2005 Nissan Urvan
The 2005 Nissan Urvan (also known as the Nissan Caravan in some markets) is a versatile commercial van appreciated for its cargo capacity, reliability, and practicality. Engine options for this model year include the 2.0L and 2.5L gasoline engines, as well as a 2.5L diesel engine. The 2.5L gasoline engine produces around 145 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. Transmissions typically include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Urvan’s spacious interior and dependability, but some dislike its basic features and somewhat dated styling.
Engine
2.5L QR25DE Gasoline Engine
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, particularly in higher mileage vehicles. This may present as the need to add oil more frequently between scheduled oil changes.
- Solution: The causes can be varied, from worn valve stem seals to piston ring issues. A compression test and leak-down test can help diagnose the root cause. Depending on the cause, repairs may range from replacing valve stem seals to a complete engine rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
2.5L YD25DDTi Diesel Engine
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough idling, decreased power, and excessive black smoke from the exhaust. This can be caused by contaminated fuel or general wear and tear.
- Solution: Diagnosis involves testing the fuel injectors. Replacement of faulty injectors is usually the recommended solution. In some cases, cleaning the injectors may temporarily alleviate the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Slipping or Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, hesitates when shifting, or shifts harshly. This can be accompanied by unusual noises.
- Solution: Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low or burnt, a fluid and filter change may help. If the problem persists, it could indicate worn clutches or a faulty valve body, requiring a transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid/filter change) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Shock Absorbers/Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, and longer stopping distances.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn shock absorbers or struts is the recommended solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when driving over bumps, imprecise steering.
- Solution: Replacement of worn control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, or other suspension bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow engine cranking, and a dead battery.
- Solution: Testing the alternator output and replacing the unit if it fails the test.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Starter Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clicking sound when trying to start the engine, engine not cranking.
- Solution: Replacement of the starter motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rusting
- Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on body panels, especially around wheel wells and door seams.
- Solution: Repairing rusted areas by cutting out the rust, welding in new metal, and repainting. Rust prevention measures can also be taken to prevent further rust development.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per panel
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard plastic, particularly in vehicles exposed to high temperatures.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2005 Nissan Urvan has some common issues across different areas of the vehicle. Engine issues like excessive oil consumption and fuel injector failure in diesel models can be moderately severe and cost several hundred to thousands of dollars to fix. Transmission problems such as slipping and harsh shifting may require expensive repairs. Suspension issues are typically less severe but can impact ride quality. Electrical problems like alternator and starter motor failures are also common. Rusting can be a significant concern in older models, potentially requiring costly repairs. Overall, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle for these common issues and budget accordingly.