Nissan Problems

Good advice but some CVTs are beyond such a fix, as the problems seem to be in the core programming.

It’s a tough call, the Qashqai gets the nod on price and for having a diesel engine option and better luggage capacity, the XV is all-wheel drive, but there’s no diesel. The Nissan by a nose.

Nissan is fixing the paint problem under the new car warranty, and the warranty will continue to apply to the car and the repaired paintwork until it expires, no matter where you live. I wouldn’t be too concerned about the paint on the rest of the car if it’s not currently showing similar signs of bubbling.

The Navara and HiLux would be out, for me, because they are utes and you shouldn't be buying a truck just because it can tow well. The Grand Cherokee is a great drive but I also hear lots of complaints, so the Everest — engineered in Australia and based on the classy Ford Ranger ute — would be my pick as the smart choice.

The Tucson gets The Tick from me and rates above the X-Trail, but my first choice is the all-new Kia Sportage.

If you don’t want a convertible, which rules out the MX-5 as my easy first pick, then the 86 is the car for driving enjoyment on a reasonable budget. But don’t overlook its Subaru twin, the BRZ, which is my choice of the two. Both get The Tick, having shared our Car of the Year award.

You left out my choice, which is the Kia Sportage.

If we had decent consumer laws I reckon you would be in line to get a new car or a refund, but as we don't you face a difficult and stressful time trying to resolve the issues with your car. You need to go to your dealer and lodge a claim for action under the car's warranty. Explain to them your concerns and the stress the car is causing you. If that doesn't elicit a suitable response go directly to Nissan's customer assistance service and register your concerns with them. After that you can go to Consumer Affairs in NSW and request their assistance.