2007 Nissan Micra

The 2007 Nissan Micra, also known as the Nissan March in some markets, is a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency and nimble handling. Engine options for this year typically include a 1.2L inline-4 (CR12DE) producing around 65 horsepower and 81 lb-ft of torque, a 1.4L inline-4 (CR14DE) with approximately 87 horsepower, and a 1.5L inline-4 (HR15DE), though availability varies by market. Transmission choices are generally a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Micra’s compact size for city driving and its affordability, but some common complaints involve the car’s basic features, lack of power, and potential for rust, particularly in colder climates.

Engine

1.2L CR12DE

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise, especially on cold starts. This is due to wear and stretching of the timing chain. Can lead to poor engine performance and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, sprockets, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and reduced power. Often accompanied by a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (depending on how many need replacing)
  • Recalls: None Found

1.4L CR14DE

• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, especially at idle or during acceleration. Can also cause clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn or broken engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idling, stalling, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the idle air control valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.5L HR15DE

• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light. The VVT solenoid or actuator may be malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty VVT solenoid or actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to shift at all. This is often due to low transmission fluid, worn clutch packs, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, or transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush) or $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at low speeds or during acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps. Loose handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn suspension bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that are slow to move, get stuck, or fail to operate.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Central locking system malfunctions, preventing doors from locking or unlocking remotely or with the key.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the fault, which could be a faulty actuator, wiring problem, or control module, and repairing/replacing the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, particularly around the wheel arches, door sills, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which may involve sanding, patching, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per panel, depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard plastic, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (replacement) or $50 - $200 (cover)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Nissan Micra is a generally reliable car, but like any vehicle of its age, it is susceptible to certain issues. Engine problems, particularly related to the timing chain and coil packs on the 1.2L engine, are common. Transmission issues, especially with the automatic transmission, can be costly to repair. Suspension wear is also typical. Rust is a significant concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, such as transmission problems or extensive rust repair, can be quite costly. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the car for these common issues before purchasing.