Nissan Elgrand 2017: everything you need to know before buying a Japanese minivan

Minivan Nissan Elgrand E52 The 2017 model year remains one of the most popular Japanese cars on the secondary market in Russia and the CIS. This comfortable family car combines a spacious interior, a reliable platform and a prestigious image - which is why it is chosen for both personal use and business (taxi, rental, transfers). However, before purchasing it is important to understand the nuances: what engines were installed, what problems are typical for this generation, and what to look for during inspection.

In 2017 Elgrand offered in three main modifications: 250 Highway Star, 350 Highway Star and top 350 Premium Highway Star with all-wheel drive. The model differed from previous versions by updated front optics, a modified bumper and an expanded list of options (including Around View Monitor and adaptive cruise control). At the same time, the platform and power unit remained the same - time-tested solutions that are valued for their reliability.

Technical specifications Nissan Elgrand 2017

Under the hood Elgrand E52 In 2017, two gasoline engines were installed:

• 🔹 VQ25HR (2.5 l, 190 hp) - a basic engine with a timing chain drive, known for its endurance, but sensitive to oil quality.
• 🔹 VQ35HR (3.5 l, 275 hp) - a more powerful option, which is often equipped with all-wheel drive Attesa E-TS. This engine requires special attention to the cooling system.

Both units work in tandem with the classic 5-speed automatic transmission RE5R05A, which, with proper maintenance, runs for 300+ thousand km. At the same time on versions with VQ35HR after 2015, the automatic transmission control unit was modified, which reduced the risk of jerks when switching.

Parameter	VQ25HR (2.5)	VQ35HR (3.5)
Power, hp	190	275
Torque, Nm	243	358
Fuel consumption (combined), l/100 km	9.8–11.2	11.5–13.0
Drive	Front	Front/Full (Attesa E-TS)

Suspension Elgrand - independent McPherson front and multi-link rear - designed for comfort, not sporty dynamics. This is worth considering: when driving aggressively or on bad roads, shock absorbers and silent blocks wear out faster. But ground clearance 150 mm allows you not to be afraid of high curbs and snowdrifts.

Options and equipment

In 2017 Nissan Elgrand was offered in three main versions, differing in the level of equipment and technical options:

• 🚗 250 Highway Star — basic equipment with front-wheel drive, leather interior, dual-zone climate control and DVD navigation with rear view camera.
• 🚗 350 Highway Star - adds engine VQ35HR, electric door drive, heated all seats and system Intelligent Key.
• 🚗 350 Premium Highway Star - top version with all-wheel drive, panoramic roof, adaptive cruise control and system Around View Monitor (4 cameras).

The interior deserves special attention: even in the basic version there is 7 or 8 seats (depending on the layout), power sliding doors, and the second row seats can be rotated 180° to create a “lounge-living room”. In top versions there are options such as:

• 🎵 Audio system Bose with 11 speakers;
• 📺 Two monitors for rear passengers (in the ceiling);
• 🪑 Ventilation and massage of the front seats;
• 🔋 100V socket for connecting household appliances.

However, not everything is so rosy: many owners complain about complexity of electronics repair. For example, the climate control control unit (Auto A/C Amplifier) often fails due to moisture, and replacement costs 30–50 thousand rubles.

Typical problems and weaknesses

Despite the reputation of a reliable car, Elgrand E52 2017 has several “diseases” that you should know about in advance:

⚠️ Attention: On versions with engine VQ35HR after 150–180 thousand km they often wear out hydraulic compensators And valve stem seals. Symptoms: cold knocking at startup and increased oil consumption (up to 1 liter per 3–5 thousand km). The solution is to replace the caps and flush the crankcase ventilation system.

Other common problems:

• 🔋 Automatic transmission RE5R05A — if the oil is not changed on time (every 60 thousand km), jerks and delays when switching begin. Critical point: if the oil turns black or smells like burning, get ready for a major overhaul (from 150 thousand rubles).
• 🔥 Cooling system - on VQ35HR The pipes and radiator often leak. It is recommended to replace all hoses with silicone ones and install an additional oil cooler.
• 🚪 Electric door drives — the plastic gears of the gearboxes wear out. Signs: doors open/close with jerks or not completely.
• 📱 Multimedia system — navigation Nissan Connect often “glitches” (freezes, does not read cards). The solution is flashing or replacing with Android Auto.

One more nuance - corrosion. Despite the galvanized body, rust may appear on the arches, sills and suspension mounting points. This is especially true for vehicles operated in coastal regions of Japan (for example, with license plates 北海道 or 沖縄).

How to check the history of a car from Japan?

To do this, use the services CarVertical or JEVIC by VIN code. Pay attention to the mileage (in Japan they often “twist” it before export) and the number of owners. If the history contains the entry “オークション落札" (sold at auction), check the cause - it could be a shock or flooding.

How to choose Nissan Elgrand 2017 on the secondary market

Upon purchase Elgrand with mileage first rule - don’t take the seller’s word for it. Here is a checklist of mandatory checks:

Pay special attention to the following points:

1. Mileage. The best option is a car with a mileage of up to 100 thousand km. If more than 150 thousand km, be prepared to replace consumables (timing chain, shock absorbers, brake discs).
2. Service history. Check for records of oil changes (every 10 thousand km), filters and belts. If there are no documents, this is a reason to bargain or refuse the deal.
3. Body condition. Inspect the car on a lift: rust on the side members or subframe is a critical flaw. Also check the body geometry (for example, gaps between doors).
4. Electronics. Test all functions: climate control, heated seats, cameras, parking sensors. Repairing electronics is expensive.

Prices for Elgrand 2017 in Russia in 2026 range from 1.8 to 3.5 million rubles, depending on the configuration and condition. The cheapest are versions with VQ25HR and front-wheel drive, the most expensive - 350 Premium Highway Star with all-wheel drive and panoramic roof.

Maintenance and operation: advice from owners

To Nissan Elgrand served for a long time, adhere to the following recommendations:

Engine and transmission:

• 🛢️ Change the oil every 8–10 thousand km (even if the mileage is small). For VQ35HR fits 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission API SN.
• 🔗 Timing chain on VQ25HR runs up to 200 thousand km, but it is better to check its condition every 100 thousand km. On VQ35HR The chain is more reliable, but can stretch if overheated.
• 🔄 Change the automatic transmission oil every 60 thousand km (partial replacement) or 100 thousand km (full). Use only original fluid Nissan Matic-S.

Suspension and body:

• 🔧 Replace shock absorbers and stabilizer struts in pairs every 80–100 thousand km. Original parts are expensive, but alternatives from Kayaba or Monroe will also fit.
• 🛡️ Treat the body with anticorrosive once every 2 years, even if you don’t use the car in winter. Particular attention is paid to arches and thresholds.
• 🚗 Once a year, check the condition of the rear suspension silent blocks. Their wear is manifested by knocking on uneven surfaces.

⚠️ Attention: If the icon on the dashboard lights up SLIP (on all-wheel drive versions), this may indicate a clutch failure Attesa E-TS. Ignoring the problem leads to failure of the rear axle gearbox (repair from 100 thousand rubles).

To save on maintenance, many owners recommend:

• 🔧 Order consumables at eBay or AliExpress (for example, filters Mann or Denso 30–50% cheaper than the original ones).
• 🔧 Use a scanner for diagnostics ELM327 with the program Nissan DataScan (allows you to read errors across all systems).
• 🔧 Change lamps and fuses yourself - in Elgrand they are easy to access (instructions are in the manual).

Alternatives to Nissan Elgrand 2017

If Elgrand seems too expensive or difficult to maintain, consider analogues:

Model	Pros	Cons	Price (used, 2026)
Toyota Alphard Vellfire (2015–2017)	More reliable engine (2GR-FKS), hybrid version	20–30% more expensive, harder to find spare parts	2.5–4.0 million RUB
Honda Stepwgn (2015–2017)	Spacious interior, economical engine (2.4 l)	Less prestigious, poor sound insulation	1.5–2.5 million ₽
Mitsubishi Delica D:5 (2016–2018)	Diesel engine (4N14), four-wheel drive	Rare spare parts, problems with the turbine	1.8–3.0 million ₽

Compared to competitors Elgrand wins due to:

• 💺 More comfortable suspension (softer than Alphard);
• 🔧 Ease of repair (engines VQ well studied in Russia);
• 🎩 Prestigious image (often used as a business car).

However, if you need hybrid or a more economical option, it’s worth taking a closer look at Toyota Alphard or Honda Stepwgn.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Elgrand 2017

❓Which engine is better to choose: VQ25HR or VQ35HR?

VQ25HR (2.5 l) suitable for quiet driving around the city - it is more economical and easier to maintain. VQ35HR (3.5 l) needed if you often drive with a full load or on the highway (for example, for family trips). However, keep in mind that the fuel consumption of the 3.5-liter version is 2-3 liters higher, and repairs are more expensive.

❓ Is it possible to install gas on Elgrand 2017?

Technically yes, but not recommended for engines VQ. These engines are sensitive to detonation, and gas increases the load on the piston group. If you still decide, choose 4th generation equipment (for example, Lovato or BRC) and have it set up by an experienced technician. Be sure to reduce the oil change interval to 7 thousand km.

❓ What oil should I fill in the Elgrand 2017 automatic transmission?

Only original liquid Nissan Matic-S (article KLE52-00004). Analogs (for example, Idemitsu ATF Type-J) can only be used as a last resort. The volume for a complete replacement is 12–14 liters. Do not skimp on oil: low-quality fluid leads to wear of clutches and solenoids.

❓ How to check if Elgrand has been in an accident?

Inspect the following areas:

• 🔍 Gaps between body panels (must be the same around the entire perimeter);
• 🔍 Paint at the joints (if it differs in shade, it is a sign of painting);
• 🔍 Geometry of doors and hood (if they close with force, the body “drives”);
• 🔍 Presence of welding marks on the side members (visible on the lift).

Also request a VIN report via CarVertical or Autocode.

❓ How much does it cost to maintain Elgrand 2017 per year?

Approximate costs (for Moscow and the region, 2026):

• 💰 Insurance (CASCO) — 80–120 thousand ₽ (depending on experience and franchise);
• 💰 Maintenance (oil, filters, consumables) — 30–50 thousand rubles per year;
• 💰 Repair fund — 50–100 thousand ₽ (in case of replacing shock absorbers, timing chain, etc.);
• 💰 Fuel — 120–180 thousand rubles (with a mileage of 20 thousand km/year and a consumption of 12 l/100 km).

Total: 300–500 thousand rubles per year, excluding unforeseen expenses.