Released 1985 Nissan Bluebird (U11 series) became one of the most popular sedans of its time, combining reliability, efficiency and unpretentiousness. This model, known in Japan as Datsun 810 (before rebranding), won recognition due to its simple design, availability of spare parts and excellent maintainability. Today Bluebird U11 is an iconic retro car that is actively purchased by collectors and lovers of classic Japanese cars.

In this article we will look at all aspects in detail Nissan Bluebird 1985: from technical characteristics and modifications to typical problems, tuning and operating tips. You will learn what engines were installed on this model, how to properly service the gearbox, what spare parts are best to choose and how to avoid common mistakes during repairs. If you are the owner or are just planning to buy this car, here you will find answers to all key questions.

Technical specifications Nissan Bluebird 1985 (U11)

Model Nissan Bluebird U11 1985 was offered in several modifications, differing in engines, gearboxes and level of equipment. The basic package included 1.6 liter carburetor engine, but the most popular were versions with 1.8-liter injector and diesel units. The car was built on a platform RWD (rear-wheel drive), which provided excellent handling and balance on the road.

Body Bluebird U11 had a classic three-box layout with clear lines typical of Japanese sedans of the 80s. The length of the car was 4.58 m, width - 1.69 m, and the wheelbase is 2.60 m. Clearance in 150 mm allowed you to confidently move on city roads, but was not designed for serious off-road use. The weight of the car varied from 1.05 to 1.2 tons depending on the configuration.

  • 🔧 Body type: 4-door sedan, 5-door station wagon (Bluebird Wagon)
  • 🚗 Drive: rear (RWD) or full (4WD in some markets)
  • ⚡ Fuel: gasoline (carburetor/injector), diesel
  • 🔄 Gearboxes: 4/5-speed manual transmission, 3/4-speed automatic

A special feature of the model is the independent suspension of all wheels: front - MacPherson, behind - multi-link. The braking system included discs at the front and drums at the rear (in base versions) or discs on all wheels (in top trims). The steering was equipped hydraulic booster only in expensive modifications.

📊 What engine does your 1985 Nissan Bluebird have?
  • CA16 (1.6 carburetor)
  • CA18 (1.8 injector)
  • LD20 (2.0 diesel)
  • Other
  • I don't know

Engines and transmissions: what options were offered

Engine range Nissan Bluebird 1985 included both gasoline and diesel units. The most common were:

  • 🔥 CA16S — 1.6-liter carburetor engine with power 82 hp (basic version)
  • 🔥 CA18E — 1.8-liter injection engine with power 101 hp (most popular)
  • 🔥 CA20E — 2.0-liter injection engine with power 110 hp (for some markets)
  • ⛽ LD20 — 2.0-liter diesel engine with power 67 hp (economical but rare)

Carburetor versions (CA16S) were distinguished by their simplicity and low cost of maintenance, but were inferior to injection engines in terms of dynamics and efficiency. Injection engines (CA18E/CA20E) were more modern, equipped with a system ECCS (Electronic Concentrated Control System) and demonstrated better performance. Diesel LD20 valued for low fuel consumption (5-6 l/100 km), but required more careful care.

The following transmissions were offered:

Gearbox type Number of steps Features What engines is it compatible with?
Mechanical (FS5W63A) 5 Reliable, but requires clutch adjustment CA18E, CA20E, LD20
Mechanical (FS4W63A) 4 Simplified version for basic models CA16S
Automatic (3N71B) 3 Simple but not economical CA18E, CA20E
Automatic (4N71B) 4 More modern, with overdrive CA20E (top versions)

Manual transmissions Nissan Bluebird U11 were famous for their “indestructibility”, but required timely oil changes (GL-4 75W-90) and clutch adjustment. Automatic transmissions were less reliable, especially if not serviced on time. The main problem with automatic machines is wear and tear. torque converter and solenoids, which led to jerks when switching.

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If your Bluebird with an automatic transmission it starts to “kick” when switching to 2nd gear, first check the oil level and condition. Often the problem is solved by replacing it and washing the pan.

Typical faults and weaknesses of the model

Despite the legendary reliability, Nissan Bluebird 1985 has a number of “diseases” that every owner should know about. Most problems are related to the age of the car and wear and tear of rubber parts. Here are the key points:

  • 🔥 Body corrosion: the most vulnerable are the sills, wheel arches and underbody. Rust often appears under door seals and where paint has chipped.
  • ⚡ Electrical: oxidation of contacts in the fuse box, problems with the generator (especially on cars with air conditioning), failure of the ignition relay.
  • 🛢️ Oil leaks: crankshaft and camshaft seals, valve cover gasket, rear gearbox seal.
  • 🔧 Suspension: wear of silent blocks of levers, ball joints, shock absorbers (especially rear ones).
  • 🔥 Engine: on carburetor versions - clogged jets, on injection versions - problems with sensors (especially throttle position sensor).

One of the most common problems is engine overheating, caused by:

  • 🔥 Radiator clogged or thermostat malfunction.
  • 🔥 Wear of the pump (coolant pump).
  • 🔥 Antifreeze leakage through a cracked expansion tank or pipes.
⚠️ Attention: If the engine temperature rises above 100°C, stop immediately and check the cooling system. Prolonged overheating leads to deformation of the cylinder head, which can lead to major repairs.

Another "disease" - knocking sound in front suspension. Most often it is associated with wear:

  • 🔧 Ball joints (knock when turning the steering wheel).
  • 🔧 Silent blocks of levers (knocking when driving over uneven surfaces).
  • 🔧 Wheel bearings (hum at speed).

To diagnose the suspension, it is enough to hang the wheel and check the play by shaking it in the horizontal and vertical planes. Replacing silent blocks and balls with Bluebird U11 does not require special tools and can be done independently.

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Regularly checking the condition of rubber parts (silent blocks, boots, pipes) will avoid costly repairs to the suspension and engine.

Maintenance and repair: what the owner needs to know

Service Nissan Bluebird 1985 does not require special skills, but has its own nuances. Here are the main recommendations:

Engine and systems

  • 🛢️ Oil change: every 5,000 km (synthetic 10W-40 or semi-synthetic 15W-40).
  • ⚡ Spark plugs: change every 20,000 km (for carburetor - NGK BPR6ES, for injection - NGK BCPR6ES).
  • 🔧 Timing belt: replacement every 60,000 km (on engines CA18E/CA20E).
  • 💧 Coolant: replacement every 2 years or 40,000 km.

Transmission

  • 🔄 Manual transmission oil: replacement every 50,000 km (use GL-4 75W-90).
  • 🔄 Automatic transmission oil: replacement every 30,000 km (liquid Dexron II or Dexron III).
  • 🔧 Clutch: adjusting the pedal free play every 10,000 km.

Chassis

  • 🔧 Silent blocks: check every 20,000 km, replacement if cracked.
  • 🔧 Shock absorbers: replacement every 50,000–80,000 km (depending on operating conditions).
  • 🔧 Brake pads: replacement when worn out 2–3 mm.

Particular attention should be paid brake system. On Bluebird U11 often found:

  • 🔴 Brake fluid leaking from the master cylinder.
  • 🔴 Jamming of calipers (especially on rear drum brakes).
  • 🔴 Wear and tear of brake hoses (they crack with age).
⚠️ Attention: If the brake pedal becomes soft or travel increases, immediately check the brake fluid level and condition of the hoses. On older cars this can lead to complete brake failure!

For DIY repairs Nissan Bluebird 1985 The following tools will be useful:

Set of sockets and wrenches (10–19 mm)|Torque wrench (for tightening cylinder head bolts)|Puller for silent blocks|Multimeter (for checking electrical)|Set of screwdrivers (including Phillips and flathead for Japanese screws)-->

Tuning and modernization: how to improve Bluebird U11

Thanks to its simple design and large number of spare parts, Nissan Bluebird 1985 lends itself well to tuning. Here are the most popular areas of modernization:

Engine and transmission

  • 🔥 Turbo kit installation: to the engine CA18E you can install a turbine from CA18DET (from Nissan Silvia S12), which will increase the power to 150–170 hp
  • 🔥 Replacing camshafts: sports shafts (eg Tomei or Jun) will improve performance at high speeds.
  • 🔥 Injector installation: for carburetor versions (CA16S) can be converted to an injector from CA18E.
  • 🔄 Gearbox: replacement with a 5-speed manual transmission from Nissan 200SX S12 for better dynamics.

Suspension and brakes

  • 🔧 Understatement: installation of springs Tanabe or Tein (lowering to 30–50 mm).
  • 🔧 Gain: replacing standard shock absorbers with gas ones (for example, KYB Excel-G).
  • 🔴 Brakes: installing ventilated discs at the front and replacing the rear drums with discs from Nissan Skyline R31.

Exterior and interior

  • 🎨 Body: installation of body kits in style Group A (for example, from Bluebird SS).
  • 🔦 Optics: replacing headlights with modern LED ones or installing “angel eyes”.
  • 🪑 Salon: replacing seats with sports ones (for example, from Recaro), installing a steering wheel with a smaller diameter.

When tuning an engine, it is important to consider resource of standard parts. For example, when installing a turbine it is necessary:

  • 🔥 Strengthen pistons and connecting rods (standard ones are not designed for high pressure).
  • 🔥 Update the cooling system (install a more efficient radiator).
  • 🔥 Adjust the fuel system (install a more efficient fuel pump).
⚠️ Attention: When tuning the engine CA18E to the level 150+ hp standard gearbox (FS5W63A) may not withstand the load. It is recommended to install a reinforced clutch and gearbox from Nissan 200SX.

For those who want to maintain originality, but improve comfort, the following are suitable:

  • 🎵 Installation of a modern radio with support Bluetooth And USB.
  • 🔋 Replacing the generator with a more powerful one (for example, from Nissan Maxima) for stable operation of electronics.
  • 🌡️ Installation of digital instruments (for example, tachometer and oil pressure sensor).
How to check the compatibility of spare parts from other Nissan models?

Many details from Nissan Silvia S12, Nissan 200SX And Nissan Skyline R31 suitable for Bluebird U11. For example:

- Engine CA18DET from Silvia S12 can be installed instead CA18E with minimal modifications.

- Gearbox FS5W71C from 200SX compatible with engines CA18E/CA20E.

- Rear disc brakes from Skyline R31 Suitable for upgrading the brake system.

Before purchasing spare parts, be sure to check the catalog numbers or consult with specialists in Japanese cars.

Where to buy spare parts and how to avoid fakes

Find original spare parts for Nissan Bluebird 1985 It’s not easy today, but it’s possible. Here are the main sources:

  • 🌍 Japanese online stores:
    • 🛒 Rakuten - large selection of used and new parts.
    • 🛒 Yahoo! Japan Auctions — auctions with original spare parts.
    • 🛒 Buyee — an intermediary for purchases on Japanese sites.
  • 🏬 Local stores:
    • 🛒 Japanese auto parts stores (for example, Japan Parts, Amayama).
    • 🛒 Disassembly of Japanese cars (search by model Bluebird U11 or Datsun 810).
  • 🛠️ Analogues and non-original:
    • 🔧 Febi, Meyle — high-quality non-original suspension parts.
    • 🔧 NGK, Denso - spark plugs and sensors.
    • 🔧 KYB, Monroe — shock absorbers and struts.

When purchasing spare parts, pay attention to:

  • 🔍 Catalog numbers: original part numbers for Bluebird U11 start with 180xx-xxxxx or 210xx-xxxxx.
  • 🔍 Condition of used parts: Japanese auctions often sell used parts, but in good condition. Check photos for corrosion or damage.
  • 🔍 Packaging: original spare parts Nissan have the manufacturer's logo and hologram.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing bearings, seals or rubber products (silent blocks, boots), give preference to Japanese brands (KOYO, NTN, NOK). Chinese analogues often fail due to 10,000–20,000 km.

To search for rare parts it is useful to use:

If you are buying a used part, be sure to check:

  • 📋 Mileage of the car it was taken from.
  • 📋 Reason for dismantling (for example, if they are selling a checkpoint, ask why it was removed).
  • 📋 Availability of a guarantee or return option.

Cost and where to buy Nissan Bluebird 1985 today

Price for Nissan Bluebird 1985 Depends on condition, mileage and configuration. In 2026, the market value looks like this:

Vehicle condition Price, rub. Price, $ Notes
Project (needs major renovation) 80 000 – 150 000 900 – 1 700 Rusty body, faulty engine
On track, but needs some work 150 000 – 300 000 1 700 – 3 400 The engine is running, the body is free of through corrosion.
Good condition (drives without investment) 300 000 – 500 000 3 400 – 5 700 Minimal rust, healthy systems
Excellent condition (collector's item) 500 000 – 1 000 000+ 5 700 – 11 500+ Ideal body, interior, original engine
Tuned version (for example, with a turbo engine) 600 000 – 1 500 000+ 6 900 – 17 200+ The price depends on the level of modifications

Where to look Nissan Bluebird 1985:

  • 🌍 Japan: auctions Goo-Net or USS. Prices there are lower, but you need to take into account the cost of delivery (150,000–300,000 rub.).
  • 🇷🇺 Russia: Auto.ru, Drom.ru, Avito. There are more chances to find a car in Moscow, St. Petersburg or the Far East.
  • 🇪🇺 Europe: Mobile.de (Germany), Leboncoin (France). Prices are higher, but the cars are often in better condition.

When purchasing, pay attention to:

  • 🔍 Body: check the sills, arches, and underbody for rust. The areas under the door seals are especially vulnerable.
  • 🔍 Engine: start it cold - there should be no knocking, smoke from the exhaust pipe or unstable speed.
  • 🔍 Documents: check whether the car is listed as stolen (check through traffic police).
  • 🔍 History: ask if there have been any major accidents or body repairs.
⚠️ Attention: If the seller refuses to show the car on a lift or only shows photos from certain angles, this is a reason to be wary. There is a high probability of hidden corrosion or damage.

When purchasing from Japan, keep in mind:

  • 📦 Delivery cost: Container transportation costs 150,000–300,000 rub., roro (Ro-Ro) - cheaper (80,000–150,000 rub.), but longer.
  • 📝 Customs clearance: for cars over 30 years old (as Bluebird 1985) preferential customs duty applies - 0.54 € per 1 cm³ engine volume.
  • 🔧 Adaptation: It may be necessary to replace the headlights (with European ones), install daytime running lights and adjust the speedometer (in Japan, speed is measured in km/h, but the scale may differ).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the 1985 Nissan Bluebird