2001 Nissan Tsubame

The 2001 Nissan Tsubame, also known as the Nissan AD Van in some markets, was a compact commercial vehicle known for its practicality and reliability. It was available with a 1.3L GA13DE I4 engine producing around 82 horsepower and 77 lb-ft of torque, or a 1.5L QG15DE I4 engine producing around 105 horsepower and 104 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were generally a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Owners typically appreciated the Tsubame for its fuel efficiency and cargo capacity, while some common complaints centered around its basic features and somewhat dated styling, along with weak performance with the 1.3L engine when fully loaded.

Engine

1.3L GA13DE I4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported high oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups. This can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Check for leaks, worn valve stem seals, or piston rings. Repair or replace as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the source of the leak or the severity of engine wear.
• Rough Idling
  • Description/Symptoms: Unstable idle speed, engine shaking, and possible stalling.
  • Solution: Check and clean the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, throttle body, and inspect vacuum lines for leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the parts required and if professional cleaning or repair is necessary.
  • Recalls: None Found

1.5L QG15DE I4

• Timing Chain Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise coming from the engine, especially on cold starts. This can indicate a worn or stretched timing chain.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and a check engine light indicating a cylinder misfire (e.g., P0301, P0302, etc.).
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per coil, plus labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement of gears, slipping during acceleration, or harsh shifts between gears.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, the transmission may need a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for fluid and filter change. $1500 - $3000+ for rebuild or replacement.
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ depending on labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per pair (front or rear).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Rear Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting lower in the rear, reduced load-carrying capacity, and a harsher ride.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per pair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dim Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights appearing dim, especially at night.
  • Solution: Check and clean headlight grounds, replace bulbs, or upgrade to LED bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Power Windows
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows operating intermittently or not at all.
  • Solution: Check the power window switch, motor, and wiring. Replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the part needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Surface rust is common, especially in areas prone to salt exposure. Areas behind the rear wheels and around the rocker panels are most susceptible.
  • Solution: Rust removal, body repair, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, depending on the extent of the rust damage. $100 - $1000+, and can quickly rise.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles break due to age and wear.
  • Solution: Replace the door handles
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard plastic due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+ for a replacement or dash cover.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Glove Box Latch
  • Description/Symptoms: The glove box latch breaks, causing the glove box to hang open.
  • Solution: Replace the glove box latch or the entire glove box assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+

Summary

The 2001 Nissan Tsubame, while generally reliable, is prone to some common issues related to its age and use as a commercial vehicle. Engine issues like oil consumption and timing chain noise can be moderately expensive to fix, especially on the 1.5L. Transmission problems can be costly, and suspension wear is also a common concern. Rust can be a significant issue in certain climates. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues, especially engine noise, transmission performance, and rust, and factor in potential repair costs.