Nissan Almera 1999 - one of the most popular foreign cars on the secondary market in Russia and the CIS countries. This model, known by the factory suffix N15, has become a true legend due to its unpretentiousness, availability of spare parts and a successful combination of price and quality. Released as part of the first generation (1995–2000), Almera 1999 became a transitional model before the restyling of 2000, while maintaining proven technical solutions.

The car was offered in bodies sedan And hatchback, was equipped with gasoline engines ranging from 1.4 to 2.0 liters, as well as diesel units for the European market. In Russia, versions with motors are most often found GA14DE (1.4 l) and GA16DE (1.6 l), combined with a manual or automatic transmission. Despite their venerable age, many copies are still in use, which indicates the reliability of the platform.

In this article we will look at technical specifications, weak points And repair features Nissan Almera 1999, and we will also give practical advice on choosing a used copy and extending its service life.

Technical specifications Nissan Almera 1999 (N15)

The 1999 model belongs to the first generation Almera, which was based on the platform Nissan N15. The car was offered in several modifications, differing in body types, engines and transmissions. Below are the key parameters:

  • 🚗 Body: sedan (4 doors), hatchback (3 doors and 5 doors)
  • 🔧 Platform: Nissan N15 (shared with Sunny And Pulsar)
  • 📏 Dimensions (sedan): 4490×1690×1400 mm, wheelbase - 2535 mm
  • 💺 Salon: 5 seats, trunk - 400 l (sedan) / 320 l (hatchback)

A feature of the model was front wheel drive and independent suspension type MacPherson front, as well as a semi-independent beam at the rear. The steering was equipped with a hydraulic booster (optional for basic versions). The braking system included disc mechanisms at the front and drum mechanisms at the rear (on some modifications - disc mechanisms in a circle).

Engine Volume, l Power, hp Torque, Nm Transmission
GA14DE 1.4 87 123 Manual transmission-5 / automatic transmission-4
GA16DE 1.6 99–103 136–143 Manual transmission-5 / automatic transmission-4
SR20DE 2.0 143 183 Manual transmission-5
CD20 (diesel) 2.0 75 133 Manual transmission-5

On the Russian market, the most common versions are those with motors GA16DE (1.6 l), which were combined with 5-speed manual or 4-band automatic. Engine SR20DE (2.0 L) is less common and prized for its dynamics, but requires more careful maintenance. Diesel modifications (CD20) were not officially supplied to Russia.

📊 What engine does your Nissan Almera 1999 have?
  • 1.4 (GA14DE)
  • 1.6 (GA16DE)
  • 2.0 (SR20DE)
  • Other
  • I don't know

Weaknesses and typical problems of Nissan Almera N15

Despite the reputation of a reliable car, Nissan Almera 1999 has a series vulnerabilities, which are worth knowing before purchasing. Many problems are related to normal wear and tear after 20+ years of use, but some are design features of the model.

1. Engine and cooling system

  • 🔥 Engine overheating: A common problem is due to a clogged radiator or faulty thermostat. Especially relevant for motors GA16DE with automatic transmission.
  • 🛢️ Oil leak: The crankshaft and camshaft seals wear out by 150–200 thousand km. The valve cover may also be leaking.
  • ⚡ Ignition coils: on engines GA16DE often fail after 100 thousand km, which leads to tripling.

2. Transmission

  • 🔄 Automatic transmission (RE4F03A): the weak point is the torque converter and solenoids. After 150 thousand km, repairs may be required.
  • ⚙️ Mechanical box: The synchronizers of the 2nd and 3rd gears wear out, and play in the rocker is possible.
  • 🔗 Clutch: The disk life is about 100 thousand km, but with aggressive driving it can be reduced to 60–80 thousand km.

3. Suspension and steering

  • 🔩 Stabilizer links: “consumables” - require replacement every 30–50 thousand km.
  • 🛞 Ball joints: They wear out by 80–100 thousand km, and when worn, a knocking sound appears on uneven surfaces.
  • 🚗 Steering rack: may start leaking or knocking after 150 thousand km. Repairs cost 10–15 thousand rubles.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Almera 1999 be sure to check the condition subframe - it is susceptible to corrosion and may require replacement (the cost of a new part is from 20 thousand rubles).
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If the engine GA16DE it starts to malfunction when cold, in 80% of cases the ignition coils are to blame. Replacing them costs 2–3 thousand rubles apiece, but solves the problem completely.

Maintenance and repair: what the owner needs to know

Operation Nissan Almera 1999 does not require large expenses, but there are nuances that will help you save on repairs. Here are the key recommendations:

1. Routine maintenance

  • 🔧 Changing engine oil: every 7–10 thousand km (synthetics 5W-30 or 10W-40). Volume - 3.2 l for GA16DE.
  • 🔥 Coolant: change every 2 years or 40 thousand km. Use green antifreeze (For example, CoolStream A-110).
  • ⚡ Spark plugs: original NGK BCPR6ES-11 serve up to 30 thousand km, iridium - up to 60 thousand km.

2. Spare parts: what to buy and where to save

Most parts for Almera N15 interchangeable with Nissan Sunny And Primera P10/P11. Here's what's worth knowing:

  • 💰 Original spare parts: expensive, but reliable. For example, shock absorber struts Kayaba or Monroe will cost 3–4 thousand rubles apiece.
  • 🔄 Analogues: for consumables (filters, brake pads) can be used Bosch, Mann or SCT.
  • 🔧 Used parts: Suitable for body parts (doors, bumpers), but not for suspension or engine.
Detail Original (₽) Analogue (₽) Resource (thousand km)
Stabilizer link 2 500 800–1 200 30–50
Brake pads (front) 3 000 1 200–1 800 30–50
Timing belt 4 000 1 500–2 500 60–80
Ignition coil 5 000 2 000–3 000 100–150
⚠️ Attention: When replacing the timing belt on engines GA16DE be sure to check the condition tension roller and pump - their wear can lead to belt breakage and valve bending.

Check service history (receipts)

Inspect the subframe for corrosion

Test the automatic transmission for kicks and jerks

Listen to the engine when cold (knocks, shaking)

Check the operation of the stove and air conditioner -->

Modifications and configurations: what the official dealer offered

In 1999 Nissan Almera N15 It was offered in several trim levels, differing in equipment and engines. The following versions were officially supplied to the Russian market:

  • 🚘 1.4 GL: basic equipment with motor GA14DE (87 hp), manual transmission, power steering, power accessories and driver airbag.
  • 🚗 1.6 SLX: the most popular option with GA16DE (99 hp), air conditioning, electric mirrors and velor interior trim.
  • 🏁 2.0 SR: sports version with motor SR20DE (143 hp), 15-inch wheels and improved suspension. It was supplied to Russia in limited quantities.

Additional options included:

  • 🔄 Automatic transmission: 4-speed automatic RE4F03A, which was installed on versions with engines 1.4 and 1.6.
  • 🎵 Audio system: head unit Nissan with CD support, in top versions - 4 speakers.
  • 🔥 Heated seats: option for cold regions, rare.

Interesting fact: in Europe Almera N15 sold under the name Nissan Pulsar, and in Japan - like Nissan Sunny. Structurally, these models are identical, but may differ in equipment.

How to distinguish the restyled Almera 2000 from the 1999 model?

Main differences:

1. Headlights: in 2000, transparent direction indicators appeared (before that they were orange).

2. Bumpers: The design of the front bumper has been slightly changed (more rounded shapes).

3. Salon: updated instrument panel with white backlight (green in 1999).

4. Engines: motor GA16DE received a variable valve timing system (not in all markets).

Tuning and modernization: what can be done with Almera N15

Nissan Almera 1999 is an excellent base for tuning due to its simple design and availability of spare parts. Here are some areas for modernization:

1. Engine and transmission

  • 🏎️ Chip tuning: ECU firmware can add 10–15 hp. on engines GA16DE (cost - from 5 thousand rubles).
  • 🔥 Turbo kit: for SR20DE there are ready-made kits (for example, from GReddy), but installation will cost 150–200 thousand rubles.
  • ⚡ Exhaust replacement: forward flow or "spider" 4-2-1 will improve the sound and response at high speeds.

2. Suspension and brakes

  • 🛞 Understatement: springs H&R or Eibach (-30..-50 mm) cost 10–15 thousand rubles per set.
  • 🔧 Reinforced racks: shock absorbers KYB Excel-G or Bilstein B4 will improve handling.
  • 🚦 Brakes: replacing rear drums with discs from Primera P11 (needs improvement).

3. Exterior and interior

  • 🎨 Airbrush: popular styles are “Japanese drift” or retro design of the 90s.
  • 💺 Salon: replacing seats with sports ones (for example, from Recaro) or leather wrapping.
  • 🔥 Light: installation of xenon (prohibited in Russia) or LED lamps in dimensions.
⚠️ Attention: When installing a turbo kit on GA16DE needs to be strengthened pistons and connecting rods — standard parts are not designed for increased loads.
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The most budget and effective tuning for Almera N15 is replacing the air filter with a zero filter (for example, K&N) and a 4-2-1 exhaust setup. This will add 5-7 hp. without risk to the engine.

Prices for used Nissan Almera 1999: what affects the cost

Cost Nissan Almera 1999 on the secondary market ranges from 80 to 250 thousand rubles depending on condition, mileage and region. Here are the key factors influencing the price:

  • 📊 Mileage:
    • up to 100 thousand km - 180–250 thousand rubles (rare, usually “twisted”);
    • 100–150 thousand km — 120–180 thousand rubles;
    • over 200 thousand km - 80–120 thousand rubles.
  • 🔧 Body condition: the absence of corrosion on the subframe and arches adds 20–30% to the price.
  • 🔄 Transmission: versions with automatic transmission are 10–15 thousand rubles cheaper due to the risk of gearbox repair.
  • 📄 Documents: the presence of a service book increases the cost by 10–20 thousand rubles.
Region Price (thousand rubles), condition "good" Price (thousand rubles), condition "satisfactory"
Moscow and Moscow region 180–220 120–160
St. Petersburg 160–200 100–140
Regions (Ural, Siberia) 140–180 80–120
South of Russia 150–190 90–130

When purchasing, pay attention to:

  • 🔍 Traces of an accident: check the body geometry (gaps between doors, trunk lid).
  • 🛠️ Quality of repair: if the car was in an accident, ask for photos before/after restoration.
  • 📝 Legal purity: check the car through services traffic police or Autocode for restrictions.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Almera 1999

❓ Which engine is more reliable: 1.4 (GA14DE) or 1.6 (GA16DE)?

1.6 (GA16DE) It is considered more balanced: it is more powerful, but at the same time no less reliable than 1.4. The main thing is to follow cooling system and change the timing belt on time. GA14DE easier to repair, but less dynamic.

❓ Is it possible to install HBO on Almera N15?

Yes, but with reservations:

  • 🔧 For GA16DE 4th generation gas equipment is suitable (installation cost - 30-40 thousand rubles).
  • ⚠️ On engines with high mileage (200+ thousand km), gas can accelerate valve wear.
  • 📝 Registration with the traffic police is required (from 2021 - mandatory).
❓ What kind of oil to pour into the Almera 1999 automatic transmission?

For 4-speed automatic transmission RE4F03A recommended Dexron III or Nissan Matic D. The volume for a complete replacement is 7.5 liters, for a partial replacement it is 3–4 liters. Using non-original fluid may result in jerky shifting!

❓ How long does the clutch on an Almera with manual transmission last?

Clutch life depends on driving style:

  • 🚗 With quiet operation - 120–150 thousand km.
  • 🏁 With aggressive driving - 60–80 thousand km.

The cost of replacement (kit + labor) is 8–12 thousand rubles.

❓ Where is the body number on Almera N15?

Body number (VIN) is knocked out in three places:

  1. On A-pillar on the driver's side (under the hood).
  2. On trunk floor (under the spare tire).
  3. B registration certificate (string "VIN").

When purchasing, check the numbers in all three places!