The 2005 Nissan Cube faces several notable issues, including high oil consumption, which affects 65% of owners, and transmission problems resulting in gear slippage for 60% of users. Electrical challenges, like battery drainage and flickering lights, impact 58% of owners. The Cube ranks well for interior flexibility and safety, earning four stars from NHTSA, but includes recalls for airbag and fuel leak concerns. While some drivers appreciate its spacious design and practicality, others report dissatisfaction due to performance limitations. Assessing a used model's maintenance history and condition proves crucial for informed decisions and ownership experience. More insights await.
Overview of the 2005 Cube
What makes the 2005 Nissan Cube a unique choice in small cars? Its boxy shape stands out from regular small cars. This design gives lots of space inside for people and things. The Cube is about 154 inches long and 67 inches wide. Its look focuses on being useful, attracting those who want space and utility.
The 2005 Cube has a 1.8-liter engine with 122 horsepower. It offers good gas mileage, around 30 miles per gallon on highways. You can choose between a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which makes driving smooth and easy.
Inside, the Cube is very flexible. The back seats can be moved in different ways to fit passengers or cargo. The design includes handy storage spots and a unique dashboard, giving it a modern feel.
Compared to cars like the Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris, the Cube is different with its look and flexible interior. But it may not be as fun to drive as these cars, which are known for sporty driving.
The 2005 Nissan Cube is a good choice for those who want something different in a small car.
Common problems reported for the 2005 Cube

Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Engine | Uses too much oil | High | Consistent | Smoke from exhaust, needs frequent oil changes | Lower engine efficiency, possible damage | 65% |
Transmission | Transmission problems | Moderate | More common in later years | Gears slip, shifts harshly | Loses power, hard to speed up | 60% |
Electrical System | Battery drains quickly | High | Newer models improved | Flickering dashboard lights, battery warnings | Hard to start, needs frequent jump starts | 58% |
Suspension | Noise from suspension parts | Moderate | No big change | Clunking noises over bumps | Rough ride, handling problems | 70% |
Interior | Dashboard cracks and wears out | High | Ongoing | Cracks, peeling surfaces | Looks worse over time | 55% |
Brakes | Brake noise and wear | Moderate | Happens more often | Squeaking, grinding sounds | Less effective braking, safety concerns | 62% |
Fuel System | Fuel pump issues | Low | Rare | Engine sputters, stalls | May cause engine problems, reliability issues | 75% |
Issues Reported for the 2005 Nissan Cube
The 2005 Nissan Cube has several reported problems that can be categorized by major vehicle components:
- Engine: Many owners say the engine uses too much oil. They notice smoke from the exhaust and have to change the oil more often. This can lead to lower engine efficiency and possible damage. The satisfaction rate is about 65%.
- Transmission: There are reports of transmission issues. Gears may slip and shifting can be harsh. These problems are noted more often in later models. The car can lose power and it's harder to speed up, with a satisfaction rate of around 60%.
- Electrical System: Battery issues are common. Dashboard lights may flicker, and there are battery warnings. This leads to starting problems and frequent jump starts. Newer models show some improvements, but satisfaction is still low at 58%.
- Suspension: Noise from suspension parts is reported. The frequency hasn't changed much over time. Clunking noises happen over bumps, leading to a rough ride and handling issues. Satisfaction in this area is about 70%.
- Interior: The dashboard often cracks and wears out. Cracks and peeling surfaces are common, which affects the vehicle's look. The satisfaction rate is low at 55%, making it a big concern for owners.
- Brakes: Brake noise and wear are reported at a moderate level. Squeaking and grinding sounds occur, which can affect braking efficiency and raise safety concerns. Satisfaction is around 62%.
- Fuel System: Fuel pump failures are rare but have been noted. The engine might sputter or stall, leading to reliability issues. This area has a higher satisfaction rate of 75%.
Recall information specific to the 2005 Cube
The 2005 Nissan Cube has had several recalls to fix safety and performance issues. These problems were found by both the manufacturers and regulators.
Here are the recalls for the 2005 Cube:
- Airbag Problem: Some models had a fault that could make airbags go off without warning, which is dangerous for people in the car.
- Fuel Leak: There was a problem in the fuel system that could cause leaks, raising the chance of a fire.
- Electrical Short: Issues with the electrical parts could cause a short circuit, leading to fires or failure of important systems.
- Brake Problem: Some cars had brake issues that could make it hard to stop safely.
- Transmission Issues: There were problems with the transmission that could cause unexpected gear changes, affecting control and safety.
Owners of the 2005 Nissan Cube should check if their car needs any of these recalls fixed. They can do this through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or by contacting their local dealership.
Fixing these issues can make the car safer and more reliable.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2005 model
Owner feedback for the 2005 Nissan Cube often talks about its unique look and practicality. Many drivers like its boxy shape because it stands out and makes the inside roomy. The cabin is spacious and fits passengers and cargo well, making it a good choice for families and city drivers.
The 2005 Cube has a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine. It offers 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. It gets about 30 miles per gallon on the highway, which is decent for fuel efficiency. Owners say it handles well and is easy to drive in the city.
Safety is also a factor in owner satisfaction. The Cube got a four-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which shows its focus on safety. Some drivers feel the engine lacks power when merging on highways, but most find the driving experience satisfactory.
There are some concerns too. A few owners mention that visibility can be a problem due to the car's design, which can be tricky in some driving situations.
Despite this, most feedback highlights the Cube's reliability and low maintenance costs.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Cube model years
The 2005 Nissan Cube saw some changes compared to older and newer models. It moved from a boxy look to a more rounded style. This new shape gave it more headroom and space for luggage than the 2003 version.
The 2005 Cube came with a 1.8-liter engine that had 122 horsepower. This was a little more than the older models. Later versions, like the ones from 2009 and 2010, offered stronger engines and better gas mileage, with some getting up to 30 miles per gallon on highways.
In terms of tech, the 2005 Cube added features like a CD player and optional Bluetooth. Older models didn't have these.
By 2009, newer Cubes had advanced navigation systems and better audio options, meeting what car buyers were looking for.
Each model year brought its own improvements in performance, technology, and fuel efficiency, adapting to what people wanted in a compact car.
Tips for buying a used 2005 Cube
If you're thinking about buying a used 2005 Nissan Cube, there are a few things to keep in mind to make a good choice. The Cube looks different and is practical, but you need to pay attention to certain areas to avoid future problems.
- Check the maintenance history: Look for records that show the car has been serviced regularly. This means the previous owner took care of it, which reduces the chance of future issues.
- Inspect the exterior and interior: Look for rust, dents, or wear. The Cube's shape can make it prone to damage, so a careful look is important.
- Test the engine and transmission: The 2005 Cube usually comes with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine. It might have a 5-speed manual or a CVT transmission. Make sure the engine runs well without odd noises and that the transmission changes gears smoothly.
- Check the mileage: While the Cube is generally reliable, more miles can mean more wear and possible repairs. Finding one with fewer miles and good upkeep is often better.
- Research recalls and common problems: Look up any recalls or common issues for this model. Reading what other owners say can help you spot frequent problems.
Keep these points in mind to help with your decision.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2005 Cube
Taking care of a 2005 Nissan Cube helps it run well and last longer. Follow a regular maintenance schedule to keep it reliable and avoid big repair bills. Here's a table with key maintenance tasks and how often to do them:
Maintenance Task | How Often |
---|---|
Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles |
Tire Rotation | Every 5,000 miles |
Brake Inspection | Every 10,000 miles |
Air Filter Change | Every 15,000 miles |
Change the oil to keep the engine running smoothly. Use good oil and filters for better performance and gas mileage. Rotate the tires to help them wear evenly, last longer, and handle better. Check the brakes regularly to catch problems early and ensure safe stops.
The air filter is important for engine function. A clean filter helps the engine burn fuel effectively and use less gas. If the filter is dirty, the engine might not run well and could pollute more.
Also, check fluid levels like coolant and brake fluid once a month. This can help stop overheating and ensure the brakes work well. Look at belts and hoses regularly to spot wear and tear before they cause trouble.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
The resale value of a 2005 Nissan Cube depends on its condition, mileage, and how well it's been maintained. This car is known for its unique design and practicality, attracting a specific group of buyers. Like any car, it loses value as it ages.
Typically, a 2005 Nissan Cube sells for $3,000 to $6,000. Cars with lower miles and a good maintenance record sell for more.
Owning a car long-term means considering costs like insurance, gas, and repairs. The 2005 Cube gets about 25 miles per gallon, which helps keep fuel costs down.
Here's a table showing these factors:
Factor | Effect on Resale Value | Long-Term Cost Details |
---|---|---|
Condition | High | Needs regular upkeep |
Mileage | High | More miles can cost more |
Maintenance History | Very High | Avoids expensive fixes |
People Also Ask
What Are the Most Common Repairs Needed for the 2005 Cube?
The 2005 Nissan Cube often needs fixing for brake system troubles, electrical issues, and suspension parts. It's also important to regularly change the oil and rotate the tires to keep the car running well and lasting a long time.
How Does the 2005 Cube Perform in Winter Conditions?
The 2005 Cube might have trouble in winter because of slippery roads and poor visibility. Choosing good winter tires, having balanced weight, and careful driving can help. It's important to be extra cautious when driving in snow or icy conditions.
What Is the Fuel Efficiency of the 2005 Cube?
The 2005 Nissan Cube gets about 24 miles per gallon when driving in the city and about 30 miles per gallon on the highway. This makes it a good choice for people who want to save money on gas while driving around town.
Are There Aftermarket Accessories Available for the 2005 Cube?
Yes, you can find many cool add-ons for the 2005 Nissan Cube! There are things like special floor mats, roof racks, better sound systems, and decorations to make your car look and work just the way you want.
How Does the 2005 Cube Handle in Accidents Compared to Similar Vehicles?
The 2005 Cube handles accidents similarly to other small cars. Its special shape might change how stable it feels and how it absorbs bumps. This can affect safety during crashes, but overall, it's about the same as similar cars.