2008-2013 Nissan Rogue: Radiator Coolant Leak

1. OVERVIEW

This diagnostic guide is grounded in the NHTSA data provided for the Nissan Rogue (2008-2013) and reflects the single owner complaint that is available in the dataset. The official records show one complaint (Complaint #1) from a 2010 Rogue with an OBD-II code P0302, described as an emissions-related issue with fuel economy concerns. The description states: “Vehicle experiencing fuel economy issues with code P0302. The emissions appears to be malfunctioning. Issue occurs intermittently during highway driving.” There are no recalls listed for this model in the data, and no additional cost data is included in the NHTSA records.

Data availability and reliability note: There is only 1 owner report in the dataset, which means “Based on 1 NHTSA complaint” this is a very small sample and should be used with caution when forming broad conclusions. The data does not mention a radiator coolant leak; it documents an emissions-related misfire scenario (P0302) and does not provide radiator-specific failure cases or any radiator-related symptoms. If you’re specifically researching radiator coolant leaks, this dataset does not contain a radiators-leak case to draw from. For current recalls, check NHTSA.gov; the dataset indicates no recalls for this make/model.

2. SYMPTOMS

The complaint provides three explicit symptom statements (reported verbatim in the data) and a diagnostic reference:

• “Vehicle experiencing fuel economy issues”
• “The emissions appears to be malfunctioning”
• “Issue occurs intermittently during highway driving”
• OBD Code: P0302 (not a symptom per se, but a diagnostic code accompanying the symptoms)
• The description also notes that “Dealer unable to diagnose root cause after multiple visits” (context about diagnostic difficulty)

Because there is only one recorded complaint, the symptom set is limited to these verbatim items. This reflects the reported experience rather than a broad symptom catalog for all Rogue models.

3. ROOT CAUSE

Reasoned analysis based on the complaint patterns and general automotive knowledge (acknowledging data limitations):

• The presence of P0302 indicates a suspected misfire on cylinder 2. In many vehicles, P0302 is associated with ignition, fuel delivery, vacuum, or mechanical issues affecting cylinder 2.

• Intermittent highway driving misfires can be caused by several plausible causes that would fit the complaint’s pattern:

  • Ignition system: a failing or marginal spark plug on cylinder 2, a weak or intermittent ignition coil pack, or related wiring/connectors could produce intermittent misfire signals during higher-load highway operation.
  • Fuel delivery: a marginal fuel injector for cylinder 2, a fluctuating fuel pressure issue, or a fuel delivery regulator problem could lead to intermittent misfires and degraded fuel economy.
  • Air and vacuum paths: a vacuum leak or mass airflow sensor irregularity could contribute to improper air-fuel mixture, which can trigger misfire codes and poor fuel economy.
  • Engine/valve issues: compression problems in cylinder 2 (e.g., valve seating, piston ring, or valve guide concerns) could produce misfires under certain loads.
  • Electrical/PCM considerations: wiring or connector issues to the cylinder 2 injector or ignition coil, or a PCM/secondary ignition control fault that intermittently affects cylinder 2.
  • EGR/fuel trims: abnormal exhaust gas recirculation or adaptive fuel trim behavior under highway load could contribute to readings that trigger emissions-related complaints.

• Radiator coolant leak is not identified in the complaint data. The data do not specify radiator-related symptoms or failure modes, so any radiator-leak hypothesis cannot be strongly supported by the available NHTSA record. If the aim is to diagnose a radiator leak, this dataset does not provide the necessary evidence to support or refute that diagnosis.

• Given the single-record nature of the data, there is substantial uncertainty about how often this pattern occurs or whether it represents a broader Rogue issue. This is a limited data signal, and conclusions about a widespread fault are not warranted.

4. WHY THIS AFFECTS NISSAN ROGUE

• Based on the single documented complaint, a P0302 misfire scenario can manifest as reduced fuel economy and an emissions-related concern, particularly under highway load. The reported intermittent nature on highway driving can complicate diagnosis because conditions (load, temperature, sensor readings) vary more than in steady-idle testing.

• With only one owner report, it is inappropriate to infer a systemic Rogue issue. The data suggest a potential misfire-related concern in at least one vehicle, but do not establish a pattern across the model line.

• No radiators-leak data are present here; therefore, the Rogue model’s vulnerability to radiator coolant leaks cannot be established from this dataset. If radiator leaks are suspected in practice, rely on conventional cooling-system diagnostics and any service bulletins or dealer advisories beyond the NHTSA record provided.

5. OBD2 CODES

• P0302 (as documented in the complaint)

Note: No additional codes are present in the provided complaint data.

6. TSBS AND RECALLS

• Recalls: No recalls found in NHTSA database for this make/model in the provided dataset.

• TSBs: Not provided in the data. The guide cannot invent TSB numbers. If you want potential fixes or troubleshooting guidance, check with the dealer or later official sources for any model-year–specific TSBs unrelated to recalls.

• Guidance: If you’re diagnosing in the real world, consider checking NHTSA.gov for current recalls and contacting the dealer for any applicable service bulletins. The data you have shows “No recalls found” for this dataset, but recalls or bulletins can change over time.

7. DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Based on the complaint pattern (P0302 with fuel economy/emissions concerns) and general misfire diagnostics, consider the following steps:

• Verify and document: Confirm the presence of code P0302 with a scan tool; pull freeze-frame data if available to understand engine load, RPM, and fueling conditions when the code set.

• Inspect ignition components on cylinder 2:

  • Inspect spark plug condition on cylinder 2; replace if worn or fouled.
  • Inspect ignition coil/coil-on-plug or distributor spark components for cylinder 2; test coil resistance and spark quality; swap coil position with another cylinder to see if misfire follows the coil.

• Check fuel delivery for cylinder 2:

  • Inspect injector on cylinder 2 for proper operation, wiring, and resistance; consider swapping with another cylinder’s injector to determine if misfire follows the injector.
  • Check fuel rail pressure and fuel pump operation; verify fuel pressure within spec.

• Air intake and sensors:

  • Inspect for vacuum leaks anywhere near cylinder 2 (including hoses and intake manifold gaskets).
  • Check MAF/MAF sensor readings for anomalies that could affect the air-fuel mixture.

• Mechanical checks:

  • Perform a compression test on cylinder 2 to assess mechanical seal and cylinder health.
  • If compression is normal, focus on ignition/fuel delivery; if compression is low, investigate valve seating or piston issues.

• Electrical and control logic:

  • Inspect wiring harnesses and connectors to the cylinder 2 ignition coil and injector for looseness, corrosion, or damage.
  • Review recent service history for any work near the cylinder 2 circuit that could have introduced an intermittent fault.

• Additional data:

  • If available, review long-term fuel trim and misfire counters with the scan tool to see if the misfire burden is persistent or intermittent and under what operating conditions.

• Consider road-test verification:

  • Reproduce the condition under highway load if safe and feasible; note any symptom correlations with engine load, temperature, or speed.

• Safety and scope:

  • Since this data set indicates emissions-related symptoms, ensure diagnosing steps do not neglect emissions-control components (e.g., oxygen sensors, catalytic converter) that can be influenced by misfires.

8. REPAIR SOLUTIONS (with 2025 considerations)

Important: The NHTSA data provided does not include repair actions or cost data for this complaint. Therefore, the following solutions are framed around typical misfire-oriented remedies and are stated with the caveat that costs are not drawn from the NHTSA record.

• Primary mechanical/ignition fixes for cylinder 2 misfire:

  • Replace spark plug on cylinder 2 and inspect/replace the corresponding ignition coil if faulty.
  • If coil or wiring shows weakness, repair or replace the coil assembly and any damaged harness connectors.

• Fuel system fixes:

  • Inspect/replace the injector for cylinder 2 if it is clogged or malfunctioning; consider cleaning or servicing as needed.
  • Verify fuel pressure consistency and repair any fuel-delivery issues (pump, regulator, lines) if pressure is out of spec.

• Air intake and vacuum fixes:

  • Repair vacuum leaks and ensure proper intake sealing around cylinder 2 region; clean or replace affected components as necessary.

• Electrical and control-system fixes:

  • Repair or replace damaged wiring or connectors to the cylinder 2 ignition coil and injector; ensure PCM communication remains intact.

• If misfire persists after the above:

  • Perform a compression test to rule out mechanical issues (valve sealing, piston rings) in cylinder 2.
  • Consider broader engine or emissions system diagnostics if other codes appear or if misfire becomes persistent.

• Cost considerations:

  • Costs vary by region, shop, and exact parts needed.
  • Common components and rough ranges:
    • Spark plug replacement (cylinder 2): relatively modest labor and parts.
    • Ignition coil replacement: parts and labor can be moderate, especially if a coil-on-plug layout is used.
    • Injector work (cleaning or replacement): moderate cost depending on if cleaning suffices or a replacement injector is needed.
    • Fuel-pressure-related repairs: variable based on diagnosis.
    • Compression testing and related mechanical checks: diagnostic labor plus any repair if mechanical faults are found.
  • Due to the data’s lack of explicit costs, obtain a current diagnostic and repair estimate from a qualified shop for a precise 2025 cost range.

9. EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE

• The dataset shows no recalls; there is no documented warranty extension remedy in the provided data.
• If you believe a particular misfire/emissions-related condition could be covered by a manufacturer warranty or an extended coverage program, check with the Nissan dealer and verify with official Nissan warranty documentation for your VIN and model year.
• If no recall remedy is indicated, the recommended approach is to consult the dealer for potential warranty coverage considerations, service bulletins, or goodwill assistance that may apply to your specific vehicle.

10. PREVENTION

• Regular maintenance for misfire-prevention:
  • Keep ignition components (spark plugs and ignition coils) in good condition; replace per maintenance intervals or if diagnostics point to wear.
  • Maintain the fuel system: use quality fuel, replace fuel filters if applicable, and address fuel-system anomalies promptly.
  • Check air intake and MAF sensor operation; replace dirty or faulty sensors as needed.
  • Avoid extended highway operation with a malfunctioning emissions or ignition system; prompt diagnosis reduces potential downstream emissions issues and fuel economy impact.

11. OWNER REPORTS & RELIABILITY DATA

• Sample size: Based on 1 owner report in the NHTSA data.
• Documented record:
  • Year: 2010
  • Mileage: 41,140 miles
  • OBD Code: P0302
  • Description: “Vehicle experiencing fuel economy issues with code P0302. The emissions appears to be malfunctioning. Issue occurs intermittently during highway driving.”
• Implication: This singular data point suggests a potential misfire-emissions concern in at least one Rogue within the dataset; it is not enough to generalize reliability trends for all 2008-2013 Rogues.

12. RELATED ISSUES

• The complaint centers on emissions and fuel economy with a P0302 code; related topics typically involve ignition systems, fuel delivery, and sensor feedback that affects emissions control equipment.
• If there were additional complaints, related issues might point to similar misfire patterns, fueling irregularities, or emissions-system interactions, but the provided data includes only this single report.

Data limitations and safety notes

• This guide is anchored to the one NHTSA complaint in the provided data. There is a small sample size (1 owner report), so treat any conclusions as indicative rather than representative of the entire Rogue (2008-2013) population.
• The dataset contains no documented radiator coolant leaks or radiator-specific failure case(s). If radiator leakage is the concern in your vehicle, this NHTSA data does not provide direct evidence about radiator leaks; verify with current recalls, TSBs, and direct inspection.
• No recalls are listed in the provided data. For current recall status, check NHTSA.gov and your VIN.
• The cost guidance provided here is not drawn from the NHTSA data. Where cost estimates are discussed, they are general planning guidance and should be validated with a local shop for 2025 pricing.

Summary

• Data basis: 1 owner complaint (2010 Rogue, emissions, P0302) with fuel economy concerns and intermittent highway symptoms; no recalls in the provided dataset.
• Likely root causes (based on P0302 and the complaint): cylinder 2 misfire etiologies including ignition, fuel delivery, air/vacuum issues, or mechanical concerns, with emission/fuel economy impact; radiator leak is not evidenced in the data.
• Diagnostic steps: confirm P0302, inspect cylinder 2 ignition/fuel components, test for vacuum leaks, verify fuel pressure, and consider compression testing if needed.
• Repair options: address ignition, injector, or air-fuel delivery concerns as indicated by diagnostics; verify if emissions-related faults persist; consult dealer for any VIN-specific warranty coverage or updates.
• Data limitations: only 1 documented complaint; do not generalize; always verify current recalls and service bulletins.

If you want a more precise diagnostic plan tailored to your vehicle, providing the exact symptoms you’re observing (including any dashboard lights, running condition, and recent maintenance) will help refine the steps beyond what the single NHTSA record indicates.