The Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV that’s been on the roads since 2008. Over the years, the Rogue became Nissan’s top seller, which is why so many people try to find a deal on a used model. Yet, not all Rogue SUVs are worth driving. That’s why you want to know the best and worst years of Nissan Rogue models.
We rank the best Nissan Rogue years and show you which ones to avoid. We also cover the top problems experienced by Nissan Rogue SUVs and answer some vital questions.
The Best Nissan Rogue Model Years
The very first Nissan Rogue models are among the best, including the 2010, 2009 and 2008. A couple of the newer models are also worth checking out, including the 2021 and 2023 Nissan Rogue SUVs, based on data from the NHTSA, EPA and Edmunds.
1. 2010 Nissan Rogue
As one of the earlier models, the 2010 Rogue provides great value. It’s also considered one of the more reliable models and drivers praise the comfortable ride.
With all-wheel drive, this Rogue can be a huge asset to those traveling in inclement weather. It also has a decent safety rating and can be found for rock-bottom pricing these days.
- NHTSA: 2 recalls
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 24 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 4.1/5
2. 2009 Nissan Rogue
One model year back is the 2009 Rogue. It’s also affordable yet still reliable. It also gets decent fuel economy scores, which helps to make every dollar stretch a little further.
With this model, you get a 170-horsepower four-cylinder engine paired to either FWD or AWD. Plus, there were two trim levels made, so you have some options when doing your used car shopping.
- NHTSA: 3 recalls
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 24 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 4.1/5
3. 2008 Nissan Rogue
The very first Rogue model made is also worth checking out. It has a well-appointed interior, comfortable seating and an optional Bose sound system.
Unlike most new models, it also doesn’t suffer from catastrophic issues. In fact, this new model is part of the reason that the Rogue lineup became so popular, even though some future models didn’t live up to customers’ standards.
- NHTSA: 5 recalls
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 24 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 4.4/5
4. 2021 Nissan Rogue
If you aren’t interested in an older model, consider the benefits of the 2021 Rogue. It’s a popular model with four available trim levels. It also comes packed with the latest tech features.
While it does have a bunch of recalls, the majority of them aren’t worrisome. Plus, the resale value of these models will remain high for several more years, making them a better investment.
- NHTSA: 8 recalls
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 33 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 3.3/5
5. 2023 Nissan Rogue
If you have money to spend, don’t be afraid to drive the 2023 Nissan Rogue. As a newer model, you are going to get the best protection, thanks to the limited warranty term. We expect that the 2023 model is going to exceed expectations and come out on top, even a few years from now.
It also has a powerful engine and the latest driver-assist features, making it a top contender. Look out for the stylish Midnight Edition available with the SV trim. It features 18” black wheels, black leatherette seats and a head-turning appearance.
- NHTSA: 2 recalls
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 33 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 3.4/5
Worst Nissan Rogue Model Years
With so many defects throughout the years, there are some Nissan Rogue models you want to stay far away from. We recommend avoiding the 2013 and 2012 models. It’s also best to do more research before you buy a 2018, 2014 or 2015 Nissan Rogue.
Here are some of the reasons these models rank so lowly.
1. 2013 Nissan Rogue
The 2013 Rogue ranks as one of the worst because of the higher cost of ownership, expensive repairs and mechanical difficulties. With this model, the number one complaint had to do with the transmission. Even at startup, there were also complaints of whistling and whining noises.
What’s even more alarming is the recall that had to do with water infiltration. Because of the location, power issues can occur, which is a bear to try and repair.
- NHTSA: 1 recall
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 25 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 2.6/5
2. 2012 Nissan Rogue
Sadly, the 2012 Rogue doesn’t rank much better. The transmission continues to be a top source of trouble, requiring expensive repairs and even replacement at times.
There’s also a ton of complaints about the electrical system and trouble accelerating. This SUV may just spend more time in the shop than on the road at this point, leaving you with unreliable transportation.
- NHTSA: 2 recalls
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 25 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 3.6/5
3. 2018 Nissan Rogue
One of the least reliable Rogue models is the 2018. The CVT is one of the biggest failures with this model, leading to expensive repairs. Nissan continues to put this CVT in the Rogue, hoping it will work out, but it just doesn’t in the 2018 model.
This Rogue also suffers from brake issues and trouble accelerating. To make things even worse, there are numerous complaints about the unresponsive infotainment screen.
- NHTSA: 3 recalls
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 34 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 3.7/5
4. 2015 Nissan Rogue
Among the other models of this timeframe, the 2015 Rogue is a disappointment. Of course, there are transmission issues that continue to plague the Rogue. When it’s not failing, it still feels shaky, causing concern among drivers.
There are also complaints about the air conditioning system. On top of that, the body doesn’t hold up. If you don’t want to see your investment dwindle away, avoid this Rogue.
- NHTSA: 9 recalls
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 28 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 3.8/5
5. 2014 Nissan Rogue
With so many recalls and tons of mechanical issues, the 2014 Rogue is another to completely avoid. The transmission failure is just the beginning of what could happen with this Nissan SUV. It also suffers from engine trouble and defective airbags.
One look at reliability ratings should be enough to make you run away screaming. Plus, it lacks acceleration, making it terrible to drive.
- NHTSA: 10 recalls
- Fuel economy rating: Up to 28 mpg combined
- Edmunds consumer review: 3.8/5
Most Common Nissan Rogue Problems
The biggest failure with Nissan Rogue models has to do with the defective CVT. Other complaints include inaccurate fuel readings, damaged sunroofs, faulty brakes and a Check Engine Light that requires further diagnosis.
Based on information from RepairPal and customer reviews, here are some problems we’ve found.
Defective CVT
There’s no question that the Rogue’s biggest complaint centers around the CVT. Unlike regular automatic transmissions, the CVT has no gears. While some automakers have perfected the art of making a reliable CVT, Nissan has struggled. Every Rogue year has a CVT installed, and it never seems to get much better.
Not only are there reports of this transmission being slow and failing, but it can also overheat. If you are attempting to merge onto a busy highway, you won’t like the feel of this transmission.
Inaccurate Fuel Readings
Some owners of Nissan Rogue models complain about inaccurate fuel readings. This failure can occur on any of the Rogue models. The malfunction occurs with the fuel level sender.
When the sender can’t read the information correctly, the gauge is unable to display it. Without this information, drivers can easily run out of gas without any warning.
Damaged Sunroof
Not only have there been complaints about the sunroof not closing all the way, but some people also say the glass can become damaged. At best, these sunroofs may just rattle, creating an annoyance while driving.
Other times, the glass shatters, which poses a safety risk. In fact, there have been class-action lawsuits on the 2012 and 2013 models because of the defect.
Faulty Brakes
Malfunctioning brakes have been reported with the 2018 Rogue models. Some drivers experienced the brakes engaging on their own with no warning. It doesn’t seem to matter what speed the Rogue is traveling at, as this can occur when pulling out of a parking space or while heading down the highway.
The malfunction seems to have to do with the automatic braking system. Instead of being used to protect occupants, it’s putting more people in danger.
Check Engine Light
Nissan Rogue owners have been reporting a Check Engine Light with a P0444 stored code. After diagnosis, it seems the most common issue has to do with a broken wire found at the canister purge volume control solenoid valve.
Nissan does have a kit to repair the issue. That’s how prevalent it has been.
What year of Nissan Rogue is most reliable?
Based on customer satisfaction, Edmunds scores and NHTSA data, we’ve ranked the original Rogue models as the best. We highly recommend the 2008-2010 Nissan Rogue if you want a used model. You may also like the 2021 or 2023 Nissan Rogue if you are looking for something a little newer.
At what mileage do Nissan Rogues start to go bad?
Sadly, because of the defective CVT installed in many Nissan Rogue models, this SUV may not last as long as most. The CVT has given Nissan a lot of trouble over the years, so it would be a good thing if the Rogue would last to 150,000 miles. If it makes it beyond 200,000 miles, then it has been well cared for.
Is the Nissan Rogue a good vehicle?
There are a lot of good qualities about the Nissan Rogue. It’s a capable SUV with plenty of space and tons of technology. Yet, mechanically the SUV hasn’t performed well over the years, especially because of the CVT problems. It can’t compete with others in the class, such as the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5.
Do Nissan Rogues hold their value?
Nissan vehicles tend to hold their value better than American models. However, the Rogue doesn’t seem to last as long as some others with better transmission, so the value does drop a little faster than the larger SUV lineup from Nissan. If you maintain the Rogue and keep it in good condition, you shouldn’t lose a lot of its value over a couple of years.
It’s difficult to pick out the best Nissan Rogue years since they all contain the CVTs that have been deemed unreliable. Yet, there are a few models that receive minimal complaints, such as the 2008-2010, 2021 and 2023 Rogues. These would provide the best value and better reliability.
The models to avoid under all conditions include the 2012-2015 and 2018 Rogues. Aside from class-action lawsuits and mechanical defects, these SUVs aren’t built to last and will likely lead to disappointment.
Tags: Nissan
Categories: General
