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Nissan · Known Issues

2009-2014 Nissan Cube Problems: 4 Known Issues

2009-2014 model years · 1,035+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,035+ owner reports, the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube has 4 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering ($2,500-$4,500 repair) and Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving ($150-$700 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) No-Start Condition with 450 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Cube Engine2
  • Cube Transmission1
  • Cube Electrical1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine2
  • Transmission1
  • Electrical1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS201420132012201120102009

When Issues Typically Appear

Exhaust System Flange Separation and Heat Damage
60K-90K
CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering
80K-120K
Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving
84K-126K
038K75K113K150K mi
Community reported
180 owners

Multiple owners report the Cube stalling unexpectedly while driving at various speeds, including highway speeds. The engine shuts off without warning, causing loss of power steering and power brakes. In some cases, pumping the accelerator at the moment of stalling can catch the engine before it dies completely. The issue has been linked to faulty crankshaft position sensors, throttle body failures, and ECM software bugs.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX45, Infiniti G35, Infiniti G37

Common Symptoms

  • Engine stalls without warning while driving
  • Loss of power steering and brakes during stall
  • Engine dies at idle or low speed
  • Check engine light may or may not illuminate
  • Difficulty restarting after stalling

How to Fix

Start with cleaning the throttle body and checking for vacuum leaks. Replace the crankshaft position sensor if codes P0335 or P0340 are present. Have the ECM software updated at a Nissan dealer. If the problem persists, the throttle body assembly may need replacement. Always keep up with spark plug replacement at the recommended 105,000-mile interval.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan crankshaft position sensor 23731-1VA0A

    2009-2014 Cube 1.8L on the live fitment table; confirm VIN and connector/current supersession.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan camshaft position sensor 23731-EN22A

    2009-2014 Cube 1.8L on the live fitment table; confirm VIN/current supersession.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan electronic throttle body 16119-9SE0A

    Confirm VIN/core terms and complete all required electronic-throttle learning.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan spark plug 22401-JD01B

    Quantity four; verify VIN, plug specification and gap-handling instructions.

    NissanPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipClean the throttle body with CRC Throttle Body Cleaner every 30,000 miles — this prevents carbon buildup that causes stalling.
  • WarningStalling at highway speeds is extremely dangerous. If it happens more than once, do not drive until diagnosed.
Typical repair cost:$150 - $700

Research This Issue

Based on 180 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence180 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
85 owners

The exhaust system on the Cube is prone to separating at the flange connections, particularly where the manifold meets the catalytic converter section. When the exhaust separates, extreme heat from the broken joint can damage the rear bumper and surrounding components. The heat shield coverage does not adequately protect the area near the common separation point, which is near the fuel tank.

Common Symptoms

  • Loud exhaust noise that suddenly gets worse
  • Smell of exhaust fumes inside the cabin
  • Visible heat damage or melting on rear bumper
  • Rattling noise from underneath the vehicle
  • Exhaust leak sound on cold starts

How to Fix

Inspect exhaust flange connections regularly, especially after 60,000 miles. If you notice increased exhaust noise or smell exhaust in the cabin, have it inspected immediately. Replacement of the exhaust flange gaskets and bolts is the typical repair. If the flange itself is damaged, a section of exhaust pipe may need replacement. Aftermarket stainless steel flanges are more durable than OEM.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan exhaust gasket 20691-57E01

    2009-2014 Cube on the live fitment table; confirm the exact joint and VIN before purchase.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan exhaust bearing seal 20695-ED10E

    2009-2014 Cube on the live fitment table; identify the leaking joint and confirm VIN before purchase.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan front exhaust tube with catalyst 20010-1FN0A

    Confirm VIN, emissions label, catalyst requirements and core terms.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan center exhaust pipe/sub-muffler 20300-1FC0B

    2009-2014 Cube on the live fitment table; confirm the failed section and VIN.

    NissanPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipApply anti-seize compound to exhaust flange bolts during any exhaust work to prevent future seizing and make repairs easier.
  • WarningIf exhaust separates near the fuel tank area, stop driving immediately — the heat near the tank is a fire risk.
Typical repair cost:$200 - $800

Research This Issue

Based on 85 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence85 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
320 owners

The Jatco CVT in the Cube is prone to premature failure, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. Owners report shuddering during acceleration, delayed engagement from Park, and eventual complete transmission failure. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on some models to 10 years/120,000 miles, but many Cubes fall outside this coverage. The CVT belt stretches and the valve body develops issues, leading to erratic behavior before total failure.

This issue also affects: Infiniti QX55, Infiniti QX60, Nissan Altima

Common Symptoms

  • Shuddering or juddering during acceleration
  • Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive
  • Whining or humming noise from transmission
  • RPM surging without corresponding acceleration
  • Vehicle hesitates or jerks at low speeds

How to Fix

Check if your VIN qualifies for Nissan's extended CVT warranty. If experiencing early symptoms (shuddering, slipping), have the CVT fluid changed with Nissan NS-2 fluid — this can extend life. Once failure occurs, replacement with a remanufactured CVT ($2,500-$4,000) is more cost-effective than a new unit. Avoid aggressive driving and ensure CVT fluid stays clean.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan NS-2 CVT fluid 999MP-CSHNS2

    Determine quantity and level procedure from current service information and verify VIN.

    Chapman Nissan Parts
  • Remanufactured RE0F08B CVT transmission GPTTNN4480BA36AA

    Confirm VIN, transmission code, core terms, installer requirements, cooler service and programming/adaptation before order.

    Drivetrain Direct

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipChange CVT fluid every 30,000 miles with genuine Nissan NS-2 fluid to extend transmission life.
  • WarningDo NOT flush the CVT — only drain and fill. Flushing can dislodge debris and cause immediate failure.
  • TipIf the CVT fails, a remanufactured unit is typically half the cost of a dealer replacement and carries a warranty.
Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $4,500

Research This Issue

Based on 320 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence320 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
450 owners

The electronic steering column lock module can fail, preventing the vehicle from starting. Nissan acknowledged this defect with service campaign NTB11-057. The ESCL can become stuck in the locked position, and the dashboard displays a steering lock warning. This is a known manufacturing defect in the ESCL module affecting multiple Nissan models from this era.

Common Symptoms

  • Vehicle will not start — steering lock warning on dash
  • Key turns but engine does not crank
  • Steering wheel locked and cannot be turned
  • Intermittent no-start conditions
  • ESCL warning light illuminated

How to Fix

Nissan issued voluntary service campaign NTB11-057 to address this. Contact your dealer to check eligibility. If out of coverage, the ESCL module replacement costs $600-$1,000. Some independent shops can repair the module for less. As a temporary workaround, repeatedly cycling the key or wiggling the steering wheel may release the lock.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipCheck with your Nissan dealer first — this may be covered under the voluntary service campaign at no cost.
  • TipIf the ESCL fails, try turning the key while gently rocking the steering wheel left and right — this sometimes releases the lock temporarily.
Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,000

Research This Issue

Based on 450 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence450 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
NHTSA Recalls3 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2014 Versa Sedan vehicles manufactured July 16, 2013, to January 29, 2014, 2013-2014 Cube vehicles manufactured July 3, 2013, to October 21, 2013, and 2013-2014 Juke vehicles manufactured July 3, 2013, to October 22, 2013. When exposed to hot temperatures, the affected vehicles have an engine start/stop button that may stick inside the button housing.

Campaign #15V41800001/07/2015

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE

NISSAN IS RECALLING MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 NISSAN CUBE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 30, 2009 THROUGH JULY 30, 2010. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS ROTATED FOLLOWING A REAR MOVING BARRIER CRASH TEST AS REQUIRED, THE AMOUNT OF FUEL LEAKAGE EXCEEDED THE ALLOWABLE LIMITS.

Campaign #10V33000022/07/2010

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Cube vehicles. The driver’s air bag inflator may rupture or detach from the steering wheel during air bag deployment.

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Other Nissan Models

Nissan Rogue46Nissan Altima41Nissan Sentra32Nissan Frontier30Nissan Pathfinder24Nissan Murano22

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Nissan Cube problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,035+ owner reports, the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering, Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving, Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) No-Start Condition. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Nissan Cube reliable?

The 2009-2014 Nissan Cube has 4 known issues documented across 1,035+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering and Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Cube problems?

Repair costs for known Nissan Cube issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering, typically costs $2,500-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Nissan Cube is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Nissan Cube. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube with 4 documented issues documented across 1,035+ owner reports.

What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering?

The Jatco CVT in the Cube is prone to premature failure, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. Owners report shuddering during acceleration, delayed engagement from Park, and eventual complete transmission failure. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on some models to 10 years/120… Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,500. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 1,035+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #26V23000010/04/2026

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving?

Multiple owners report the Cube stalling unexpectedly while driving at various speeds, including highway speeds. The engine shuts off without warning, causing loss of power steering and power brakes. In some cases, pumping the accelerator at the moment of stalling can catch the e… Repairs typically run $150-$700. Severity: high.

What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) No-Start Condition?

The electronic steering column lock module can fail, preventing the vehicle from starting. Nissan acknowledged this defect with service campaign NTB11-057. The ESCL can become stuck in the locked position, and the dashboard displays a steering lock warning. This is a known manufa… Repairs typically run $0-$1,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube Exhaust System Flange Separation and Heat Damage?

The exhaust system on the Cube is prone to separating at the flange connections, particularly where the manifold meets the catalytic converter section. When the exhaust separates, extreme heat from the broken joint can damage the rear bumper and surrounding components. The heat s… Repairs typically run $200-$800. Severity: medium.