Nissan Civilian TD42 Bus 91kW (1999-2004) (1999–2004)

The Nissan Civilian, a familiar sight on New Zealand roads, served as a dependable people-mover between 1999 and 2004. Known for its durability and practicality, it played a significant role in tourism, schools, and public transport. Understanding its strengths, weaknesses (especially given its age) and typical maintenance needs is key for any owner or potential buyer.

Parts for the Nissan Civilian TD42 Bus 91kW (1999-2004)

• Oil Filter (4)
• Oil Pressure Switch/Sender (4)
• Temperature Sensor / Sender Coolant (3)
• Fuel Filter (3)
• Valve Cover Gasket (3)
• Radiator Cap (3)
• Manifold Gasket Exhaust (2)
• Glow Plug (2)
• Starter Motor (2)
• Cylinder Head (2)
• Engine Oil (1)
• Oil Cap (1)
• Wiper Blade Front (1)
• Wiper Refill (1)
• Wheel Bearing Grease Front (1)
• Wiper Refill Front (1)
• Timing Kit (1)
• Engine Mount Front (1)
• Thermostat Housing Gasket (1)
• Head Set/Valve Regrind Gasket Set (1)
• Manifold Gasket Inlet (1)
• Manifold Gasket Set (1)
• Bearing Clutch Release (1)
• Thermostat (1)
• Alternator (1)

Known issues

Common issues in older Nissan Civilians often revolve around wear and tear associated with high mileage and heavy use. Look out for:
• Engine Wear: Diesel engines can suffer from injector issues, turbocharger problems, and coolant leaks with age.
• Suspension Components: Bushes, ball joints, and shock absorbers are prone to wear, affecting ride quality and handling.
• Rust: Check for rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and undercarriage. Coastal regions of NZ can accelerate this process.
• Electrics: Wiring issues and failing sensors can become more common with age.
• Brake System: Given the Civilian's weight, the braking system is crucial. Check for worn pads, discs, and potential ABS or brake booster problems.

WOF tips

When taking a Civilian for its WOF, be prepared for close scrutiny given its size and passenger-carrying capacity. Key areas of focus include:
• Brakes: Thorough brake testing is essential.
• Steering and Suspension: Any play in the steering or worn suspension components will likely result in a failure.
• Lights: Check all lights, including indicators, brake lights, and headlights, for proper function and alignment.
• Tyres: Tyre condition and tread depth are critical, especially given the weight of the vehicle.
• Rust: Any significant rust affecting structural integrity will be a failure point.
• Seatbelts: Ensure all seatbelts are in good working order.

About the Nissan Civilian TD42 Bus 91kW (1999-2004)

The 1999-2004 Nissan Civilian generation offered various configurations, primarily focused on passenger capacity. Engine options typically included robust diesel engines known for their fuel efficiency and longevity. Many units in NZ will have clocked significant mileage. Its chassis and suspension are designed for heavy-duty use, making it a workhorse when properly maintained.

In New Zealand these buses are often found in commercial use, frequently used for school routes, tour operators, and community transportation. As such, documentation and history are vitally important when considering a purchase.

Questions owners ask

What are the most common issues to look out for on a 1999-2004 Nissan Civilian in New Zealand?

Given the high mileage many of these buses accumulate, common issues on the 1999-2004 Nissan Civilian often include engine wear (such as injector or turbocharger problems, and coolant leaks), worn suspension components (bushes, ball joints, shock absorbers), rust (especially around wheel arches, sills, and undercarriage), electrical issues, and problems with the braking system due to the vehicle's weight.

Where can I get replacement brake pads for my 1999-2004 Nissan Civilian in NZ?

CARFIX stocks 49 SKUs for the Nissan Civilian (1999-2004). You can find replacement brake pads, and other essential parts, through CARFIX for your vehicle.

What should I pay close attention to during a WOF inspection for my Nissan Civilian (1999-2004) in New Zealand?

For a WOF on a 1999-2004 Nissan Civilian, expect thorough scrutiny. Key areas include comprehensive brake testing, checking for any play in steering or worn suspension components, ensuring all lights (indicators, brake lights, headlights) function correctly and are aligned, inspecting tyre condition and tread depth, and checking for any significant rust affecting structural integrity. All seatbelts must also be in good working order.

Are 1999-2004 Nissan Civilians known for rust issues in New Zealand?

Yes, rust is a common issue on older Nissan Civilians, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and undercarriage. This can be accelerated in New Zealand's coastal regions, so a thorough inspection for rust is crucial.

What is the recommended service interval for a 1999-2004 Nissan Civilian?

The recommended service interval for the 1999-2004 Nissan Civilian is 10,000 km. Regular servicing is critical, especially for vehicles with high mileage, to ensure safe and reliable operation.

What kind of engines were typically found in the 1999-2004 Nissan Civilian?

The 1999-2004 Nissan Civilian generation typically featured robust diesel engines, known for their fuel efficiency and longevity, designed for heavy-duty use and passenger transport.