1990 Nissan Axxess XE 2.4 from North America
Summary:
Bargain for a small van, but somewhat unreliable
Faults:
Tailshaft seal broke 60,000 miles.
Timing chain jumped at 85,000; top end rebuilt.
AWD transfer clutch started locking up at about 80,000; lived with it for a while because it only affected tight turns when the tranny was very hot.
Rear struts blown by 90,000; lived with it.
Transmission bearings shot by 95,000; dealer rebuilt and installed a new AWD transfer clutch while it was apart.
105,000 miles: Couldn't stand the bouncy rear anymore; discovered a Nissan dealer in British Columbia that took care of them and a complete brake job for half what it would have cost in the US.
General Comments:
We live near enough to the Canadian border to make it worthwhile to take the car there for repairs and service. The Axxess was sold there through the 1995 model year, but only as a 1990 in the US. Canadian dealers are more familiar with it, and parts and labor are much cheaper.
We like the size and utility of the vehicle so much that we've put up with several expensive repairs just to keep it. It's been paid off long ago, so we've still come out ahead compared to trading it on a new van or wagon, which could easily run to $30K.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 24th October, 2001
7th Jan 2008, 22:15
Our Axxess has soldiered on for 137,000 miles despite minor accidents and years of sitting outdoors. All wheel drive is terrific, it's fun to drive, totally reliable. All we have had to replace is radiators and tires. One of the best investments we ever made, and still going strong.
25th May 2009, 18:47
I have the same kind of Nissan Axxess 1995. It has 322,000km on it. The only problem I have now is the rear struts are gone. The rest it is running great. I love it.
2nd Jul 2009, 20:52
I am having a difficult time keeping my Axxess on the road; the parts are pricey, and I got mine 4th hand, so it's full of rust.. but I love it SO MUCH... If there were anyone out there willing to part with their Axxess - especially if you have been the only owner, I would like to buy it.
Contact opinionatrix on twitter (my opinionated little sister!)
9th Dec 2012, 18:46
OMG - that's ME Opinionatrix - .... and I am about to buy another Nissan Axxess!
3rd Feb 2006, 11:59
I share the same history of problems with my Axxess, including a jumping timing chain and a noisy rear end. After 100 thous miles, the engine lost compression and the body rusted out. Rust in the wheel wells makes it impossible to sell. Like this Axxess owner I kept mine for this long because it was inexpensive to operate and very practical. My 1995 is now worth nothing and I no one wants to buy it.