Nissan Tino 1999 - one of the most unusual compact vans in the history of the Japanese automobile industry. Launched as a response to the growing demand for practical family cars, it combined the features of a minivan, hatchback and even a station wagon. Despite modest sales outside Japan, the model acquired cult status among connoisseurs of rare Japanese cars. In this article we will look at technical features, typical problems, nuances of operation and give advice to those who are considering a purchase Tino 1999 release.
Why does this car deserve attention even after 25 years? Firstly, his unique interior layout with convertible seats Flexi-Seat System, which was ahead of its time. Secondly, reliable, but already outdated engines of the series GA And SRwhich, with proper care, can pass more than 300,000 km without major repairs. Thirdly, this is one of the last Nissan, issued before the merger with Renault, making it an interesting item for collectors.
Technical specifications Nissan Tino 1999
Under the hood Tino In 1999, two types of engines were installed, each of which had its own characteristics:
- 🔧 1.8 GA18DE (125 hp) - naturally aspirated gasoline engine with a distributed injection system. It was distinguished by its simplicity of design, but was prone to overheating if the thermostat was faulty.
- ⚡ 2.0 SR20DE (140 hp) - a more powerful and reliable option, equipped with a variable valve timing system N-VCT. This engine is often found on sports versions Nissan, but in Tino it was "suffocated" by environmental regulations.
Both engines were combined with a 4-speed automatically or 5-speed mechanics. The drive was exclusively front-wheel drive, which simplified the design but limited cross-country ability. Suspension - classic for that time: front MacPherson, at the rear there is a semi-independent beam. The brake system is disc on all wheels (ventilated at the front), which was a good indicator for a 1999 compact van.
| Parameter | GA18DE (1.8) | SR20DE (2.0) |
|---|---|---|
| Power, hp | 125 | 140 |
| Torque, Nm | 160 | 185 |
| Fuel consumption (combined), l/100 km | 8.5–9.5 | 9.0–10.0 |
| Max. speed, km/h | 180 | 195 |
| Oil volume, l | 3.7 | 4.3 |
Deserves special attention transmission. Automatic transmission RE4F03A (installed on both versions) is known for its “tenderness” to the quality of the oil. ATF replacement is required every 60,000 km, otherwise the risk of torque converter failure increases 3 times. Mechanical box FS5R30A more durable, but can “howl” at high speeds due to bearing wear.
- 1.8 GA18DE (easier to repair)
- 2.0 SR20DE (more powerful)
- It doesn’t matter, the main thing is the condition
- Another option
Weaknesses and typical problems
Like any car from the 90s, Nissan Tino has a number of “diseases” that you should know about before purchasing. Some of them are critical, others are just annoying little things.
- 🔥 Engine overheating - a common problem due to a stuck thermostat or radiator leak. Especially relevant for GA18DE, which heats up more SR20DE.
- 🛢️ Oil leaks — the crankshaft and camshaft oil seals “harden” over time. If there are puddles under the car, this is the first sign.
- ⚡ Electrics — oxidation of contacts in the fuse box, problems with the throttle position sensor (
TPS). - 🔧 Suspension — knocking in the front struts (MacPherson) and wear of the silent blocks of the rear beam after 150,000 km.
⚠️ Attention: If during a test drive Nissan Tino you notice that the engine “troubles” when cold, but levels out after warming up - this is a sign of valve wear or problems with EGR. Repairs will cost 20–40 thousand rubles.
Deserves special attention body. Despite galvanization, Tino suffers from corrosion in the following places:
- 🚗 Thresholds — rust from the inside, often requiring complete replacement.
- 🚪 Doors - bottom corners and drainage holes.
- 🔩 Rear beam mountings - if the rust gets there, driving is dangerous.
Interesting fact: in Japan Tino often used as a taxi, so many examples on the secondary market have mileage within 200,000 km, but in good condition thanks to regular maintenance. In Russia, most cars were driven “to slaughter” - with mileages of 100–150 thousand km, but without a maintenance history.
What to do if Tino won't start?
If the starter turns, but the engine does not catch, check:
1. Spark on the spark plugs (often the ignition module is to blame).
2. Fuel pressure (fuel pump or filter).
3. Crankshaft sensor - its malfunction blocks the start.
If the starter does not turn, look towards the ignition switch or starter relay.
Interior and ergonomics: pros and cons
Salon Nissan Tino This is its main advantage over its competitors. Designers Nissan We tried to make the most of the space, offering several transformation options:
- 🪑 Flexi-Seat System — the back row can be moved back and forth, folded or even removed completely.
- 📦 trunk — with the seats folded, the volume reaches 1,500 liters (like many crossovers!).
- 🚗 Ceiling height — 1,400 mm, which allows comfortable accommodation for passengers up to 190 cm tall.
However, there are also disadvantages:
- 🔊 Shumka — at speeds above 100 km/h, you can hear everything in the cabin: from tire noise to engine operation.
- 🪟 Visibility — Thick pillars and small side windows create an “aquarium effect.”
- 🛋️ Finishing materials — the plastic is hard and creaky, and the fabric on the seats wears out quickly.
Interesting detail: in top trim levels Tino was installed electric sunroof, but its mechanism often breaks down due to oxidation of the wiring. Also in some versions there was climate control, but its electronic unit is sensitive to voltage surges.
If you plan to use the Tino for transporting cargo, check the performance of the rear shock absorbers - when loading more than 300 kg, they often “sag” all the way.
Owner reviews: what do they say about Nissan Tino?
Opinions about Nissan Tino 1999 are divided into two camps: some praise it for its practicality, others criticize it for its unreliability. We analyzed the reviews on the forums and highlighted the key points:
⚠️ Attention: More than 60% of owners complain about seal leaks after 180,000 km. If the seller claims that “the oil does not leak,” ask to see the service book with notes on replacing the oil seals.
Pros according to reviews:
- ✅ Spacious salon — “4 adults + dog + bike fit in without any problems.”
- ✅ Low cost of ownership — "Spare parts are cheaper than Almera or Primera the same year."
- ✅ Controllability — “For a minivan, it holds the road very well and does not roll when cornering.”
Cons according to reviews:
- ❌ Corrosion — “The thresholds rotted in 3 years, although I kept the car in the garage.”
- ❌ Noisy interior “On the highway you have to shout to talk to a passenger.”
- ❌ Weak interior heating — “In winter, the stove barely heats, even with a new thermostat.”
Fun fact: at Japanese auctions Tino with a mileage of 80–100 thousand km are often sold cheaper than similar ones Toyota Corolla Spacio or Honda Mobilio>, but at the same time they have richer equipment. This is due to the fact that in Japan the model was considered “non-prestigious” due to its simple interior trim.
Cost and where to look for Nissan Tino 1999?
Prices for Nissan Tino 1999 on the Russian market range from 150,000 to 400,000 rubles, depending on condition, mileage and region. Here are the approximate guidelines:
| Condition | Mileage, thousand km | Price, rub. | What to check? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perfect (Japanese auction) | 50–80 | 350 000–400 000 | Corrosion of thresholds, automatic transmission condition |
| Good (Russia, with history) | 100–150 | 250 000–300 000 | Oil leaks, suspension, electrical |
| Average (requires investment) | 180–220 | 150 000–200 000 | Compression engine, gearbox |
Where to look?
- 🌍 Japanese auctions — USS Tokyo, Goo-net. Plus: original condition, minus: risk of hidden problems.
- 🚗 Local message boards — Avto.ru, Drome. Look for cars with photos of the engine compartment and sills.
- 🔧 Forums — Nissan-Club.ru, Drive2. They often sell cars with a complete repair history.
⚠️ Attention: If the seller refuses to show VIN-number or import history; most likely, the car was in an accident or has problems with customs clearance. Check through services Autocode or CarVertical.
Advice: if you buy Tino for a family, take the version with SR20DE — it is more powerful and more reliable on the track. Enough for the city GA18DE, but be prepared to change the oil more often and monitor the cooling.
Thresholds and bottom for corrosion
Condition of engine seals (dryness under the hood)
Automatic transmission operation (smooth shifts, no jerking)
Electrician (all lamps, windows, climate control)
Suspension (knocks, play in the steering) -->
Tuning and modernization: what can be done?
Nissan Tino is not the most popular car for tuning, but enthusiasts are finding ways to improve it. Here are some directions:
- 🏁 Engine:
- For GA18DE - replacing camshafts with sports ones (for example, from Nismo).
- For SR20DE — ECU firmware and direct flow installation (adds 15–20 hp).
- 🎨 Exterior:
- Installation of body kits from Nissan Primera P11 (suitable for fastenings).
- Window tinting and replacement of optics with LED.
- 🔊 Salon:
- Replacing the standard radio with a modern one Android Auto.
- Installation of additional sound insulation (for example, StP).
Important: when tuning Tino it's worth remembering weak points:
- 🚫 Do not increase power more than 20% - box RE4F03A won't stand it.
- 🚫 Don't set the suspension too hard — the body is not designed for sporty driving.
- 🚫 Do not change wheel size by more than +1 inch - this will worsen controllability.
Life hack: if you want to improve the appearance, but not spend money on body kits, just paint the bumpers in the body color and install eyelashes on the headlights. This will visually “rejuvenate” the car by 5–7 years.
The best tuning for Tino is not an increase in power, but an improvement in reliability: replacing oil seals, updating the wiring and installing an additional radiator.
Alternatives to the 1999 Nissan Tino
If Tino you liked it, but want to consider analogues, here are several options with similar characteristics:
| Model | Engine | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla Spacio (1997–2001) | 1.6–1.8 | More reliable, cheaper to maintain | Less spacious interior |
| Honda Mobilio (1997–2002) | 1.6–1.8 | Better handling, more economical | Expensive spare parts, poor sound insulation |
| Mazda Premacy (1999–2005) | 1.8–2.0 | More modern design, reliable engine | Less common on the secondary market |
| Suzuki Kei (1999–2003) | 0.6–1.0 | Very economical and maneuverable | Cramped interior, weak engine |
Why do so many people choose Tino? It's about him unique layout: it is longer and more spacious Corolla Spacio, but at the same time cheaper Mazda Premacy. In addition, engines SR20DE And GA18DE are well known to mechanics, and spare parts can be found even in small towns.
If you need reliable family car with minimal investment - look away Toyota. If you want an unusual car with character and are ready to pay attention to her - Nissan Tino will be an excellent choice.
Nissan Tino is a car for those who value practicality over prestige. It does not shine with luxury, but it will cope with any family tasks better than many crossovers.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Tino 1999
❓ How much oil should I pour into the GA18DE engine?
To the engine GA18DE required 3.7 liters oil (including filter). Recommended viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate). Important: after changing the oil, check the level after 500 km - often up to 0.5 liters are lost due to residues in the system.
❓ Is it possible to install gas on the SR20DE?
Technically yes, but there are some nuances:
- 🔧 Will be required ignition adjustment (gas detonates more strongly than gasoline).
- 💰 The cost of installing 4th generation HBO is from 40,000 rubles.
- ⚠️ Risk valve overheating — SR20DE not originally designed for gas.
Advice: if you plan to drive only on gas, it is better to consider GA18DE - it is less sensitive to octane number.
❓ What is the resource of the RE4F03A automatic transmission?
When timely oil changes (every 60,000 km) the gearbox runs 200–250 thousand km. Main enemies:
- 🔥 Overheating (install an additional ATF cooling radiator).
- 🛢️ Dirty oil (the automatic transmission filter also needs to be changed!).
- 🚗 Abrupt starts (wear of friction clutches).
Signs of imminent death of an automatic transmission: jerking when switching, a burning smell from the oil, fluid leakage.
❓Where can I find spare parts for Nissan Tino?
Main sources:
- 🌍 Japan — websites Amayama, Buyee (delivery 2-4 weeks).
- 🏬 Russian stores — Exist.ru, Autodoc (there are analogues).
- 🔧 Showdown - search by model Primera P11 or Almera N16 (many parts are interchangeable).
Tip: Check before ordering VIN-number - some details vary depending on the market (Japan/Europe).
❓ Is it worth buying a Nissan Tino today?
The answer depends on your goals:
- ✅ Yesif you need:
- Spacious car for little money.
- Rare model for the collection.
- A car for a dacha/family with minimal claims to comfort.
- ❌ Noif you:
- Do you plan to travel long distances (noisy, uncomfortable).
- Not ready to waste time searching for spare parts.
- Do you want a car that will last for years without investment?