The Nissan Pulsar of the early to mid-90s was a ubiquitous sight on New Zealand roads, offering affordable, reliable and economical transport. These cars were very popular, and a testament to their build quality, many are still running today. Join me, Emily, as we examine this popular car, with a focus on the common problems faced in NZ, plus my tips on keeping it WOF compliant.
Parts for the Nissan Pulsar SR18DE Hatchback (1990-1995)
Common issues encountered with the 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar in New Zealand include: • Rust: Check around the wheel arches, sills, and under the windscreen. New Zealand's climate can be harsh on older vehicles. • Oil Leaks: The rocker cover gasket and distributor O-ring are common areas for oil leaks. • Cooling System: Radiator leaks and overheating can occur, especially if the cooling system hasn't been properly maintained. Check hoses and the radiator cap. • Suspension: Worn shocks and struts can affect handling and ride comfort. Listen for clunking noises over bumps. • CV Joints: Clicking noises when turning indicate worn CV joints.
WOF tips
When taking your Nissan Pulsar for a WOF, pay attention to these points: • Rust: Similar to the Atlas, rust is a common fail point. Any structural rust will fail the WOF. • Brakes: Check brake pad thickness and ensure the brake lines are in good condition. • Lights: Ensure all lights are working correctly, including headlights, taillights, and brake lights. • Tyres: Tyres must have at least 1.5mm of tread depth. • Suspension: Check for excessive play in the suspension components.
About the Nissan Pulsar SR18DE Hatchback (1990-1995)
The Pulsar of this era was typically powered by a 1.6L or 1.8L engine, offering a good balance of performance and fuel economy. Available in sedan, hatchback, and coupe body styles, the Pulsar catered to a wide range of buyers. They were relatively simple mechanically, which made them easy to maintain and repair. However, they are now reaching an age where wear and tear are becoming increasingly apparent.
Questions owners ask
What are some common problems I should look for on a 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar in New Zealand?
Common issues with the 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar in NZ include rust around the wheel arches and sills, oil leaks from the rocker cover gasket or distributor O-ring, cooling system problems like radiator leaks, worn suspension components, and worn CV joints indicated by clicking noises when turning.
Where can I get parts for my 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar in New Zealand?
CARFIX stocks 121 SKUs for the 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar. You can find parts like oil filters, brake pads, shocks, and more on the CARFIX website or in-store.
What should I check before taking my 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar for a WOF in New Zealand?
Before your WOF, carefully inspect for rust, especially structural rust which will cause a fail. Check your brake pad thickness and brake lines, ensure all lights are working, and make sure your tyres have at least 1.5mm of tread depth. Also, check for excessive play in the suspension components.
My Nissan Pulsar is overheating. What could be the cause?
Overheating in a 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar is often due to a radiator leak, a faulty radiator cap, or deteriorated cooling system hoses. Inspect these components and ensure the cooling system has been properly maintained. Regular coolant flushes are important.
My Nissan Pulsar is making a clicking noise when I turn. What could this be?
A clicking noise when turning in your 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar usually indicates worn CV joints. These joints are part of the driveshaft and require replacement when worn.
How often should I service my 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar?
The recommended service interval for the 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar is every 10,000km. Regular servicing helps prevent major issues and keeps your Pulsar running smoothly.
Where are the common places that rust appears on a 1990-1995 Nissan Pulsar?
Rust is a very common issue on these cars. Focus your inspection on the wheel arches, sills, and under the windscreen. New Zealand's climate accelerates rust, so regular checks are important.