Hey everyone, let’s dive straight into some of the common complaints I’ve seen popping up about the Changan UNI-V from actual owners. First up, we’ve got a few recurring issues that seem to be causing some frustration.
One of the most frequently mentioned problems is with the spoiler. Now, I know that spoiler is a big part of the UNI-V’s sporty look, but several owners have reported issues with it. Some have said it feels a little flimsy, almost like it could break off easily. Others have mentioned that the spoiler’s placement can sometimes interfere with rear visibility, especially when reversing in tight spaces. It’s not a massive deal for everyone, but it’s definitely something to be aware of before you buy. If you’re particularly concerned, maybe consider checking out some aftermarket solutions or even seeing if there are any modifications you can make to improve its stability or visibility.
Next, we have complaints about the gas hood. Several owners have mentioned that the gas hood struts, the things that hold the hood open, aren’t always the strongest. Some have reported that the hood can sometimes drop unexpectedly, which is obviously a safety concern. It’s not a widespread issue, but it’s something to keep an eye on. If you experience this, taking it to a service center immediately is crucial. They can likely replace the struts under warranty, and that should solve the problem. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to something like this.
Finally, and this one’s a big one for those living in colder climates, particularly in places like Siberia, the lack of a winter package is a significant drawback for many UNI-V owners. Without the winter package, features like heated seats and a more robust climate control system are missing. This can make driving in sub-zero temperatures incredibly uncomfortable, even dangerous. If you live in an area with harsh winters, seriously consider whether the UNI-V is the right car for you without investing in aftermarket solutions to address these issues. Things like heated seat covers and investing in a good quality engine block heater can help mitigate some of the problems, but it’s an added expense and hassle that you wouldn’t have to deal with if the car came with these features standard. It’s a crucial factor to weigh up before making your purchase. Think carefully about your climate and driving conditions before you commit.
So, let’s dive straight into the issues some Changan UNI-V owners have been reporting. First up, and this is a big one for many, is the highway experience. A lot of owners are saying that the UNI-V just doesn’t feel right on the open road. Now, this isn’t a blanket statement – some people are perfectly happy with it – but a significant number report a lack of stability at higher speeds. They describe a feeling of nervousness, a lack of confidence in the car’s handling, especially when encountering strong winds or uneven road surfaces. Some have even mentioned a slight wandering feeling, requiring constant corrections to maintain their lane. This isn’t necessarily a safety hazard for everyone, but it’s definitely something that’s been a recurring theme in owner feedback. It’s worth considering if you plan on doing a lot of long-distance driving. Perhaps a thorough alignment check or even exploring different tire pressures could help mitigate some of these issues. It’s definitely something to be aware of before you buy.
Next, we have the «raw» feeling some owners report, particularly those in Russia. This seems to be a combination of factors. Firstly, the car’s suspension, while generally considered comfortable in city driving, might be perceived as a bit too soft for the often rougher Russian roads. This leads to more noticeable bumps and vibrations, making for a less refined ride than some might expect. Secondly, some owners mention issues with the car’s adaptation to the colder climate. Things like the responsiveness of the electronics or even the effectiveness of the heating system have been cited as potential areas of concern. This isn’t to say the car is inherently flawed, but it highlights the importance of considering the specific conditions where you’ll be driving. If you’re in a region with harsh winters or poor road conditions, you might want to do some extra research and perhaps even test drive the car in similar conditions before making a purchase.
Now, let’s talk about the stereo system. Many owners feel the sound quality of the stock Changan UNI-V stereo is underwhelming. It’s not necessarily terrible, but it lacks the richness and clarity that many drivers expect, especially at higher volumes. The bass can be weak, and the overall soundstage feels somewhat flat. This is a relatively easy fix, though. Upgrading the speakers is a common solution, and there are plenty of aftermarket options available to significantly improve the audio experience. You could also explore different equalization settings within the car’s infotainment system to see if you can fine-tune the sound to your liking. Don’t settle for subpar sound – a better stereo can dramatically enhance your driving enjoyment.
Finally, let’s address accessing Android Auto. For some reason, it’s not directly supported on the UNI-V’s infotainment system. However, a workaround exists through the engineering menu. Now, I want to stress that accessing the engineering menu should be done with caution. It’s not something for the faint of heart, and messing around in there could potentially cause problems. But, for those technically inclined, it’s possible to enable Android Auto functionality this way. There are plenty of tutorials available online that walk you through the process step-by-step. Just remember to proceed carefully and back up your system settings before attempting any modifications. This is definitely a more advanced solution, but it’s an option for those willing to put in the effort.




