2013 Nissan Tsuru

The 2013 Nissan Tsuru, primarily sold in Mexico, is a no-frills, budget-friendly sedan known for its simplicity and reliability. It was largely unchanged from its earlier iterations. It typically came equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-4 gasoline engine producing around 105 horsepower and 102 lb-ft of torque. It was praised for its affordability, ease of maintenance, and fuel efficiency. However, it was often criticized for its lack of safety features and dated design. The standard transmission option was a 5-speed manual transmission. While it was not sold in the U.S. market, its reputation precedes it.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4 Gasoline

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop around the valve cover gasket and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or the rear main seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ (valve cover gasket), $300 - $700+ (rear main seal)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knocking/Pinging Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may exhibit knocking or pinging, especially under load or during acceleration, even when using the recommended octane fuel. This can be caused by carbon buildup or issues with the timing.
  • Solution: Cleaning the fuel system and intake manifold to remove carbon deposits can sometimes resolve the issue. In other cases, checking the engine timing is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $75 - $250+ (fuel system cleaning), $100 - $400+ (timing adjustment)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Difficulty Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, especially first and reverse, can occur. This could be caused by worn synchros, a worn clutch, or a misadjusted shifter linkage.
  • Solution: Adjust the shifter linkage. Replace the clutch, pressure plate, and throwout bearing if necessary. Replace the worn synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ (shifter linkage adjustment), $300 - $800+ (clutch replacement), $500 - $1200+ (synchro replacement requiring transmission rebuild or replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, or a burning smell. The car may struggle to accelerate, especially when going uphill.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing. It’s often recommended to resurface the flywheel at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Shocks and Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, and longer stopping distances. Visual inspection may reveal oil leaks from the shocks or struts.
  • Solution: Replace the shocks and struts. It’s recommended to replace them in pairs (front or rear) for balanced handling.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (parts and labor for a pair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear may also be noticeable.
  • Solution: Replace the worn suspension bushings. This can involve replacing control arms or other suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the bushing location and complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard (battery or alternator), and eventual stalling of the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking sound when trying to start the engine, slow cranking, or failure to start at all.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the body panels, especially in areas prone to moisture and salt exposure. Common spots include the wheel arches, rocker panels, and the lower edges of doors.
  • Solution: Repair the rust by sanding, patching, and repainting the affected areas. In severe cases, panel replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the severity and location)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Lens Yellowing/Clouding
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses become yellowed or cloudy over time, reducing headlight output and visibility.
  • Solution: Polish the headlight lenses or replace the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50+ (polishing kit), $100 - $300+ (headlight assembly replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks can develop in the dashboard due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Dash Cover, or dash replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $100+ (dash cover), $300 - $1000+ (dash replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Loose or Broken Interior Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Due to the Tsuru being a budget car, the interior trim pieces can be fragile. They may break or become loose over time.
  • Solution: Replace the trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $100+ (depending on the piece)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Nissan Tsuru is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners may encounter some common issues related to its age and budget-oriented design. Engine oil leaks, transmission shifting problems, suspension wear, and electrical component failures are among the most frequently reported problems. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to more significant repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Rust can also be a concern, especially in regions with harsh climates. While these issues exist, the Tsuru’s simplicity and affordability often make it an attractive option for those seeking basic transportation.