1999 Nissan Micra: Everything you need to know before you buy

Nissan Micra K11 The 1999 is one of the most popular subcompacts on the secondary market. This compact hatchback, released as part of the second generation of the model, has won the love of car enthusiasts due to its reliability, efficiency and unpretentiousness. However, after 20+ years of operation, even such “indestructible” machines develop typical problems, which are important to know about before purchasing.

In this article we will look at technical specifications, weak points And service features Nissan Micra K11 1999 release. You will learn what to look for during inspection, which parts most often fail, and how to extend the life of the engine and gearbox. And also - real reviews from owners and comparisons with competitors of that time.

Technical specifications Nissan Micra K11 1999

The 1999 model belongs to the second generation Micra (body K11), which was produced from 1992 to 2002. These cars were not officially sold in Russia, so most of the copies were “gray” importers from Japan or Europe. The basic package included a minimal set of options, but even in this form the car remained reliable and practical.

Under the hood Micra K11 1999 could have two gasoline engines:

• 🔹 CG10DE — 1.0 l (54 hp) — the most economical, but low-power option. Fuel consumption in the city: 6.5–7.5 l/100 km.
• 🔹 CG13DE — 1.3 l (75–88 hp, depending on the market) — the optimal choice for the city. Consumption: 7.0–8.5 l/100 km.

Both engines were equipped with a distributed injection system EFI and complied with environmental standards Euro 2. Transmissions were offered to choose from: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The drive is exclusively front-wheel drive.

Parameter	1.0 CG10DE	1.3 CG13DE
Engine capacity	998 cm³	1,275 cm³
Power	54 hp at 6,000 rpm	75–88 hp at 6,000 rpm
Torque	80 Nm at 3,600 rpm	108–116 Nm at 4,000 rpm
Max. speed	150 km/h	165–175 km/h
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	16.5 sec	12.5–14 sec

Suspension Micra K11 — classic for small cars: front MacPherson struts, behind - semi-independent beam with springs and shock absorbers. Disc brakes on the front axle and drum brakes on the rear. The steering is rack and pinion, without power assistance (in basic versions). Ground clearance was 140 mm, which is quite enough for the city.

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the reputation of an “indestructible” car, Nissan Micra K11 1999 has several vulnerabilities. Most of them are related to the age of the car and the quality of service. Here's what you should pay attention to when purchasing:

1. Body corrosion. The main problem of everyone Micra K11 — rust in the following areas:

• 🚗 Thresholds - rot from the inside, often requiring complete replacement.
• 🚗 Wings - especially in places of attachment to the body.
• 🚗 Bottom — check the side members and welding points.
• 🚗 Rear arches — often suffer from chips and rot under the plastic fender liners.

⚠️ Attention: If the car has already undergone body repairs, be sure to check the quality of welding and anti-corrosion treatment. It is not uncommon for rust to return after 1–2 years after “cosmetic” repairs.

2. Engine and its systems. Motors CG10DE And CG13DE are considered reliable, but by 1999 they already had typical “diseases”:

• 🔧 Seal leakage - especially the crankshaft and camshaft. Symptom: Oil stains under the car.
• 🔧 Timing chain wear - on runs for 150,000 km may stretch, causing the valves to jump and damage.
• 🔧 Throttle valve contamination — leads to unstable idle speed.
• 🔧 Problems with sensors — most often the crankshaft position sensor and temperature sensor fail.

3. Gearbox. A manual transmission usually lasts a long time, but may appear crunch of synchronizers in 2nd and 3rd gears. Automatic transmission (3N71B) is more capricious:

• ⚙️ Shocks when switching - often associated with worn solenoids or low oil levels.
• ⚙️ Oil leaks — through the drive shaft oil seal or pan.
• ⚙️ Overheating - if you don't change the oil every 60,000 km, the box will quickly fail.

4. Suspension and steering. Due to the light weight of the car, the suspension wears out more slowly than that of heavier cars, but there are nuances:

• 🛠️ Wheel bearings - they start buzzing after 100,000 km.
• 🛠️ Ball joints - serve about 80,000–100,000 km.
• 🛠️ Steering rods and ends - require replacement every 60,000–80,000 km.
• 🛠️ Shock absorbers - leak or lose effectiveness after 100,000 km.

Owner reviews: pros and cons

To form an objective opinion about Nissan Micra K11 1999, we analyzed reviews from owners on forums and social networks. Here's what they highlight:

Pros:

• ✅ Reliability - with regular maintenance the machine runs easily 300,000+ km.
• ✅ Economical — fuel consumption, even in the city, rarely exceeds 8 l/100 km.
• ✅ Easy to repair - Most of the work can be done independently.
• ✅ Compactness - ideal for the city and narrow courtyards.
• ✅ Low cost of ownership — spare parts are cheap, insurance is inexpensive.

Cons:

• ❌ Poor sound insulation - at higher speeds 90 km/h You can hear everything in the cabin.
• ❌ Stiff suspension — all the unevenness of the road is felt.
• ❌ Small trunk - volume of everything 190 l (with seats folded - 780 l).
• ❌ Lack of comfort — there is no air conditioning, electric windows and other “goodies” even in top versions.
• ❌ Problems with spare parts — some parts (for example, plastic clips or seals) have to be ordered from abroad.

The owners also note that Micra K11 very sensitive to fuel quality. If you fill gasoline below AI-92, the engine begins to “trouble”, and over time the injectors may become clogged. Another frequent comment - weak brakes. The drum mechanisms on the rear axle require regular adjustment, otherwise the braking distance increases noticeably.

Real review from an owner with 320,000 km mileage

My 1999 Micra with a 1.3 engine has been driving for 15 years. During this time, I only changed the clutch, shock absorbers and once did an engine overhaul (the mileage was 280,000 km). The car has never failed, even at -30° it starts in no time. The main thing is to monitor the oil and not drive at high speeds. There is almost no rust, because every year I treat the bottom with Movil. The only negative is that it is noisy, but reliable!

Cost and where to buy spare parts

Prices for Nissan Micra K11 1999 aftermarket models range from 80 000 to 250 000 ₽, depending on condition, mileage and region. Here are approximate prices:

• 💰 Budget option — 80 000–120 000 ₽ (with mileage for 200,000 km, there may be problems with the body or engine).
• 💰 Average condition — 150 000–200 000 ₽ (mileage 150,000–180,000 km, without serious damage).
• 💰 Excellent condition — 220 000–250 000 ₽ (mileage up to 120,000 km, well-groomed, with service history).

Spare parts for Micra K11 can be found in several places:

1. Official dealers Nissan - original parts, but expensive (for example, the starter costs 12 000–15 000 ₽).
2. Online stores (For example, Exist.ru, Autodoc, Emex) - a wide selection of analogues at prices 30–50% lower than the original.
3. Showdown - you can find used spare parts in good condition (for example, headlights or bumpers for 2 000–5 000 ₽).
4. Japanese auctions — if you need a rare part (for example, a plastic bumper or an original radio).

Among analogue manufacturers, the following have proven themselves well:

• 🔧 Febi — high-quality consumables (filters, seals).
• 🔧 Sachs — reliable shock absorbers and clutch.
• 🔧 NGK - spark plugs and wires.
• 🔧 TRW — brake pads and discs.

Spare part	Original (₽)	Analogue (₽)	Used from disassembly (₽)
Starter	12 000–15 000	6 000–8 000	3 000–5 000
Generator	18 000–22 000	9 000–12 000	4 000–7 000
Shock absorber (front)	5 000–7 000	2 500–4 000	1 500–2 500
Brake pads (set)	3 000–4 500	1 200–2 000	500–1 000
Timing belt (set)	4 000–6 000	1 500–2 500	—

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing used spare parts from disassembly, be sure to check them for wear. For example, used stabilizer links or ball joints can last only a few thousand kilometers.

How to choose a good 1999 Micra K11: checklist

If you decide to buy Nissan Micra K11, here is a step-by-step inspection plan that will help you avoid problems:

1. Document verification:

• 📄 Make sure that VIN-the number in the PTS matches the number on the body (located on the plate under the hood).
• 📄 Check the ownership history - if the car has been resold often, this is a warning sign.
• 📄 Pay attention to the mileage. For Micra K11 normal mileage - up to 200,000 km. If more, be prepared for a major overhaul.

2. Body inspection:

Look for traces of welding or putty on the sills and arches

Check the condition of the side members (rust is critical there)

Inspect the door and glass seals (if they are cracked, water will enter the interior)

Check the trunk lid - it often rots at the mounting points -->

3. Engine diagnostics:

• 🔧 Start the car when it is cold - there should be no extraneous knocks or vibrations.
• 🔧 Check the color of the exhaust: blue smoke indicates oil burns, black smoke indicates problems with the fuel system.
• 🔧 Inspect the oil filler neck - if there is an emulsion (a mixture of oil and antifreeze), this is a sign of a broken cylinder head gasket.

4. Test drive:

• 🚗 Check the operation of all gears - there should be no crunching or difficult inclusion.
• 🚗 Make sure that the car does not pull to the side when driving in a straight line.
• 🚗 Test the brakes - the pedal should not fall or vibrate.

5. Electrics and interior:

• ⚡ Check the operation of all lamps, turn signals and brake lights.
• ⚡ Make sure the heater and fan are running at all speeds.
• ⚡ Inspect the condition of the seats and steering wheel - if they are very worn, the car could be used as a taxi.

💡

If the seller refuses a test drive or does not allow you to inspect the car on a lift, this is a reason to be wary. Most likely, it is hiding something (for example, serious corrosion or problems with the chassis).

Comparison with competitors: which is better?

In 1999 Nissan Micra K11 there were several direct competitors in the subcompact class. Let's see how it looks against their background:

1. Toyota Starlet (P90)

• ✅ Pros: even more reliable engine, better sound insulation.
• ❌ Cons: more expensive to maintain, spare parts are more difficult to find.

2. Honda Logo (GA3/GA4)

• ✅ Pros: more dynamic, more modern design.
• ❌ Cons: body corrosion, expensive automatic transmission repairs.

3. Hyundai Atos (1999)

• ✅ Pros: Cheaper to purchase, simpler design.
• ❌ Cons: less reliable engine, worse handling.

4. Daewoo Matiz (M100)

• ✅ Pros: very cheap to repair, more spacious interior.
• ❌ Cons: weak engine (0.8 l), poor dynamics.

Based on the totality of characteristics Nissan Micra K11 occupies a leading position in reliability and cost of ownership. She's losing Toyota Starlet in comfort, but benefits in the price of spare parts and ease of repair. Compared to Hyundai Atos And Daewoo Matiz it has a more balanced suspension and better handling.

If you need a car for the city with minimal maintenance costs, Micra K11 - one of the best options. If comfort or dynamics are important, you should take a closer look at Honda Logo or Toyota Starlet.

Modding and tuning: what can be done with Micra K11

Despite the modest characteristics, Nissan Micra K11 - a popular base for tuning. Here are a few directions that owners choose:

1. External tuning:

• 🎨 Vintage style - many owners paint the car in retro colors (for example, deep green or burgundy) and install chrome elements.
• 🎨 Sport kit - front splitter, rear diffuser and side skirts (for example, from Stillen or TRD).
• 🎨 Lowering the suspension - using springs H&R or Eibach you can reduce the ground clearance by 30–50 mm.

2. Engine tuning:

• 🔧 Chip tuning - ECU firmware can add 5–10 hp, but requires the installation of more efficient spark plugs and filters.
• 🔧 Turbine installation - to the motor CG13DE you can install a turbo kit (for example, from Garrett), but this requires strengthening the gearbox and brakes.
• 🔧 Exhaust system replacement - forward flow (for example, Sparco or Remus) improves sound and slightly increases power.

3. Interior tuning:

• 🛋️ Replacing seats - many people install sports chairs from Recaro or Sparco.
• 🛋️ Multimedia system — instead of the standard radio, they install 2-DIN head unit with Android Auto.
• 🛋️ Backlight — LED strips under the dashboard or in the legs create a modern look.

⚠️ Attention: When tuning the engine, remember that motors CG10DE And CG13DE not designed for high loads. Increase in power by more than 20% will require strengthening the gearbox and braking system, otherwise the service life of the vehicle will be sharply reduced.

One of the most popular projects based on Micra K11 — creating a retro hot hatch in style JDM (Japanese tuning of the 90s). To do this, the car is painted in bright colors (for example, Bayside Blue or Torino Red), install alloy wheels Work or Enkei, and complemented with details from Nismo (sports division Nissan).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Micra K11 1999

❓ Which engine is better: 1.0 or 1.3?

If you need maximum efficiency and a car mainly for the city, choose 1.0 CG10DE. It is easier to maintain and cheaper to repair. For country trips or if dynamics are important to you, it’s better 1.3 CG13DE — he feels more confident on the track and does not “strain” so much when overtaking.

❓ How much oil should I pour into the engine?

The oil volume depends on the engine type:

• 🔹 1.0 CG10DE — 2.7 l (with filter replacement 2.9 l).
• 🔹 1.3 CG13DE — 3.2 l (with filter replacement 3.4 l).

Recommended oil: 5W-30 or 10W-40 (semi-synthetic). Replacement interval - every 10,000 km or once a year.

❓ Is it possible to install air conditioning if there was none?

Technically yes, but it is a complex and expensive process. You will need:

1. Install the compressor, condenser and evaporator.
2. Lay pipes and electrical wiring.
3. Replace the radiator with a more efficient one.
4. Flash the ECU (if the system is not provided by the factory).

Cost of work - from 80,000 to 120,000 RUR. More often, owners install climate control from Micra K12 (next generation), but this also requires improvements.

❓ Which tires are best for the Micra K11?

Factory wheel sizes:

• 🔹 155/70 R13 - standard for most versions.
• 🔹 165/60 R14 — optional for top trim levels.

Recommended tire models:

• 🚗 Nokian Hakka Green 2 - good for winter.
• 🚗 Michelin Energy Saver - economical for summer.
• 🚗 Toyo Proxes CF2 - for a sporty driving style.

Tire pressure: 2.0–2.2 bar front and 1.8–2.0 bar behind.

❓ How often should the timing belt be changed?

The manufacturer recommends replacing the timing belt every 100,000 km or once every 5 years (whichever comes first). However, in practice, many owners advise reducing the interval to 80,000 km, especially if the machine is operated in difficult conditions (frequent traffic jams, high load