Install Chrome Extension Chrome Extension
Nissan · Mid-Size SUV · 2010–2014 Custom Search

Nissan X-Trail T31-FL

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants · How we rate

Generations


Engine Overview

The Nissan X-Trail T31-FL is available with 2 engine variants — from 140 to 177 hp.

2.0L · Diesel· 150 PS
2010 2014

Renault-Nissan 2.0 dCi with common rail. Powerful, but susceptible to injector damage and DPF issues with short-trip driving.

  • !! Connecting rod bearing early failure with automatic from 50,000 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.
    3,500–7,000 $
  • !! 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.
    1,200–3,000 $
  • !! Injectors and high-pressure pump wear from 130,000 km

    Like all common rail diesels the M9R high-pressure pump is critical. Injectors coke up with short-trip driving. Dual-mass flywheel is an additional cost item at higher mileage.

    Symptoms: Hard combustion (diesel knock), power loss, starting difficulties, check engine light on injector fault.
    800–3,000 $

+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

2.0L · Petrol· 140–141 PS
2010 2014

Solid 2.0L naturally aspirated engine with timing chain. Reliable, but older variants are prone to elevated oil consumption.

  • !! 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.
    800–2,500 $
  • !! 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.
    200–1,500 $
  • !! 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.
    1,500–4,000 $

+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below average
1,991 complaints · 2010–2014
  1. 01 Powertrain
    876 ⚠ 4
  2. 02 Cruise Control
    298 ⚠ 13
  3. 03 Engine
    289 ⚠ 8
  4. 04 Airbags
    286 ⚠ 38
  5. 05 Electrical
    252 ⚠ 2

Top Reported Issues

Powertrain (876 complaints)
Cruise Control (298 complaints)
Engine (289 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Hyundai Santa Fe DM

Mid-Size SUV (2012–2018)

Same Segment

Mitsubishi Outlander III

Mid-Size SUV (2012–2021)

Same Segment

Fiat Freemont JC

Mid-Size SUV (2011–2016)

Same Segment

Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2

Mid-Size SUV (2011–2021)

Same Segment

Mercedes-Benz GLE W166

Mid-Size SUV (2011–2019)

Same Segment

BMW X3 F25

Mid-Size SUV (2010–2017)

Explore more

Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 12 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, Injectors and high-pressure pump 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

What problems and weaknesses does the Nissan X-Trail T31-FL have? +
The Nissan X-Trail T31-FL has 12 known engine weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan X-Trail T31-FL? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: MR20DE (2.0L), M9R (2.0L). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the M9R (2.0L).
Which Nissan X-Trail T31-FL engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Nissan X-Trail T31-FL — rated: "Not Really". {description} 150 hp diesel with AWD — for skiing trips and towing, not for driving pleasure.
Is the Nissan X-Trail T31-FL worth buying used? +
The Nissan X-Trail T31-FL requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan X-Trail T31-FL? +
The Nissan X-Trail T31-FL is available with engine variants from 140 to 177 hp. Petrol: MR20DE (2.0L). Diesel: M9R (2.0L).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee