The Qashqai now comes with two different hybrid powertrains: the 1.5L system hybrid that I told you about in my recent article and also the 1.3 DIG-T Mild Hybrid. The latter comes with a 4-cylinder 1.3L turbo engine and motor-generator for start-stop functions and some torque boost.
In this article, I will tell you more about the 1.3L turbo hybrid engine in the Qashqai, its common problems, and also advantages in comparison with another available powertrain.
I’m taking the British version of the Qashqai and some specs and functions may be different in other European markets.
What should you know about the 1.3 DIG-T engine in the Qashqai?
While the 1.5L 3-cylinder turbo hybrid comes with the full-hybrid system where basically electric motor drives the wheels and the engine acts as a charging station for the battery, the 1.3L is a mild hybrid. What does it mean?
Well, it means that the petrol engine is driving the wheels and the electric motor-generator just helps it a bit. Also, the electric unit takes part in start-stop helping you save some fuel. Of course, there is no all-electric range and no options to charge the battery. It is charged from regenerative braking, mainly.
Here are some things you may want to know about this engine:
- this is the HR13DDT engine coming from the HR family that has 1.3 liters of displacement and a turbocharger;
- the engine develops 138 or 156 horsepower and up to 270 Nm of torque, depending on the version;
- the engine has a direct injection system, a chain-driven timing system, phasers on both camshafts, and hydraulic lifters;
- the engine is pretty simple in its construction, it doesn’t have the variable compression as other new Nissan engines;
- the turbocharger is also simple – this is the Garrett unit known for good longevity and few problems;
- the engine comes with a 6-speed manual transmission in the base version and you can opt for the CVT (which is not recommended at all);
- the good thing is that this engine ensures your Qashqai consumes about 5.5L/100 km, on average (43 MPG UK).
You may think this is the Nissan engine but I should tell you that the same engine is used in a dozen of Renault models under the code H5Ht or 1.3 TCe that I wrote about earlier. Also, Mercedes-Benz uses the same engine under the code M282. They have some minor differences but overall, these engines share the same engineering.
Even though the displacement is pretty small, the engine is not bad in terms of durability and reliability. Also, owners love its dynamics and driving emotions. It delivers a lot of torque from the very start and the hybrid system seems to be helping a lot.
How many miles will the HR13DDT engine last?
So, this engine is pretty simple, reliable, and won’t cause a lot of problems. But will it last long? Depending on what you compare it with.
The HR13DDT engine in the Qashqai should last, on average, 220,000 kilometers of 140,000 miles. This is not a lot in comparison with old big V6 engines. But if you look at the current market, you will see that the 1.3 DIG-T is one of the best small turbo engines available new.
The longevity of the powertrain depends a lot on the transmission. While the 6-speed manual will most likely last longer than the engine, the CVT is known to fail at about 100,000 miles or 160,000 kilometers. When it fails and needs replacement, it may not be lucrative to pay that much for this repair.
Also, the engines are not problem-free. If you don’t consider their common issues and don’t follow the maintenance routine, they will fail much earlier than you think.
What are the common problems with 1.3L turbo hybrid in the Qashqai?
This engine has been in this world since 2018 and we already know a lot about its common problems. We should thank Nissan for applying Bore Spray Coating, so the blocks are very reliable and won’t wear quickly. Also, the turbos are pretty durable and usually don’t leak or require any other service.
But there are still some issues you should be aware of:
1) Start-Stop is glitchy
Yes, the main advantage of the mild-hybrid powertrain is too smart and confident. It thinks you don’t deserve to operate the car, so it will operate it as it wants to. Unfortunately, this may lead to sudden stalling, revving up unexpectedly, and other issues. They are cured by software updates. But once a certain glitch is solved, another one pops up.
2) Intake valve buildup
Intake valves develop some carbon buildup over time. This is the direct injection engine, so the issue is inevitable. Once every 30,000 miles or so you should use a good cleaner. If you notice power loss, uneven idling, or misfiring codes, you should have the valves cleaned professionally. Unfortunately, this is not really cheap.
3) Turbocharger pipes falling off
Just as with the Renault 1.3 TCe, the turbo pipes may fall off and you will lose power. Fortunately, you can solve the problem on your own by just buying the new clamp or even reusing the old one. But to locate the issue may not be as easy for those who don’t know anything about engines and their construction.
4) Timing chain problems
Nissan says that the chain is there to live forever. But, as life shows, it may stretch at about 120,000 miles which is earlier than the expected death of the engine. So, experts recommend replacing the chain at about 100,000 miles to avoid issues.
When you replace the chain, don’t forget to buy the entire kit. Also, inspect the water pump and decide if you want to replace it, too.
5) Plugs and coils failing
Spark plugs and ignition coils are very faulty and will require replacement too often. If you experience harsh idling, misfires, vibrations, or poor power issues, you may want to check the spark plugs. The coils will fail if you drive with spoiled plugs for a long time.
How can you prolong the life of the 1.3 DIG-T engine?
To let your small turbo engine live longer in the Nissan Qashqai, you need to remember several things (some of them aren’t listed in your driver’s manual).
Here they are:
- replace the timing chain kit at 100,000 miles;
- pay attention to the health of your spark plugs and coils;
- clean the valves with a good cleaner regularly to avoid professional cleaning;
- don’t drive if you have a warning light on the dash (till you find the problem causing it);
- don’t tow anything with this engine;
- forget about aggressive driving – this is not a sports-ready machine;
- use only OEM oil and filters and high-quality fuel.
The engine requires a little attention to run smoothly at all times. But you should remember that it’s made to do a certain type of job. Although the mild-hybrid version of the Qashqai comes with the optional 4WD, it doesn’t mean that you can go off-roading.
Warm up this engine for at least one minute in summer and 90 seconds in winter after a cold start. Otherwise, you risk damaging it when revving up sharply.
Final thoughts
Although I don’t usually like small turbocharged engines, the 1.3 DIG-T doesn’t seem a bad option. It has a lot of power, it offers great torque and it’s really fun to drive. Also, you will get perfect gas mileage in your vehicle.
Of course, it still has some disadvantages and they have to be considered before you pay your money for the car. But among modern engines of this type, the DIG-T powertrain with the mild-hybrid technology doesn’t seem bad at all.
Do you have experience with this engine? Please share with us in the comments below!
