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Nissan · Known Issues

2018 Nissan NV Problems: 4 Known Issues

2018 model year · 310+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 310+ owner reports, the 2018 Nissan NV has 4 documented known issues. None of the listed issues is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. The most commonly reported issue is Radiator Plastic End Tank Cracking and Coolant Leak with 110 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • NV Engine1
  • NV Transmission1
  • NV Fuel System1
  • NV Body/Panels1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Transmission1
  • Fuel System1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS2021202020192018201720162015201420132012
Community reported
110 owners

On the 2012-2021 Nissan NV, the Nissan NV cargo van uses a radiator with plastic end tanks that develop cracks from heat cycling and vibration inherent to commercial van use. The cracks typically form at the crimp joint between the plastic tank and aluminum core. The V8 NV 2500/3500 models are more susceptible due to higher operating temperatures, especially when loaded to capacity. A cracked radiator causes gradual coolant loss that can lead to overheating if not caught early.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX50, Nissan Armada, Nissan Juke

Common Symptoms

  • Coolant dripping from front of engine area
  • Low coolant warning light
  • Visible crack at radiator end tank seam
  • Engine running hotter than normal, especially when loaded
  • Coolant residue visible on radiator face

How to Fix

Replace the radiator with a quality aftermarket unit that has reinforced plastic tanks or an all-aluminum radiator. Mishimoto and Spectra Premium make direct-fit replacements. Replace the radiator hoses and thermostat during the repair. Flush the cooling system with fresh Nissan Long Life Coolant (blue). Install a supplemental coolant overflow catch bottle if the van is regularly loaded to capacity.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Nissan NV radiator 21460-1PA1A

    Confirm VIN, engine, cooler ports and build date.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan 2017-2021 NV 5.6L VK56VD radiator 21410-9JJ0A

    Do not cross-apply to VQ40DE or 2012-2016 VK56DE; confirm VIN and cooler connections.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan blue long-life 50/50 coolant 999MP-L25500P

    Verify owner/service manual, system capacity and existing coolant compatibility. This is 50/50 premix; do not dilute or use it as proof of a radiator failure.

    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

  • TipReplace radiator hoses and thermostat during the radiator swap — this is free labor overlap and old hoses will fail soon after the radiator
  • WarningCheck coolant level weekly if the NV is loaded to capacity daily — a small crack can escalate to a blown radiator under heavy load conditions
Typical repair cost:$200 - $600

Research This Issue

Based on 110 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Low Confidence110 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
105 owners

On the 2012-2021 Nissan NV, the Nissan NV 1500/2500/3500 models use a 5-speed automatic transmission (RE5R05A) that overheats under heavy load conditions — particularly when the van is loaded to its GVWR in hot weather. The factory transmission cooler is marginally sized for commercial use. Overheating degrades the ATF, causing the torque converter clutch to shudder and the shift quality to deteriorate. The NV 3500 passenger van with full seating capacity is especially prone.

This issue also affects: Nissan Altima, Nissan Cube, Nissan GT-R

Common Symptoms

  • Transmission overheating warning when fully loaded
  • Harsh or delayed shifting after extended highway driving
  • Torque converter shudder at 40-50 mph
  • Transmission fluid dark or burnt smell
  • Reduced tow rating performance

How to Fix

Install an auxiliary transmission cooler with a thermostat — this is the most important modification for any NV used commercially. Change ATF every 30,000 miles with Nissan Matic S fluid. If shudder is already present, a fluid flush with new ATF can resolve early-stage torque converter clutch issues. A transmission temperature gauge helps monitor temperatures during heavy loads.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Nissan Matic S automatic transmission fluid 999MP-MAT00S

    Verify VIN, transmission code, quantity and temperature-based level procedure.

    Chapman Nissan Parts
  • Derale Series 8000 universal plate-fin transmission cooler kit D13502

    A qualified installer must confirm space, capacity, adapters, hose pressure/temperature rating, series routing and any separate thermostat before purchase.

    etrailer

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 ATF every 30,000 miles with Nissan Matic S — the factory "lifetime fill" recommendation is for passenger car duty, not commercial van use
  • WarningAn auxiliary transmission cooler should be considered mandatory equipment for any NV used for delivery, passenger transport, or towing
Typical repair cost:$150 - $3,000

Research This Issue

Based on 105 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Low Confidence105 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2012-2021 Nissan NV, the NV's fuel level sending unit fails, causing inaccurate fuel gauge readings. The gauge may read full when the tank is half empty, drop suddenly to empty, or fluctuate erratically. The issue is caused by the float arm rheostat wearing out from fuel sloshing (common in commercial vans that drive stop-and-go). Running out of fuel unexpectedly is a real risk for commercial operators.

This issue also affects: Nissan Armada, Nissan Frontier, Nissan Titan

Common Symptoms

  • Fuel gauge reads inaccurately
  • Gauge drops from half to empty suddenly
  • Gauge reads full after partial fill-up
  • Low fuel warning triggers at wrong level
  • Gauge fluctuates while driving

How to Fix

Replace the fuel level sending unit ($150-$300 for parts). The unit is accessed by removing the fuel tank or through an access panel (model-dependent). Reset the fuel gauge after installation. Track fuel consumption by odometer until the repair is completed to avoid running out of gas. Some owners install a secondary fuel level gauge as backup for commercial vehicles.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Nissan 2017-2021 NV 5.6L fuel-level sender 25060-9JJ0B

    Do not use on 4.0L V6 or 2012-2016 VK56DE; confirm VIN and applicable Nissan service bulletin.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan NV in-tank pump and sender module 17040-1PA0A

    Catalog broadly lists 2012-2021 NV but vehicle diagrams identify the VQ40DE 4.0L branch; verify VIN, engine, build date and module connector before purchase. Do not replace a working pump/module when a separate later-V8 sender applies.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan NV fuel-pump/sender tank seal 17342-7S000

    Confirm VIN and discard a compressed, damaged or fuel-swollen old seal.

    AutoPartsPrime

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

  • TipUntil you fix the sending unit, reset your trip odometer at every fill-up and track your miles per tank. The NV V8 gets about 300 miles per tank. Don't trust the gauge.
Typical repair cost:$200 - $500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
Community reported
95 owners

On the 2012-2021 Nissan NV, the NV cargo van's large rear barn-style cargo doors suffer from hinge pin wear that causes the doors to sag and become difficult to close. Commercial and delivery vans experience this more rapidly due to high door cycle counts. The heavy steel doors put significant stress on the hinge pins, which wear oval-shaped holes in the hinge plates. A sagging door scrapes the body, doesn't seal properly against the weatherstrip, and can leak water into the cargo area.

Common Symptoms

  • Rear cargo doors sagging when opened
  • Doors difficult to close — require lifting while closing
  • Door scraping on body panel at bottom
  • Gap between door and body allowing water in
  • Grinding noise when opening or closing cargo doors

How to Fix

Replace the hinge pins and bushings using a Dorman hinge pin repair kit. If the hinge plates themselves are worn (egg-shaped holes), the hinges must be replaced entirely. Use a door jack or helper to support the door weight during hinge work. Apply anti-seize to new hinge pins and grease with white lithium grease. Lubricate hinges every 3 months on high-cycle commercial vans.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Nissan NV rear cargo-door hinge assembly 90400-1PA2A

    Cataloged for 2012-2021 NV full-size vans; confirm VIN, cargo/passenger body, rear-door side/position, required quantity, paint and mounting hardware before ordering.

    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

  • TipGrease rear cargo door hinges with white lithium grease every 3 months on commercial delivery vans — this prevents the expensive hinge replacement
  • TipUse a floor jack under the door to support its weight during hinge pin replacement — the NV cargo doors are extremely heavy
Typical repair cost:$50 - $400

Research This Issue

Based on 95 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Low Confidence95 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
NHTSA Recalls3 recalls

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Campaign #19V65400012/09/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2012-2017 NV Cargo and NV Passenger Van, 2013-2015 Titan and Armada and 2011-2012 Infiniti QX56 vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the air bag inflator may not function properly or may rupture during deployment.

Campaign #20V18800030/03/2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Nissan NV problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 310+ owner reports, the 2018 Nissan NV has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Radiator Plastic End Tank Cracking and Coolant Leak, 5-Speed Automatic Transmission Overheating Under Load, Fuel Gauge Sending Unit Failure. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the Nissan NV reliable?

The 2018 Nissan NV has 4 known issues documented across 310+ owner reports. None of the matching records is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

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

Repair costs for known Nissan NV issues range from $50 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2012-2021 Nissan NV Radiator Plastic End Tank Cracking and Coolant Leak?

The Nissan NV cargo van uses a radiator with plastic end tanks that develop cracks from heat cycling and vibration inherent to commercial van use. The cracks typically form at the crimp joint between the plastic tank and aluminum core. The V8 NV 2500/3500 models are more suscepti… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: medium.

What is the 2012-2021 Nissan NV 5-Speed Automatic Transmission Overheating Under Load?

The Nissan NV 1500/2500/3500 models use a 5-speed automatic transmission (RE5R05A) that overheats under heavy load conditions — particularly when the van is loaded to its GVWR in hot weather. The factory transmission cooler is marginally sized for commercial use. Overheating degr… Repairs typically run $150-$3,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2012-2021 Nissan NV Fuel Gauge Sending Unit Failure?

The NV's fuel level sending unit fails, causing inaccurate fuel gauge readings. The gauge may read full when the tank is half empty, drop suddenly to empty, or fluctuate erratically. The issue is caused by the float arm rheostat wearing out from fuel sloshing (common in commercia… Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.

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 310+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2017 Nissan NV200, Sentra, NV3500 Van, NV3500 Bus, NV200 Taxi, NV1500, NV2500 Van, Chevrolet City Express, 2017-2018 Frontier, Versa Note, and Versa Sedan vehicles that have a mechanical (physical) key ignition system. In these models, over time, the weight on the key ring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.

Campaign #18V55100022/08/2018

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

What is the 2012-2021 Nissan NV Rear Cargo Door Hinge Pin Wear and Door Sagging?

The NV cargo van's large rear barn-style cargo doors suffer from hinge pin wear that causes the doors to sag and become difficult to close. Commercial and delivery vans experience this more rapidly due to high door cycle counts. The heavy steel doors put significant stress on the… Repairs typically run $50-$400. Severity: low.