1996 Nissan Serena L 1.6

Summary:

Cheap to buy, quite expensive to run but I quite like them

Faults:

The engine developed a rattle at 82000 miles. Having been assured by a mechanic that there was no significant problem I continued to drive the vehicle. A week or so later the drive chain broke causing at least £1000 worth of damage.

Several electrical faults.

General Comments:

The second hand cost of this vehicle attracted me when compared to other people carriers. I also had an idea about Japanese reliability which persuaded me to buy one. Maintenance has proved very expensive though. Parts are hard to come by and not cheap.

This car is very basic with few luxuries, but it does the job.

Getting at the engine to check and top up the oil is extremely difficult.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 8th May, 2004

1996 Nissan Serena 2.3SD 2.3 diesel

Summary:

A low performing thirsty MPV. best suited in town

Faults:

The diesel injector blanking plug (dead-end cover) split twice over two years. I think the design has been changed now.

Nothing else really.

General Comments:

A reliable fairly comfortable MPV however;

1) Worst of both worlds with the engine; thirsty and no umph! to speak of. A turbo is required methinks!

2) Really very noisy and lots of vibration especially at 50mph (smooths out at 80mph though)

3) Lovely driving position, high with well placed controls. The seating is quite flexible.

4) Actually quite good handling, all things considered due to it's near mid-engine configuration.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th August, 2003