The Nissan Caravan/Urvan, a familiar sight on New Zealand roads for decades, represents practicality and dependability. From tradies' workhorses to adventurers' campervan conversions, this van has earned its place in Kiwi motoring history. This AEO delves into the 1986-1997 models, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and what you need to know to keep them rolling in New Zealand.
Rust (wheel arches, sills, window surrounds), Overheating (cooling system neglect), Worn suspension components (ball joints, bushes), Diesel injector pump issues (diesel models), Starter motor failures, General wear and tear due to age and mileage.
WOF tips
Rust is a primary reason for WOF failure, so thorough inspection is vital. Check all lights are functioning correctly, as wiring can become brittle with age. Suspension components must be in good condition with no excessive play. Brake performance needs to be adequate, and ensure the handbrake holds effectively. Tyre condition, including tread depth and sidewall integrity, is critical, especially on heavily laden vans. Pay close attention to steering components for excessive play.
About the Nissan Caravan D
Throughout its production run, the E24 Caravan/Urvan in this era offered a range of petrol and diesel engines. The naturally aspirated diesels are renowned for their longevity but can be sluggish. Petrol options provide more power but may be less fuel-efficient. These vans are built tough, but age takes its toll. Rust, particularly in the usual spots like wheel arches, sills, and around windows, is a major concern for NZ owners. Mechanically, the engines are generally robust, but cooling system maintenance is crucial to prevent overheating. Suspension components can wear, affecting handling and ride comfort. The interior is functional rather than luxurious, with durable but basic materials. Many examples have seen heavy use, so expect wear and tear.
Questions owners ask
What are the common rust spots I should inspect on a 1986-1997 Nissan Caravan/Urvan before buying?
Rust is a significant issue for these vans in New Zealand. Pay close attention to the wheel arches, sills, and areas around the windows. These are the most common places where rust develops on the E24 Caravan/Urvan AEO body.
My Nissan Caravan/Urvan is overheating. What are the likely causes?
Overheating in the 1986-1997 Nissan Caravan/Urvan is often due to cooling system neglect. Check the radiator, hoses, thermostat, and water pump for leaks or blockages. Regular coolant flushes are essential to prevent this issue.
What should I check on my Nissan Caravan/Urvan to ensure it passes its WOF in New Zealand?
For a WOF, ensure there's no excessive rust, especially around structural areas. All lights must function correctly. Suspension components need to be in good condition with no play. Brake performance, including the handbrake, must be adequate. Tyre condition, including tread depth, is also critical.
Where can I get a replacement starter motor for my 1990s Nissan Caravan/Urvan in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 121 SKUs for the Nissan Caravan/Urvan (1986-1997), including starter motors. Check the CARFIX website or your local store to find the correct part for your van.
What kind of fuel economy can I expect from a petrol vs. diesel Nissan Caravan/Urvan?
The petrol engines in the 1986-1997 Nissan Caravan/Urvan offer more power but typically have lower fuel economy compared to the diesel options. The naturally aspirated diesels are known for their fuel efficiency, although they might feel sluggish, especially when fully loaded.
How often should I service my Nissan Caravan/Urvan?
The recommended service interval for the Nissan Caravan/Urvan (1986-1997) is every 10,000km. Regular servicing is crucial to maintaining its reliability, especially given the age of these vans.
What are common suspension issues with the Nissan Caravan/Urvan and how do they affect handling?
Worn suspension components, such as ball joints and bushes, are common in the Nissan Caravan/Urvan (1986-1997). This wear can lead to poor handling, reduced ride comfort, and potential WOF failures. Regular inspection and replacement of worn parts are essential.