A Guide to Replacing Ignition Coils on Your 2009-2014 Nissan Cube
If your Cube is running rough, a bad ignition coil is a likely and easy-to-fix problem.
- A rough idle and a flashing check engine light with codes P0301-P0304 are the most common signs of a bad coil.
- Replacement is extremely easy and DIY-friendly, requiring only basic tools and about 30 minutes.
- For best results, choose a premium aftermarket brand like Hitachi (OEM supplier), NGK, or Delphi.
- If your Cube has high mileage (>100k miles), it's best practice to replace all four coils and spark plugs at the same time.
Is Your Nissan Cube's Ignition Coil Failing?
When an ignition coil starts to go bad on the 1.8L engine in your 2009-2014 Cube, the signs are usually obvious. Because each cylinder has its own coil, a single failure means 25% of your engine isn't working correctly. This leads to noticeable performance issues.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Rough Idle and Misfiring: The engine will shake, sputter, or sound like it's coughing, especially when stopped or at low speeds. This is the most common sign.
- Check Engine Light: A failing coil will trigger the check engine light. You will likely see codes like P0300 (random misfire) or, more specifically, P0301, P0302, P0303, or P0304, which point to the exact cylinder that is misfiring.
- Loss of Power: Your Cube will feel sluggish and won't accelerate as quickly as it should.
- Worse Gas Mileage: When a cylinder misfires, fuel is still injected but doesn't get burned. This wastes gas and causes you to fill up more often.
- Gas Smell from Exhaust: Unburned fuel from the misfiring cylinder can travel into the exhaust, sometimes creating a noticeable gasoline smell.
Known Issues & Recalls
There are no specific recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for ignition coil failure on the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube. However, there was a recall (NHTSA ID: 15V418000) for the engine start/stop button on some 2013-2014 models, which could cause the engine to shut off while driving. While not directly a coil issue, it's an important electrical system point to be aware of. No widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for ignition coil failure on this specific model were found, though general misfire TSBs exist for other Nissan vehicles.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When replacing a coil, you don't have to buy the expensive OEM part from a dealer. Many aftermarket brands offer excellent quality, often for much less money. For Nissan vehicles, the original factory (OEM) coils are typically made by Hitachi. Aftermarket choices can be grouped into quality tiers.
Premium Brands (OEM-Equivalent or Better):
- Hitachi: As the likely original supplier, an aftermarket Hitachi coil is the closest you can get to the factory part, often at a better price. They are known for quality and longevity.
- NGK: A top-tier Japanese brand known for high-quality ignition components. Many mechanics and owners trust NGK for reliability that meets or exceeds OEM standards.
- Delphi: A major OEM supplier for many car brands, Delphi coils are well-regarded for their engineering and durability.
Mid-Range & Economy Brands:
- Standard Ignition (SMP), Spectra, Walker Products: These brands offer a balance of affordability and decent quality. They are a solid choice for daily drivers.
- DriveWire, Skyward, Global Parts: These are typically budget-focused options. While they are the most affordable, some owners report a shorter lifespan compared to premium brands. They can be a good choice if you're on a tight budget, but be aware that you might be replacing them again sooner.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets?
If your Cube has over 100,000 miles, it's a good idea to replace all four ignition coils at once. Coils are wear items and tend to fail around the same time. Replacing them all together saves you from having to do the same easy job again in a few months. It's also wise to replace the spark plugs at the same time if they are due.
Cost of Replacing Nissan Cube Ignition Coils
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Coil) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $90 - $120 | Highest cost, typically a Hitachi-made part. |
| New Aftermarket (Premium) | $45 - $75 | Brands like Hitachi, NGK, and Delphi offer great value. |
| New Aftermarket (Economy) | $35 - $50 | Budget-friendly but may have a shorter lifespan. |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 | This is a very quick job, typically taking less than 30 minutes. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace the ignition coils on a Nissan Cube?
No, this is one of the easiest repairs you can do. The coils are located directly on top of the engine and are held in by a single 10mm bolt each. 🎬 Watch this quick walkthrough on installing Cube coil packs. You simply unplug the electrical connector, unbolt the coil, and pull it straight out. The entire job for all four coils can be done in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
Can I replace just one bad ignition coil?
Yes, you can replace only the one that has failed. However, if the vehicle has high mileage, the other coils are likely near the end of their service life. Replacing them all at once is good preventative maintenance.
How do I know which coil is bad?
The easiest way is to use an OBD-II scanner. A code like P0301 points to cylinder #1, P0302 to cylinder #2, and so on. If you don't have a scanner, you can swap the suspected bad coil with a known good one from another cylinder. If the misfire code moves to the new cylinder, you've confirmed the coil is faulty.
🎬 See how to diagnose and fix a P0301 engine code.Do I need to replace my spark plugs with the coils?
It is highly recommended, especially if you don't know when they were last changed. Worn spark plugs can put extra strain on the new ignition coils, causing them to fail prematurely. Since you already have the coils out, accessing the spark plugs is simple.
🎬 Follow this guide to change your Cube's spark plugs.Helpful Videos
![How to Fix NISSAN P0301 Engine Code in 3 Minutes [2 DIY Methods / Only $4.22]](https://img.youtube.com/vi/KyoMMCSjlfM/mqdefault.jpg)
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 22448-1KT0A 22448-1KT1A 22448-ED000 22448-JA00A 22448-JA00C
The 2009-2014 Nissan Cube uses a Coil-on-Plug (COP) ignition system with one coil per cylinder. Each coil has a 3-pin electrical connector and is secured with a single bolt.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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