Nissan Almera (1995 - 2000)

Last updated 20 June 2019

Buying Guide

Good

18th from top of 100 models for reliability in Auto Express 2002 survey.

Low 3 out of 9 point death rate from accidents in this model.

Nissan generally had slightly below average warranty repair costs in 2003 Warranty Direct Reliability index (index 94.77 v/s lowest 31.93).

1995-1997 models had fewestr numbers of breakdowns, problems and faults; 1998-2000 models had fewest numbers of problems and faults and average number of breakdowns, rated 'Best Buy' in 2003 Which survey. 

Bad

Hopeless styling of original hatchbacks. 

Some 1.4 litre models have very mean equipment levels. 

Diesels are slow. 

We paid about twice as much for them as they did in Japan. 

Comparatively poor performance of hatchback in 1999 NCAP secondary safety crash tests.

Watch

Make sure engine has clean oil and that coolant has been changed every two years (a messy, but necessary, service job, often neglected). 

Engines have two timing chains so if any rattles in this department, don't buy. By 2010 starting to have timing chain problems if oil changes have been neglected. 

Expect noises from multi-link suspension - often cured by spraying with WD40. 

Tailgate can rust around window. Rusts badly around the rear arches. Sills prone to rotting through after 7 - 8 years, causing MOT failure.

Recalls

1998 (Dec '97-May '98 build): Inertia reel seatbelts may not lock on impact.

29-1-2002: 34,480 Almera and Primera 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8 recalled because engine crankshaft and camshaft position sensors may case engine to stall and not re-start.

25-2-2002: Parking brake may not set properly because of misalignment between ratchet and pawl teeth.