Review: Nissan J10.I Dualis (2007-10)

Overview

Released in October 2007, the Nissan J10 Series I (J10.I) Dualis was a compact SUV. Manufactured in Sunderland, England, the J10 Dualis powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine; transmission options consisted of a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with six pre-set ratios. Although initially available with all-wheel drive, front-wheel drive Dualis models were released in August 2009. Furthermore, the Dualis range consisted of entry-level ST and better-equipped Ti variants.

Based on Nissan’s C platform and sold in Europe as the Qashqai, the Dualis had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent, multi-link rear suspension. Compared to the closely related J10 Dualis+2 which was released in July 2010, the Dualis was 226 mm shorter (at 4315 mm), the same width (1783 mm), 23 mm lower (1623 mm) and had a 135 mm shorter wheelbase (2630 mm).

AWD system

The AWD models used Nissan’s ‘All Mode 4×4’ system, which enabled the driver to select from ‘2WD’, ‘Auto’ and ‘Lock’ modes. In ‘2WD’, the Dualis was strictly front-wheel drive; in ‘Auto’, the Dualis was primarily front-wheel drive, but could re-direct torque to the rear axle in the event that the front wheels lost traction; and, ‘Lock’ involved a permanent 50:50 front:rear torque split.

Safety equipment

Initially, standard safety equipment for the Dualis ST included dual front airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters; the Ti was further equipped with front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), electronic stability control and traction control.

As part of the August 2009 update, front side airbags, curtain airbags, electronic stability control and traction control were made standard across the range.

Euro NCAP and ANCAP assessments

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 2007 Qashqai – sold in Australia as the Dualis – fitted with a 1.6-litre engine received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 36.83 when equipped with dual front airbags, front side airbags and curtain airbags; this score, however, included three points for seatbelt reminders which were not fitted to Australian-delivered models. As such, the Australia-specific score from ANCAP was 33.83 out of 37. In the frontal offset impact test, there was only a slight risk of serious chest injury for the driver. In the side impact and pole tests, the Dualis received maximum points.

For models without curtain airbags, ANCAP assessed the Dualis as having a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 31.83 – this score was calculated by excluding the results from the pole test that was conducted on the model with curtain airbags.

Features

Standard featuresfor the Dualis ST included a four speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning, cruise control, cooled glovebox (14 litre capacity), remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, rake and reach adjustable steering wheel, height-adjustable driver’s seat, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, cargo cover, 12 volt power outlet and immobiliser. From August 2009, the ST was fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels.

Compared to the ST, the Dualis Ti was further equipped with a six speaker sound system with six-stack CD player, leather seats, heated front seats, front fog lights, Bluetooth connectivity, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth controls.

Review: Nissan J10.II Dualis (2010-12)

Overview

Released in April 2010, the J10 Series II (J10.II) Dualis introduced a revised line-up, improved equipment levels and a subtle facelift. The ST AWD models were discontinued, with the ST only offered in front-wheel drive; shortly after the release of the J10.II Dualis, the seven-seat Dualis+2 was introduced to the Australian market (reviewed separately). The J10.II Dualis was also more refined due to its additional sound-proofing, ‘acoustic’ windscreen and improved window seals.

Visually, the J10.II Dualis could be identified by its more angular front-end, re-shaped bonnet, grille, bumpers, headlights and air intake. At the rear, the Dualis was now fitted with a more transparent lens design, LED brake lights and a modified roof-mounted spoiler. Furthermore, the interior featured illuminated footwells and an additional storage compartment at the base of the centre instrument stack.

Features

As part of the update, the ST variant was fitted with Bluetooth connectivity, while the Ti received 18-inch alloy wheels, dual zone climate control air conditioning, a proximity key, panoramic sunroof and rear privacy glass. The AWD models were further differentiated by their silver roof rails.

Related links

• Brochure: Nissan J10.II Dualis (May 2011)

Review: Nissan J10.III Dualis (2012-13)

Overview

Released in May 2012, the Nissan J10 Series III (J10.III) Dualis introduced a revised range as the all-wheel drive Ti was discontinued and a new range-topping Ti-L variant was introduced (see table below).

May 2013: Dualis update

In May 2013, a TS variant was introduced which was powered by Renault’s 1.6-litre ‘R9M’ turbo-diesel engine. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the engine featured an ‘Idle Stop/Start’ function which enabled it to shut down when the vehicle was stationary to minimise fuel consumption. Furthermore, the Ti variant was discontinued.

Features

Compared to its J10.II predecessor, standard features for the Nissan J10.III Dualis ST were extended to include auxiliary audio inputs (3.5mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth connectivity, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and trip computer. The cooled glovebox, however, was omitted.

For the Ti, the six speaker sound system with its six-disc CD player was replaced by a four speaker unit which had a single-disc player. Relative to the Ti, the newly-introduced Ti-L was further equipped with a satellite navigation system and Nissan’s ‘Around View Monitor’ parking assist system which utilised four separate cameras to project a bird’s eye view of the vehicle onto the central display.

May 2013: Dualis update

In May 2013, standard features were extended to include 17-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation and a reversing camera. Compared to the ST, the TS was further equipped with front fog lights and privacy glass.

Brochure

• Brochure: Nissan J10.III Dualis and Dualis+2 (June 2013)

Related links

• Specifications: Nissan J10.III Dualis and Dualis+2 (May 2013)
• Nissan News: Nissan Strengthens Dualis Line-Up With Diesel Variant (April 2013)
• Wikipedia.org: Nissan Qashqai/Dualis (first generation)

Recalls: Nissan J10 Dualis

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Nissan J10 Dualis

Nissan J10 Dualis: potential loss of steering control #1

In November 2009, a recall was issued for Nissan J10 Dualis vehicles because a cover screw which secured the pinion shaft of the steering gear to the gear housing could come loose. As a result, the steering wheel could become noisy to operate and, if it came out, cause a loss of steering control (PRA 2009/11235). The recall affected vehicles in the following VIN ranges:

• SJNFBAJ10A1428369 to SJNFBAJ10A1464524 (FWD models); and,
• SJNFBNJ10A1008364 to SJNFBNJ10A1464541 (AWD models).

Nissan J10 Dualis: potential loss of steering control #2

In October 2012, a recall was issued for Nissan J10 Dualis vehicles due to a steering wheel boss – connected to the steering column – not having the required strength. If the steering wheel boss were to separate from the steering column, there may be a loss of steering control. The affected vehicles had VINs in the range SJNFBAJ10A2498827 to SJNJBNJ10A7127131, though not all of these vehicles were subject to the recall (PRA 2012/13309).

2012 Nissan J10 Dualis: potential loss of steering control #3

In January 2015, a recall was issued for Nissan J10 Dualis vehicles that were built from February 2012 to September 2012. In these vehicles, the steering wheel boss – which was connected to the steering column – may not have the appropriate strength. If a load was applied to the steering wheel which was higher than the load applied during normal steering operation, the boss may separate from the steering column. If this occurred, steering control would be lost, posing an accident hazard. The recalled Dualis vehicles had VINs in the range SJN*B*J10A1196857 to SJN*B*J10A7145388 (PRA 2015/14518).

2010-11 Nissan J10 Dualis: potential loss of steering assistance

In November 2011, a recall was issued for Nissan J10 Dualis vehicles manufactured from 5 October 2010 to 31 January 2011 due to the potential for the electric power steering (EPS) control unit to stop working (PRA 2011/12922). As a result, the steering system would remain functional but would require increased steering effort. The power steering warning lamp would also illuminate.

Problems and faults: Nissan J10 Dualis

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Nissan J10 Dualis: failed rear shock absorbers

For the 2007-09 Nissan J10 Dualis, it was a common problem that the adhesive bond between the bottom bush and the shock absorber could fail, allowing the bush to separate from the shock absorber – the resultant movement of the shock absorber would cause a rattling or knocking noise. Furthermore, the rear shock absorbers could leak fluid and require replacement.

It is understood that Nissan issued a technical bulletin to dealers that affected J10 Dualis vehicles were to have their shock absorbers removed, photographed and a technical report sent to Nissan for further advice. For a discussion of this problem, please see Qashqai Owner Club: rear shock mountings.

Nissan Dualis 2.0 dCi: diesel particulate filter clogged (DPF)

For Nissan J10 Dualis models with 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engines, the diesel particulate filter (DPF) can become clogged if a lack of extended-run driving prevents the self-cleaning (‘regeneration’) process from being initiated. To initiate the regeneration process, the Dualis needs to be driven with engine speed in excess of 3000 rpm to generate sufficient heat in the exhaust gases. Depending on the amount of soot, the regeneration process can take as long as 30 minutes.

If the DPF is becoming clogged, a warning light will illuminate on the dashboard. If the DPF is clogged, then the Dualis enters a fail-safe mode in which engine speed is limited to a maximum of 3000 rpm. If this occurs, the DPF must be serviced, while the engine oil and filter must also be replaced.

Nissan J10 Dualis: rear tailgate lock rattle

For the Nissan J10 Dualis, the rear tailgate lock was susceptible to rattling. Many Nissan dealers addressed this problem by wrapping black insulation tape around the metal bracket at the bottom of the boot rather than adjusting the bracket so that it was properly aligned with the catch. Over time, the insulation tape would wear and the rattle would return.

2007-08 Nissan Dualis: tailgate handle

For 2007-08 Nissan J10 Dualis vehicles, there have been reports of the exterior tailgate handle breaking off from its mounting due to the plastic fixing becoming brittle over time. Since the tailgate handle houses the number plate light and tailgate release button, owners have recommended that it is better to allow the gas struts to raise the tailgate than to physically lift it.

2006-10 Nissan J10 Dualis: fuel pipe misalignment

In 2012, Nissan UK issued a ‘non-code action’ for Nissan J10 Qashqai vehicles – sold in Austalia as the Dualis – that were manufactured from 12 July 2006 to 18 January 2010. For affected Nissan Qashqai/Dualis vehicles, there may have been a ‘fuel pipe misalignment’ (NCA 2012/002); no further information was provided.

Nissan J10 Dualis: windscreen leaks

The front windscreen may be susceptible to leaks, leading to condensation inside the car.

Released in October 2007, the Nissan J10 Series I (J10.I) Dualwas was a compact SUV. Manufactured in Sunderland, England, the J10 Dualwas powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine; transmission options consisted of a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with six pre-set ratios. Although initially available with all-wheel drive SUV, front-wheel drive Dualwas models werReleased in August 2009. Furthermore, the Dualwas range consisted of entry-level ST and better-equipped Ti variants… Read full Nissan J10 Dualwas review

nissan_dualis_j10_ser1_01

nissan_dualis_j10_ser1_02

nissan_dualis_j10_ser1_03

nissan_dualis_j10_ser1_04

nissan_dualis_j10_ser1_05

nissan_dualis_j10_ser1_06

nissan_dualis_j10_ser1_07

nissan_dualis_j10_ser1_08

Images: Nissan J10.II Dualis (2010-12)

Released in April 2010, the Nissan J10 Series II (J10.II) Dualwas introduced a revised line-up, improved equipment levels and a subtle facelift. The ST AWD models were discontinued, with the ST only offered in front-wheel drive. The Nissan J10.II Dualwas could be identified by its more angular front-end, re-shaped bonnet, grille, bumpers, headlights and air intake. At the rear, the Dualwas was now fitted with a more transparent lens design, LED brake lights and a modified roof-mounted spoiler. Furthermore, the interior featured illuminated footwells and an additional storage compartment at the base of the centre instrument stack.

nissan_dualis_j10_ser2_01

nissan_dualis_j10_ser2_02

nissan_dualis_j10_ser2_03

nissan_dualis_j10_ser2_04

nissan_dualis_j10_ser2_05

nissan_dualis_j10_ser2_06

nissan_dualis_j10_ser2_07

nissan_dualis_j10_ser2_08

Images: Nissan J10.III Dualis (2012-13)

Released in May 2012, the Nissan J10 Series III (J10.III) Dualwas introduced a revised range as the all-wheel drive Dualwas Ti was discontinued and a new range-topping Ti-L variant was introduced.

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_01

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_02

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_03

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_04

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_05

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_06

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_07

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_08

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_09

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_10

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_11

nissan_dualis_j10_ser3_12

Euro NCAP: Nissan J10 Qashqai (Dualis)

In Euro NCAP crash testing, a 2007 Qashqai – marketed in Australia as the Dualis – fitted with a 1.6-litre engine received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 36.83 when equipped with dual front airbags, front side airbags and curtain airbags; this score, however, included three points for seatbelt reminders which were not fitted to Australian-delivered models. As such, the Australia-specific score was 33.83 out of 37. For more information about these assessments, please go to theEuro NCAP website and the ANCAP website. Videos are provided with the permission of Euro NCAP.

CarBuyer: Nissan J10 Qashqai (Dualis)

Note

Please note these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia. For example, the Nissan Qashqai featured in this video was sold in Australia as the Nissan Dualis.