The Nissan March (K11) of the late 90s and early 2000s remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers in New Zealand. Known for its fuel efficiency and compact size, it's ideal for city driving. However, age and mileage are key factors to consider before making a purchase. Remember these were cheap cars, so maintenance is often overlooked.
Rust is a major concern. Check the wheel arches, sills, and boot floor thoroughly. Oil leaks from the engine are common. The automatic transmission can be prone to issues with age and lack of servicing. Suspension components, particularly the front struts, often wear out. The electric window motors can fail.
WOF tips
Check for rust around the suspension mounting points, as this is a common failure point. Ensure the brakes are in good condition, specifically the brake lines which can corrode. The windscreen must be free of cracks or chips in the driver's line of sight. Tyre condition is important. Lights and indicators must function correctly.
About the Nissan March i 16V
This generation of March is relatively simple mechanically, which contributes to its reliability. Engine options typically include a 1.0L or 1.3L petrol engine. Automatic and manual transmissions were available. While parts are generally affordable, finding quality replacements can be challenging. Rust, especially in coastal areas, can be a significant concern, primarily around the wheel arches, sills, and boot floor. Listen for timing chain rattle on start-up, especially with the 1.3L engines.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common rust spots to check on a 1999-2003 Nissan March in New Zealand?
Rust is a significant concern for the 1999-2003 Nissan March, especially in coastal areas of New Zealand. You should thoroughly check the wheel arches, sills, and boot floor. Also, pay close attention to the suspension mounting points, as rust here can be a WOF failure point.
Are there any common engine problems with the 1999-2003 Nissan March, especially the 1.3L engine?
Yes, oil leaks from the engine are common on the 1999-2003 Nissan March. For the 1.3L engine, specifically listen for a timing chain rattle on start-up, as this can indicate wear.
What should I look out for when buying a used 1999-2003 Nissan March with an automatic transmission?
The automatic transmission in the 1999-2003 Nissan March can be prone to issues with age and lack of servicing. During a pre-purchase inspection, ensure the transmission shifts smoothly without hesitation or harshness. A service history indicating regular transmission fluid changes would be a good sign.
What are the key WOF inspection points for a 1999-2003 Nissan March in NZ?
For a 1999-2003 Nissan March, pay close attention to rust around the suspension mounting points, as this is a common WOF failure. Ensure the brakes are in good condition, particularly checking for corrosion on the brake lines. The windscreen must be free of cracks or chips in the driver's line of sight, and tyre condition, lights, and indicators must all be functioning correctly.
Where can I get replacement suspension parts for my 1999-2003 Nissan March in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 209 SKUs for the 1999-2003 Nissan March, including common suspension components like front struts, which often wear out. You can find these parts on our website or at your local CARFIX store.
How often should I service my 1999-2003 Nissan March?
The recommended service interval for the 1999-2003 Nissan March is every 10,000km. Regular servicing is crucial to maintain its reliability and address common issues like oil leaks.