Nissan Roque Years to Avoid

Do you know which Nissan Roque years to avoid?

The Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV that has been sold in North America since the 2008 model year.  Over the years, it has gone through several generational updates and changes in platform, powertrain, and technology. Because of this evolution, some model years have proven more problematic than others.

When shopping used, knowing which years to avoid can save you headaches, repair bills, and reliability issues down the road.

Key Problem Areas in the Rogue Lineup

Before we dig into specific model years, it’s helpful to understand the recurring problem areas in the Rogue:

1. CVT Transmission Issues
   Many of the earlier Rogues use a continuously variable transmission (CVT). These transmissions, especially in early implementations, are more sensitive to maintenance and prone to wear, slipping, or failure under stress.

2. Electrical & Control Module Failures
   Some Rogues have issues with sensors, modules, or wiring that can lead to erratic behavior of systems (e.g. HVAC, infotainment, etc.).

3. Recall-Related Defects
   Nissan has issued recalls for Rogue variants, including issues with key fob/ignition systems on models from 2014 to 2020 (where a folding key might shut off the engine inadvertently).

4. Cooling, Mechanical Wear & Age-Related Degradation
   As the vehicle ages, components like the cooling system, gaskets, hoses, and related parts degrade, which can exacerbate reliability issues in weaker years.

5. Engine Problems (Recent Recall)
   More recently, Nissan has recalled certain Rogues in the 2021–2024 model years (and some other Nissan models) for possible engine bearing defects that could lead to engine damage or failure.

Given those recurring weak points, let’s see which years tend to stand out as especially troublesome.

Nissan Roque Years to Avoid

Based on user reports, reliability studies, complaint databases, and expert articles, these model years tend to be flagged more frequently:

It’s worth noting: “avoid” doesn’t mean “never buy.” Many of these years can still be solid choices if well-maintained, with clean service history, and perhaps with high mileage forgiven or accounted for. But buyers should approach them with caution and awareness of likely problem zones.

---

Why These Years Are Riskier

1. Transmission / CVT Failures

The biggest red flag across multiple years is CVT reliability. In the early Rogues and early second-generation models, owners frequently report slipping, hesitation, sudden loss of acceleration, and in extreme cases, full transmission replacement. Sometimes fixes are partial (reprogramming, fluid changes), but often the root mechanical wear is already there. [1]

2. Recall & Faulty Key Fob / Ignition Design

The folding (jackknife) key design used in many 2014–2020 Rogues has been linked to safety recalls because in some cases the key could fold while driving, disabling the ignition. That’s a serious safety concern, not just a nuisance. [2]

3. Engine Bearing Issue (Recent Recall Risk)

As of 2025, Nissan issued a recall involving certain Rogues from 2021–2024 over potential engine bearing defects that could cause engine damage over time.  If you look at one of those years, make sure the recall work has been done or that the car has been inspected thoroughly. [3]

4. Electrical / Module Failures & Age Effects

Older Rogues tend to accumulate wear in their wiring, electronic control units, sensors, and related systems. Some HVAC, sensor, or module failures can be tricky and costly to diagnose.

5. Parts & Repair Cost Escalation in Weak Years

Because of the design or inherent weak points in certain years, parts may wear faster and labor is more intensive—so repair bills can escalate. For example, replacing a failing CVT is far more expensive than doing routine maintenance.

Model Years That Tend to Be Safer Bets

While “avoid” gets attention, it’s equally helpful to know which years tend to be more reliable in the Rogue line:

• Later second-generation models (2019–2020) are often praised for improvements in transmission reliability and drivetrain cooling.

• The third generation (2021 and onward) introduced updates and often better component quality, although the engine bearing recall means buyers should be cautious and ensure recalls are addressed.

• Some sources also point to model years like 2015 and 2016 as relatively more stable (though not without their flaws) compared to the poorest years.

Tips for Buying a Used Rogue (Especially Risk Years)

If you’re considering a Rogue from one of the riskier years, here are checkpoints and strategies to mitigate your risk:

1. Request Full Service History
   Especially with transmission and fluid changes. A Rogue whose CVT fluid was changed on schedule (if the owner did it) is much more trustworthy.

2. Check for Recalls
   Ensure that key fob/ignition recalls (2014–2020) and the 2021–2024 engine bearing recall have been completed. Use VIN-based recall lookup tools (e.g. NHTSA in U.S.).

3. Get a Transmission Inspection
   Watch for slipping, hesitation, rough feel, or metal debris in the drain plug or fluid. If possible, have a technician inspect or road-test the CVT under different loads.

4. Scan for Trouble Codes / Electrical Problems
   Look for pending or active DTCs for modules, sensors, and check for odd behaviors in HVAC or infotainment systems.

5. Prefer Higher Trim or Better Spec Versions
   Sometimes better-trim versions have more robust cooling, better options, or more attention to build quality. Also, low mileage is a plus, though parts age matters too.

6. Factor in Warranty / Reserve for Repairs
   In a year you’re “taking a chance” on, budget for possible CVT or module work. Consider extended warranties if available in your market.

7. Test Drive Thoroughly
   Drive on hilly terrain, under load (overtaking) and in stop-and-go traffic to see how the CVT behaves under different conditions.

Related: Nissan X-trail problems

Conclusion

The Nissan Rogue has been a popular compact crossover for many years, but that popularity doesn’t guarantee consistent reliability across all years. If you’re shopping used, some model years have more documented trouble than others.

Years to approach with caution or avoid include early Rogues (2008–2010), mid-era ones like 2013 and 2014–2016, and 2018, largely because of CVT issues, recalls, and electrical fragility. Even 2021–2024, usually considered newer and safer, has one significant recall you need to be aware of.

If you aim for a safer bet, later models (post-2018, or well-kept 2019–2020) are generally more refined and less prone to catastrophic issues—though no car is perfect. Always get a detailed inspection, confirm recall completions, and weigh repair risk before you commit.