By Jude Knox The 2018 Nissan Note presents a practical compact hatchback with a 1.2-liter petrol engine, achieving up to 60 mpg. Performance reviews indicate adequate city driving capabilities, but powertrain issues, particularly with the CVT transmission, are common, showing 70% satisfaction. Notable problems include electrical system failures leading to battery drain (65% satisfaction) and infotainment glitches (67% satisfaction). Safety recalls address airbag malfunctions and fuel leaks. Owner feedback highlights spacious interiors but mentions concerns about build quality. Compared to earlier models, the 2018 version offers advanced features but mirrors previous issues. Further insights reveal significant aspects of ownership experiences.
Overview of the 2018 Note
The 2018 Nissan Note is a compact hatchback that's great for city driving. It's small on the outside but roomy inside, making it a good pick for people living in the city or small families. The car measures 4,100 mm long, 1,695 mm wide, and 1,535 mm high, providing plenty of headroom and legroom.
This car has different engine options. The most common one is a 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol engine that gives 80 bhp. You can choose between a five-speed manual or a CVT (continuously variable transmission). The fuel efficiency is impressive, with the car getting about 60 mpg combined, which is good for saving money on gas.
Inside, the Note is designed with practicality in mind. The trunk space is 437 liters and can be made bigger by folding the rear seats. This is competitive for its class.
It also has a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to stay connected.
Safety features include emergency braking, lane departure warning, and multiple airbags.
The 2018 Nissan Note is a reliable, economical hatchback choice in a busy market.
Common problems reported for the 2018 Note
| Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | CVT Transmission Problems | Moderate | More reports in 2019 | Slipping or hesitation during speed up | Slower acceleration, less responsive | 70% |
| Electrical System | Battery Drain | High | Consistent yearly | Warning lights on dashboard, car fails to start | Can't start, electrical issues | 65% |
| Suspension | Front Suspension Noise | Moderate | Stable, often reported | Clunking or knocking over bumps | Hurts ride comfort, handling | 72% |
| Braking System | Brake Noise | Low | Fewer reports now | Squeaking or grinding when braking | Worse braking efficiency | 78% |
| Interior Features | Infotainment Glitches | Moderate | More frequent over time | System freezes or restarts | Distracts and annoys drivers | 67% |
| Cooling System | Overheating Issues | Low | No big changes | Rising temperature gauge, engine alerts | Possible engine damage | 75% |
| Steering System | Power Steering Problems | Low | Rare, but more reports | Hard to steer, warning lights | Steering control affected | 80% |
Overview of Problems in 2018 Nissan Note
- Powertrain:
- CVT Transmission Problems: Owners notice moderate issues with the CVT transmission, like slipping or hesitation when trying to speed up. Reports increased in 2019, affecting how well the car accelerates and responds. Satisfaction is at 70%.
- Electrical System:
- Battery Drain: Many have faced battery drain problems year after year. It shows up as dashboard lights or the car not starting. This impacts reliability with just 65% satisfaction.
- Suspension:
- Front Suspension Noise: There are moderate complaints about noise, like clunking or knocking, over bumps. This issue hasn't changed much and affects ride comfort, with a 72% satisfaction rate.
- Braking System:
- Brake Noise: Fewer people report brake noise now, with issues like squeaking or grinding when braking. There's better satisfaction at 78%.
- Interior Features:
- Infotainment Glitches: More people notice glitches in the infotainment system, such as freezing or rebooting, which can distract drivers and lead to frustration. Satisfaction is 67%.
- Cooling System:
- Overheating Issues: Few reports of overheating, with no major changes over time. Warning signs include a rising temperature gauge, which could damage the engine. Satisfaction stands at 75%.
- Steering System:
- Power Steering Problems: Rare but slightly increasing reports of steering problems, making it hard to steer and triggering warning lights. This affects steering control, but satisfaction is high at 80%.
Recall information specific to the 2018 Note
The 2018 Nissan Note has had some recalls to fix important safety and performance problems. These recalls address issues that could affect the safety of both drivers and passengers.
Here are the key recalls for the 2018 Nissan Note:
- Airbag problems: Some models might have trouble with airbags not working properly during a crash.
- Brakes issues: Parts of the braking system might not work well, which could lead to accidents.
- Fuel leaks: There have been reports of fuel leaking, creating a fire risk.
- Electrical faults: Problems with the electrical system can cause headlights and other systems to fail.
Owners should contact authorized dealerships to get these issues fixed promptly.
Checking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for updates on recalls is a good idea.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2018 model
Owner feedback on the 2018 Nissan Note is varied, showing both good and bad points. Many like its roomy inside, noting plenty of cargo space and comfy seats. The back seats offer enough legroom and headroom, which attracts families and those who often have passengers.
The car has a 1.2-liter, three-cylinder engine with 79 horsepower. It's fine for city driving, but some find it lacking on highways. The automatic transmission, called CVT, gets mixed reviews; some feel it's smooth, while others notice it hesitates when speeding up.
In terms of gas mileage, the Note does well, with many owners getting around 50 miles per gallon in mixed driving. Safety features are good, including a top rating from Euro NCAP, though some wish for more advanced driving aids.
However, there are complaints about build quality and the inside materials, which some think are not as nice as other cars. Noise inside the cabin and limited entertainment options are also mentioned.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Note model years
The Nissan Note has changed a lot over the years in terms of design, performance, and technology features. The first model, launched in 2005, was a small family car that focused on offering lots of space inside. It had a 1.5-liter engine with about 100 horsepower, but the driving experience wasn't as good as some other cars like the Honda Jazz.
In 2013, Nissan gave the Note a new look with a special "V-motion" grille and a more streamlined shape. This version used a 1.2-liter engine that was more fuel-efficient, getting around 65 miles per gallon. It also included new safety features like a camera system that helped with parking, making it a stronger competitor in the market.
By 2018, the Note saw more updates, especially with the introduction of hybrid models. These hybrids used a combination of a 1.2-liter gas engine and an electric motor, achieving up to 74 miles per gallon. Inside, it got new tech features like a user-friendly touchscreen and options to connect smartphones.
The 2020 models came with a sleeker design and better driver-assist systems, though some people felt the engines were not as powerful as those in cars like the Ford Fiesta.
Tips for buying a used 2018 Note
When thinking about buying a used 2018 Nissan Note, make sure to gather all the information you need. This car is practical and efficient, but there are a few things to check before you buy.
- Service History: Look at the car's service records. A car that's had regular oil changes and tire rotations is likely in better shape. See if any recall work has been done too.
- Mileage: Check the mileage on the odometer. A 2018 Note should have between 30,000 to 40,000 miles. More miles might mean more wear, while fewer miles could mean the car wasn't used much.
- Condition: Inspect the car inside and out. Look for rust, dents, or scratches on the outside. Inside, make sure everything works, like the radio and air conditioning.
- Engine and Fuel: The 2018 Note comes with either a petrol or diesel engine. The petrol version gets about 54 miles per gallon. Think about your driving needs to decide which engine is better for you.
- Look at the car's service records.
- Check the mileage.
- Inspect the condition.
- Compare engine types and fuel economy.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2018 Note
Regular maintenance keeps your 2018 Nissan Note running smoothly. Stick to a routine to avoid problems down the road.
Here's what to do:
- Oil Changes: Change the oil and filter every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This keeps the engine lubricated.
- Tire Care: Check tire pressure once a month. Rotate the tires every 6,000 miles to wear them evenly.
- Brake Checks: Look at brake pads every six months to avoid wearing them out.
Regular tasks and when to do them:
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Interval | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000-7,500 miles | Keeps engine lubricated |
| Tire Rotation | Every 6,000 miles | Ensures even tire wear |
| Brake Inspection | Every 6 months | Avoids excessive brake wear |
| Air Filter Replacement | Every 15,000 miles | Makes engine run better |
| Coolant Flush | Every 30,000 miles | Stops engine from getting too hot |
Follow these steps to keep your Nissan Note in good shape. Regular checks help prevent future issues and make driving safer and smoother.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
If you're thinking about buying or already own a Nissan Note, knowing about its resale value and ownership costs can help. The Nissan Note is practical and reliable, which helps keep its resale value steady. Compared to cars like the Ford Fiesta and Hyundai i20, the Note's value holds up well. Things like mileage, condition, and how many people want it can change its value.
Here's a look at what it costs to own a Nissan Note over time:
| Cost Factor | Nissan Note |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Maintenance Cost | $450 |
| Depreciation Rate (5 years) | 40% |
The maintenance cost for a Nissan Note is about $450 a year. This is good for people who want to keep costs low. This amount usually covers regular check-ups and any repairs needed, which aren't often because the car is reliable.
Depreciation affects how much money you get back when selling the car. The Note keeps about 60% of its value after five years. This is better compared to the Ford Fiesta and Hyundai i20, which lose value faster.
People Also Ask
What Is the Fuel Economy of the 2018 Nissan Note?
The 2018 Nissan Note can go about 50 to 65 miles on one gallon of gas. This means it's pretty good at saving fuel, making it a smart choice if you want a small car that doesn't use a lot of gas.
How Does the 2018 Note Perform in Crash Tests?
The 2018 Nissan Note does well in crash tests. It has strong safety features that help keep people safe in accidents. The car's design includes special technology to protect everyone inside, making it a safe choice for drivers and passengers.
What Are the Common Accessories for the 2018 Note?
The 2018 Nissan Note has accessories like floor mats to keep it clean, roof bars for extra storage, parking sensors to help park safely, rearview cameras to see what's behind, and smartphone kits to connect your phone. These make the car more useful and fun to drive.
Are There Aftermarket Modifications for the 2018 Nissan Note?
Yes, you can modify the 2018 Nissan Note with special parts. You can make it faster with new exhausts and tuning chips or make it look cool with custom wheels and body kits. You can also add bright lights to make it stand out!
What Is the Warranty Coverage for the 2018 Note?
The 2018 Nissan Note usually has a warranty for three years or 36,000 miles. This means if something is wrong with the car because of how it was made, Nissan will fix it. Important engine parts might have extra coverage too.