2008 Nissan Rogue Review: Among The Least Reliable Years For The Compact SUV

Jul 19, 2022

The 2008 Nissan Rogue lasts only around 150,000 miles with transmission and fuel system failures. At $5,141 to $5,880, it’s cheaper than rivals, but ownership costs are much higher.

The Good

The 4-cylinder engine is efficient and offers decent power, the upgraded infotainment system is great and the front seats are nice.

The Bad

Suffers from the same CVT problems as other Nissan vehicles, less cargo space than rivals and the visibility is poor with the wide pillars.

Is the 2008 Nissan Rogue a Good Used SUV?

No, 2008 is a bad year for the Rogue. Owner reviews complain about major mechanical problems, A/C issues, and laggy infotainment.
Interior quality is better than rivals with less cheap plastic used throughout the cabin. The technology is also more up to date than other compact SUVs.
Reliability ratings are below average. Models from 2008-2016 all have a lot of problems, with some improvements in 2017.
Performance is okay from the standard 4-cylinder engine.
The 2008 Rogue is reasonably safe, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
Fuel economy is good for an SUV, at up to 24 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

Jenny B

It's a good car to drive. I like my car. That only thing it has now, it's making a noise

Since 2007 I had my car, I like it so much. It had low miles on it when I moved from Hawaii, now it's not the same anymore wi the mileage. No complaints at all

Phuoc T

My nissan rogue car's review

The car is driving smooth. I like 4 doors, compact. My car is black. The interior is black and I do not like it because it is easily get d***y.

Elizabeth T

It is a good car for a little family.

I like that it gets as good a gas mileage as a sedan. I also like that the seats go down in the event we need to get something large home. I dislike that the transmission had problems before it met the 100k mark, but I do love that the issue was covered under Nissan warranty even though I was not the first owner.

Angela B

It's been a reliable vehicle.

I have had this car for more than 7 years and I am barely having small complications with it. It is been a really good vehicle for long road trips! Barely having small problems here and there with a sound coming from an engine. Also started having problems with the steering wheel.

Cynthia S

2008 Nissan Rogue is great!

I love the car! It is comfortable and reliable. The only problem that I had with it was the CVt transmission, but it was covered by Nissan’s extended warranty. I.

Rose B

There is a blind spot in the drivers left shoulder but easily fixed with a small interior mirror

I love that my car is a crossover. It drives like a car but is the size of a small SUV.

Bajista C

Great in the rain or snow

It is a very gas efficient vehicle with great control in the rain and in the snow. It is very comfortable to drive.

Ann J

Very attractive and dependable.

Very comfortable and reliable. Good gas mileage and adequate room for passengers and items carried. No problems for years and ran great and without trouble starting up quickly in the cold. I have been very happy with this vehicle. Not any complaints and little repair.

Negative Owner Reviews

Tracy P

Nissan Rogue not a good vehicle at all.

Transmission issues, doesn't want to move when I push the gas pedal or moves very slow, drops speed when driving on the highway, had to pull over multiple times and the car dealership says they can't find the problem because they can't manipulate it when they have it.

Jordan L

It drives very well in all weather conditions.

I would like it to be a little larger. I like that it's AWD. I would like heated and air conditioned leather seats. I would also like it to have a navigation system or backup camera.

Kia T

The amount of people it can sit and the comfort of it.

The rogue is the perfect size. A lot of room in the back seats so adults can fit comfortably. Great gas mileage.

Debbie W

Gas mileage, comfort, reliability, and has air conditioning.

I do love my rogue I have had to replace the steering rack. I have given regular oil changes. It is the most comfortable ride I have been in. Its convenient in size for me and husband.

Mona S

It is run smoothly. Spacious and clean.

It runs good, but always have low tire pressure. Have that problem check out so many time but still shows signs of low air pressure. The other problem is with doors, do not open properly. Have to hold on to them otherwise it’ll close. Other then that I didn't find anything else to complain about it.

Gerry S

It is roomy and can seat 5 fairly comfortably

I bought this car new. I have had major problems ever since. There was a recall on this vehicle after I had 3 transmissions replaced. The fix for the recall is not reliable. When temperatures are high this car cannot get above 50 miles per hour. It stalls out

Frank H

The stereo system is amazing.

The car's stereo system is amazing. The car constantly needs body repairs. The engine sounds pretty bad.

Holly K

It runs even though it has lots of issues.

No opinion. I have lots of transmission problems but trying to get it fixed. It's taking a while and its using lots of time and money but it's the only car I have and it gets me and my family where we need to go. It's a lot of work and it's a lot of stress to deal with but we settle with what we got until we can afford to get a new car.

What Do Critics Say About the Nissan Rogue?

Consumer Reports says the Rogue has a comfortable ride, but owner satisfaction scores are lower than average.
Edmunds gives the Rogue a 4.4/5 liking the car-like driving experience, but disliking the CVT transmission.
Kelley Blue Book users rate the Rogue 4.2/5 and enjoy the low purchase price, but dislike the lack of power.

What Common Problems Does the 2008 Nissan Rogue Have?

Common problems found on the 2008 Nissan Rogue include transmission failures, worn-out fuel pumps, and broken door locks.

Transmission failures are the most common complaint from owners, showing up in the first 100,000 miles. The CVT transmission found in Nissan vehicles is a known weak-spot, and it costs around $3,200 to replace.

Worn-out fuel pumps are another issue that happens at around 80,000 miles. The entire fuel sending unit in the tank has to be replaced when the pump wears out, costing around $900.

Broken door locks show up on a lot of Rogue models at roughly 65,000 miles. The lock motor breaks quickly, and replacing the entire assembly costs around $300.

There are 5 recalls, with the most serious being for an electrical connector which doesn’t seal properly and can short out if water gets into the connection.

How Long Will the 2008 Nissan Rogue Last?

A well-maintained 2008 Nissan Rogue should be able to last around 150,000 miles, half as long as top-rated competitors like the Honda CR-V. Regular annual maintenance costs are very expensive for a compact SUV, according to Repair Pal, at $517 per year.

Most 2008 Rogue models will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace items including the heater core for $1,500, engine oil pan costing $375, and the window regulator which costs $400.

Taylor M

We have had some minor problems, but thankfully our warranty has covered them all, and we have gotten a lot of use out of our car.

Jameisha M

Yes and no it does not as long as you take care of it get your oil changes when needed keep oil and transmission fluid in it at all times and do not try to drive across state lines.

Samantha F

I have had no major problems with this car, I have been consistent with upkeep, it has never left me stranded

Kaitlyn V

Hasn't given us any major mechanical under hood problems. ( except a sensor in the passenger seat for airbag.)

Kristin M

Parts cost a lot but pretty good reliable. Haven't had any big major problems out of it. Just the built in radio stopped working when battery died and no one knew the codes to redo so we bought new one

Karen L

It has been since I purchased it NEW. Only problem at this time is the TPMS sensor. Its on but dealer and tire place want to charge $80 p/tire to test which sensor is causing constant light on dash. I don't have that much money and I keep tires at proper inflation.

How Much Is the 2008 Nissan Rogue Worth?

Blue book prices range from $5,141 to $5,880, which makes the Rogue several thousand cheaper than the Subaru Forester or Toyota RAV4. When new, the price range was $19.430 to $22,170. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 15% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Nissan Rogue?

There are two models of the 2008 Nissan Rogue available and both are offered with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Technology was just updated for 2008, with a new infotainment system added in 2011.

S is the entry-level model with:

16-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Seating
Cruise Control
Keyless Entry
4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With 3.5mm AUX Jack

SL is a step up adding features such as:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Power Driver’s Seat
Roof Rails
Optional Leather Seating
Optional 7-Speaker Bose Premium Stereo System

167 HP 24-24 MPG

View Details

167 HP 24-24 MPG

View Details

What Engines Come In the Nissan Rogue?

The standard engine found in the 2008 Nissan Rogue is an average 2.5L 4-cylinder which makes 170 horsepower and gets up to 24 MPG combined. Performance is poor, taking 8.7 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Nissan Rogue Come In?

How Big Is the Nissan Rogue?

The 2008 Nissan Rogue is an average-sized compact SUV, similar to the Ford Escape and Jeep Liberty. Passenger room is good throughout the cabin, but the flat bench-style seating is not as comfortable as some rivals.

Cargo space is a bit lower than rivals, with only 28.9 cubic feet of room behind the seats, expanding to up to 57.9 when folded flat. This is enough space to fit 4-5 suitcases.

How Does the Nissan Rogue Compare to the Competition?

The Toyota RAV4 is a popular competitor costing about $2,500 more. Performance is better in the RAV4, especially with the V6 engine, but the Rogue has a higher-quality interior. We recommend the RAV4 since they last much longer, and are more affordable to own.

The Honda CR-V is another rival, which costs about $2,000 more. Technology is better in the CR-V, but the Rogue is a bit more nimble and responsive while turning. We recommend the CR-V since they are a more reliable choice, and will spend less time in the shop.

Ranks #5 Compact SUV by Owners

2008 Subaru Forester

2008 Honda Element

4.54

2008 Nissan Rogue

4.36

Do Owners Recommend the Nissan Rogue?

Taylor M

Yes it is a good vehicle! We have used it for many road trips and it is reliable, functional, and a great family car for my family!

Jameisha M

Yes it drives well it is good on gas has a CVT transmission last for up 400k miles very roomy has a big trunk and lots of space in the back.

Jessica K

Yes it has been very reliable, maintenance has been affordable, it is comfortable to drive, it has lots of room for people and stuff

Meghan H

We love our rogue Great for travel and off roading. Snow? Great in snow handles well. Very roomy great for the family.

Michelle M

Yes wished it could tow motor weight but other than that I love it. Enough space for kids and adding a 3rd kid and plenty of drive for him also

Rachel G

Yes. Not as good on mileage as I hoped it would be (avg: 21-23 mpg city; 25-27 mpg freeway). Its spacious and multi-usable for all I require. Its relatively comfortable for 4 people.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Big Stew on November 17, 2022

Good daily driver! 30.5 MPG at 65 MPH on Cruise!

Bought it to let my daughter use it when her vehicle quit. She gave it back to me after a few weeks and said the transmission acted very weird; making loud noises and slipping and not functioning correctly? She couldn't get to go over 60 at times? I have driven it for 8 months every day, 100 miles a day and it works fine for me? I really love the way it performs. Had a 2011 Sentra and the Rogue drives very similar. I know there are many that experience transmission problems but so far so good!

Jordan L on March 16, 2021

It drives very well in all weather conditions.

I would like it to be a little larger. I like that it's AWD. I would like heated and air conditioned leather seats. I would also like it to have a navigation system or backup camera.

Kelsey G on February 24, 2021

Runs fairly well but the engine sounds odd.

Sometimes it makes some odd noises although they cannot be diagnosed by technicians. It does not have mirrors on the visors which is annoying. Also it is rusting in some spots.

Marcos D on February 20, 2021

Nissan Rogue SUV affordable, efficient, and great performance with minimal issue

The Nissan Rogue has been a reliable transportation vehicle the past 10 years. It has great performance with great MPG making it affordable with gas prices. You really get your money worth with the vehicle. It's drives smoothly with comfort and has basic features. There has been several small problems with the vehicle that were able to get fix without an issue.

Julianna S on February 4, 2021

The safety features are excellent. I also love the acc.

It has been very reliable and even after ten years the only real repair that has had to be made are the brakes.

Nicole B on February 3, 2021

Multidimensional family car.

I love my Nissan! One of the reasons I bought it was that after test driving several other SUVs, I felt the safest driving the rogue. One problem I have is that I often drive too fast because it is such a smooth ride that I do not realize how fast I am going!! In the 10 years that I have had her I have had to change the brakes twice. My transmission had an issue once but the dealership covered the repairs under warranty. It is spacious, a good height off the ground, and is a great family car! We use it for road trips, to haul supplies for DIY home projects (including 10 foot long pipes/wood), and daily trips to the store, etc. I know one day I may have to get a new car... But I'll be shopping for another Nissan rogue!

Payetan A on January 31, 2021

It's all-wheel drive, SRS airbags and has a deep middle console.

I like that it has amazing gas mileage. I dislike that it doesn't show you if you need to have your oil changed. I like that it can hold six CDs and also has an AUX cord. I dislike that there's not enough leg room.

Su G on January 11, 2021

It is very safe for an infant two toddlers to adults.

Size, durability, dependability. I love the ease of driving it. The hauling capacity fits my needs.

Ameer B on January 10, 2021

Very good family car and has plenty of trunk space.

It's a good car that has yet to give us issues after a couple years of driving it daily. Has had minor issues but nothing that has to do with it drives. Has been a very good family car for our family and two dogs. Has plenty of trunk space for shopping and lying down the seats to provide more space is great.

Elizabeth T on December 25, 2020

It is a good car for a little family.

Kristi O on December 24, 2020

It is safe and reliable. It makes you feel comfortable and have peace of mind

I like that it is a small suv which is easy to drive and feel safe in. The love the style and comfort it provides.

Kimberly M on December 13, 2020

I am happy with it and would purchase another one.

It's comfortable. I wish the trunk was bigger. I love the stereo system. I wish the vehicle would pick up speed faster.

Donna B on December 10, 2020

My favorite vehicle ever.

Bought my Rogue S brand new in 2008, I love this vehicle. I have never had a vehicle more suited for everything than my Rogue. I have had this vehicle for 11 years now, never been let down. Just replaced a CV joint, only thing besides a battery, tires and oil changes.

Chris B on December 9, 2020

Great family car, fantastic storage space

It's a great car. Gets really good highway gas mileage. The only problem i have really had with it was the ac system has crapped out but other than that it's a really good car.

Kimberly C on December 8, 2020

Nissan Rogue best ride around!

I have had my car for 10 years, and have not had any major work done on it. It is good on gas, and financially manageable. I will keep this car until the wheels fall off. I only buy Nissans. The miles are good. Insurance for my car is also very low. Great!

William N on December 4, 2020

Style and quality as well as price are important.

I like the gas mileage of it and also I love the interior but I do not like how everything on it falls apart and the sensors are messed up.

Jessica M on November 28, 2020

It's spacious as an SUV but it's compact enough to be easy to drive and park.

Love everything about the rogue, especially the size and smooth driving. Big without feeling big. Transmission, however, a problem with these cars.

Brooke W on October 11, 2020

The interior fabric and dashboard have held up well.

The transmission went out back in 2013. There was a recall on it but it wasn't advertised. It has had some issues after accidents with the front part of the frame. Other than that, it's been ok. I like the seat material and the zippiness of how it handles.

Reyes G on October 8, 2020

12 years running and still like out of the dealer

Great vehicle, have it aince 2008, still running like new

Ruby U on October 2, 2020

Nissan rogue truly reliable.

I can honestly say I would not trade this car for another. My Nissan rogue drives smoothly and is extremely responsive to changes in gears. It is a classic look that even if it is an older model it does not show its age. My vehicle has a sunroof which is one I have always really wanted and everything works perfectly well.

Karen C on October 2, 2020

Smooth Sailing On the Highway Through Life

Oil leaks was a problem at first. Got that fixed. Now it's brake issues which I am working on. But, all in all, being that I purchased it as a used car, I really don't have any complaints. I would recommend purchasing a Nissan again because it has been a very reliable car, for the most part.

Shannon W on September 17, 2020

How great it rides and how large the back seat is for size

Handles great Nice size back seat and great storage Been very little mechanical wrong with it Too many blind spots

Rachael B on August 30, 2020

It is nissan rogue and it is suv

I like my vehicle because it's just the right size for me- not too big and not too small. I like the color and it runs good. What I don't like about it is that since i bought it as used car, it started to wear off, like the passenger seat airbag is not working and the flat tire icon is on steadily even the tires are not flat.

Nicole E on August 22, 2020

2008 Nissan Rogue, blue, AWD

Have not had any major problems with it. I bought it used 5 years ago and it has been very reliable.

Rose B on August 13, 2020

There is a blind spot in the drivers left shoulder but easily fixed with a small interior mirror

I love that my car is a crossover. It drives like a car but is the size of a small SUV.

Jenny B on August 5, 2020

It's a good car to drive. I like my car. That only thing it has now, it's making a noise

Since 2007 I had my car, I like it so much. It had low miles on it when I moved from Hawaii, now it's not the same anymore wi the mileage. No complaints at all

rob k on August 4, 2020

Good buy, great mileage for an CROSSOVER

Great performance good speed, reliable, very comfortable, no day running lights good truck space agile.

Linda G on July 25, 2020

Love it. No complaints. Like the way the seats feel. Plenty of room in back to haul just about anything

It drives good, has pep when needed, plenty of room.

Diana S on July 21, 2020

It has been very reliable for my family and has consistently worked.

I really like that it hasn't ever needed major maintenance. We have only had to do minor upkeep repairs. Sometimes I feel like it doesn't have the "get up and go" like I would prefer accelerating. We have a lot of miles on it, but it still runs reliably.

gustavo h on July 9, 2020

I guess just the storage capability.

For a small crossover there is a lot of space. You can fit large items when you put the seats down. Gas mileage is just ok though.

L H on July 5, 2020

It is older--just like me.

I like it because it is reliable and safe but I want a newer version of the Nissan or a Nissan murano.

Anthony B on July 4, 2020

Bose sound system with lots of bass.

Reliable and great on gas it is very roomy and great audio system. It is great for long trips with family and has foldable seats in the rear and available tow package. It is also great is slippery conditions and available AWD. Available in 4 and 6 cylinder and sports package.

Nick B on July 4, 2020

Tow weight.. Good on gas good for short people. Lots of space for family.

My wife and I like the Nissan rogue so much in fact when we get a new car that's what my wife wants again. My wife is short and this sits high enough for her. Wish it towed more wish it pulled a popup camper

rich a on July 3, 2020

It's great on Gas!! Plus very affordable for a car its size.

I love my car. It's great on gas. It never leaves me stuck in the snow and runs great. There is nothing I dislike.

Brad A on June 30, 2020

I have had it for 10 years and still runs as well as when I got it

Like the look and the way it runs. I like the size of the trunk

Ann J on June 24, 2020

Very attractive and dependable.

Gerry S on June 19, 2020

It is roomy and can seat 5 fairly comfortably

Sergil C on June 16, 2020

That for an old car that it's good on gas mileage. I also like that it's an SUV

I haven't had too many issues with my car except that right now it is a little old and doesn't have much pick up. However I do like that it is fast and has high gas mileage.

Eileen G on June 11, 2020

Very reliable, only minor repairs, very, very good SUV !!!!

I love my Rogue. Very dependable, plenty of room, handles well on the road, and in the snow. The trunk has a lot of room, back seats easily fold down.

Emma E on June 10, 2020

It has great gas mileage!

It had issues with the transmission. Luckily, it was still under warranty and I was able to have it replaced. Otherwise, it has been a very reliable vehicle.

Destiny C on May 30, 2020

Nissan Rogue 2008 Blind Spots

I love my car, it is spacious. The only issue I have with it is the blind spots are horrible! When you are driving there is a front blind spot on the side of the windshield which makes turns extremely upsetting. As well as the back blind spots make it almost impossible to switch lanes comfortably.

Debbie W on May 26, 2020

Gas mileage, comfort, reliability, and has air conditioning.

I do love my rogue I have had to replace the steering rack. I have given regular oil changes. It is the most comfortable ride I have been in. Its convenient in size for me and husband.

barb N on May 25, 2020

My 2008 compact car is silver and has over 100K miles on it.

My compact car was purchased in 2008 and has had no major performance issues or drivability problems. I have had consistent maintenance and service performed on my compact car on a regular basis and take good care of my car. I am happy with my compact car

Angela B on May 23, 2020

It's been a reliable vehicle.

Barbara N on May 22, 2020

Nissan rogue is dependable.

I have had very few problems with my Nissan; I have been very regular in attaining the appropriate car maintenance services and I follow the schedule for tires. I wish there was more light in the back when you open the hatch back. This is the first car I have kept past the 100, 000 mile mark.

Ruta D on May 8, 2020

Reliability and luxury. Well built

I enjoy driving my vehicle. It is well built and reliable.

Cynthia K on May 7, 2020

It's gas mileage isn't as good as some others.

I like the 4-wheel drive. It's a robust car. I feel safe when driving it. I wish it had air con controls for the rear seat passengers.

Lionel Jospin B on May 3, 2020

Rogue's transmission works best in highway cruising

The engine runs so smooth It is excellent in snow and winter weather It is a great fuel economy

Patti D on April 29, 2020

The style is what got me to purchase this vehicle. It has nice lines and is not too big for me as the single driver!

I love the small but sufficient size of the Rogue and it is decent on gas. It's a nice style and the seats are sporty black cloth which don't show stains. A Bose sound system makes for nice music listening and I enjoy the Bluetooth option. Great storage in the rear. Sunroof is so nice and the all wheel drive makes me feel safe for those snowy days. I do not have any dislikes or complaints. I would buy it again!

Kelsea H on April 27, 2020

My car has required very little maintenance, been very reliable, and is a good size.

I really like the size and features of my vehicle. I've had it for several years, and it requires very little maintenance. It has been reliable, and I have no complaints about it.

Sue G on April 21, 2020

Maintenance is the key to longevity.

Comfortable ride with good power in high altitude. Wished it had better gas mileage but being AWD, averages 22-25 mpg. Parked in garage keeps original paint like new. Regular maintenance keeps it running great. I should get top blue book should I decide to sell it.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.