Nissan Rogue Years to Avoid (And the Best Years to Buy)
The Nissan Rogue is one of the best-selling SUVs in America — and for good reason. It's practical, comfortable, and affordable. But like any vehicle, some model years are significantly more reliable than others. If you're shopping for a used Nissan Rogue, knowing which years to avoid can save you thousands in repair bills.
This guide covers the Nissan Rogue years with the most reported problems, the years that are considered the most reliable, and what to look for when buying one at a public auto auction in Texas.
Nissan Rogue Years to Avoid
2013 Nissan Rogue — Most Complaints
The 2013 Rogue is widely considered the worst model year to buy. Owners have reported significant transmission problems, including jerking, hesitation, and complete transmission failure — often occurring at relatively low mileage. CVT (continuously variable transmission) repairs can run $3,000 to $5,000 or more. The 2013 model also had issues with the air conditioning system and electrical components.
2014 Nissan Rogue — CVT Problems Continue
The 2014 Rogue carried over many of the same CVT issues from 2013. Transmission shuddering and failure remained common complaints. If you're considering a 2014, budget for potential transmission work or avoid it altogether.
2015 Nissan Rogue — Reliability Improved But Still Risky
The 2015 model represented a complete redesign of the Rogue, which addressed some issues. However, early production 2015 models still had CVT concerns. The 2015 also had reports of engine hesitation and some electrical issues. Better than 2013-2014, but not the strongest year.
2017 Nissan Rogue — Engine and Transmission Issues
The 2017 Rogue generated a notable number of complaints around engine stalling, hesitation, and — again — CVT problems. Some owners reported the vehicle shuddering at highway speeds. The 2017 is one of the more complained-about years in the second-generation Rogue lineup.
2018 Nissan Rogue — Known Problems
The 2018 model had issues with the advanced safety features (automatic emergency braking misfiring) as well as continued CVT concerns. Some owners also reported problems with the infotainment system freezing or resetting.
Best Nissan Rogue Years to Buy
2016 Nissan Rogue — Sweet Spot
The 2016 model is generally considered one of the most reliable second-generation Rogues. It had fewer transmission complaints than surrounding years, solid fuel economy, and a well-equipped interior. If you find a clean 2016 with reasonable mileage, it's worth serious consideration.
2019 Nissan Rogue — Improved Reliability
Nissan addressed many of the recurring CVT issues in the 2019 model year. Owner satisfaction improved noticeably, and the number of serious complaints dropped compared to earlier years. The 2019 is a solid used buy if the price is right.
2020 Nissan Rogue — Strong Year
The 2020 Rogue continued the reliability improvements of the 2019. It also came with updated technology features and safety systems that work more consistently than the 2018 model. A well-maintained 2020 Rogue is one of the better used options available.
2021 Nissan Rogue — Completely Redesigned
Nissan completely redesigned the Rogue for 2021, and early reliability data has been positive. The new platform addressed many of the long-running CVT complaints. The 2021 and newer models are worth looking at if you want a more modern option.
What to Check Before Buying a Used Nissan Rogue
Regardless of model year, here's what to inspect before buying any used Rogue:
CVT Transmission — This is the most important thing to check. During a test drive, listen for any shuddering, jerking, or hesitation, especially when accelerating from a stop or at highway speeds. Any of these symptoms can signal an expensive repair.
Service History — CVT fluid changes are critical for Rogue longevity. Ask for service records and look for regular fluid maintenance. A Rogue with no service history is a risk.
Recall History — Check the VIN at nhtsa.gov to see if any open recalls exist on the vehicle. Some CVT-related issues resulted in extended warranty coverage from Nissan — a dealer may have already addressed these.
Cooling System — Check for any signs of coolant leaks or overheating history, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.
Electronics — Test all the infotainment, safety features, and backup camera before buying. The 2018 model in particular had infotainment issues.
Where to Find a Used Nissan Rogue in Texas
If you're looking for a used Nissan Rogue at a fair price in the Austin area, Public Auto Auctions runs a live online auction every Saturday at 10AM from Kyle, TX — just 20 miles south of Austin.
Vehicles go up for bid with no dealer markup and no haggling. You bid what you're willing to pay, and if you win, that's your price. Registration is free at carstrucksandboats.com.
The current week's run list is posted on the auction calendar before each Saturday auction, so you can preview what's available and do your research before bidding day.
Register free at carstrucksandboats.com and check the auction calendar to see if a Rogue is on this week's run list.