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2018 Nissan GT-R Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ethan Miller

Overall Score

6.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2018 GT-R boasts a strong public reliability score of 9.6, indicating excellent owner satisfaction and durability.
  • Zero recalls and zero consumer complaints filed with NHTSA suggest a robust initial build quality for this model year.
  • Ownership costs are significantly influenced by the high price of specialized parts and labor for its advanced powertrain and chassis.
  • The GT-R's performance demands careful inspection of the engine, transmission, and all-wheel-drive system for any signs of stress or neglect.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Nissan GT-R

The 2018 Nissan GT-R, often dubbed 'Godzilla,' remains a formidable supercar proposition on the used market. Its twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine and advanced all-wheel-drive system deliver exhilarating performance. While its public reliability score is an impressive 9.6, buyers should understand that this is a high-strung performance car. The lack of recalls and consumer complaints reported to NHTSA is a positive sign, but the inherent complexity and performance envelope mean potential repairs can be significantly more expensive than for mainstream vehicles. Fuel economy is as expected for its class, with a combined 18 MPG.

Critical Failure Risk

While the GT-R's GR6 transmission is a marvel, it requires specialized fluid and strict adherence to service intervals. Neglecting fluid changes or using incorrect fluid can lead to premature wear, shifting problems, or complete failure. This is a critical, high-cost component.

Early detection can help you avoid a $5,000-$10,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
22
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.5/ 10

Practicality

2.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking supercar performance without the stratospheric price tag of some European exotics.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford potentially expensive repairs for high-performance components.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Nissan GT-R Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Nissan GT-R.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
2
Transmission
Automatic (AM6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Coupe
EPA Combined MPG
18

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Most Common Issues

1. Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Issues

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Turbocharger Wear

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $200 - $350

3,750 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Nissan GT-R reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Nissan GT-R is 9.5/10. Reliability score is 9.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Nissan GT-R for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 2.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 2. 2 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Nissan GT-R?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Nissan GT-R is 6.2/10. Overall score is 6.2/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 2.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Nissan GT-R?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection at 3,750 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $5,000 • Max: $10,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Nissan GT-R?▾

Base MSRP is $99,990.

What engine is in the 2018 Nissan GT-R?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.8.

What transmission does the 2018 Nissan GT-R use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan GT-R, transmission is Automatic (AM6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 GT-R require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Nissan GT-R?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Nissan GT-R?▾

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Nissan GT-R?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan GT-R, seating capacity is 2.

What body style is the 2018 Nissan GT-R?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan GT-R, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Nissan GT-R use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan GT-R, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM6).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Nissan GT-R?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Audi R8 and 2018 Porsche 911.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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