Nissan Bluebird 1987 is not just a car, but a piece of automotive history. Released as part of the eighth generation (body code U12), this sedan has become a symbol of reliability and practicality for millions of drivers around the world. In the USSR and post-Soviet space Bluebird gained popularity due to its simplicity of design, availability of spare parts and ease of operation.
The 1987 model was offered in different body styles: classic sedan, station wagon (Wingroad in some markets) and even coupes. But it was the sedan that became the most popular option. Both gasoline and diesel engines were installed under the hood, and the choice between manual and automatic transmission made it possible to adapt the car to any needs. Today Nissan Bluebird U12 is an iconic retro car that is actively purchased for restoration, tuning, or simply as reliable daily transport.
However, like any car with more than 35 years of history, Bluebird has its weak points. In this article we will look at technical specifications, typical breakdowns, nuances operation and give practical advice on repair and tuning. If you are the owner or are just planning to buy this car, here you will find all the necessary information.
1987 Nissan Bluebird Specifications
Model range Nissan Bluebird U12 1987 included several modifications, differing in engines, gearboxes and level of equipment. The basic versions were equipped modestly, but even in the minimum configuration the car had everything necessary for a comfortable ride. Let's look at the key parameters.
The most common engines for the Japanese and European markets were:
- 🔥 CA16S — 1.6-liter gasoline, 88–95 hp. (depending on the market). Reliable, but prone to overheating if not used correctly.
- ⚡ CA18i — 1.8-liter gasoline, 100–110 hp. More dynamic, but demanding on oil quality.
- ☁️ CD17 — 1.7-liter diesel, 54–60 hp. Economical, but weak for harsh conditions.
- 💨 VG20E — 2.0-liter V6, 135–150 hp. (installed on top versions). Powerful, but rare and expensive to maintain.
Transmissions were offered to choose from: 5-speed mechanics (the most reliable option) or 3-speed automatic (prone to overheating and wear during aggressive driving). Suspension - classic for that time: front McPherson, behind multi-lever or torsion beam (depending on modification). Brakes are discs at the front and drums at the rear (on basic versions).
Machine dimensions:
- 📏 Length: 4.520 mm
- 📐 Width: 1,690 mm
- 📊 Height: 1,390 mm
- ⚖️ Curb weight: 1,050–1,200 kg (depending on engine)
- CA16S (1.6)
- CA18i (1.8)
- CD17 (diesel)
- VG20E (V6)
- Other
Weaknesses and typical problems
Nissan Bluebird U12 is famous for its reliability, but age and design features leave their mark. Here are the most common problems that owners encounter:
1. Body corrosion. The main headache for any retro car. Particularly vulnerable:
- 🚗 Thresholds and wheel arches (rot due to accumulation of dirt and moisture).
- 🚪 The lower parts of the doors (often rust from the inside).
- 🔩 Bumper mounts (the metal is thin and rots quickly).
- 🏗️ Spars (critical - requires welding in case of severe corrosion).
2. Engine problems:
- CA16S/CA18i suffer from oil leaks through the valve cover gasket and crankshaft seals.
- CD17 (diesel) often fails injection pump (high pressure fuel pump) - expensive to repair, it’s easier to find a used one in good condition.
- VG20E (V6) may have problems with hydraulic compensators And timing chain (if a break occurs, the valve bends!).
3. Transmission:
- Manual transmission (FS5W71B) usually last a long time, but wear out over time 2nd and 3rd gear synchronizers.
- Automatic (3N71B) afraid of overheating - When changing the oil, be sure to change the filter and rinse the valve body!
4. Electrics:
- Oxidation of contacts in fuse box (leads to unstable operation of headlights and turn signals).
- Failure generator (especially on cars with air conditioning).
- Problems with central locking (door actuators often fail).
⚠️ Attention: If your Bluebird suddenly started to stall while driving, first check fuel pump (on CA16S/CA18i it is located in the tank) and crankshaft position sensor. These units often fail after 200+ thousand km.
Repair and maintenance: what the owner needs to know
Service Nissan Bluebird 1987 does not require super complex skills, but there are nuances that are worth considering. Here are the key points:
1. Changing oil and filters:
- Engine oil (CA16S/CA18i) it is recommended to change every 5,000–7,000 km (synthetic or semi-synthetic 10W-40).
- Oil filter - original 15208-43J00 or analogues Mann, Framm.
- Change the air filter every 15,000 km (a clogged filter increases fuel consumption by 10–15%).
2. Brake system:
- The pads at the front are enough for 30,000–50,000 km, rear (drums) - to 80,000 km.
- Change the brake fluid every 2 years (it is hygroscopic and loses its properties).
- When replacing pads, be sure to check the condition brake cylinders - they often leak on old cars.
3. Suspension:
- Wheel bearings live 80,000–100,000 km, but when driving on bad roads they may fail earlier.
- Shock absorbers (Kayaba or Monroe) serve 60,000–80,000 km.
- Ball joints and steering ends are a weak point, check them every 20,000 km.
Check the body for through corrosion (especially sills and side members)|
Start the engine "cold" - there should be no knocking or smoke |
Make sure the transmission shifts smoothly (especially 2nd gear)|
Check the operation of all electrical appliances (headlights, power windows, heater) |
Inspect brake discs and drums for wear-->
4. Cooling system:
- Change antifreeze once every 2 years (or every 40,000 km).
- Thermostat on CA16S/CA18i often seizes - if the engine does not warm up to operating temperature, check it first.
- The radiator becomes clogged over time - wash it every 50,000 km.
⚠️ Attention: If your Bluebird starts to overheat, do not continue driving! CA series engines are extremely sensitive to overheating - even a single boiling can lead to deformation of the cylinder head. Stop, let the car cool and check the antifreeze level.
Tuning and modernization: how to improve Nissan Bluebird 1987
Nissan Bluebird U12 - an excellent platform for tuning, be it restoration to stock form or deep modernization. Here are some directions:
1. Engine:
- Atmospheric tuning: replacing camshafts (Tomei or Jun), cylinder head modification, installation 4-2-1 collector (adds 10–15 hp).
- Turbo kit: on CA18i you can install a turbine from SR20DET (pistons will need to be replaced for a low compression ratio).
- Swap: a popular option is the engine SR20DE (150–160 hp) or KA24DE (155 hp) from newer Nissans.
2. Suspension and brakes:
- Installation racks Tein or KYB will improve handling.
- Replacement of rear drum brakes with disk (kits are available for sale).
- Reinforced anti-roll bars (22 mm front, 19 mm rear).
3. Exterior and interior:
- Full painting in original colors (codes: AH3 (blue), KH2 (red), WH0 (white)).
- Installation sports seats (for example, from Nissan Silvia S13).
- Modernization audio systems (installation of a radio with Bluetooth and speakers Pioneer or Alpine).
4. Electronics:
- Installation ECU Haltech or Megasquirt for fine tuning of the engine.
- Replacement of standard wiring with power harness (relevant for serious tuning).
- Installation LED optics (headlights, dimensions, brake lights).
How much does an engine swap cost for an SR20DE?
The cost depends on the condition of the donor and the configuration:
- Used SR20DE engine: RUB 80,000–150,000
- Swap kit (mounts, wiring, box): 50,000–100,000 ₽
- Work (installation + configuration): 60,000–120,000 ₽
Total: 190,000–370,000 ₽. It pays off only with deep tuning or restoration for sale.
Where to buy spare parts and how much they cost
One of the main reasons for its popularity Nissan Bluebird U12 — availability of spare parts. Here's where to find them and at what prices:
| Spare part | Original (price, ₽) | Analogue (price, ₽) | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cylinder head gasket | 3,500–5,000 | 1,800–2,500 (Elring) | Exist.ru, Autodoc |
| Clutch (set) | 8,000–12,000 | 4,500–6,000 (Sachs) | Emex, AvtoALL |
| Wheel bearing | 4,000–6,000 | 2,000–3,500 (SKF) | Any bearing store |
| Thermostat | 2,500–3,800 | 1,200–1,800 (Gates) | Ozon, Wildberries |
| Generator | 12,000–18,000 | 7,000–10,000 (Bosch) | Showdown, Avito |
Where to look for spare parts:
- 🛒 Online stores: Exist.ru, Autodoc, Emex (there are catalogs by VIN).
- 🔧 Showdown: in Moscow and St. Petersburg there are specialized dismantling centers for Japanese cars (for example, Japancar).
- 🌍 Foreign sites: eBay, Yahoo Auctions Japan (delivery 2-4 weeks).
- 📦 Groups on social networks: VKontakte and Facebook have communities for Nissan Bluebirdwhere they sell used spare parts.
When purchasing used parts from a salvage yard, always check them for corrosion and signs of wear. For example, if you buy cylinder head, inspect it for cracks and the condition of the valve guides.
Cost of Nissan Bluebird 1987 on the secondary market
Price for Nissan Bluebird U12 1987 varies by condition, mileage and region. Here are the current prices for 2026:
1. "Project" (requires major repairs):
- The body is corroded, the engine does not start or requires capital investment.
- Price: 30,000–80,000 ₽.
- Suitable for those who are ready to invest in restoration.
2. “It drives, but requires investment”:
- The engine is running, but there are problems with the body or suspension.
- Price: 80,000–150,000 ₽.
- Often sold used 200,000–300,000 km.
3. "Good condition" (well-maintained specimen):
- The body has no rust through it, the engine and gearbox are in order.
- Price: 150,000–250,000 ₽.
- Mileage is usually 150,000–200,000 km.
4. "Collectible condition" (restored, tuned):
- Full paint, engine in perfect condition, interior like new.
- Price: 250,000–500,000 ₽ and above.
- Often sold with swapped engine (For example, SR20DET).
⚠️ Attention: Be sure to check when purchasing car history (accidents, replacement of body panels). Many Bluebird in Russia - these are “killed” cars from Japan with an unclean history. Ask the seller to provide a photo of the VIN number and check it with the documents.
The most expensive aftermarket ones are versions with an engine VG20E (V6) and all-wheel drive (Attesa E-TS). Their cost can reach up to 600,000–800,000 ₽ in perfect condition.
Operation in winter: tips for owners
Winter operation Nissan Bluebird 1987 requires special preparation. Here's what you need to do to keep your car from failing in cold weather:
1. Engine preparation:
- Change the oil to winter (5W-40 or 0W-40 for regions with temperatures below -25°C).
- Check battery - the capacity must be at least 60 Ah. If the battery is more than 3 years old, replace it.
- Install preheater (For example, Webasto or Emelya).
2. Brake system and suspension:
- Replace the brake fluid with low temperature (For example, DOT 4 with a boiling point not lower than 230°C).
- Check the status brake hoses - in the cold they can burst.
- Install winter shock absorbers (For example, Kayaba Excel-G), if you drive on snow and ice.
3. Body and interior:
- Treat the sills and bottom anticorrosive (For example, Movil or Dinitrol).
- Install winter wipers (frameless, heated).
- Check the work stoves — if cold air is blowing, the heater radiator may be clogged.
4. Tires and wheels:
- Optimal winter tire size: 185/70 R13 or 195/60 R14.
- Tire pressure in winter should be at 0.2–0.3 bar abovethan in summer.
- If driving in deep snow, consider installing differential lock (For example, Quife).
If your Bluebird hard to start in winter, try turning it on before starting high beam for 10–15 seconds. This will warm up the battery and make starting easier.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the 1987 Nissan Bluebird
What is the most reliable engine in a 1987 Bluebird?
Considered the most reliable CA16S And CA18i. They are easy to repair, have a long service life (300,000+ km with proper maintenance) and are inexpensive to operate. Diesel CD17 It is economical, but spare parts for it are more difficult to find. VG20E (V6) powerful, but expensive to repair.
How much oil should I put in the CA18i engine?
To the engine CA18i is poured 3.5 liters oil (including oil filter). Recommended viscosity: 10W-40 (summer) or 5W-40 (winter). Do not exceed the maximum level on the dipstick - this may lead to the seals being squeezed out.
Is it possible to put air conditioning on a 1987 Bluebird if it didn't have one?
Yes, but it is a labor-intensive process. You will need:
- Buy an air conditioning kit (compressor, radiator, pipes, control unit).
- Install new cooling radiator (the standard one may not be able to cope with the load).
- Lay out the wiring and install a power button in the cabin.
- Fill the system with freon (better R134a, since R12 prohibited).
Cost of work: 50,000–100,000 ₽ (depending on the configuration).
What is the gas mileage of a 1987 Bluebird with CA18i engine?
Fuel consumption CA18i in a mixed cycle is:
- 🚗 City: 9–11 l/100 km
- 🛣️ Route: 6–7 l/100 km
- 🏔️ City + highway: 7.5–8.5 l/100 km
If the flow rate is higher, check:
- 🔧 Condition spark plugs And high voltage wires.
- 🔥 Job lambda probe (if installed).
- 🛢️ Fuel quality (refuel at proven gas stations).
Where can I find the original documentation for Bluebird 1987?
Original manuals and diagrams can be found:
- 📖 On the website NicoClub (Nissan owners forum).
- 📄 In VKontakte groups (for example, "Nissan Bluebird U12").
- 📚 On eBay or Amazon (search for "Nissan Bluebird U12 Service Manual").
- 💾 In technical literature archives (for example, Autodata or Mitchell1).