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2001 Nissan Almera

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2001 Nissan Almera is a compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. Engine options include a 1.5L gasoline engine producing approximately 90 horsepower and 95 lb-ft of torque, a 1.8L gasoline engine producing approximately 114 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.2L diesel engine producing approximately 110 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Almera’s affordability and practicality. Common dislikes include the bland styling and somewhat uninspired driving experience.

Engine

1.5L Gasoline Engine

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption.
    • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. If excessive consumption is confirmed, a mechanic can perform a compression test and leak-down test to diagnose the cause, which may involve piston rings or valve seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the cause and extent of the repairs needed (e.g., valve job, piston ring replacement, engine rebuild).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Ignition Coil
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, loss of power, and the check engine light illuminating.
    • Solution: Identify the faulty ignition coil(s) through diagnostic testing and replace them.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per coil, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

1.8L Gasoline Engine

  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to poor engine performance and potential engine damage if not addressed.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Idle Air Control Valve Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Unstable idle speed, stalling, or difficulty starting.
    • Solution: Clean or replace the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.2L Diesel Engine

  • Fuel Injector Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust.
    • Solution: Diagnose the faulty injector(s) and replace them.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per injector, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Slipping Gears
    • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or jerky gear changes, engine revving without acceleration.
    • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. If fluid is low or dirty, perform a fluid and filter change. If slipping persists, internal damage may require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for fluid and filter change, $1500 - $3500+ for rebuild or replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough or abrupt gear changes, particularly between first and second gear.
    • Solution: Could be due to worn transmission mounts, low fluid level, or internal transmission wear. Start by inspecting and replacing transmission mounts and checking fluid level. If the issue persists, a more thorough transmission inspection is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200 for transmission mounts, $100 - $200 for fluid change, $500+ for internal repairs
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Difficulty Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard to engage gears, grinding noises during shifting.
    • Solution: Check clutch cable adjustment. Inspect clutch components (disc, pressure plate, throw-out bearing) for wear and replace as needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for cable adjustment/replacement, $300 - $800+ for clutch replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Suspension Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises when driving over bumps, imprecise handling, and excessive tire wear.
    • Solution: Inspect suspension bushings and replace worn ones (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per corner, depending on which bushings need replacement and labor rates.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Failed Wheel Bearings
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise that increases with speed, especially noticeable when turning.
    • Solution: Replace the affected wheel bearing(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per wheel, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Faulty Window Regulators
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, slow or erratic window movement, or windows falling down into the door.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery warning light illuminated, difficulty starting the engine, or complete electrical failure.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on body panels, especially around wheel arches, door sills, and undercarriage.
    • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels. Treatment to prevent further rusting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1000+ depending on location and severity.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
    • Description/Symptoms: Headlights appear cloudy or yellowed, reducing light output and visibility at night.
    • Solution: Polish the headlight lenses or replace them.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $100+ for polishing, $100 - $300+ for replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Broken Door Handles
    • Description/Symptoms: Interior or exterior door handles breaking, making it difficult or impossible to open the door.
    • Solution: Replace the broken door handle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per handle, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Climate Control Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air, heater not blowing hot air, or erratic temperature control.
    • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the problem (e.g., refrigerant leak, faulty compressor, malfunctioning blend door actuator) and repair or replace the affected components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+, depending on the issue and parts needed.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Nissan Almera can suffer from various issues, ranging from engine and transmission problems to suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior faults. The severity and cost of these issues can vary significantly. Engine issues such as excessive oil consumption or timing chain problems can be costly to repair, while suspension and electrical problems may be more moderate in cost. Rust is a common concern for vehicles of this age, and addressing it can be expensive. Overall, prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common issues and budget accordingly for potential repairs.

Nissan, Almera
Nissan Almera 2001
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