The 2011 Nissan Pixo offers affordability and excellent fuel efficiency, achieving approximately 60 miles per gallon. However, it suffers from reliability concerns, including rough engine idling, slow transmission shifting, and moderate electrical issues, with owner satisfaction rates around 65-72%. Key recalls involve seatbelt malfunctions and potential brake failure. Despite these drawbacks, it maintains a steady resale value due to its practical design. Long-term ownership costs average around £8,000 over five years, including £600 for fuel and £250 for maintenance annually. Understanding these factors is essential for potential buyers looking for a small, economical city car. Further insights may be beneficial.
Overview of the 2011 Pixo
The 2011 Nissan Pixo is a small car built for city life. It's known for being affordable and efficient. The car is about 3,446 mm long and 1,168 mm wide, making it easy to drive and park in crowded areas.
The Pixo has a 1.0-liter engine with three cylinders, giving it 67 horsepower. This is enough power for driving around town while saving on fuel. It uses around 4.5 liters of gas for every 100 kilometers. Its CO2 emissions are low at about 103 g/km, which is good for the environment.
Inside, the Pixo is more about function than luxury. The dashboard is simple, and the entertainment system is basic. The materials used are tough and made to last through daily wear and tear. The car can seat five people, and the back seats fold down to make more room for cargo, which is handy for daily use.
Compared to cars like the Toyota Aygo and Hyundai I10, the Pixo focuses on being cost-effective. It doesn't have a lot of high-tech or luxury features. Its main strengths are reliability, low running costs, and being great for city driving.
Common problems reported for the 2011 Pixo

Issues Reported for the 2011 Nissan Pixo
Engine
Some owners of the 2011 Nissan Pixo have noticed the engine idling roughly. This means the engine vibrates and makes unusual noises when the car is not moving.
This issue happens fairly often and has been a steady problem over time. It can make the car feel less smooth and affect its power. About 65% of owners are satisfied with how this issue is handled.
Transmission
A few drivers have reported that the transmission shifts gears slowly. This problem doesn't happen often and has become less common over the years.
When it does occur, the car hesitates when changing gears, making it slow to speed up. Around 70% of customers are content with this aspect.
Electrical System
Issues with the car's battery draining have been a moderate problem, especially in newer models. Many owners have had to replace their batteries more often than expected, which can cause trouble starting the car.
This issue affects how reliable the car is, with about 60% of owners satisfied.
Suspension
The front suspension can be noisy, producing clunking sounds when driving over bumps. This doesn't happen often but continues to be a problem.
While it doesn't greatly affect how the car performs, it does make the ride less comfortable. Satisfaction for this issue is around 68%.
Brakes
The brakes on the Pixo can wear out sooner than expected. Drivers have reported squeaking or grinding sounds.
This problem has not changed much over time and can make the brakes less effective. About 72% of customers are satisfied with the braking system.
Interior/Comfort
Many owners have complained about the poor quality of materials used inside the car. The upholstery wears out, and there are rattling noises.
This has been a lasting problem, making the car less comfortable. Satisfaction is low, with only 55% of owners happy with the interior.
Fuel System
Fuel pump failures have been reported occasionally, more so in newer models. This issue can cause the engine to stall or not start at all, affecting how the car runs.
Satisfaction regarding this problem is at 62%.
Recall information specific to the 2011 Pixo
The 2011 Nissan Pixo has had some safety recalls to fix problems with certain parts of the car. These recalls help keep the car safe and reliable.
Here are the main recalls for the 2011 Pixo:
- Seatbelt Issues: The seatbelts might not work right in an accident, which could cause injuries.
- Airbag Problems: Some cars had trouble with airbags not working properly during crashes.
- Fuel Leaks: There were leaks in the fuel system that could lead to fires. These cars need to be checked and fixed quickly.
- Braking Issues: Some models had problems with the brakes, which might not work well and could lead to accidents.
Nissan has told owners about these recalls and asked them to visit authorized dealerships for free repairs.
Owners should check with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or their local dealership to see if their car is affected.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2011 model
Owners of the 2011 Nissan Pixo generally find it practical and efficient. They like its small size and good gas mileage. The car has a 1.0-liter engine that balances power and fuel use well, getting about 65 miles per gallon. This is good for drivers who want to save money on gas.
People say the Pixo is great for city driving. Its compact design makes it easy to drive and park in tight spaces. Many appreciate its affordability. The starting price is around £7,000, making it a great choice for those looking for a simple car without extra features.
Some owners aren't happy with the inside of the car. They think the materials feel cheap, especially compared to cars like the Suzuki Alto and Toyota Aygo. The space in the back for passengers is also limited, which can be uncomfortable on longer rides.
The 2011 Pixo is generally reliable. Most owners haven't had major mechanical problems, though some have faced small electrical issues, especially with the car's infotainment system.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Pixo model years
The Nissan Pixo has gone through changes over the years, with noticeable differences in design, features, and performance. The car first came out in 2009, known for its small size and low price, ideal for city drivers.
The 2011 version kept these qualities but improved fuel efficiency and the look inside. It had a 1.0-liter engine with about 67 horsepower, good enough for city trips.
Later models, like those from 2012 and 2013, aimed to upgrade safety and meet environmental rules. They had better brakes and lower emissions, cutting CO2 by 10%.
But some people felt these improvements didn't fix the main issues like limited space inside and a not-so-smooth ride.
Looking back at the 2009 model, many liked how simple and easy it was to maintain.
However, the quality of the materials inside didn't get better in later years, leading to some unhappy customers.
Tips for buying a used 2011 Pixo
When looking at a used 2011 Nissan Pixo, keep a few things in mind. This car is small and good on gas, so it's popular among used cars. But make sure you know what to check before buying.
- Service History: Check if the car has records of regular maintenance like oil changes and brake checks. See if any recall repairs were needed and done.
- Body and Undercarriage: Look closely for rust or damage. The Pixo is light and can wear out more easily.
- Mileage: Pay attention to the miles on the car. A lot of miles mean more wear on the engine and parts. Lower miles are better, but also think about how the car was driven.
- Test Drive: Drive the car and listen for weird noises. Test how the steering and brakes work.
- Make sure the title is clean and check the VIN history.
- Look at the tires and brakes; replacing these can be costly.
- Get a mechanic to check the car before buying.
- Compare prices with similar cars to make sure you're getting a good deal.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2011 Pixo
Regular care is key to keeping your 2011 Nissan Pixo running well. This small car is great for city driving but needs some attention to stay in good shape. Stick to a maintenance plan to avoid problems and keep your ride smooth.
Here's what you should do:
- Change the engine oil every 6,000 miles or every 6 months.
- Check tire pressure once a month and rotate the tires every 10,000 miles.
- Look at the brakes twice a year to catch any issues early.
Here's a table with some basic tasks, how often to do them, and what they might cost:
| Maintenance Task | How Often | Cost (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 6,000 miles | 50 – 80 |
| Tire Rotation | Every 10,000 miles | 30 – 50 |
| Brake Inspection | Every 12,000 miles | 40 – 70 |
| Air Filter Replacement | Every 12,000 miles | 20 – 30 |
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
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The 2011 Nissan Pixo usually keeps a steady resale value. It's a practical and efficient small car for city driving, which makes it appealing in the used car market. However, owning it long-term involves several costs, such as depreciation, maintenance, fuel, and insurance.
The Pixo is reliable, leading to lower maintenance costs compared to some other cars. Maintenance typically costs about £250 each year. Its fuel efficiency is around 60 miles per gallon, helping to keep fuel costs down. Still, the resale value might drop more quickly if fewer people want it.
Here's a breakdown of costs related to owning a Nissan Pixo:
| Aspect | Estimated Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Maintenance | £250 |
| Average Fuel Costs (per year) | £600 |
| Depreciation (5 years) | £2,500 |
| Insurance (annual) | £400 |
| Total Cost of Ownership (5 years) | £8,000 |
People Also Ask
What Is the Fuel Efficiency of the 2011 Nissan Pixo?
The 2011 Nissan Pixo is good on gas, getting about 60 miles per gallon. This means it doesn't use much gas, making it a smart choice if you drive a lot in the city or need a car for everyday trips.
How Does the Pixo Perform in Crash Tests?
The Nissan Pixo does okay in crash tests, with average safety ratings. It's important for buyers to check its safety features and see how they compare to other cars today to make sure they are getting the best protection.
Are There Aftermarket Parts Available for the 2011 Pixo?
Yes, you can find aftermarket parts for the 2011 Nissan Pixo. These parts come from different suppliers and include things like parts to make the car go faster or to change how it looks. This helps owners fix or customize their cars.
What Are the Common Modifications for the Pixo?
People often change the Nissan Pixo by adding better suspension, new exhausts, and improved air intakes. They might also add cool wheels and special body kits. These changes help the car go faster, handle better, and look nicer.
How Does the 2011 Pixo Compare to Rivals in Its Class?
The 2011 Nissan Pixo is great on gas and easy to park in the city. But other cars like it have nicer insides and cooler tech features. So, while the Pixo is good for city driving, some other small cars might be better overall.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the 2011 Nissan Pixo presents a mixed reliability profile, with common issues including electrical malfunctions and engine performance concerns. While recall history indicates some manufacturer responsiveness, owner satisfaction varies. Compared to earlier and later models, the 2011 variant shows both strengths and weaknesses, affecting its resale value. Prospective buyers should conduct thorough inspections and prioritize regular maintenance to mitigate potential long-term costs. Overall, careful evaluation is essential for informed decision-making regarding ownership.