2020 Nissan Rogue Has Rough Idle

Diagnosing Causes of Rough Idle in Your 2020 Nissan Rogue and Solutions for a Smoother Ride

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Nissan Rogue has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Nissan Rogue has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the potential causes and diagnostic steps for a rough idle in a 2020 Nissan Rogue?

When diagnosing a rough idle in your 2020 Nissan Rogue, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest potential issues before moving on to more complex problems. Start by checking the air filter; a dirty or clogged filter can significantly restrict airflow, leading to performance issues. If the air filter appears clean, inspect the spark plugs next, as worn or faulty plugs can cause misfiring and contribute to a rough idle. Following this, examine the vacuum system for any leaks, as these can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and affect engine performance. If these initial checks do not reveal the problem, turn your attention to the fuel system, ensuring that the fuel filter and injectors are functioning correctly and free from blockages. Finally, assess the mass airflow sensor, as a malfunction here can lead to incorrect air readings, further complicating the idle issue. By methodically working through these diagnostic steps, you can effectively identify and address the root cause of the rough idle in your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause a rough idle in a 2020 Nissan Rogue?

When dealing with a rough idle in your 2020 Nissan Rogue, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the first areas to check is the air filter; a dirty or clogged air filter can significantly restrict airflow to the engine, resulting in an uneven idle. Additionally, inspect the spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can cause misfiring, which directly affects engine performance. Another critical component to examine is the vacuum system; any leaks can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to instability in idling. Fuel system issues, such as a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump, can also contribute to rough idling, so ensure these components are functioning correctly. Furthermore, the mass airflow sensor plays a vital role in maintaining the right air-fuel ratio, and if it's malfunctioning, it can cause the engine to run either too rich or too lean, resulting in a rough idle. Lastly, don't overlook the EGR valve; if it's faulty, it can disrupt the combustion process, further exacerbating idle issues. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively diagnose and address the rough idle in your Nissan Rogue, ensuring smoother engine performance.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in my 2020 Nissan Rogue?

Addressing a rough idle in your 2020 Nissan Rogue is crucial due to the potential risks associated with ignoring this symptom. A rough idle can signal underlying engine problems that, if left unresolved, may escalate into more severe issues, leading to costly repairs and decreased vehicle performance. Additionally, a rough idle often correlates with reduced fuel efficiency, which can impact your overall driving costs. By prioritizing timely maintenance and repairs, you not only enhance your vehicle's performance but also safeguard against further damage that could compromise safety and reliability. Therefore, if you notice your Rogue idling roughly, it is essential to investigate and address the issue promptly to maintain optimal functionality and prevent more significant problems in the future.

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