2000 Nissan Tsubame

The 2000 Nissan Tsubame, primarily sold in the Mexican market, was a versatile and practical vehicle aimed at providing affordable transportation. Often equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-4 engine (GA16DE), which produced around 105 horsepower and 102 lb-ft of torque, it offered a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate performance for daily driving. Other engine options may have been available in different markets or trims. The Tsubame was generally appreciated for its reliability and simplicity, making it easy to maintain and repair. However, some owners have reported issues common to vehicles of this age, particularly related to wear and tear of components. The Tsubame was available with a manual transmission or an automatic transmission.

Engine

1.6L GA16DE Inline-4

• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, stalling, and difficulty starting, especially in humid conditions. The distributor cap and rotor can corrode or crack, leading to spark issues.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor cap, rotor, and possibly the entire distributor assembly if the shaft bearings are worn.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or a complete no-start condition. The check engine light will likely illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Manual Transmission

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, and a high engagement point.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips when shifting, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear. There may be a delay when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission or a full rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during turns, and longer stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replace the struts and/or shocks. Consider replacing them in pairs (front or rear) for balanced handling.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and steering response.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings in control arms, sway bar links, and other suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow starting, and eventual battery drain. The battery warning light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, working intermittently, or moving slowly. This is often due to a failing window motor or a broken regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage. This is more prevalent in areas with high humidity or road salt usage.
  • Solution: Repairing the rust with body filler or welding in new panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2000 Nissan Tsubame, while generally reliable, can exhibit issues common to older vehicles. Engine issues such as distributor problems and crankshaft position sensor failures can cause drivability problems, and worn suspension components can affect handling and ride quality. Electrical issues and rust are also concerns. The severity and cost of these repairs can vary, but addressing them promptly will help maintain the vehicle’s performance and longevity.