Nissan Sunny 1990 is a car that has become a symbol of reliability and practicality for a whole generation of car owners. Released as part of the third generation (B13), this sedan and hatchback has gained popularity due to its simple design, economical engines and ease of maintenance. Today Sunny B13 - a desirable piece for retro car collectors and a budget option for those who appreciate Japanese quality without frills.
In 1990, the model was offered with gasoline engines ranging from 1.3 to 1.8 l, including diesel versions for the European market. The car was equipped with both a manual and automatic transmission, and its rear-wheel drive or front-wheel drive platform (depending on the modification) ensured predictable behavior on the road. However, over the years, even such “indestructible” cars require attention - in this article we will analyze technical features, weak points And secrets of longevity Nissan Sunny 1990.
Technical characteristics of Nissan Sunny B13 (1990)
Model range Sunny B13 1990 included several modifications, differing in engines, drives and equipment levels. Basic versions were equipped with a motor GA13DE (1.3 l, 75 hp), and the top ones - GA16DE (1.6 l, 90–110 hp) or SR18Di (1.8 l, 105 hp). Diesel options (CD17) were less common and were intended primarily for Europe.
Transmissions ranged from a 4-speed automatic transmission to a 5-speed manual transmission. Suspension - classic for that time: front McPherson, at the rear - a semi-independent beam or a multi-link system (depending on the configuration). The brakes are disc at the front and drum at the rear, which is typical for cars from the early 90s.
- 🔧 Engines:
GA13DE(1.3 l),GA14DE(1.4 l),GA16DE(1.6 l),SR18Di(1.8 l),CD17(diesel 1.7 l) - 🔄 Gearboxes: 4-automatic, 5-manual, 3-automatic (rare)
- 🚗 Drive: front (FF) or rear (FR, for some markets)
- ⚡ Max. speed: 160–180 km/h (depending on the engine)
| Modification | Engine capacity | Power | Gearbox type | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunny 1.3 | 1.3 l (GA13DE) |
75 hp | 5-speed manual / 4-speed automatic transmission | FF |
| Sunny 1.6 | 1.6 l (GA16DE) |
90–110 hp | 5-speed manual / 4-speed automatic transmission | FF/FR |
| Sunny Diesel | 1.7 l (CD17) |
54–60 hp | 5-speed manual | FF |
⚠️ Attention: Cars with rear wheel drive (FR) are extremely rare and are intended primarily for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). When purchasing, check the type of drive - this affects the behavior of the machine and the availability of spare parts.
Weaknesses and typical problems
Despite the reputation of a reliable car, Nissan Sunny B13 has a number of “diseases” that you should know about before purchasing. The main problem is corrosion. Body panels, especially sills, wheel arches and the underbody, suffer from rust if the car was operated in high humidity conditions or was not treated with anticorrosive.
The second "scourge" - electrician. Over time, the contacts in the fuse box oxidize, and the relays fail (especially the charging and cooling fan relays). Also breaks often distributor in ignition systems of earlier versions. Series engines GA are known for the problem with oily zhorom after 200 thousand km - this is due to wear of the valve stem seals and rings.
- 🔥 Corrosion: sills, arches, bottom, pillars
- ⚡ Electrical: oxidation of contacts, relay malfunctions, distributor
- 🛢️ Engine: oil burn (after 200 thousand km), oil seal leaks
- 🔧 Suspension: wear of silent blocks, wheel bearings
- GA13DE (1.3 l)
- GA16DE (1.6 l)
- SR18Di (1.8 l)
- Diesel CD17
- Other
Critical feature: on cars with automatic transmission, the torque converter often fails after 150–180 thousand km. Its repair costs 30–50% of the cost of the box itself, so when purchasing, be sure to check the smoothness of the switching and the absence of jerks.
How to choose a used Nissan Sunny 1990: buyer's checklist
Upon examination Sunny B13 Please pay attention to the following points:
- Body: check the thickness of the metal on the sills and arches (use a thickness gauge). Rust under door seals is a sign of future problems.
- Engine: start it cold - there should be no knocking noises, no blue smoke from the exhaust pipe (oil leak signal). Check the oil level and color.
- Gearbox: On a manual transmission there should be no crunching noise when switching, on an automatic transmission there should be no jerks or delays.
- Electrical: turn on all consumers (headlights, heater, radio) - if the voltage drops below
12.5 V, problem with the generator or battery.
☑️ What to check before buying Nissan Sunny 1990
Pay special attention service history. If the car is imported (for example, from Japan), request auction sheet — it indicates the mileage, accident and repair history. For European examples, check for signs of body repairs - often after accidents, such cars are “cosmetically” restored and sold as “clean”.
⚠️ Attention: Found on the market Sunny with “twisted” mileage. Check the condition of the steering wheel, pedals and seats - if after a mileage of 80 thousand km they are worn out like 200 thousand, this is a reason to doubt the seller’s honesty.
Tuning and modernization of Nissan Sunny B13
Nissan Sunny 1990 - an excellent base for tuning, especially if you have a version with an engine SR18Di or GA16DE. Most popular destinations:
- 🚀 Engine: installation of a turbocharger (for example, from SR20DET), chip tuning, camshaft replacement
- 🎨 Exterior: body kits from Nissan Pulsar, tinting, LED optics
- 🛞 Suspension: replacing springs/shock absorbers with sports ones, installing stabilizers
- 🔊 Audio: modernization of the standard radio, installation of a subwoofer
For fans of drag racing, it is interesting to replace the engine with SR20DET (2.0 l, turbo) - such an upgrade requires modifications to the transmission and braking system, but allows you to get 200+ hp while maintaining reliability. More budget option - atmospheric tuning GA16DE with the installation of “hot” camshafts and direct flow.
What engines are suitable for swapping on the Sunny B13?
The most popular options for swap:
- SR20DE/DET (from Nissan Silvia S13/S14) - requires modification of fastenings and electrics.
- CA18DET (from Nissan 180SX) - the gearbox and exhaust system need to be adapted.
- KA24DE (from Nissan 240SX) - easier to install, but heavier than standard engines.
For all options, it is necessary to replace the ECU and adjust the fuel system.
When tuning the suspension, it is recommended to install racks from Nissan Pulsar N14 — they are identical in fastenings, but are stiffer and lower by 20–30 mm. Also popular are kits from Tein or KYB to improve handling.
Maintenance and repair: what the owner needs to know
Routine maintenance Nissan Sunny B13 includes standard procedures: oil change every 10,000 km, filters (air, fuel, oil) - every 20,000 km. Pay special attention to:
- 🔧 Cooling system: Change the antifreeze every 2 years, check the condition of the pipes (they harden over time).
- ⚙️ Transmissions: In manual transmissions, the oil lasts longer (change every 60 thousand km), in automatic transmissions - every 40 thousand km.
- 🔋 Battery: The original terminals often oxidize - clean them every six months.
When repairing engines GA-series pay attention to timing chains — their resource is about 150,000 km, but when worn, they can jump, which will lead to the valves meeting the pistons. Replacing the chain requires removing the front engine cover and takes 4-6 hours.
When changing the oil in an automatic transmission Nissan Sunny use only original fluid Nissan Matic-D or its analogues (Idemitsu ATF). Cheap substitutes lead to premature wear of the clutches.
| Knot | Resource (thousand km) | Signs of wear |
|---|---|---|
| Timing chain | 150–180 | Knock when starting, unstable speed |
| Clutch | 100–120 | Slipping, vibrations at start |
| Wheel bearings | 80–100 | Noise at speed, wheel play |
| Fuel pump | 120–150 | Difficult starting, loss of power |
Cost of ownership: spare parts, consumables, insurance
One of the advantages Nissan Sunny 1990 is low cost of spare parts. Most parts are interchangeable with other models Nissan that period (Primera P10, Pulsar N14). For example:
- 🔧 Brake pads: from 800 to 1,500 rub. (set)
- 🛢️ Oil filter: 200–400 rub.
- ⚙️ Clutch (kit): 3,000–5,000 rub.
- 🔋 Battery: RUB 3,500–5,000 (capacity 55–60 Ah)
OSAGO insurance costs 3,000–5,000 rub. per year (depending on the region and driver experience). Casco is rarely issued for such a car - its cost often exceeds the market price of the car. Combined fuel consumption:
GA13DE: 7–9 l/100 kmGA16DE: 8–10 l/100 kmSR18Di: 9–11 l/100 km
Main advantage Nissan Sunny B13 - low cost of ownership. Spare parts are cheap, repairs are simple, and fuel consumption is minimal for a car of this class.
Nuances of operation in winter
Winter operation Sunny 1990 has its own characteristics. The car is sensitive to low temperatures, especially if the engine is not warmed up. Main problems:
- ❄️ Thickened oil: use synthetics with viscosity
5W-30or0W-40. - 🔋 Weak battery: at −20°C there may not be enough starting current - keep the battery warm.
- 🚗 Suspension: silent blocks become dull in the cold - avoid sharp impacts (potholes, curbs).
To improve starting in cold weather, install preheater (For example, Webasto) or use a car blanket. Also check the condition thermostat - if it gets stuck in the open position, the engine will not warm up to operating temperature.
⚠️ Attention: On cars with automatic transmission, avoid prolonged slipping in the snow - this leads to overheating of the torque converter. If you get stuck, it is better to push the car or use snow chains.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Sunny 1990
Which engine is the most reliable in the Sunny B13 line?
Considered the most reliable GA16DE (1.6 l). It is less susceptible to oil burns than SR18Di, and more powerful GA13DE. Diesel CD17 durable, but sensitive to fuel quality.
Is it possible to install an air conditioner if it did not come from the factory?
Yes, but it is a labor-intensive process. You will need to replace the radiator, install a compressor, pipes and electrical wiring. The cost of work will be 30,000–50,000 rub. plus the price of spare parts.
What kind of oil to pour into the GA16DE engine?
Recommended viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-40 (semi-synthetic). Synthetics are preferred for winter use. 0W-30. Oil volume - 3.2 l (with filter replacement).
What to do if reverse gear does not engage?
The reason is usually wear of the synchronizers or gearbox bearings. Also check the oil level in the box and the condition of the clutch. As a temporary measure, you can try to engage the gear by “double-squeezing” the clutch.
How much is a 1990 Sunny B13 worth today?
Price depends on condition:
- “On the move” (needs repair): 80,000–150,000 rub.
- In good condition: 150,000–250,000 rub.
- Restored copy: 300,000+ rub.