Thinking about buying a used Nissan Presage (1998–2009) in New Zealand? We've documented 17 known faults for this model spanning engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
17
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$400–$2,000
Typical repair
7
Systems covered
Known Nissan Presage faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
01KA24DE 2.4L Head Gasket Failure (U30 Presage)
CriticalOccasionalEngine $1,200–$2,800 to fix
The KA24DE engine in the U30 Presage is susceptible to head gasket failure on high-mileage examples with a history of overheating or infrequent coolant changes. Failure modes include external coolant seepage between block and head, combustion gases entering the coolant circuit, or coolant entering the combustion chamber. Often triggered by a failed thermostat or water pump leading to an overheating event.
Symptoms to notice
White steam from exhaust particularly when cold or after startup
Coolant loss without visible external leak
Milky or creamy residue on the oil filler cap
Engine temperature gauge running toward the hot end
Bubbles in the coolant reservoir when engine is running
What to check
Check the oil filler cap for creamy or milky residue indicating coolant mixing with oil. Perform a combustion leak test using a block tester on the coolant reservoir — positive result confirms head gasket failure. Check coolant condition and ask about any overheating history.
Where to look: Head gasket between cylinder head and engine block, top of engine
Ask the seller
“Has the vehicle ever overheated?”
“Has the head gasket been replaced?”
“What is the coolant change history, and is the coolant currently clean?”
02Power sliding door actuator failure
MinorCommonElectrical $300–$2,000 to fix
The Presage's power sliding doors commonly fail through worn cables, actuators or sensors, leaving doors that stick, jam or won't power open/close. A frequent and awkward fault on these people-movers.
Symptoms to notice
Sliding door won't power open or close
Door jams or reverses
Grinding from door mechanism
Door warning chime
What to check
Cycle the power sliding door(s) fully several times, checking for smooth operation, jams, unusual noise and correct latching.
Where to look: Power sliding side door mechanism
Ask the seller
“Do the power sliding doors work reliably?”
“Have the door motors or cables been repaired?”
EngineCritical
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMajor
EngineMajor
TransmissionMajor
EngineMajor
EngineMajor
EngineMajor
SuspensionMajor
ElectricalMajor
BrakesMajor
SuspensionMajor
Fluid LeaksMinor
InteriorMinor
SuspensionMinor
15 more documented faults on the Nissan Presage
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 17 documented faults for the Nissan Presage, the recurring problem areas are engine, transmission, and suspension. A Nissan Presage with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Nissan Presage?
+
We've catalogued 17 known faults for the Nissan Presage, covering engine, transmission, and suspension. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Nissan Presage?
+
Most single repairs on the Nissan Presage fall between $400–$2,000 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 17 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Nissan Presage?
+
Yes. A Nissan Presage inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.