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2003 Nissan Almera

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2003 Nissan Almera, also known as the Nissan Pulsar in some markets, was a popular compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. Engine options included a 1.5L gasoline engine, a 1.8L gasoline engine, and a 2.2L diesel engine. The 1.5L engine produced around 90 horsepower and 95 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices were typically a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic, depending on the engine and market. Owners generally appreciated the Almera’s practicality and affordability. Common complaints revolved around its somewhat bland styling and basic interior features, as well as some reported issues with rust, particularly in colder climates.

Engine

1.5L Gasoline Engine

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes oil at a higher rate than normal, requiring frequent top-ups. Visible blue smoke may be present from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacing piston rings and valve stem seals. In severe cases, engine rebuild or replacement is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially during cold starts. If left unattended, this can lead to engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800

1.8L Gasoline Engine

  • Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or poor engine performance. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) are present.
    • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idling, stalling, or difficulty maintaining a consistent idle speed.
    • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

2.2L Diesel Engine

  • Fuel Injector Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, black smoke from the exhaust, and difficulty starting.
    • Solution: Replacing faulty fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+ depending on how many injectors need replaced.
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and a whistling noise from the turbocharger.
    • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Slipping Gears
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, leading to delayed acceleration or loss of power.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may temporarily alleviate the issue. If the problem persists, a transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) or $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt and jarring shifts between gears.
    • Solution: Inspect and replace faulty solenoids or sensors. A transmission rebuild may be needed in severe cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800 (solenoids/sensors) or $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild)

5-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Difficulty Shifting into Certain Gears
    • Description/Symptoms: Trouble engaging specific gears, particularly first or second. Grinding noises may occur during shifts.
    • Solution: Replacing worn synchronizers or rebuilding the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Clutch Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs without a corresponding increase in speed, indicating clutch slippage.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000

Suspension

  • Worn Suspension Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps. Reduced handling and stability.
    • Solution: Replacing worn suspension bushings, such as control arm bushings and sway bar bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Faulty Shock Absorbers/Struts
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, poor ride quality, and reduced handling. Leaking fluid may be visible on the shock absorbers/struts.
    • Solution: Replacing worn shock absorbers or struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Electrical

  • Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
    • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, rough idling, reduced fuel economy, and difficulty starting. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the MAF sensor are present.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty MAF sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, a warning light on the dashboard (battery light), difficulty starting, or a completely dead battery.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window does not move up or down. Grinding sounds from inside the door.
    • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Exterior

  • Rust on the Underbody
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust on chassis.
    • Solution: Rust repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the severity
  • Rust around Fuel Door
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust around the fuel door.
    • Solution: Rust repair and repaint
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity

Interior

  • Faulty Power Window Switch
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate or operate intermittently.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty power window switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Broken Sun Visor
    • Description/Symptoms: Sun visor does not stay in place.
    • Solution: Replacing the sun visor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $100

Recalls None Found

Summary

The 2003 Nissan Almera can be a reliable and fuel-efficient car, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues it may face. Engine issues such as excessive oil consumption, timing chain problems, and sensor failures can be costly to repair. Transmission issues can also lead to expensive repairs. Suspension and electrical problems are also frequent, although usually less costly. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues range from minor maintenance items to significant repairs, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing a used 2003 Nissan Almera.

Nissan, Almera
Nissan Almera 2003
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