Some owners have also reported issues with the fuel door latch mechanism, where a piece snaps off and causes damage. Apparently this isn’t a hard fix for a do-it-yourself type, and requires removal of the wheelwell to access the part.

Here’s a DIY post relating to repair of the cube’s potentially-troublesome steering-lock mechanism, which may fail and render the cube undriveable as the wheel will be locked in place and engine start-up may not be possible. This issue will be fairly apparent on a test-drive: if you can’t turn the wheel, or the key, a bad steering lock is to blame. The DIY fix is welcome to many owners, as the cost to repair this part out of warranty looks fairly prohibitive.

On board, inspect all electronics for proper operation. Confirm that no Check Engine lights are present. Though these lights may appear for numerous reasons, some owners have reported the presence of the P0101 code, which references a bad Mass Air Flow sensor. In some cases, cleaning or replacement of the sensor fixes the issue (it’s a pricey piece, so try cleaning first). In other cases, the sensor is fine, and updated computer software to the ECU is the fix. Ask your local dealer for more information if a pre-purchase electronics scan reveals this code.

Inspect the outboard driver’s seat bolster for signs of wear or ripping. If the cube you’re considering shows excessive amounts of wear relative to its age or mileage, call it into pricing negotiations.

When driving, note that performance issues that include lugging or bogging under light or moderate acceleration could be caused by a bad knock sensor, which may or may not be accompanied by a check engine light. The cube should travel straight down a flat, even road surface if the steering-wheel is released momentarily. Any pull to the side, or failure to track straight down the road, could indicate an issue with alignment.

Spend a few minutes in the cargo area, pulling up carpeting and paneling to search for signs of moisture and water leaks. Staining, a gross mildewy smell, or actual damp carpets are good signs that the rear hatch weather seals could be leaking. One cause is a buildup of dirt and road crud around the plump rubber seals, which prevent a flush seal and allow water through. Some owners have included cleaning of the weather seals in their annual maintenance to help fend off leaks. Ensure all weather seal segments are intact, plump, and free of damage and cracking.

Once the model you’re test-driving is warmed up to operating temperature, turn the stereo system and climate control off and lock your ears onto the CVT transmission (if equipped), as the vehicle comes to rest when stopped. Some owners have reported a rattling noise, which could be the result of a loose or improperly-installed powertrain mount. This should be an easy fix for a Nissan mechanic if present.

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