Quick Facts — Nissan Pulsar

Est. On UK Roads
25,000+
Years Made
2014–2018
Common Engines
1.2 DIG-T 115ps, 1.6 DIG-T 190ps, 1.5 dCi 110ps

6 Most Common Nissan Pulsar Problems

These are the faults most frequently seen on the Nissan Pulsar by UK garages — ranked by how commonly they occur and what they cost to fix.

1
Timing Chain (1.2 DIG-T)
High Priority
The 1.2 DIG-T carries the same timing chain tensioner fault as the Qashqai. Cold-start rattle must be investigated immediately.
💷 Typical repair cost: £700–£1,800
2
DPF Blockage (1.5 dCi)
High Priority
Diesel Pulsars on short-journey use develop DPF blockages. The same issue as across Nissan's diesel range.
💷 Typical repair cost: £100–£1,000
3
CVT Judder (1.2 DIG-T Auto)
Watch
The Xtronic CVT on automatic Pulsar models can develop judder on higher-mileage examples.
💷 Typical repair cost: £800–£2,500
4
Infotainment Glitches
Low Priority
The Pulsar's infotainment can freeze and lose connectivity on older examples.
💷 Typical repair cost: £0–£200
5
Electric Window Regulator
Low Priority
Window regulator failures are seen on some Pulsar models.
💷 Typical repair cost: £80–£200
6
Air Con Compressor Failure
Low Priority
AC compressor failures on older Pulsar models.
💷 Typical repair cost: £200–£500

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Nissan Pulsar — MOT Tips

Check the 1.2 DIG-T for cold-start timing chain rattle before MOT. DPF warning is an automatic fail on diesel models. CVT must engage smoothly. Being a discontinued model, parts can be harder to source.

Engine management light on before your MOT? It's an automatic fail. Run a Find Your Problem Now → to get the likely cause and repair cost before booking the test.

Nissan Pulsar Tyres

Most Nissan Pulsar models run 205/60 R16 or 215/55 R17 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common problem with the Nissan Pulsar?

The most frequently reported issue on the Nissan Pulsar is Timing Chain (1.2 DIG-T). The 1.2 DIG-T carries the same timing chain tensioner fault as the Qashqai. Cold-start rattle must be investigated immediately.

How many Nissan Pulsars are on UK roads?

There are an estimated 25,000+ Nissan Pulsars currently on UK roads.

What tyres does the Nissan Pulsar use?

Most Nissan Pulsar models run 205/60 R16 or 215/55 R17 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

Will a warning light fail my Nissan Pulsar's MOT?

Check the 1.2 DIG-T for cold-start timing chain rattle before MOT. DPF warning is an automatic fail on diesel models. CVT must engage smoothly. Being a discontinued model, parts can be harder to source.

Similar Issues on Other Models

Hyundai i20 — also commonly develops air con compressor failure Volkswagen Polo — also commonly develops air con compressor failure

Summary

The Pulsar is a good-value used buy given its low desirability and strong practicality. The 1.2 DIG-T timing chain is the most important check. The 1.5 dCi is best avoided for short-journey use. The 1.6 DIG-T is the most entertaining engine in the range.

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Other Nissan Models

Nissan Qashqai → Nissan Juke → Nissan Leaf → Nissan Micra →