Nissan Bluebird U14 - a legendary sedan of the 90s, which is still in demand among car enthusiasts due to its reliability and unpretentiousness. However, even this “unkillable” Japanese has a weak point - rapids, which over time rust, rot and require replacement. If you notice red spots on the bottom of the doors or hear a squeak when you press the threshold, it's time to act!
In this article we will look at everything you need to know about thresholds Bluebird U14: from the causes of corrosion to step-by-step instructions for replacement. You will learn which thresholds are best to choose (original, analog or repair inserts), how much service work costs and how to protect metal from rust for a long time. And also - Let's reveal the secret why sills rot even on “dry” cars from Japan and how to prevent it.
Why do thresholds rot? Nissan Bluebird U14?
The main cause of threshold corrosion is design feature body Unlike modern cars, where thresholds are often made of galvanized steel or plastic, U14 they are made of ordinary metal with minimal protection. Over time, even small chips of paint lead to pockets of rust that spread inward.
Here are the key factors that accelerate rotting:
- 🌧️ Humid climate — if the car is parked on the street, condensation and rainwater accumulate in the drainage holes of the thresholds.
- 🧂 Reagents on the roads - salt and chemicals in winter corrode the protective coating, exposing the metal.
- 🔧 Poor anti-corrosion treatment - thresholds at the factory U14 Covering with mastic was not always high-quality, especially in welding areas.
- 🚗 Mechanical damage — shocks during parking, scratches from shoes or bicycle pedals violate the integrity of the paintwork.
Thresholds at fastening points are especially vulnerable front and rear side members, as well as under the plastic covers - dirt and moisture accumulate there. If you do not monitor the condition of these zones, after 5–7 years of operation in Russian conditions, the metal may rust through.
⚠️ Attention! If you hear a crunch or feel a sag when you press the threshold with your foot, this is a sign through corrosion. In this case, cosmetic repairs will not help; a complete replacement of the section is necessary.
- Once a month
- Once every six months
- Only when problems are noticeable
- Never
Which thresholds are suitable for Nissan Bluebird U14?
There are three types of thresholds on the market for U14:
| Threshold type | Pros | Cons | Price (per pair), ₽ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original (Nissan) | Perfect fit, factory quality metal, durability | Expensive, difficult to find (discontinued), often used | 15 000–25 000 |
| Analogue (for example, Febi, Meyle) | More affordable than the original, good quality from trusted brands | May require adjustment, metal thickness is thinner | 8 000–12 000 |
| Repair inserts | Budget option for local repairs, does not require complete replacement | Suitable only for small rust spots, difficult to install | 3 000–6 000 |
For a complete replacement it is better to choose analog thresholds from trusted manufacturers, for example, Febi (Germany) or Mapco (Taiwan). They are cheaper than the original, but they are well galvanized and accurately follow the shape of the body. If you're on a budget, you might consider repair inserts, as long as the rust hasn't spread to the side members.
When purchasing, be sure to check:
- 📏 Compliance with article number - for U14 Thresholds with catalog numbers are suitable
62600-4M000(right) and62601-4M000(left). - 🔍 Metal quality — the thickness must be at least 0.8 mm, otherwise the threshold will quickly rust again.
- 🛡️ Availability of protective coating - good analogues come with a factory primer or zinc coating.
Before buying thresholds, measure the length and width of the old ones - sometimes even original parts may have slight differences between batches.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing thresholds with Nissan Bluebird U14
Replacing sills is a labor-intensive process that requires welding and bodywork skills. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust this to professionals. However, if you decide to do it yourself, follow this algorithm:
Place the car on a lift or overpass|Remove the doors and plastic trim|Remove the rust to bare metal|Prepare new thresholds and a welding machine-->
Step 1. Dismantling old thresholds
First, we remove all the interfering elements: doors, plastic linings, seals. Then, using a grinder or plasma cutter, carefully cut off the old threshold, retreating 1–2 cm from the welding line. It is important not to damage the side members and body pillars!
Step 2. Surface preparation
We clean off any remaining rust and old welding until the metal shines. Treating the surface rust converter (For example, Tsinkar) and apply primer. If there are through holes, they need to be welded or covered with repair patches.
Step 3. Fitting and welding of new thresholds
We apply a new threshold, align the gaps and mark the places for welding. First, we tack the part at several points, then weld it with a continuous seam. After welding, we clean the seams and treat them with anticorrosive.
Step 4. Anti-corrosion treatment and painting
Before painting, apply to the inner surface of the threshold mastic or Movil (For example, Tectyl or Dinitrol). Then we prime it, paint it in body color and varnish it. Be sure to seal the drainage holes with sealant to prevent moisture from getting inside.
⚠️ Attention! If the metal is overheated during welding, it can become deformed. To avoid this, use spot welding with cooling breaks or argon arc welding (TIG).
What to do if the threshold is welded crookedly?
If after welding the threshold turns out to be uneven, it can be straightened using straightening or local heating with a gas burner. As a last resort, cut it off and re-cook it. The main thing is not to leave any distortions, otherwise the doors will not close well.
Anti-corrosion treatment of thresholds: how to protect metal for a long time
Even new thresholds without protection will not last long. To prevent rust, you need a comprehensive solution:
1. Internal processing
Through drainage holes or technological hatches we apply anti-corrosion compounds wax or oil based. Best options:
- 🛢️ Dinitrol 409 — penetrates into microcracks, forms an elastic film.
- 🧴 Tectyl Bodysafe — reliably protects from salt and moisture.
- 🔥 Movil with rust converter - a budget option for prevention.
2. External protection
We cover the outer part of the threshold liquid fender liners (For example, Liqui Moly Unterbodenschutz) or paste over vinyl film. You can also install plastic covers - they protect against mechanical damage.
3. Regular care
Once every 3–6 months:
- 🧽 Wash the thresholds under pressure, removing dirt from the drainage holes.
- 🔍 Inspect chips and scratches, touch up if necessary.
- 🛠️ Renew anti-corrosion coating (especially before winter).
The most common mistake during anti-corrosion treatment is ignoring the internal cavity of the threshold. Even if everything is beautiful on the outside, the metal inside without protection will rot in 2-3 years.
How much does it cost to replace thresholds? Nissan Bluebird U14?
The cost of work depends on the condition of the body and the type of thresholds. On average prices are as follows:
| Type of work | Cost (₽) | Opening hours |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement of one threshold (welding + painting) | 8 000–15 000 | 4–6 hours |
| Replacing a pair of thresholds | 15 000–25 000 | 8–12 hours |
| Local repair (inserts + welding) | 5 000–10 000 | 3–5 hours |
| Anti-corrosion treatment (full complex) | 3 000–6 000 | 2–3 hours |
Prices do not include the cost of parts. In the regions, services may be 20–30% cheaper, but the quality of welding and painting must be checked especially carefully. Saving on anticorrosion or primer often leads to re-corrosion within a year.
If your budget is limited, you can save money by purchasing used thresholds in good condition (about 5,000–8,000 ₽ per pair) and installing them yourself. However, remember: rust inside a used part may not be visible from the outside!
Where to buy thresholds for Nissan Bluebird U14?
New thresholds for U14 can be found in the following places:
- 🌍 Online spare parts stores:
- Exist.ru — a large selection of analogues, often in stock.
- Autodoc.ru — convenient selection by VIN, delivery throughout Russia.
- Japan-Parts.eu — original and used parts from Japan.
- 🏬 Local showdowns — here you can find original thresholds from broken ones U14, but you need to check the condition of the metal.
- 🛒 Body parts stores - for example, AutoSpetsCenter or BBC in large cities.
When purchasing online, pay attention to:
- 📦 Packaging — original parts come in branded boxes with holograms.
- 📝 Guarantee — reliable sellers give a guarantee of 6 months for analogues.
- 📸 Photo of real product - ask the seller for photos of the part, not a catalogue.
⚠️ Attention! On Avito and similar sites often sell thresholds from other models Nissan (For example, Primera P10), which are similar in appearance, but do not match the fastenings. Always check the part numbers!
Common mistakes when replacing thresholds and how to avoid them
Even experienced professionals sometimes make mistakes, which then lead to new problems. Here's what not to do:
1. Ignore rust on the side members
If the thresholds have rotted, there is a high probability that corrosion has spread to front or rear spar. If you do not fix it, the new threshold will quickly rust again. Always check the condition of the metal around the repair area!
2. Poor preparation before welding
Welding over rust or dirt leads to a weak seam and further rotting. Before work, the metal must be cleaned to a shine, processed solvent and prime.
3. Saving on anticorrosion
Many people, after replacing the thresholds, limit themselves to painting, forgetting about the internal treatment. Without anti-corrosion compounds, the metal will begin to rust from the inside within 1-2 years.
4. Incorrect painting
If you do not follow the technology (primer, base paint, varnish), the thresholds will quickly peel off. This is especially true for U14 with metallic - here it is important to choose the exact shade.
5. Closing the drainage holes
Some “masters” cover the drainage holes with sealant to “forever” protect them from moisture. This leads to condensation accumulation inside the threshold and accelerated corrosion. The holes must be open!
The most expensive mistake is skimping on quality welding. A bad seam will not only shorten the service life of the threshold, but can also weaken the rigidity of the body, which is dangerous in the event of an accident.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about thresholds Nissan Bluebird U14
Is it possible to restore thresholds without replacement?
Yes, if the rust is superficial (not through). To do this:
- Clean the rust down to the metal with a grinder or sandblaster.
- Process
rust converter(For example, Tsinkar). - Apply
epoxy primerand paint it. - Protect your threshold
anti-gravelor film.
But remember: such repairs will extend the life of the threshold by 2-3 years, after which replacement will still be required.
How to check thresholds when buying used Bluebird U14?
Inspect:
- 🔍 Bottom edge of doors - if there are blisters in the paint, this is a sign of rust.
- 👣 Threshold elasticity - press with your foot: if the metal bends, it has rotted inside.
- 🕳️ Drainage holes - they must be clean, without traces of corrosion.
- 🚪 Gaps between door and threshold — uneven gaps indicate crooked welding after repair.
Also tap the thresholds with a hammer: a dull sound indicates rust inside.
Which thresholds are better: original or analog?
Original thresholds will last longer (10+ years with proper care), but they are difficult to find and expensive. Analogue (for example, Febi or Meyle) are cheaper and almost as good in quality if you choose a trusted manufacturer. Repair inserts are only suitable for local repairs.
For most owners U14 the best option is analog thresholds of the mid-price segment (RUB 8,000–12,000 per pair) followed by high-quality anti-corrosion treatment.
How long will the new thresholds last?
Service life depends on:
- 🔹 Metal qualities — galvanized thresholds last longer.
- 🔹 Anti-corrosion treatment — without it, even the original thresholds will rot in 3–5 years.
- 🔹 Operating conditions — in a dry garage the thresholds will last 10+ years, on the street - 5–7 years.
With proper care (regular washing, anti-corrosion renewal, touch-up of chips), new thresholds will be U14 will last 8–12 years.
Is it possible to drive with rotten sills?
Technically it is possible, but it is dangerous:
- ⚠️ Body rigidity decreases - in case of an accident it deforms more easily.
- ⚠️ Rust is spreading to the side members is a security threat.
- ⚠️ Thresholds may fail under load (for example, if you lean on the car while changing a wheel).
If the sills have rotted by more than 50%, it is better not to operate the car until it is repaired.