2016 Nissan Quest Safety Report

2016 Nissan Quest: Low Complaint Volume, High Incidence of Serious CVT Transmission Failures

13Complaints
0Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Power Train (6)Suspension (1)Electrical System,Electronic Stability Control (Esc) (1)Structure (1)Air Bags (1)Suspension,Unknown Or Other,Service Brakes (1)Exterior Lighting (1)Wheels (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Nissan Quest

The 2016 Nissan Quest exhibits a concerning pattern of powertrain issues, specifically related to its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), despite a relatively low total number of complaints. Out of 13 total complaints, 6 (46%) are directly attributed to the POWER TRAIN, with multiple reports detailing transmission failure, shaking, juddering, and loss of acceleration, often occurring at mileages as low as 60,000. This suggests a significant design or manufacturing flaw in a critical component. While there are no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths associated with these complaints, the nature of transmission failure can lead to dangerous situations, such as sudden loss of power on highways. NHTSA has not conducted crash tests for the 2016 Nissan Quest, resulting in 'N/A' ratings across all categories (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover). This lack of official safety ratings makes it difficult to assess its crashworthiness comprehensively. Furthermore, there are no recalls issued for this specific model year, which is surprising given the consistent complaints regarding the transmission. Other reported issues, though less frequent, include suspension problems (control arm malfunction), electrical system faults (brake switch, airbag light), and exterior lighting issues. Overall, the safety picture for the 2016 Nissan Quest is mixed. While it has a low number of total complaints, the high proportion of severe powertrain issues is a red flag. The absence of NHTSA crash test data and recalls for these known problems means potential buyers must exercise caution. The recurring transmission failures, as described in multiple complaints, pose a significant safety risk due to potential loss of vehicle control or propulsion.

Reliability Score

The 2016 Nissan Quest receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2016 Nissan Quest

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Nissan Quest:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Cvt Transmission Failure
Multiple reports of the CVT transmission failing, leading to shaking, juddering, loss of acceleration, and complete inability to shift into drive. Often requires full transmission replacement.		 High Common 30000-65000 miles
Suspension Control Arm Malfunction
Malfunctioning control arms causing loss of steering control and vehicle jerking.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Brake Switch Failure
Brake switch stops functioning, leading to intermittent brake light failure and issues with push-button start.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles
Airbag Light / Sensor Malfunction
Airbag light illuminates, and 'AIRBAG OFF' indicator turns on with a passenger present, suggesting a faulty airbag sensor that could prevent deployment.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Nissan Quest:

Power Train 46% of complaints

Predominantly CVT transmission failures, including shaking, juddering, loss of power, and complete failure to engage drive.

Suspension 8% of complaints

Issues with control arms causing steering control loss and vehicle jerking.

Electrical System,Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 8% of complaints

Problems with brake switch functionality affecting brake lights and vehicle start.

Air Bags 8% of complaints

Airbag light illumination and passenger airbag sensor malfunctions.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Nissan Quest

Is the 2016 Nissan Quest safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Nissan Quest has a low number of total complaints (13), but a significant proportion (46%) are related to severe powertrain issues, specifically CVT transmission failures. There are no reported crashes, injuries, or deaths. However, NHTSA has not conducted crash tests, so its crashworthiness is unknown. The recurring transmission problems pose a potential safety risk.

What are common problems with the 2016 Nissan Quest?

The most reported issues for the 2016 Nissan Quest are related to the POWER TRAIN, primarily the CVT transmission, accounting for 46% of all complaints. Owners report transmission failure, shaking, juddering, and loss of acceleration. Other less frequent problems include suspension control arm malfunctions and electrical system issues like faulty brake switches and airbag sensors.

Are there any recalls for the 2016 Nissan Quest?

No, according to NHTSA data, there are currently no recalls issued for the 2016 Nissan Quest.

How does the 2016 Nissan Quest perform in crash tests?

The 2016 Nissan Quest has not been rated by NHTSA for crashworthiness. All safety ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) are listed as 'N/A'.

What mileage do transmission problems typically occur in the 2016 Nissan Quest?

Based on sample complaints, CVT transmission problems in the 2016 Nissan Quest have been reported at mileages ranging from approximately 30,000 to 64,000 miles.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the high incidence of severe CVT transmission failures and the lack of NHTSA crash test data or recalls, potential buyers should approach the 2016 Nissan Quest with caution and prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially of the powertrain.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Nissan Quest

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Nissan Quest. The data includes 13 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.