Used Nissan Primastar

What to know before buying: Nissan Primastar

From 4 video reviews and 1 forum thread · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• Cargo versions are practical: the L2 floor exceeds 2.9 m, while the hatch beneath the passenger seat accommodates items over 3.3 m long.[1]one source
• The older Trafic-based model was described as comfortable, quiet and easy to drive; a 2011 Primastar review also praised its soft ride and stability.[3][4]
• The driving position is high and comfortable, with plentiful storage; the L2 Tekna review also highlights an adjustable seat and folding centre seat with a clipboard.[1][4]
• One 2011 2.0-diesel example covered 50,000 km without major repairs; its caliper repair kits and two bearings were replaced.[4]one source

Typical faults

• On the 2.0 diesel, a damaged upper seal or missing cover can admit water around the injectors; corrosion can then make injector removal extremely difficult.[4]one source

  2.0 diesel

• A 1.9 diesel was reported to crank for a long time or fail to start after standing; forum experience blamed loose fuel-line joints admitting air and reducing pressure.[5]one source

  1.9 diesel

• Electrical-system and ball-joint problems have been reported on the older Trafic-based Primastar.[3]one source
• Problems have been reported with the older model's Quickshift automated gearbox; the reviewer recommends the standard six-speed manual.[3]one source
• On one F9Q 1.9 dCi, drivetrain noise remained after driveshaft replacement; gearbox bearings were deemed the likely cause, with valve-cover and turbo drain-pipe leaks also found.[2]one source

  F9Q 1.9 dCi

Which engine and version to take

• For the older model, the safer documented choice is the standard six-speed manual because the review reports Quickshift problems and explicitly recommends the manual.[3]one source
• A 2.0 diesel is worth considering with verifiable history: one 2011 van covered 50,000 km without major repairs, but its injector water protection must be checked.[4]one source

What to avoid

• Avoid an older Quickshift version unless there is convincing evidence of gearbox condition, as the review reports problems with this transmission.[3]one source
• The 2.5 diesel is described by the reviewer as costlier to maintain and, in his understanding, less reliable than the 1.9 and 2.0 alternatives.[4]one source

What to check at the inspection

• On a 2.0 diesel, inspect the upper seal and injector cover; look for pooled water and corrosion around the injectors.[4]one source
• Start a 1.9 diesel after it has stood for a while. Extended cranking may indicate leaking fuel-line joints and air entering the system.[5]one source
• During the test drive, listen for drivetrain or gearbox rumble; on one F9Q 1.9 dCi, driveshaft replacement did not cure it and gearbox bearings were suspected.[2]one source
• On an older van, test all electrical equipment and inspect the ball joints, as problems have been reported in both areas.[3]one source
• Test every gearbox mode and identify the transmission type; the older Quickshift has reported issues, while the six-speed manual is recommended.[3]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]Chorley Group Corporate Centre — Nissan Primastar L2 Tekna: Full Tour and Walkaround · ▶ video
2. [2]The Keen Mechanic — Renault Trafic Vauxhall Vivaro Nissan Primastar Driveshaft Removal and installation F9Q 1.9dci · ▶ video
3. [3]Auto Express Vans — Renault Trafic (Vauxhall Vivaro/Nissan Primastar) review - Auto Express · ▶ video
4. [4]Vlad Chernyayev — Nissan Primastar 2.0, Vivaro, Trafic — Обзор, отзыв. Почему их так любят? · ▶ video
5. [5]iauto.lv — Nissan primastar nevar pielaist - Forums · forum

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