Nissan X-Trail T31-FL
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The T31 facelift (2010–2014) is the mature final stage of the second X-Trail generation and, for many, the last "true" version with a conventional torque-converter automatic and no CVT worries. Gently revised in looks and refined in engineering, the concept stayed the same: a boxy compact five-door SUV with a proper selectable all-wheel-drive system (All-Mode 4x4), a high seating position and a practical interior. Precisely because the T32 successor became a problem child thanks to its CVT, the T31 facelift is, for many buyers, the more sensible, more reliable choice.
The engine range was trimmed. Remaining are the petrol MR20DE (2.0L, 144 hp) and the diesel M9R (2.0L, up to 150 hp). The MR20 is the uncomplicated, frugal all-rounder — underpowered for the weight but durable, provided oil and coolant are maintained. The M9R diesel pulls harder and is more economical, but carries the known issues of its type: EGR coking, a coked intake manifold and DPF problems on pure short trips. It is ideal for long distances, less so for purely urban use — there it cokes up faster and the particulate filter clogs.
Model-specific vehicle weaknesses are not yet recorded for this generation in our database — so it is sensible to look at the closely related pre-facelift T31, whose weaknesses largely carry over: underbody and sill rust, rust on the door frames beneath the entry trims, worn control arms and rubber bushes, warping brake discs, a creaking steering column, a leaking third brake light, and above all the blocked sunroof drain with water in the A-pillar. The A/C compressor (magnetic clutch) and the blower resistor can also fail. Important: the automatic gearbox overheats when towing — frequent towers should choose the manual or retrofit auxiliary cooling.
Buying advice: The M9R diesel with a manual is the best long-distance choice, provided maintenance (DPF, EGR, chain) is documented. Those driving short trips should take the MR20 petrol. Do not use the torque-converter automatic for towing. On every example, inspect the underbody, door frames, sunroof drains and brakes — and ideally seek a rustproofed underbody, since rust is the value-defining issue.
Verdict: The T31 facelift is a reliable, honest family SUV with clearly known and manageable weaknesses — and without the CVT troubles of its T32 successor. Check the rust and water issues and pick the right engine, and you get a rugged used car that will last for years yet. For buyers who put reliability over modernity, often the wiser choice than the T32.
Generations
Engine Overview
The Nissan X-Trail T31-FL is available with 2 engine variants — from 140 to 177 hp.
Turbocharged two-litre common-rail diesel with strong pull — around 150 to 177 hp and plenty of torque low down. Composed in daily use, but not a worry-free unit. Early builds before 2011 suffer turbo failures, and automatic variants saw premature conrod bearing wear — oil change intervals are sacred. Injectors and the high-pressure pump wear with mileage, and the particulate filter clogs on short runs. The EGR cooler with its pressure valve and the turbo oil return line are known to leak. A complete service record and regular long-distance running are the best insurance.
- !! Connecting rod bearing early failure with automatic from 40,000 km
Early M9R variants with automatic gearbox show connecting rod bearing failure at very low mileage (14,000–57,000 km). Nissan extended the warranty to 150,000 km and issued internal technical bulletins.
Symptoms: Metallic knocking from the engine, sudden engine failure, oil pressure warning light, engine will not turn over. - !! Turbocharger failure before 2011 build year from 100,000 km
Pre-revision M9R engines (before 2011) show frequent turbocharger failures occurring in conjunction with the connecting rod bearing damage. The revised version from 2011 is significantly more reliable.
Symptoms: Whistling or rattling turbo noise, blue smoke, severe power loss, limp mode. - !! Timing chain stretch, tensioner rail wear from 200,000 km
At higher mileage the M9R timing chain stretches, sprockets and tensioner rails wear out. In the worst case the chain jumps. Replacement is labour-intensive and usually requires removing the engine (except the Espace).
Symptoms: Rattling or clattering on cold start, juddering when cranking, tractor-like knocking from shifted valve timing, power loss.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Sturdy naturally aspirated 2.0L with a timing chain from the MR family, putting out roughly 141 to 144 hp. Torque sits higher in the rev range, so it feels lazy down low. Generally long-lived, but the chain can stretch if oil changes get neglected, with engine damage possible in the worst case. Elevated oil consumption traces back to the crankcase ventilation and worn valve stem seals. The camshaft sensor and thermostat fail occasionally. Keep an eye on the oil level and this unit will run for ages.
- !! Timing chain stretched — engine damage possible from 110,000 km
In the MR20DE the timing chain stretches prematurely and can jump a tooth. The result is severe engine damage from piston-to-valve contact. Nissan extended the warranty to 150,000 km.
Symptoms: Rattling from the timing chain area on cold start, check engine light, starting difficulties, rough running. - !! Elevated oil consumption from crankcase ventilation from 130,000 km
The MR20DE crankcase ventilation is prone to failure, significantly increasing oil consumption. Alternatively, worn valve stem seals at higher mileage can also drive up oil consumption.
Symptoms: Dropping oil level, blue smoke when accelerating or on overrun, oil mist in intake system. - !! CVT gearbox oil cooler leaking from 120,000 km
In the MR20DE with CVT automatic the gearbox oil cooler can start leaking. Mixing of coolant and gearbox oil causes gearbox damage if not detected early.
Symptoms: Grinding or humming noises while driving, gearbox oil changes colour and consistency, gear shunting.
+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 13 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan X-Trail T31-FL (2010–2014).
X-Trail (M9R, 2010–2014) — Be Careful: Connecting rod bearing early failure with automatic, Turbocharger failure before 2011 build year, Timing chain stretch, tensioner rail wear. Power: 150 PS.
X-Trail (MR20DE, 2010–2014) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretched — engine damage possible, Elevated oil consumption from crankcase ventilation, CVT gearbox oil cooler leaking. Power: 140–141 PS.
What to watch out for with the Nissan X-Trail? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee