Used Nissan Micra

What to know before buying: Nissan Micra

From 1 forum thread and 2 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The K12 is a compact, agile city car; owners also frequently praise its low fuel consumption.[2][3]Micra K12 (third generation)
• There is adequate room for the driver and front passenger, but the rear seats are better suited to short urban trips.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)
• Owners praise the handling but report weak sound insulation and noticeable engine, suspension and wind noise.[1]one source
• Reviews regularly describe the Micra as easy to park, simple to drive and suitable as a first car.[2][3]

Typical faults

• The K12 petrol engines can suffer timing-chain stretch, indicated by noise and unstable engine operation.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)

  150 000–200 000 km · 1.0 CR10DE, 1.2 CR12DE, 1.4 CR14DE, 1.6 HR16DE

• The K12 four-speed automatic can overheat and develop valve-body and solenoid faults.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)

  100 000–120 000 km

• The K12 can suffer electric power-steering control-unit failure, which may be costly to repair.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)
• The tailgate release button can fail because moisture corrodes its electrical contacts.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)
• Front strut top bearings and wheel bearings are reported to have a comparatively short service life.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)

  60 000–80 000 km

• Corrosion may appear on the sills, lower door edges and bonnet edge.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)

Which engine and version to take

• The K12 1.4 CR14DE is recommended for its combination of useful power and high reliability, preferably with the manual gearbox.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)
• The 1.2 CR12DE is a popular compromise offering acceptable performance, moderate consumption and fairly good reliability.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)

What to avoid

• The 1.0 CR10DE provides only marginal performance in town and is clearly underpowered on the highway.[1][3]Micra K12 (third generation)

What to check at the inspection

• With the engine cold, listen for timing-chain noise and check that it runs steadily.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)
• The automatic should shift smoothly without jolts or delays; a thorough pre-purchase diagnosis is essential.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)
• During the test drive, verify that the steering turns easily and without unusual noises.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)
• Carefully inspect the sills, lower door edges and bonnet edge for corrosion.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)
• Test the tailgate release and, where fitted, the Intelligent Key keyless-entry system.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)
• Inspect the plastic headlamp lenses for heavy clouding and scratches.[3]one sourceMicra K12 (third generation)

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]tipcars.sk — Diskuze - Nissan Micra - hodnocení po devíti letech · forum
2. [2]otzovik.com — Отзывы о Автомобиль Nissan Micra · press
3. [3]nissan-club.com.ua — Nissan Micra K12: Полный обзор городского хэтчбека · press

Spotted an error? Tell us