Everything you need to know before buying a 2011 Nissan Juke
When the Nissan Juke debuted in 2010 as a 2011 model, it was a head-turner that sparked both admiration and bewilderment. Its distinctive, bold design, which is a love-it-or-hate-it affair, certainly made it stand out in the compact crossover market.
Built on the same platform as the Nissan Versa, the Juke came with one engine option: a 1.6-litre turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder that packed 188 horsepower. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), with the added choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
The AWD system was surprisingly sophisticated, splitting torque 50/50 between the front and rear wheels when needed and even shifting power side-to-side across the rear axle. Fuel economy was respectable at 9.0 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 L/100 km on the highway for FWD models. Premium gas was recommended, but you could fill up with regular without too much worry.
 The 2011 Nissan Juke sported an interesting “D-mode” performance selector, which allowed you to choose from Normal, Sport or Eco modes; The differences were obvious and immediate. |
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One of the coolest features was the “D-mode” performance selector. At the push of a button, you could switch between Normal, Sport, and Eco modes, and you’d instantly feel the difference in how the car responded. You could even monitor turbo boost, fuel consumption, and G-forces using the customizable display.
Inside, Nissan leaned into the Juke’s unique personality with a motorcycle-inspired centre console that looked like a sport bike’s fuel tank. It was even painted in bright colours to stand out. While the interior design was fun, the cabin wasn’t the most spacious– there was less cargo space than in the Nissan Rogue but still a bit more than compact rivals like the Volkswagen Golf or Mazda3.
The Juke started with two trims: SV and SL. Both came well-equipped, but you could upgrade with extras like leather seats, heated front seats, a power moonroof, a push-button start, and a Rockford Fosgate sound system. Safety features were solid, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags.
Here’s where things get a little dicey. The Juke had its fair share of reliability issues and recalls, including:
- Fuel pressure sensor leak: A potentially dangerous issue that could lead to an engine fire.
- Turbo boost sensor bracket: If it came loose, the car could lose power and go into a fail-safe mode.
- Other annoyances: Owners also reported glitchy cruise control, stubborn door locks, and odd engine noises.
Consumer Reports wasn’t a fan of the Juke’s reliability, pointing out issues with the fuel system, body hardware, and general durability. Some owners shared complaints like:
- “The engine completely failed.”
- “The gas gauge lied, and the car ran out of fuel.”
- “The ball joints fell apart way too early.”
Still, others praised its performance in snow and found it fun to drive. Gas mileage, however, didn’t live up to expectations, and warming it up in cold weather was slow.
Today, a used Nissan Juke from 2011-2017 can cost between $9,000 and $13,000, depending on its mileage and condition. AWD versions tend to sell for $2,000 to $3,000 more than their FWD counterparts. While the price might be tempting, keep in mind that repairs and maintenance could add up quickly.
If you’re thinking about buying a Juke, here are a few red flags to look out for:
- Turbocharger trouble: Some models have reported early failures.
- Transmission issues: The CVTs are known for overheating and wearing out.
- Oil leaks: A common problem in older, high-mileage units.
- Suspension wear: Ball joints and control arms tend to give out sooner than expected.
Our Verdict
The Nissan Juke is all about personality. If you want a car that stands out and offers zippy performance with AWD capability, it’s worth considering. But it’s not without its flaws – reliability is a concern, and its quirky design means it might not appeal to everyone.
If you’re still interested, make sure to get a thorough pre-purchase inspection. The Juke is fun, sporty, and unique, but it’s best for buyers who are ready to deal with its quirks – and potential headaches.
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