Review: Nissan N16.I Pulsar hatch (2001-02)

Overview

Released in June 2001, the Nissan N16 Series I (N16.I) Pulsar hatch was a five-door, front-wheel drive vehicle vehicle. Manufactured in Sunderland, England, the N16 Pulsar hatch was powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine – with double overhead cams, four valves per cylinder and variable valve timing – that was mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. Furthermore, the Pulsar hatch range consisted of ST and Q variants.

The closely-related N16 Pulsar sedan was released in July 2000 and exported from Japan – as a result, it had different equipment levels and has been revised separately.

Compared to the N15 Pulsar , the N16 Pulsar hatch was 64 mm longer (at 4184 mm), 16 mm wider (1706 mm) and 53 mm taller (1448 mm), though wheelbase length was unchanged (2535 mm). Furthermore, body rigidity increased by 30 per cent. The N16 Pulsar was fitted with MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link beam rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the N16.I Pulsar hatch included dual front airbags and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 2001 Nissan Pulsar (sold in Europe as the Almera) – that was fitted with dual front airbags, front side airbags and curtain airbags – received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 26. In the frontal offset crash test, protection of the driver’s head was rated as good, though chest and left thigh protection were rated as marginal, and right thigh and left lower leg protection as weak. In the side impact test, the chest and head airbag did not fully deploy.

Features

Standard features for the Pulsar ST included 15-inch steel wheels with 185/65 R15 tyres, a four speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning, remote central locking, power mirrors, cargo nets, tilt adjustable steering wheel and an immobiliser.

The Pulsar Q was further equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels with 195/60 R15 tyres, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear spoiler and power windows.

Review: Nissan N16.II Pulsar hatch (2002-05)

Overview

Released in November 2002, the N16 Series II (N16.II) Pulsar hatch introduced updated styling and improved safety equipment. Visually, the N16.II Pulsar hatch could be identified by its new grille, headlight protectors, tail-lights and cabin trim.

Safety equipment

Compared to its N16.I predecessor, safety equipment for the N16.II Pulsar was improved with ABS and brake assist fitted as standard across the range.

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , a 2003 N16.II Pulsar hatch – equipped with dual front airbags – received a three star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 22.34. In the offset crash test, protection from serious chest and leg injury was marginal for the driver and foot protection was poor. In the side impact test, there was a moderate risk of serious chest injury for the driver.

Features

Standard features for the N16.II Pulsar hatch were initially unchanged. From May 2004, however, the Pulsar Q was fitted with front fog lights and a power sunroof.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Nissan N16 Almera/Pulsar hatch

Review: Nissan N16.I Pulsar sedan (2000-03)

Overview

Released in July 2000, the Nissan N16 Series I (N16.I) Pulsar was initially available as a small, front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Japan, the N16.I Pulsar sedan was available with 1.6- and 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engines – with double overhead cams and variable valve timing – that were mated to either five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. Furthermore, the N16.I Pulsar sedan range consisted of LX, ST, Q and Ti variants. In March 2003, the N16.I Pulsar sedan range was updated – the 1.6-litre LX was discontinued and the ST-L variant was introduced.

The closely-related N16 Pulsar hatch was released in June 2001 and exported from England – as a result, it had different equipment levels and has been reviewed separately.

Compared to its N15 Pulsar predecessor, the N16 Pulsar sedan was 150 mm longer (at 4470 mm), 5 mm wider (1695 mm) and 50 mm taller (1445 mm), though wheelbase length was unchanged (2535 mm). Furthermore, body rigidity increased by approximately 30 per cent. The N16 Pulsar was fitted with MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link beam rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the N16.I Pulsar consisted of a driver’s airbag. The Ti variant was further equipped with a front passenger airbag, ABS and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, while the Q variant was also fitted with these items from March 2003.

Features

Standard features for the Pulsar LX and ST included a four speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning, remote central locking, power mirrors, a tilt adjustable steering wheel, height adjustable driver’s seat and an immobiliser.

The Pulsar ST-L was further equipped with 14-inch alloy wheels and power windows; beyond this, the Q was added side skirts, a rear spoiler and body-colour side mouldings. The range-topping Pulsar Ti was distinguished by its climate control air conditioning system.

2002 Pulsar Plus editions

In May 2002, Plus editions were released of the LX and ST variants. Compared to their standard counterparts, the Plus editions added alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and ‘Plus Special Edition’ decal.

Review: Nissan N16.II Pulsar sedan (2003-05)

Overview

Released in July 2003, the N16 Series II (N16.II) Pulsar sedan introduced an updated engine, electronic fly-by-wire throttle control and subtle cosmetic updates. The 1.8-litre engine featured variable valve timing for greater mid-range response, though peak outputs were largely unchanged. In May 2004, the N16.II Pulsar sedan underwent a minor update.

Safety equipment

Safety equipment for the N16.II Pulsar sedan was initially unchanged when compared with its N16.I predecessor. From May 2004, however, all Pulsar sedans were equipped with dual front airbags and ABS.

Features

Compared to their N16.I predecessors, the Pulsar ST-L and Q variants gained 15-inch alloy wheels, while all automatic variants were fitted with cruise control. From May 2004, the Pulsar Q was also fitted with a sunroof and front fog lights.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Nissan N16 Almera/Pulsar sedan

Review: Nissan C12.I Pulsar hatch (2013-15)

Overview

Released in June 2013, the Nissan C12 Series I (C12.I) Pulsar was a small, front-wheel drive hatchback. Manufactured in Thailand, the C12 Pulsar was powered by naturally aspirated 1.8-litre and turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engines.

MRA8DE and MR16DDT engines

Of the engines,

• the 1.8-litre MRA8DE petrol engine had an aluminium cylinder block and heads, double overhead camshafts, continuously variable valve timing control (C-VTC) for the intake and exhaust valves, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 9.9:1; and,
• the 1.6-litre MR16DDT petrol engine differed in that it had a turbocharger and intercooler, direct petrol injection, sodium-filled exhaust valves, nano-finished camshafts, beehive valve springs and a compression ratio of 9.5:1.

The engines were mated to either six-speed manual or continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), the latter featuring a subplanetary gear which enabled it to switch between low range (for greater response at low speeds) and high range (lower RPM at high speeds).

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to its C11 Tiida predecessor, the C12 Pulsar hatch was 90 mm longer (at 4295 mm, 4315 mm for SSS variants), 65 mm wider (1760 mm), 15 mm lower (1520 mm) and had a 100 mm longer wheelbase (2700 mm).

The C12 Pulsar had MacPherson strut front suspension with a stabiliser bar and a torsion beam rear axle with an integrated stabiliser bar.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the C12 Pulsar included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , the B17 Pulsar sedan received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 32.67 out of 37; based on evidence supplied by Nissan, this result was also applied to the C12 Pulsar hatchback. In the offset crash test, protection of the driver’s head and feet were rated as good, though chest and lower leg protection was rated as acceptable and upper leg protection as marginal. In the side impact test, head and torso protection were rated as good, though chest protection was rated as acceptable. 

Features

Standard features for the Pulsar ST included 16-inch alloy wheels with 195/60 R16 tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3-compatibility and auxiliary input (3.5 mm), air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, steering wheel audio controls, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a height adjustable driver’s seat, trip computer and an immobiliser.

The Pulsar ST-L was further equipped with a six speaker sound system, auxiliary USB and iPod inputs, a 4.3-inch colour display, premium cloth seat trim, front fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power folding door mirrors and rear spoiler. Beyond this, the ST-S added 17-inch alloy wheels with 205/50 R17 tyres.

The range-topping Pulsar SSS was distinguished by its satellite navigation system (with a 5.8-inch colour display, 3D maps and touch screen), Bluetooth audio streaming, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, leather seat trim, xenon headlights with washers, automatic headlights, a reversing camera with guidance lines, proximity key, power folding mirrors, rear privacy glass and push-button start. The SSS was also fitted with a sports body kit which included a front spoiler, side skirts and rear lower spoiler.

2014 Pulsar SSS Heritage Edition

In October 2014, forty (40) Pulsar SSS Heritage Edition models were released. The Pulsar SSS Heritage Edition was released to celebrate the 30th anniversary since George Fury’s Nissan Bluebird Turbo took pole position in the 1984 Bathurst 1000. Compared to the standard Pulsar SSS, the Heritage Edition featured Nissan red and blue factory racing stripes and branding, and heritage edition floor mats, head rests and interior badging. The Pulsar SSS Heritage Edition was available in Polar White and Brilliant Silver paint finishes.

Brochure

• Brochure: Nissan C12 Pulsar (May 2013)

Related links

• Specifications: Nissan C12 Pulsar hatch (June 2013)
• Nissan News: Nissan Pulsar Hatch And SSS Turbo (June 2013)

Review: Nissan C12.II Pulsar hatch (2015-16)

Overview

Released in Australia in April 2015, the C12 Series II (C12.II) Pulsar range was simplified as the ST-S variant was discontinued.

Features

Compared to its C12.I predecessor, standard features for the C12.II Pulsar ST-L were extended to include a reversing camera with guidance lines.

Specifications

• Specifications: Nissan C12.II and B17.II Pulsar (April 2015)

Related links

• Nissan Australia: Nissan Pulsar
• Wikipedia.org: Nissan C12 Tiida/Pulsar hatch

Review: Nissan N15.I Pulsar (1995-98)

Overview

Released in October 1995, the Nissan N15 Series I (N15.I) Pulsar was available as a five-door hatchback or sedan. Manufactured in Japan, the front-wheel drive Pulsar had a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (Nissan’s GA16DE engine) for the LX, SLX, Q and limited-run Plus variants. The sports-oriented SSS variants, however, had a 2.0-litre petrol engine (Nissan’s SR20DE engine). Transmission options consisted of a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.

Compared to its N14 predecessor, the N15 Pulsar hatchback was 30 mm shorter (at 4120 mm), but 20 mm wider (1690 mm), the same height (1395 mm) and had a 105 mm longer wheelbase (2535 mm). Relative to the hatchback, the N15 Pulsar sedan was 200 mm longer (at 4320 mm), but the other dimensions were the same. The N15 Pulsar was fitted with MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link beam rear suspension.

Safety equipment

The Pulsar LX variant was not fitted with any safety equipment, though the Pulsar Q and SLX were both fitted with a driver’s airbag as standard; the SSS was further equipped with ABS.

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 1999 Almera hatchback – as the Pulsar was branded in Europe – that was fitted with a 1.4-litre engine and a driver’s airbag received a two star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 14; the second star, however, was flagged due to unacceptably high risk of driver chest injury in the frontal impact. In the offset crash test, the cabin became unstable and protection for the driver’s feet and chest were rated as poor, thigh protection was rated as weak and head and lower leg were rated as adequate. In the side impact test, abdomen protection was rated as weak.

Features: Pulsar LX, Q, SLX and SSS

Standard features for the Pulsar LX included a two speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, split and folding rear seats, central locking, power mirrors and a height adjustable steering wheel.

The Pulsar Q was further equipped with a four speaker sound system, while the SLX added air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows and a height adjustable driver’s seat.

The range-topping Pulsar SSS was distinguished by its 15-inch alloy wheels, CD player, contoured sports seats and front fog lights.

1996 Pulsar Solaire

In March 1996, a limited-run Solaire variant was released; compared to the LX, it was further equipped with air conditioning.

1997 Pulsar Plus

In October 1997, a limited-run Plus variant was released; compared to the LX, it was further equipped with 14-inch alloy wheels and air conditioning.

Review: Nissan N15.II Pulsar (1998-00)

Overview

Released in March 1998, the N15 Series II (N15.II) Pulsar could be identified by its new grille, tail-lights and wheel covers. Inside, there were also new cabin fabrics.

Safety equipment

Compared to its N15.I predecessor, standard safety equipment for the N15.II Pulsar was extended to include a driver’s airbag (previously omitted from the LX). Beyond this, the SLX and SSS variants were further equipped with ABS (previously SSS only).

Features

Standard features for the Pulsar LX were extended to include a four speaker sound system, CD player, air conditioning and remote central locking. Furthermore, the Pulsar Q and SLX variants gained 14-inch alloy wheels and power windows. The SSS, however, was unchanged.

1999 Pulsar Plus

In January 1999, the Plus variant returned; compared to the LX variant, the Plus was further equipped with 14-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Nissan N15 Almera/Pulsar

Review: Nissan B17.I Pulsar sedan (2013-15)

Overview

Released in February 2013, the Nissan B17 Series I (B17.I) Pulsar was a small, front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Thailand, the B17 Pulsar was powered by 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engines that were mated to either six-speed manual or continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), the latter featuring a subplanetary gear which enabled it to switch between low range (for greater response at low speeds) and high range (lower RPM at high speeds).

MRA8DE engine

The 1.8-litre MRA8DE petrol engine had an aluminium cylinder block and heads, double overhead camshafts, continuously variable valve timing control (C-VTC) for the intake and exhaust valves, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 9.9:1. Co-developed by Renault and Nissan, the engine also featured a tumble control valve for the intake manifold, mirror finished crankshaft and camshaft journals and offset cylinders.

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to its C11 Tiida predecessor, the B17 Pulsar sedan was 220 mm longer (at 4615 mm), 65 mm wider (1760 mm), 40 mm lower (1495 mm) and had a 100 mm longer wheelbase (2700 mm); the body itself had a drag coefficeint of 0.30 Cd, while boot capacity was 510 litres.

The B17 Pulsar had MacPherson strut front suspension with a stabiliser bar and a torsion beam rear axle with an integrated stabiliser bar.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the B17 Pulsar included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , the B17 Pulsar sedan received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 32.67 out of 37. In the offset crash test, protection of the front occupants’ chests and lower legs was rated as acceptable, though upper leg protection was marginal. Furthermore, there was a slight risk of serious chest injury in the side impact test.

Features: Pulsar ST, ST-L and Ti

Standard features for the Pulsar ST included 16-inch alloy wheels with 195/60 R16 tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3-compatibility and auxiliary input (3.5 mm), air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, steering wheel audio controls, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a height adjustable driver’s seat, trip computer and an immobiliser.

The Pulsar ST-L was further equipped with a 4.3-inch colour display, auxiliary USB and iPod inputs, premium cloth seat trim, front fog lights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Visually, both the ST-L and Ti variants were differentiated by their headlights with LED accents and rear spoilers.

Beyond this, the Pular Ti featured 17-inch alloy wheels with 205/50 R17 tyres, a satellite navigation system (with a 5.8-inch colour display, 3D maps and touch screen), dual-zone climate control air conditioning, leather seat trim, xenon headlights with washers, automatic headlights, a reversing camera with guidance lines, proximity key, power folding mirrors, rear privacy glass and push-button start.

Brochure

• Brochure: Nissan B17 Pulsar (February 2013)

Related links

• Specifications: Nissan B17 Pulsar sedan (February 2013)
• Nissan News: The All-New Nissan Pulsar Sedan (January 2013)

Review: Nissan B17.II Pulsar sedan (2015-17)

Overview

Released in Australia in April 2015, the Nissan B17 Series II (B17.II) Pulsar introduced a revised range as the Ti was replaced by the turbocharged Pulsar SSS. Standard features were also extended for the Pulsar ST-L (see ‘Features’, below).

Pulsar SSS: MR16DDT engine

The newly-introduced Pulsar SSS was powered by Nissan’s 1.6-litre turbocharged MR16DDT engine. Compared to the MRA8DE engine, the MR16DDT engine differed in that it had a turbocharger and intercooler, direct petrol injection, sodium-filled exhaust valves, nano-finished camshafts, beehive valve springs and a compression ratio of 9.5:1.

Features: Pulsar ST-L and SSS

Compared to its B17.I predecessor, standard features for the Pulsar ST-L were extended to include Bluetooth audio streaming, a satellite navigation system with a 5.8-inch colour display, 3D maps and touch screen, and a reversing camera with guidance lines.

Relative to the Pulsar ST-L, the Pulsar SSS added 17-inch alloy wheels with 205/50 R17 tyres, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, leather seat trim, xenon headlights with washers, automatic headlights, a proximity key, power folding mirrors, rear privacy glass and push-button start. Visually, the Pulsar SSS could be identified by its sports body kit.

Specifications

• Specifications: Nissan C12.II and B17.II Pulsar (April 2015)

Related links

• Nissan Australia: Nissan Pulsar
• Wikipedia.org: Nissan B17 Sylphy/Pulsar sedan

Recalls: Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan

Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan: crank position sensor circuit board

In March 2003, a recall was issued for Nissan N16 Pulsar sedans due to the solder joints of the circuit board for the crank position sensors; the solder could deform due to heat stress, a process accelerated by the presence of flux residue during the soldering process – this could cause the ‘service engine soon’ warning to appear (PRA 2003/6560).

2001 Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan: Takata airbag recall

In June 2010, a recall was issued for one Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicle which was manufactured on 27 August 2001 and had the VIN JN1CBAN16A0018390. In this vehicle, the propellant wafer for the front passenger airbag inflator may be partially broken up into powder. This could cause the combustion rate of the propellant to rise and excessive internal pressure may be produced in the inflator during airbag deployment. In an extreme case, the inflator casing may rupture and metal fragments may fracture (PRA 2010/11761).

2001-03 Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan: Takata airbag recall

In April 2013, a recall was issued for Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles due to airbag inflators containing propellant wafers of insufficient density. As a result, the combustion rate of the propellant may increase inside the inflator, causing internal pressure to rise suddenly during airbag deployment. Such deployment could cause the inflator housing to rupture and metal fragments to scatter (PRA 2013/13542).In June 2014, this recall was amended to cover vehicles that were manufactured between April 2001 and June 2003 (PRA 2014/14182).

2003 Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan: Takata airbag recall

In June 2015, a recall was issued for Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles that were manufactured between April 2003 and December 2003 – this recall was an amendment to previous recalls that were issued in 2013 and 2014. In these vehicles, the front passenger air bag inflator may have been assembled with improperly manufactured propellant wafers. In the event of a collision, the combustion rate of the propellant may increase inside the inflator, causing internal pressure to rise suddenly during airbag deployment. Such deployment could cause the inflator housing to rupture and disperse metal fragments, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant. The recalled Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles had VINs in the range JN1CBAN16A0063167 to JN1CBAN16A0081377 (PRA 2015/14751).

2004-07 Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan: Takata airbag recall

In June 2015, a recall was issued for Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles that were manufactured between January 2004 and March 2007. In these vehicles, the front passenger air bag inflator may have been assembled with improperly manufactured propellant wafers. In the event of a collision, the combustion rate of the propellant may increase inside the inflator, causing internal pressure to rise suddenly during airbag deployment. Such deployment could cause the inflator housing to rupture and disperse metal fragments, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant. The recalled Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles had VINs in the range JN1CBAN16A0081380 to JN1CBAN16A0516707 (PRA 2015/14752).

2001 Nissan N16 Pulsar: Takata airbag recall

In February 2017, a recall was issued for a single Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicle. In this vehicle, moisture could enter the inflator of the front passenger airbag, causing the propellant wafers to deteriorate. Deployment of the airbag could therefore be too aggressive, causing the airbag inflator housing to fracture and metal fragments to be scattered throughout the cabin – these fragments posed a serious risk of injury to vehicle occupants. The VIN of the recalled Nissan N16 Pulsar was JN1CBAN16A0018390 (PRA 2017/15940).

2001-05 Nissan N16 Pulsar: Takata airbag recall (‘like for like’ replacement)

IIn November 2018, recall campaign R1803 was issued for 2001-05 production year Nissan N16 ulsar vehicles. This recall was issued for vehicles that had already had their Takata passenger airbag inflator replaced with a Takata airbag inflator of the same type (i.e. ‘like for like’ replacement) under a previous recall. For this recall, however, the airbag inflator was to be replaced with one that did not have the same defect as the original and its ‘like for like’ replacement whereby the airbag inflator propellant could degrade over time such that excessive pressure on deployment could cause the metal inflator housing to rupture and project metal fragments into the cabin. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/17163.

Search online for recalls by VIN

To see if a Nissan vehicle has been recalled due to the fitment of Takata airbags, you can conduct a search on the Nissan Australia website using its VIN.

Problems and faults: Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan

• The Nissan N16 Pulsar sedan’s engine may run rough or fail to start due to the crankshaft sensor malfunctioning.
• A rattling noise from the engine bay may be due to problems with the timing chains, particularly if scheduled oil changes have been ignored.
• The plastic bulb holders could melt due to heat, causing the headlight bulbs to fall out.

Recalls: Nissan N15 Pulsar

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Nissan N15 Pulsar

No recall information is available for the Nissan N15 Pulsar. To search for recalls of Nissan models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Nissan.

Problems and faults: Nissan N15 Pulsar

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Nissan N15 Pulsar

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Nissan N15 Pulsar.

Recalls: Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch

Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch: park brake control lever

In March 2002, a recall was issued for Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch vehicles for replacement of the park brake control lever since there was a possibility that the park brake could self-release due to an impact with the park lever (PRA 2002/5250,PRA 2002/5359).

Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch: crank position sensor circuit board

In March 2003, a recall was issued for Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch vehicles due to the solder joints of the circuit board for the crank position sensors; the solder could deform due to heat stress, a process accelerated by the presence of flux residue during the soldering process – this could cause the ‘service engine soon’ warning to appear (PRA 2003/6560).

2001 Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch: Takata airbag recall

In June 2010, a recall was issued for one Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicle which was manufactured on 27 August 2001 and had the VIN JN1CBAN16A0018390. In this vehicle, the propellant wafer for the front passenger airbag inflator may be partially broken up into powder. This could cause the combustion rate of the propellant to rise and excessive internal pressure may be produced in the inflator during airbag deployment. In an extreme case, the inflator casing may rupture and metal fragments may fracture (PRA 2010/11761).

2001-03 Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch: Takata airbag recall

In April 2013, a recall was issued for Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles due to airbag inflators containing propellant wafers of insufficient density. As a result, the combustion rate of the propellant may increase inside the inflator, causing internal pressure to rise suddenly during airbag deployment. Such deployment could cause the inflator housing to rupture and metal fragments to scatter (PRA 2013/13542). In June 2014, this recall was amended to cover vehicles that were manufactured between April 2001 and June 2003 (PRA 2014/14182).

2003 Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch: Takata airbag recall

In June 2015, a recall was issued for Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles that were manufactured between April 2003 and December 2003 – this recall was an amendment to previous recalls that were issued in 2013 and 2014. In these vehicles, the front passenger air bag inflator may have been assembled with improperly manufactured propellant wafers. In the event of a collision, the combustion rate of the propellant may increase inside the inflator, causing internal pressure to rise suddenly during airbag deployment. Such deployment could cause the inflator housing to rupture and disperse metal fragments, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant. The recalled Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles had VINs in the range JN1CBAN16A0063167 to JN1CBAN16A0081377 (PRA 2015/14751).

2004-07 Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch: Takata airbag recall

In June 2015, a recall was issued for Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles that were manufactured between January 2004 and March 2007. In these vehicles, the front passenger air bag inflator may have been assembled with improperly manufactured propellant wafers. In the event of a collision, the combustion rate of the propellant may increase inside the inflator, causing internal pressure to rise suddenly during airbag deployment. Such deployment could cause the inflator housing to rupture and disperse metal fragments, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant. The recalled Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicles had VINs in the range JN1CBAN16A0081380 to JN1CBAN16A0516707 (PRA 2015/14752).

2001 Nissan N16 Pulsar: Takata airbag recall

In February 2017, a recall was issued for a single Nissan N16 Pulsar vehicle. In this vehicle, moisture could enter the inflator of the front passenger airbag, causing the propellant wafers to deteriorate. Deployment of the airbag could therefore be too aggressive, causing the airbag inflator housing to fracture and metal fragments to be scattered throughout the cabin – these fragments posed a serious risk of injury to vehicle occupants. The VIN of the recalled Nissan N16 Pulsar was JN1CBAN16A0018390 (PRA 2017/15940).

2001-05 Nissan N16 Pulsar: Takata airbag recall (‘like for like’ replacement)

IIn November 2018, recall campaign R1803 was issued for 2001-05 production year Nissan N16 ulsar vehicles. This recall was issued for vehicles that had already had their Takata passenger airbag inflator replaced with a Takata airbag inflator of the same type (i.e. ‘like for like’ replacement) under a previous recall. For this recall, however, the airbag inflator was to be replaced with one that did not have the same defect as the original and its ‘like for like’ replacement whereby the airbag inflator propellant could degrade over time such that excessive pressure on deployment could cause the metal inflator housing to rupture and project metal fragments into the cabin. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/17163.

Search online for recalls by VIN

To see if a Nissan vehicle has been recalled due to the fitment of Takata airbags, you can conduct a search on the Nissan Australia website using its VIN.

Problems and faults: Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch

• The Nissan N16 Pulsar hatch’s engine may run rough or fail to start due to the crankshaft sensor malfunctioning.
• A rattling noise from the engine bay may be due to problems with the timing chains, particularly if scheduled oil changes have been ignored.
• The plastic bulb holders could melt due to heat, causing the headlight bulbs to fall out.

Recalls: Nissan B17 Pulsar sedan

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Nissan B17 Pulsar sedan

• In October 2013, a recall was issued for Nissan B17 Pulsar sedans since a satellite sensor for the side curtain airbag in the B-pillar may not have been installed correctly. If this defect was present, the airbag may not deploy correctly, increasing the risk the injury to occupants in the event of a collision (PRA 2013/13810).
• In June 2015, a recall was issued for Nissan B17 Pulsar sedans that had VINs in the range MNTBAAB17A0012180 to MNTBAAB17A0013628. In these vehicles, the push-button engine start switch may remain in the pressed position due to excessive friction and not return after switching the engine on. If the driver continued to drive the vehicle in this condition, the emergency engine stop function may cause the engine to stop contrary to the driver’s intention – this would pose an accident hazard to the driver and other road users (PRA 2015/14790).

Problems and faults: Nissan B17 Pulsar sedan

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Nissan B17 Pulsar 1.8i: CVT judder, lag and failure

For Nissan B17 Pulsar vehicles with 1.8-litre petrol engines, there have been reports of the continuously variable transmissions (CVTs):

• Causing sudden, unexpected shaking and violent jerking (commonly referred to as “juddering” or “shuddering”) when the driver attempts to accelerate;
• Exhibiting lag or a delay in power transmission when the driver attempts to accelerate, thereby causing unsafe and/or unpredictable acceleration;
• Exhibiting hard deceleration or making a “clunk” noise when the driver either slows down or accelerates from low speeds; and,
• Experiencing complete failure while the vehicle is being driven such that the transmission has to be replaced.

Most CVT failures have been reported at around 100,000 kilometres (i.e. just beyond the warranty period). Where the warranty has expired, AustralianCar.Reviews understands that Nissan Australia have been prepared to pay for failed CVTs to be replaced and the owner has insisted upon it.

From a related technical service bulletin (NTB17-034d) that was issued by Nissan North America, AustralianCar.Reviews understands that these symptoms were due to the steel belt inside the CVT slipping and becoming worn. For background, the CVT used two variable-diameter pulleys with a steel belt running between them to change speed (rather than a gearbox and clutch system). To change ratios, the pulleys could adjust their width to make the belt turn faster or slower, depending on the speed of the vehicle and the torque needed.

2013 Nissan B17 Pulsar CVT: service campaign for stalling

In May 2013, Nissan Australia commenced a service campaign for 9272 B17 Pulsar sedans that had 1.8-litre petrol engines and continuously variable transmissions. In these vehicles, a software error could cause the vehicle to stall and lose power when travelling at speeds between 10 km/h and 60 km/h.

Recalls: Nissan C12 Pulsar hatch

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Nissan C12 Pulsar hatch

• In October 2013, a recall was issued for Nissan C12 Pulsar hatchbacks since a satellite sensor for the side curtain airbag in the B-pillar may not have been installed correctly. If this defect was present, the airbag may not deploy correctly, increasing the risk the injury to occupants in the event of a collision (PRA 2013/13810).
• In October 2013, a recall was issued for Nissan C12 Pulsar hatchbacks that were fitted with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). In some of these vehicles, an incorrect specification stop lamp switch was installed. In rare cases, the rear stop lamps may not work due to failure of the stop lamp switch. Although the brakes would continue to function as normal, failure of the rear stop lamps could pose a hazard to the driver and other road users (PRA 2013/13812).
• In December 2014, a recall was issued for Nissan C12 Pulsar vehicles that had VINs in the range MNT FCAC12A 0000033 to MNT FCAC12A 0003200. In these vehicles, the fuel pressure sensor may be insufficiently tightened to the fuel rail, and may loosen gradually due to heat and vibration of the engine. In some cases, fuel may leak between the fuel pressure sensor and the fuel rail. If the latter occurred in the presence of an external ignition source, a fire could result (PRA 2014/14464).
• In June 2015, a recall was issued for Nissan C12 Pulsar hatchbacks that had VINs in the range MNTFCAC12A0000574 to MNTFCAC12A0003025. In these vehicles, the push-button engine start switch may remain in the pressed position due to excessive friction and not return after switching the engine on. If the driver continued to drive the vehicle in this condition, the emergency engine stop function may cause the engine to stop contrary to the driver’s intention – this would pose an accident hazard to the driver and other road users (PRA 2015/14790).

Problems and faults: Nissan C12 Pulsar hatch

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Nissan C12 Pulsar 1.8i: CVT judder, lag and failure

For Nissan C12 Pulsar vehicles with 1.8-litre petrol engines, there have been reports of the continuously variable transmissions (CVTs):

• Causing sudden, unexpected shaking and violent jerking (commonly referred to as “juddering” or “shuddering”) when the driver attempts to accelerate;
• Exhibiting lag or a delay in power transmission when the driver attempts to accelerate, thereby causing unsafe and/or unpredictable acceleration;
• Exhibiting hard deceleration or making a “clunk” noise when the driver either slows down or accelerates from low speeds; and,
• Experiencing complete failure while the vehicle is being driven such that the transmission has to be replaced.

Most CVT failures have been reported at around 100,000 kilometres (i.e. just beyond the warranty period). Where the warranty has expired, AustralianCar.Reviews understands that Nissan Australia have been prepared to pay for failed CVTs to be replaced and the owner has insisted upon it.

From a related technical service bulletin (NTB17-034d) that was issued by Nissan North America, AustralianCar.Reviews understands that these symptoms were due to the steel belt inside the CVT slipping and becoming worn. For background, the CVT used two variable-diameter pulleys with a steel belt running between them to change speed (rather than a gearbox and clutch system). To change ratios, the pulleys could adjust their width to make the belt turn faster or slower, depending on the speed of the vehicle and the torque needed.

Related links

• Review: Nissan C12 Pulsar hatch (2013-16)
• Buyer’s Guide: Nissan C12 Pulsar hatch (2013-16)
• Images: Nissan C12 Pulsar hatch (2013-16)