2002 Nissan Almera

The 2002 Nissan Almera is a compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. Available engine options included the 1.5L petrol engine (QG15DE), 1.8L petrol engine (QG18DE) and the 2.2L diesel engine (YD22DDT/YD22DDTi). The 1.5L engine produced approximately 90 horsepower and 93 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Almera for its practicality, ease of driving, and affordable running costs. Common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling and occasionally lackluster performance, particularly with the smaller engine options.

Engine

1.5L Petrol (QG15DE)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups. Symptoms include the need to add oil between scheduled oil changes and, in severe cases, blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Regular monitoring of oil levels and using a higher-viscosity oil might mitigate the issue. In severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Causes the engine to stall or fail to start.
  • Solution: Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8L Petrol (QG18DE)

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or become noisy over time, potentially leading to engine damage if not addressed. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, and potential misfires.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Throttle Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The throttle body can become dirty, causing rough idling, stalling, and poor throttle response.
  • Solution: Cleaning the throttle body or replacing it if cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2L Diesel (YD22DDT/YD22DDTi)

• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden loss of power, difficulty starting, or complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, rough idling, black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Injector cleaning or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips between gears or fails to engage gears properly.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change may temporarily alleviate the issue. A transmission rebuild or replacement might be necessary for a permanent fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) / $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid change. If the issue persists, valve body repair or replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) / $500 - $1500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced handling precision and increased tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Shock Absorbers/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, longer stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replacement of the shock absorbers/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down properly, or making grinding noises during operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard, difficulty starting or complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the body, particularly around the wheel arches, door sills, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust removal and body repair, followed by repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Faulty Climate Control
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air, heater not blowing hot air, or inconsistent temperature regulation.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the system, which may involve recharging the refrigerant, replacing the compressor, or repairing/replacing other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Nissan Almera, while generally reliable, does exhibit some common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the timing chain on the 1.8L petrol engine and oil consumption on the 1.5L petrol engine, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, primarily with the automatic, can also be significant expenses. Suspension and electrical problems are fairly typical for a car of this age and mileage. Rust is a concern in some regions. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the car for these issues and factor in potential repair costs.