The Nissan Laurel Spirit (1986-1987) is a relatively rare sight on New Zealand roads today. Positioned as a slightly more upmarket version of the Sunny, it offered a few extra features and a more refined appearance. While not as common as its Sunny sibling, the Laurel Spirit provided a comfortable and reliable driving experience for Kiwi motorists.
Similar to the Sunny, the Laurel Spirit suffers from rust, carburetor issues (if applicable), worn suspension components, and electrical gremlins. Oil leaks are also common. Due to its rarity, specific body panels can be challenging to source. Check for any signs of water leaks into the interior, which can lead to mold and further rust.
WOF tips
WOF failures are likely to be similar to the Sunny, with rust being a major concern. Suspension components, brakes, and lights need to be in good working order. Ensure the windscreen is free from cracks and chips. Check for uneven tire wear, which could indicate alignment issues or worn suspension components.
About the Nissan Laurel Spirit E15S
Sharing many mechanical components with the Sunny, the Laurel Spirit typically featured the same E-series engines. This meant good fuel efficiency and reasonable reliability. Parts availability is similar to the Sunny, although some specific trim pieces may be harder to find. Rust is a significant concern, so inspect carefully. The interior was generally more plush than the Sunny, with better upholstery and trim. Driving dynamics were similar, offering a comfortable and predictable ride. As a rather unique find, expect a slightly more difficult restore/preservation.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common WOF failure points for a 1986-1987 Nissan Laurel Spirit in New Zealand?
For the Nissan Laurel Spirit, similar to the Sunny it shares components with, rust is a primary WOF concern. Inspectors will also closely check suspension components, brakes, and all lights. Ensure the windscreen is free from cracks and chips, and look for uneven tire wear which could indicate alignment issues or worn suspension parts.
Where can I get parts for my 1986-1987 Nissan Laurel Spirit in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 77 SKUs for the Nissan Laurel Spirit. While many mechanical components are shared with the Sunny, making some parts easier to find, specific trim pieces and body panels can be challenging to source due to the Laurel Spirit's rarity. It's always best to check with CARFIX directly for specific part availability.
Is the 1986-1987 Nissan Laurel Spirit a reliable car, and what are its common issues?
The Nissan Laurel Spirit generally offers good reliability, especially given its shared E-series engines with the Sunny. However, common issues include rust (a significant concern), carburetor problems (if applicable), worn suspension components, and electrical gremlins. Oil leaks are also frequently reported. Due to its age and rarity, sourcing specific body panels can be very difficult.
How often should I service my 1986-1987 Nissan Laurel Spirit?
The recommended service interval for your Nissan Laurel Spirit is every 10,000km. Regular maintenance is crucial, especially considering its age, to address common issues like oil leaks and worn components before they become major problems.
What should I look out for when buying a 1986-1987 Nissan Laurel Spirit in New Zealand?
When inspecting a Laurel Spirit, pay very close attention to rust, as it's a major problem area. Check for signs of water leaks into the interior, which can lead to mold and further rust. Inspect for common issues like carburetor problems, worn suspension, and electrical faults. Due to its rarity and potential for higher maintenance costs, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.
Are there any DIY guides available for maintaining my Nissan Laurel Spirit?
Currently, CARFIX does not have any specific DIY video guides available for the Nissan Laurel Spirit. However, given its mechanical similarities to the Nissan Sunny, some general maintenance tasks might be comparable, but always exercise caution and consult a professional if unsure.