The end of the 1990s was a turning point for the mass segment of Japanese cars, and Nissan March in the K11 body, released in 1999, took one of the leading positions. This compact hatchback combined surprising roominess and efficiency for its class, making it a favorite both in the Japanese domestic market and in Europe. The 1999 model is often called the pinnacle of the evolution of the first generation, as many of the early shortcomings had already been eliminated, and the design received fresh accents.
Owners choosing Nissan March 1999 Today, people are looking not just for a vehicle, but for a time-tested classic. The reliability of the power units of the CR and SR series, as well as the simple suspension, allow the car to serve for years even with intensive use. However, in order to preserve the service life of the machine, it is necessary to understand the specifics of the design and know what to look for when inspecting a particular instance.
History and concept of the K11
The 1999 lineup represents the culmination of nearly a decade of engineering work on the K11 platform, which went into production in 1992. By the end of the 90s Nissan March acquired its recognizable appearance with rounded shapes that not only looked futuristic, but also provided excellent aerodynamics. The high-roof body maximized interior space despite the modest external dimensions.
In 1999, the model underwent minor cosmetic changes that affected the grille and bumper design, making them more aggressive. However, the main novelty was the expansion of the engine range and the introduction of more modern fuel injection control systems. This ensured compliance with environmental regulations of the time without losing dynamics.
A feature of the body was high torsional rigidity, which had a positive effect on handling. For its class, the car demonstrated impressive road stability, which was rare for urban runabouts of the period. The interior design was also ergonomic, although the finishing materials were utilitarian, they demonstrated high wear resistance.
Technical characteristics and engines
With my heart Nissan March 1999 most often it is a 1.0 or 1.3 liter petrol engine. The most popular and reliable motor is considered CG13DE volume of 1.3 liters, which develops about 82-87 horsepower. This unit is distinguished by its simplicity of design, the absence of phase shifters and high maintainability. For those who value maximum savings, a 1.0-liter engine was offered CG10DE, but its power was often not enough for overtaking on the highway.
Turbocharged versions were also available in 1999, although they were rare on the aftermarket. Engine CG13DET in combination with a manual transmission, it allowed the car to accelerate to 100 km/h in less than 10 seconds, which was an excellent performance for the city. However, such versions required more careful maintenance and the use of high-quality fuel.
The transmission has traditionally been offered in two options: a 5-speed manual transmission or a 3-speed automatic. Mechanics are considered more reliable and durable, while automatic transmissions can be capricious with high mileage. It is important to check the condition of the clutch and flywheel, as replacing them is an expensive procedure.
- 🚗 Engine CG13DE - the perfect balance of power and reliability for everyday driving.
- ⛽ Fuel consumption in the urban cycle is only 7-8 liters per 100 km.
- ⚙️ Automatic transmission requires oil changes every 60,000 km.
⚠️ Attention: CG series engines are prone to overheating if the thermostat malfunctions. Check the coolant level and radiator hoses regularly, as aging plastics may crack.
- 1.0 CG10DE
- 1.3 CG13DE
- Turbo versions
- I have no opinion
Suspension and chassis
Suspension design Nissan March 1999 classic for front-wheel drive hatchbacks: MacPherson struts are installed at the front, and a semi-independent beam at the rear. This design provides an excellent balance between comfort and controllability. The shock absorbers are quite soft, which allows you to smooth out uneven roads, but at high speeds in turns, rolls may appear.
Owners note that the front levers and silent blocks are a weak point, especially on cars with a mileage of more than 150,000 km. The rear beam usually lasts a very long time, but the sway bar bushings require replacement more often. The steering can be either mechanical or hydraulic, which makes parking much easier.
The braking system includes disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. This is a standard solution that provides sufficient braking performance. However, the rear drum mechanisms often become clogged with dust and rust, which can lead to reduced braking performance or jammed pads.
☑️ Checking the chassis before purchasing
Typical problems and malfunctions
Despite the reputation of an “indestructible” car, Nissan March 1999 has a number of specific ailments that you need to know about. The most common problem is body corrosion. Sills, arches and the bottom are susceptible to rotting, especially if the car was operated in regions with aggressive salt. The rear shock absorber mounts and the lower part of the doors also rust.
In the electrical part, throttle position sensors and idle air controllers often fail. This leads to unstable engine idle speed and difficult starting. In addition, it is worth paying attention to the generator: the graphite brushes in it quickly wear out, which requires replacement or repair.
The interior may suffer from creaking plastic and wear and tear on the seat upholstery. The rear seat often has exhaust marks due to a leak in the exhaust system that runs directly underneath it. Whistling of alternator and amplifier pump belts is a common companion of old cars, indicating the need to replace or tighten the belts.
- 🔧 Regularly check the integrity of the exhaust system to prevent gases from entering the cabin.
- 🔋 A weak battery charge may be caused by a worn-out alternator or leakage currents.
- 💧 A leaking stove radiator is a common cause of glass fogging in winter.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice rust on the thresholds, do not delay repairs. Corrosion spreads into hidden cavities and can lead to loss of load-bearing capacity of the body, which makes the car unsafe.
Features of operation and maintenance
Care Nissan March 1999 does not require exotic tools or specific knowledge. The main rule is to regularly replace technical fluids. Engine oil should be changed every 7,000–10,000 km, using a quality synthetic product with a viscosity of 5W-30 or 10W-40. In a gearbox, especially an automatic, the oil is changed every 40,000 km to extend the life of the valve body.
To preserve the body from corrosion, it is recommended to carry out seasonal washing of the bottom and treatment of hidden cavities with anti-corrosion compounds. If your vehicle has a factory coating, it may wear thin over time, so additional protection would be a good idea. Pay special attention to areas of paint chips on the hood and bumpers.
Parts for this model are available in most stores, as the K11 platform was very popular. However, original parts can be more expensive than analogues, so many owners choose high-quality substitutes from trusted brands. The main thing is not to skimp on consumables such as filters and brake pads.
Before winter use, be sure to check the condition of the rubber door seals. Old plastic becomes tanned and allows cold to pass through, which can lead to freezing of locks and fogging of glass from the inside.
Comparison table of characteristics
For clarity, let’s compare the main technical parameters of various modifications that can be found on the used car market. This will help you choose the most suitable option depending on your needs and budget.
| Modification | Engine capacity (l) | Power (hp) | Gearbox type | Consumption (city, l) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan March 1.0 GX | 0.99 | 65 | Mechanical / Automatic | 7.2 |
| Nissan March 1.3 GX | 1.34 | 82 | Mechanical / Automatic | 7.8 |
| Nissan March 1.3 Turbo | 1.34 | 110 | Mechanics | 8.5 |
| Nissan March 1.5 (GT) | 1.49 | 97 | Mechanics | 8.1 |
Details about the turbo version
Turbocharged versions were equipped with an intercooler and a reinforced cooling system. They were often equipped with sports seats and alloy wheels, but required more frequent turbo maintenance and the use of high-octane fuel.
Conclusion and final conclusions
Nissan March 1999 remains an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, economical and compact car for an urban environment. Despite its age, with proper care, this hatchback can travel for more than tens of thousands of kilometers. Its simplicity of design allows you to carry out repairs yourself, and the availability of spare parts makes maintaining the car inexpensive.
When choosing a specific instance, be sure to pay attention to the condition of the body and the absence of serious corrosion damage. The engine and gearbox, as a rule, do not cause problems if the oil is changed on time. The main advantage of the model is the combination of high reliability of Japanese assembly and affordable prices on the secondary market.
Owners often note that Nissan March Gives a feeling of comfort and safety, despite its small size. It forgives many mistakes of beginners, parks easily and maneuvers well in heavy traffic. If you find a well-maintained specimen, it will become a faithful companion on your daily trips.
Choosing the right car is 50% of success. A thorough pre-purchase inspection will save you thousands of dollars in later repairs and unnecessary stress.
Which engine is better to choose for Nissan March 1999?
The most balanced option is the 1.3-liter CG13DE engine. It has enough power for the city and the highway, while remaining economical and reliable. 1.0 engines are too weak for overtaking, and turbo versions require difficult maintenance.
How often do you need to change the oil in your automatic machine?
For an automatic transmission on a 1999 Nissan March, it is recommended to change the oil every 40,000 - 50,000 km. Using high-quality oil and regularly replacing the filter (if provided) will significantly extend the life of the torque converter.
Weak points of this car's suspension?
The most vulnerable elements are the front levers and silent blocks, as well as the anti-roll bar bushings. The rear beam lasts a long time, but it is worth checking the shock absorber mounts for rust.
Is it worth buying the turbocharged version?
Buying a turbo version is only worth it if you understand cars and are prepared for increased maintenance costs. The turbine, intercooler and injectors require attention, and the service life of these components may be less than that of naturally aspirated engines.
How to deal with body corrosion?
Regular washing of the bottom, especially in winter, and periodic treatment of hidden cavities with anti-corrosive agent will help slow down the rotting process. When purchasing, carefully inspect the sills, arches and underbody, as removing rust can be very expensive.