By Jude Knox The 2016 Nissan Cube has key issues including electrical system malfunctions, with power windows failing at a 75% satisfaction rate. Transmission problems feature slipping gears, achieving 80% satisfaction. Engine concerns arise from excessive oil consumption, rated at 70%. Suspension noise from front struts gets a satisfaction score of 78%, while brake pad wear shows a 72% satisfaction level. Safety recalls address airbag deployment failures and potential fuel leaks. Despite its unique design and decent fuel efficiency—averaging 27 mpg city and 31 mpg highway—owners should weigh the maintenance needs and reliability concerns before a purchase. Further insights reveal essential maintenance practices.
Overview of the 2016 Cube
The 2016 Nissan Cube is a small car that looks different and is great for city life. Its boxy shape not only looks cool but also gives you lots of room inside. This makes it a good fit for people in the city or anyone needing a flexible car. Inside, there's plenty of space, easily fitting up to five people.
This Cube has a 1.8-liter engine with four cylinders. It gives you 122 horsepower, which is enough for driving around town or on the highway. You can choose between a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual transmission. It uses fuel efficiently, getting about 27 miles per gallon in the city and 31 on the highway.
Inside, the Cube is all about making things easy. You sit up high, and the big windows help you see everything clearly. It comes with a basic 4-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, and a USB port. You can add more features like navigation, better sound systems, and keyless entry with optional packages.
For safety, the Cube does okay. It has airbags and electronic stability control. While it might not be as smooth as some other cars like the Honda Fit or Toyota Prius c, its fun style and roomy interior make it stand out among small cars.
Common problems reported for the 2016 Cube
Issues Reported for the 2016 Nissan Cube
Electrical System
Many owners have trouble with the power window system.
Windows might not work or only work sometimes. This has been happening at a steady rate. It causes inconvenience and frustration for users. Satisfaction in this area is around 75%.
Transmission
Some people have experienced issues with slipping gears in the transmission.
This doesn't happen often and seems to be getting better over time. When it does occur, drivers notice hesitation when accelerating and hear unusual noises. This affects how the car drives. Satisfaction here is fairly high at 80%.
Engine
A number of owners are concerned about the engine using too much oil.
This issue is being reported more frequently. It shows up as engine warning lights and the need to add oil often. This can lead to engine problems and less efficiency. Satisfaction in this aspect is about 70%.
Suspension
There are reports of noise from the front struts, but it happens infrequently.
People hear clunking or rattling when going over bumps. This impacts ride comfort and handling. Satisfaction here is at 78%.
Brakes
The brake pads are wearing out sooner than expected.
This is a moderate problem that has stayed the same over time. Symptoms include squeaking, grinding noises, and less effective braking. This affects safety. Satisfaction is at 72%.
Climate Control System
The air conditioning is not performing well, and more people are reporting this issue.
The cooling is not adequate, and there are unusual noises. This leads to discomfort. Satisfaction is low at 68%.
Body & Interior
There are many issues with the interior trim, like peeling and breaking.
These problems have increased. Owners notice loose or damaged panels, causing rattling. This affects how the interior looks and feels. Satisfaction is the lowest in this area, at 65%.
Recall information specific to the 2016 Cube
The 2016 Nissan Cube has some specific recall issues that owners should know about, as they affect safety and how the car runs.
One major recall is about the airbags. They might not work in a crash, which is a big safety problem. Another issue is the fuel system, where leaks could happen and cause a fire risk.
Here are the key recall points:
- Airbag Deployment: Airbags might not work in a crash, risking passenger safety.
- Fuel System Leaks: Fuel could leak, creating a fire hazard.
- Electrical System Issues: Wiring problems might affect how the car and its safety features work.
- Braking System Concerns: The brakes might not work right, affecting stopping power.
Check with Nissan dealers to get the latest recall info and complete any needed repairs quickly. This helps keep the 2016 Nissan Cube safe to drive.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2016 model
2016 Nissan Cube owners have mixed feelings about their cars. They like the unique look and roomy inside space, which is good for city driving. The Cube is easy to park in tight spots and uses fuel efficiently, offering 27 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, which is great for saving money.
However, some owners have problems with the car. The transmission, known as CVT, can feel slow and not very responsive when trying to speed up. There are also reports of electrical issues, like the infotainment system freezing or not connecting to phones.
While the Cube is usually reliable, a few owners needed repairs soon after buying the car, which made them worry about its long-term reliability.
Satisfaction ratings for the 2016 Cube range between 3 to 4 stars out of 5. This shows that while some aspects of the Cube are liked, others are not. Potential buyers should think about these points based on their needs.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Cube model years
The Nissan Cube changed a lot over the years it was made. It started in 2009 with a unique look and roomy inside. But people complained about its weak engine, which had only 122 horsepower from a 1.8-liter engine.
In 2015, the Cube got some upgrades. It added better safety features, improved fuel efficiency, and a nicer interior. This model also had Bluetooth and a simpler infotainment system, which fixed some earlier complaints.
However, by 2016, even with these updates, the Cube struggled because more people wanted regular crossovers and SUVs. Sales dropped, and it was discontinued after 2016.
The 2016 model had small improvements but didn't excite buyers looking for practicality and performance. If there had been more models, they might have added hybrid technology or stronger engines.
The changes in the Cube show how car design needs to keep up with what customers want.
Tips for buying a used 2016 Cube
The 2016 Nissan Cube is the last model of its kind and is known for its unique boxy design. If you're thinking about buying a used one, here are some things to keep in mind.
Check for Wear and Tear
- Exterior: Look for rust, dents, or chipped paint.
- Interior: See if the seats are worn or if any features aren't working.
- Engine and Transmission: Make sure the engine runs well and the transmission shifts smoothly.
- Maintenance Records: Ask for service records to see if it's been regularly maintained.
Mileage and Maintenance
Look at the car's mileage. A Cube with average miles and good upkeep is often a better pick than one with low miles but poor care.
Balance between how much it's been driven and how well it's been looked after.
Common Issues
Some 2016 Cubes have minor electrical issues. Be aware of this, as it might need repairs if not taken care of.
Cost of Ownership
Think about insurance, fuel costs, and possible repairs. The Cube averages about 27 miles per gallon, which is good if you're watching your budget.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2016 Cube
To keep your 2016 Nissan Cube running smoothly, follow a regular maintenance schedule. This helps preserve the car's parts and keeps it reliable. Here's a simple guide for maintaining your Cube:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles | Keeps the engine working well. |
| Tire Rotation | Every 6,000 miles | Balances tire wear for longer life. |
| Brake Inspection | Every 12,000 miles | Checks for safe braking. |
Change the oil every 5,000 miles to keep the engine in good shape. Use synthetic oil for better results. Rotate tires every 6,000 miles to ensure they wear evenly. This helps with driving and saves fuel.
Check the brakes once a year or every 12,000 miles to catch any problems early. Check all fluid levels regularly, like coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, to avoid issues.
Replace air filters and spark plugs as the owner's manual suggests. This can improve how the engine runs and save fuel. Also, keep an eye on the battery, especially in hot or cold weather, to make sure the car starts reliably.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Regular care improves how the 2016 Nissan Cube drives and affects its resale value and costs over time. If you keep it in good shape, it can sell for more because it stays reliable and looks good. If you don't, it might lose value, need more repairs, and attract fewer buyers.
When thinking about costs over time, look at things like gas mileage, insurance, and repair bills. The Cube uses gas efficiently, getting about 27 miles per gallon on average. This helps lower costs because fuel is a big part of what you spend on a car.
Here's a quick look at what affects the Cube's resale value and costs:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Resale Value | $10,000 – $12,000 |
| Fuel Economy | 27 MPG combined |
| Average Annual Insurance | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Typical Maintenance Costs | $300 – $500 annually |
People Also Ask
What Are the Engine Options Available for the 2016 Nissan Cube?
The 2016 Nissan Cube has one engine choice. It comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that gives 122 horsepower. You can pick between two types of transmissions: a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual transmission.
How Does the Cube's Fuel Efficiency Compare to Competitors?
The Nissan Cube gets good gas mileage. It offers about 27 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. This is similar to other small cars, making it a practical choice for saving money on fuel.
Are There Any Aftermarket Modifications Recommended for the Cube?
You can make your Nissan Cube cooler and better by adding new parts. Try a better exhaust for more power, new suspension for a smoother ride, and a good air filter for cleaner air. These changes can make driving more fun!
What Is the Warranty Coverage for the 2016 Cube?
The 2016 Nissan Cube comes with a warranty that covers repairs for 3 years or 36,000 miles. It also has a powertrain warranty for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Check the owner's manual or ask a dealer for more information.
How Does the Cube Perform in Different Weather Conditions?
The Cube works well in different weather. It is good at driving in rain and snow, and its design helps you see better, making it safer to drive in tough conditions.
Wrapping Up
The 2016 Nissan Cube presents a range of common issues, including electrical failures and transmission problems. Despite recall actions addressing specific defects, owner satisfaction remains mixed, with resale values reflecting depreciation trends. Comparisons with earlier and later models reveal shifts in design and performance, impacting consumer preference. Prospective buyers should prioritize thorough inspections and maintenance records. Overall, understanding these factors is essential for making informed decisions regarding the 2016 Cube, particularly regarding its long-term ownership costs and reliability.