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Nissan Nv3500 Problems

The Nissan NV3500 is a full-size cargo and passenger van designed for commercial and heavy-duty family applications. With 104 complaints and zero reported deaths, it offers competitive reliability in the large van segment against the Ford E-Series and Chevrolet Express. The NV3500 HD designation indicates the heavy-duty variant capable of carrying 12 passengers or substantial cargo payloads. Production ended in 2021 as Nissan shifted focus, making used examples the only option for buyers interested in this platform.

104
Total Complaints
1
Total Recalls
9
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2017
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2012 2013 2014

Common Problem Categories

Unknown Or Other 38
Engine 24
Vehicle Speed Control 10
Service Brakes 8
Power Train 8

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2020 4 0 0 0 Good
2019 8 0 0 6 Average
2018 10 0 0 0 Average
2017 58 1 0 0 Avoid
2016 8 0 0 0 Average
2015 6 0 0 0 Average
2014 4 0 0 0 Good
2013 4 0 0 0 Good
2012 2 0 0 0 Good

Nissan Nv3500 Years to Avoid

The 2017 model year accumulated the most complaints for the NV3500, primarily involving transmission and electrical system issues. The 5-speed automatic transmission in 2016-2017 models exhibited harsh shifting and premature wear in some examples, particularly in passenger van configurations with frequent load variations. Electrical problems including instrument cluster failures and power window malfunctions affected 2016-2018 models. Some 2017 owners reported premature brake wear despite light usage, suggesting possible caliper issues in early production. The HVAC system in 2017 models also drew complaints for inadequate rear climate control in the passenger variants.

Best Nissan Nv3500 Years

The 2012 model year offers strong value as the launch year when Nissan focused heavily on quality execution. The early 2012-2014 models benefit from Nissan's initial attention to establishing the platform's reputation. For buyers wanting newer examples, 2019-2021 models incorporated refinements addressing earlier concerns. The 5.6L V8 engine remains consistent across model years and is the recommended choice over the base V6 for the payload capacity this van typically handles.

Frequently Asked Questions