Buying used

G

gaz100uk

HI all. Just joined fingers crossed you guys can help.

We currently have a 54 reg Tino and a 'P' reg Almera Sri. Unfortunately after years of abuse and neglect the Sri is in need of replacement. 143K and showing signs of use now. Thinking of getting a new Almera but I keep reading horror stories of gearbox issues and corroding cross members on the newer models.
Are these issues as common as people make out?
I was wondering is there a year/model that all these problems started to occur on or cleared up by? Cross members I could tell by looking at, but is there also anyway of visually looking at the box to see if it is one that would cause me an issue. Have been looking at around a 03/53 reg. but happy to go either way to avoid a rogue one.

I can’t believe that after having so may Nissans over the years the reliability has gone down hill so much.

Many thanks in advance
 
Hi, i hope to shed some light.

Gearbox problems were primarily in the N16 1.5 range. The 1.8s were much better and as for the cross members i know for certain the majority of phase 1's have suffered with them. including mine. Its not a huge job to have done. I have had mine repaired but most people opt for a replacement front and underside cross members which including labour is circa £300. The parts are cheap if your a competent welder.

If you liked your P reg N15, have you thought about buying a low mileage V reg N15??

Otherwise, your best bet would be to buy a N16 which isn't a 1.5 and if the cross member needs doing just make sure you use it to knock down the price of the car.

Hope that helps
 
As above, go for a Phase 2 2.2 Dci or a 1.8 petrol. These start from mid '03 onwards. I honestly couldn't recommend the 1.5 Phase 1 simply because of all the owners who've had duff gearboxes & rotten crossmembers. If you get a Phase 2 (different lights, grill, etc), I'd recommend getting the crossmember rubbed down and anti-rust treated while it's still in good nick. That way, you shouldn't have any major issues with it.
 
It seems nowa days cars are only built to last as long as the vehicle manfacturers warrenty periods, so there skimpin on quality. So cheap grade running gear in gearboxes for example is more of a common thing. My old 2000 reg astravan gearbox only lasts 30k at a time before it goes and the box specialist says that newer peugeots are even worse.
Shame really.
 
Its like the Phase 2 N15 Almeras, most of them are rotten eggs while there's still early Phase 1 models running around without a sign of rust!
Joe
 
shaggy_master said:
Its like the Phase 2 N15 Almeras, most of them are rotten eggs while there's still early Phase 1 models running around without a sign of rust!
Joe
Click to expand...

i dont believe this matey!

i totallyl think they are built the same it jsut depends on how they been looked after - their location (by the sea) etc

ive had loads of ph2 that were excellent but also had some ph1 too both good and bad

worst one was a p reg phase1 it was a rust bucket

so i think it comes purely down to its upkeep!
 
I new it was a good idea to join up. Thanks for all the advice. I have found a 2001 Sport+ 58k for around £2200. It looks in good condition from pics. Are these reliable and what should i be looking out for when i go to see it.

Many thanks in advance
 
Is it a 1.5 or a 1.8 ? If it's the smaller engine, then the weak link is the gearbox so make sure it works ok and no nasty noises from it. Also have a look behind the grill at the cross member and see if it has any visible rust. If it's significant, it can be an MOT failure. If it's just on the surface, you can always rub it down and give it the anti-rust treatment.
 
I'd still advise you check the cross member or slam panel. Check the rear brake calipers for any sign of sticking too mate, they'd heat up the wheel pretty quick on a test drive if so.
 
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