Nissan Cedric Y34 1999 is not just a car, but a symbol of the era of the Japanese automobile industry of the late 90s. This model, released as part of the 11th generation of the legendary line, combines the classic elegance of a business sedan, reliability RB engines and advanced technologies for its time. Today, after a quarter of a century, Cedric Y34 remains in demand among retro car connoisseurs, collectors and practical drivers looking for a reliable car with character.

In 1999, the model was offered in several modifications - from modest versions with a straight-six RB20E up to top trim levels with turbocharged RB25DET and all-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS. But even the basic versions stood out with their sophisticated suspension, spacious interior and that very “Japanese assembly” that became the standard of quality. In this article we will look at all aspects Nissan Cedric Y34 1999 — from technical features to operational nuances in 2026.

Technical specifications Nissan Cedric Y34 1999

Under the hood Cedric Y34 1999, exclusively gasoline engines of the series were installed RB - legendary engines that have gained a reputation for their endurance and tuning potential. The basic unit was atmospheric RB20E (2.0 l, 130 hp), but the most interesting for buyers today are versions with RB25DE (2.5 l, 190 hp) and turbocharged RB25DET (2.5 l, 250–280 hp). The latter, by the way, was equipped with an intercooler and a variable valve timing system NVCS, which made it a real “pearl” of the line.

The transmission depended on the configuration: manual 5-speed FS5R30A (rare for this generation), classic 4-speed automatic RE4R01A or more modern 5-band RE5R05A. All-wheel drive versions (ATTESA E-TS) received a viscous coupling and electronic control of torque distribution, which made them stable even on slippery surfaces. Suspension - fully independent: front MacPherson, rear multi-link, with air springs in top modifications.

  • 🔧 Engines: RB20E (2.0), RB25DE (2.5), RB25DET (2.5 Turbo)
  • 🔄 Gearboxes: Manual transmission-5, automatic transmission-4/5, all-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS
  • 🛣️ Suspension: independent front and rear, air suspension optional
  • ⚡ Electronics: ABS, EBD, climate control, electric seats and mirrors

A unique feature of the 1999 Cedric Y34 is the presence of a version with factory gas equipment (LPG), which was officially supplied to some markets. Such specimens are extremely rare today and are prized by collectors.

Modification Engine Power (hp) Drive Box
200 GX/E RB20E 130 Rear Automatic transmission-4 / manual transmission-5
250 GX/E RB25DE 190 Rear/Full Automatic transmission-5
250 GT-T RB25DET 250–280 Full Automatic transmission-5
Brougham VIP RB25DE 190 Rear Automatic transmission-5
📊 Which Nissan Cedric Y34 engine do you think is the best?
  • RB20E (aspirated 2.0)
  • RB25DE (aspirated 2.5)
  • RB25DET (turbo 2.5)
  • Any, the main thing is reliability

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the legendary reliability, Nissan Cedric Y34 The 1999 has a number of “diseases” that you should know about before purchasing. The main headache for owners is corrosion. Body panels, especially sills, arches and the bottom, begin to rust after 10–15 years of operation if the car has not been treated with anticorrosive. Pay special attention to the condition subframes - replacing them costs a lot of money. The second common problem is automatic transmission, especially in versions with RB25DET, where automatic towing often leads to overheating and wear of the clutches.

Series engines RB known for their survivability, but they also have weaknesses:

  • 🔥 Valve cover gasket - flows on most copies after 200 thousand km.
  • 🛢️ Oil pump - on RB25DET may fail if the oil is not changed in a timely manner.
  • 🔊 Hydraulic compensators — they begin to “knock” when cold when worn.
  • ⚡ Ignition coils — often “breaks through” in wet weather.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Cedric Y34 with turbo engine RB25DET Be sure to check the condition of the intercooler and pipes - their rupture under pressure can lead to oil entering the turbine and its failure. Also check whether the cylinder head (cylinder head) has been removed - after unqualified repairs, problems with the gasket often appear.

Electronics Cedric considered reliable, but there are nuances:

  • 🔋 Battery — the standard charge control unit (IC regulator) may fail, which leads to overcharging or undercharging of the battery.
  • 🎛️ Climate control — damper servos often break (characteristic crackling noise when switching modes).
  • 🔊 Audio system - radios Bose lose their illumination and begin to “glitch” with age.

How to check the condition of an automatic transmission when purchasing?

1. Warm up the box to operating temperature (drive 10–15 km).

2. Check the oil for a burning smell - if there is any, this is a sign of wear on the clutches.

3. Pay attention to kicks and jerks when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear.

4. Make sure there is no delay when switching to "D" or "R" mode.

5. If the gearbox “slips” (the speed increases, but the car does not move), this is a critical signal.

Interior configurations and features

In 1999 Nissan Cedric Y34 was offered in several trim levels, which differed significantly in equipment and target audience. Basic versions 200 GX And 250 GX were aimed at taxi drivers and pragmatic drivers: here you will find fabric upholstery, manual seat adjustment and a minimal set of electronics. And here are the top ones Brougham VIP And 250 GT-T - this is luxury by Japanese standards: leather interior with wooden inserts, electric drives for everything that can be automated, and even a rear sofa with a massage function (in some modifications).

Interesting detail: in Cedric Y34 a unique system was used "Super HICAS" - rear steering, which improved maneuverability at high speeds. However, today many owners turn it off due to the difficulty of maintenance. One more trick - air suspension in versions Brougham, which made it possible to adjust the ground clearance, but now often fails due to wear of the rubber seals.

  • 🪑 Basic equipment (GX/E): fabric interior, air conditioning, power accessories, 15" steel wheels
  • 🚗 Medium (250 GX/E): leather steering wheel, climate control, alloy wheels, audio preparation
  • 👑 Top (Brougham VIP/GT-T): full electric seats, wooden inserts, premium audio system Bose, air suspension

What to look for when inspecting the salon:

  • 🔍 Check the operation of all electric drives (windows, mirrors, seats) - microswitches often fail.
  • 🎵 Make sure the speakers are Bose do not wheeze (a typical problem due to the decomposition of polyurethane foam).
  • 🪟 Inspect the door seals - they become dull and begin to let water through.

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If in the salon Cedric Y34 smells of gasoline, check the condition of the fuel tank - the upper part of this model often rusts, which leads to leaks.

Prices on the market and what affects the cost

Cost Nissan Cedric Y34 1999 on the secondary market varies from 300 to 1,500 thousand rubles, depending on condition, mileage and configuration. The cheapest examples are “tired” taxis with a mileage of over 300 thousand km and atmospheric RB20E. Versions with RB25DE in good condition cost about 600–900 thousand rubles, and rare RB25DET with all-wheel drive can reach up to 1.2–1.5 million rubles, especially if it GT-T or Brougham VIP with retained air suspension.

Main factors influencing the price:

  • 🔧 Body condition: lack of corrosion can increase the cost by 30–50%.
  • 🔄 Box type: manual is valued higher than automatic (especially for tuning).
  • 🛠️ Service History: availability of receipts and records of oil changes in RB-motors are critical.
  • 🎨 Color: classic shades (black, dark blue, burgundy) are more expensive than “exotic” ones (green, beige).

Equipment Condition Mileage (thousand km) Price (thousand rubles)
200 GX (RB20E) Satisfactory 250–300 300–450
250 GX (RB25DE) good 150–200 600–800
Brougham VIP (RB25DE) Excellent 100–120 900–1 200
250 GT-T (RB25DET) Perfect (collectible) up to 100 1 300–1 800
⚠️ Attention: Be careful with cars imported from Japan under “gray” schemes - they may have problems with customs clearance or have substituted VIN numbers. Always check the history through the databases JEVIC or CarVertical.
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The most promising versions for investment are versions Brougham VIP And 250 GT-T with mileage up to 100 thousand km. Their value is steadily growing by 10–15% per year due to their status as “Japanese classics”.

Tuning and modifications: what can be done with the Cedric Y34

Nissan Cedric Y34 - an excellent platform for tuning, especially in versions with RB25DET. A standard turbo engine can easily handle power increases to 350-400 hp. without major modifications to the block, and the all-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS allows this power to be efficiently transferred to the road. Popular modification directions:

  • 🔥 Engine: replacing the turbine with Garrett GT28, installation of injectors Nismo 550cc, firmware ECU (For example, Haltech or Apexi Power FC).
  • 🔧 Suspension: Replacing pneuma with sports springs Tein or HKS Hipermax, installation of stabilizers Cusco.
  • 🎨 Exterior: body kits Nismo or Mine's, LED optics, tinting in the "VIP car" style.
  • 🔊 Audio: replacement of standard Bose for modern acoustics with a subwoofer.

For atmospheric versions (RB25DE) “atmospheric” modifications are relevant:

  • 🔄 Installation exhaust manifold 4-2-1 (For example, HKS or Tomei).
  • 🔥 Replacing the throttle valve with 60mm (standard - 50 mm).
  • 🛢️ Installing an oil cooler to prevent overheating.

Check the compression in the cylinders (must be at least 12 bar)

Replace the fuel pump with Walbro 255 l/h

Install reinforced connecting rod bolts (eg ARP)

Update the firmware ECU for a new turbine

Check status ATTESA (viscous coupling, drives)

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One of the most popular projects based on Cedric Y34 - this is the creation of a replica Nissan Skyline R34. Thanks to a similar platform (FM) and series engines RB, many enthusiasts are remaking Cedric under "Skyline", installing body kits, optics and even interior from GT-R. However, such projects require serious investments and often encounter problems during registration.

Operation in 2026: pros and cons

Is it worth buying Nissan Cedric Y34 today? There is no definite answer - it all depends on your goals. If you need reliable daily car with a spacious interior and simple design, then the version with RB25DE and automatic will be an excellent choice. These engines can easily “digest” 300–400 thousand km with regular maintenance, and spare parts (especially for the engine and chassis) are still available. However, there are also pitfalls:

  • ⛽ Fuel consumption: atmospheric versions consume 10–12 l/100 km, and turbocharged ones – 14–16 l/100 km.
  • 🔧 Service: original consumables (for example, oil seals or gaskets) are expensive.
  • 🚘 Comfort: by modern standards, sound insulation and ergonomics are inferior to new cars.

Benefits Cedric Y34 in 2026:

  • 🔧 Ease of repair: engines RB well studied, and their design allows you to carry out most of the work yourself.
  • 💰 Low cost of ownership: compared to European counterparts (for example, BMW E38 or Mercedes W210) spare parts and maintenance are cheaper.
  • 🚗 Versatility: Suitable for families (thanks to the spacious interior), for tuning, and for collection.
  • 🔒 Reliability: With proper care, engines run 500+ thousand km without capital.

⚠️ Attention: If you plan to use Cedric Y34 in winter, please note that all-wheel drive versions with ATTESA E-TS require regular checking of the condition of the viscous coupling. If it wears out, the car may behave unpredictably on ice.

It is also worth mentioning legal nuances. In Russia, cars are over 30 years old (and Cedric Y34 approaching this milestone) can receive the status of “retro car,” which provides transport tax benefits. However, to do this, the car must be in its original condition - any serious modifications (for example, an engine swap) will deprive this right.

Where to look for spare parts and how to avoid fakes

One of the main advantages Nissan Cedric Y34 is a wide base of spare parts, but there are some nuances here. Original parts from Nissan (for example, gaskets RB-engines or suspension components) are still available through dealers, but their prices can be steep. An alternative is high-quality analogues from Japanese manufacturers:

  • 🔧 Engine: Nitto, Tomei, HKS (for tuning), Febi or Gates (consumables).
  • 🚗 Chassis: KYB (shock absorbers), Moog (snatch) Meyle (silent blocks).
  • ⚡ Electronics: Denso (sensors, ignition coils), NGK or Bosch (candles).

Where to buy:

  • 🌍 Japanese auctions: USS Auction, Goo-Net — here you can find rare parts at reasonable prices, but you will have to wait for delivery.
  • 🏬 Russian stores: Exist.ru, Autodoc, Japan-Car - convenient for urgent purchases.
  • 🤝 Forums and communities: groups in VKontakte (for example, "Nissan Cedric Russia") or on Drive2 — used parts in good condition are often sold here.

How to avoid fakes:

  • 🔍 Check the packaging - original parts Nissan have holograms and serial numbers.
  • 📦 Compare the weight of the part with the original (fakes are often lighter due to inferior metal).
  • 💬 Request photos of the actual product from the seller, not catalog pictures.

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When purchasing spare parts for RB25DET pay attention to the markings. For example, turbines Garrett T28 for Skyline R33 And Cedric Y34 They are similar in appearance, but have different wastegate calibrations.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Cedric Y34 1999

❓ Which engine is better to choose for daily use?

Optimal for everyday driving RB25DE (2.5 l, 190 hp). It is quite powerful, more economical than turbo versions and less picky to maintain. Atmospheric RB20E (2.0 l) is suitable if you need the most budget option, but its dynamics are rather weak. Turbocharged RB25DET requires more careful care and high-quality fuel.

❓ Is it possible to install a Skyline engine on the Cedric Y34?

Yes, this is a popular swap. For example, RB26DETT from Skyline GT-R placed on Cedric with minimal modifications (you need to adapt the box mounts and wiring). However, such a project will require serious investments and may cause problems when registering with the traffic police.

❓ What oil to pour into the RB25DE engine?

Semi-synthetic or synthetic with viscosity is recommended 5W-40 or 10W-40 (For example, Mobil 1, Liqui Moly Leichtlauf). For turbo engines (RB25DET) it is better to use oil approved for turbocharged engines (for example, Motul 8100 X-Cess 5W-40). Replacement interval is every 7–8 thousand km.

❓ How to check the status of the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive?

1. Raise the front axle on a lift and try to turn one of the wheels - if the second one also rotates, the viscous coupling is working.

2. Check the oil level in the transfer case (should be between the marks MIN And MAX).

3. When driving on a slippery surface (for example, wet asphalt), the drive should connect smoothly, without jerking.

4. Pay attention to errors on the instrument panel (such as a flashing light 4WD).

❓ How much does it cost to restore air suspension?

A complete revision of the air suspension (replacement of seals, cylinders, compressor) will cost 150–250 thousand rubles, depending on the condition. Often owners prefer to replace it with conventional springs and shock absorbers (for example, Tein or KYB), which is cheaper and easier to maintain.