Nissan Rogue T32-FL
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The T32 facelift (2017–2020) gave the U.S. best-selling Rogue a refreshed design and more driver-assist tech, but stayed mechanically true to its predecessor: the 2.5-liter QR25DE with about 171 hp and the Jatco CVT — and therefore the same biggest weak point. The CVT can still shudder, shake, and fail. These model years also fall under the class-action against Nissan that settled for roughly $277 million, with the warranty extended to as much as 84 months / 84,000 miles. A transmission replacement runs $3,500 to $5,000. The facelift added more assist systems — and a new headache: the Rogue's automatic emergency braking (AEB) repeatedly activates with no obstacle present (phantom braking). It's well documented and the subject of numerous NHTSA complaints. Other issues: the liftgate struts corrode and break (recall 16V219), the sun visor falls down, climate and heat fail via the actuator, and the panoramic sunroof can shatter. Especially troublesome is water intrusion into the front footwell, for which Nissan issued a technical service bulletin (TSB NTB21-019) — blocked drains let water inside, leading to mold and electrical problems. Buying advice: Watch for wet floor mats and a musty smell. Test the CVT warm, evaluate AEB behavior, and check the VIN for the liftgate recall. Settlement eligibility and repair history are a must. Bottom line: The T32 facelift is a modern, well-equipped family crossover, but CVT risk, phantom braking, and water intrusion cloud the picture. With completed recalls, a dry interior, and a healthy transmission, it's a usable used buy — otherwise, walk away.
Generations
Engine Overview
The Nissan Rogue T32-FL is available with one engine variant at 165 hp.
The QR25DE is a 2.5L four-cylinder with a timing chain and balance shafts, built in the millions worldwide. It is known for noticeable oil consumption in the first generation (pre-2013, sometimes 1l per 1,000 km) and for catalytic converter breakdown, where an intake leak draws ceramic particles back toward the cylinders and causes bore wear. Later variants with revised piston rings and a changed PCV routing are far less troublesome.
- !! Intake manifold swirl flap screws come loose from 80,000 km
The lower intake manifold of the QR25DE contains four swirl flaps whose retaining screws can loosen and be sucked into the engine. This causes severe engine damage. Affects all QR25DE except the 2006 model year.
Symptoms: Sudden engine noise, severe power loss, increased oil consumption; in the worst case engine seizure - !! Pre-catalyst disintegration elevates oil consumption from 100,000 km
The QR25DE runs rich, causing the pre-catalyst integrated in the exhaust manifold to overheat and disintegrate. The substrate fragments damage cylinder walls and piston rings, leading to severely elevated oil consumption.
Symptoms: Steadily increasing oil consumption, possibly knocking noises; power loss; exhaust smell in cabin - !! Cylinder head/gasket failure from 180,000 km
At higher mileages, cylinder head cracks or head gasket failure can occur on the QR25DE in the X-Trail T30. The typical cause is localised overheating from coolant loss or thermostat problems. Repair costs approximately €1,500.
Symptoms: Coolant loss without visible leak, water in cylinders, overheating gauge
+ 8 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| CVT transmission failure (class action settlement) The Jatco CVT8 in the 2014-2018 Rogue was subject to a class action lawsuit resulting in an extended warranty to 84 months/84,000 miles. Symptoms include jerking, acceleration delays, and complete failure. Symptoms: Violent jerking or shuddering during acceleration, acceleration delays and unpredictable surges, hard jolt when climbing hills with sudden RPM spikes, vibrations between 30-40 mph, complete failure to accelerate from 160,000 km | High |
Alternatives
Audi Q3 F3
Compact SUV (2018–2024)
BMW X2 F39
Compact SUV (2018–2023)
Chevrolet Equinox D2XX
Compact SUV (2018–2024)
Cupra Ateca I
Compact SUV (2018–2020)
Hyundai Tucson TL-FL
Compact SUV (2018–2020)
Hyundai Nexo FE
Compact SUV (2018–2026)
Explore more
Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 18 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan Rogue T32-FL (2017–2020) — 11 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. One problem engine: QR25DE (2.5L). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Electronics, Other, Interior.
Rogue (QR25DE, 2017–2020) — 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 T32-FL have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Rogue T32-FL? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Nissan Rogue T32-FL engine is the most fun? +
Is the Nissan Rogue T32-FL worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Rogue T32-FL? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee