumption, Cylinder head/gasket failure. Power: 170 PS.

Rogue (QR25DE, 2014–2017) — Stay Away!: Intake manifold swirl flap screws come loose, Pre-catalyst disintegration elevates oil consumption, Cylinder head/gasket failure. Power: 171 PS.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Nissan Rogue S35 have? +
The Nissan Rogue S35 has 10 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Rogue S35? +
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 QR25DE (2.5L). Problem engine: QR25DE (2.5L) — stay away!
Which Nissan Rogue S35 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Nissan Rogue S35 — rated: "Not Really". {description} The 2.5L engine itself is fine, but the Jatco CVT behind it is a ticking time bomb. Buying a Gen 1 Rogue means buying a CVT failure on installment. Only consider used ones with documented CVT fluid changes and under 60,000 miles. Otherwise, walk away.
Is the Nissan Rogue S35 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Nissan Rogue S35 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Rogue S35? +
The Nissan Rogue S35 is available with engine variants from 165 to 169 hp. Petrol: QR25DE (2.5L).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee