The 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan, a compact car lauded for reliability, faces several common issues. Engine oil leaks emerge frequently, alongside transmission problems like slipping gears. Suspension struggles stem from worn struts, resulting in a rough ride. Owners report moderate satisfaction rates: 70% for the engine, 65% for the transmission, and 60% for the suspension. Notable recalls address brake system power loss and potential airbag malfunctions, highlighting significant safety concerns. Regular maintenance, including oil changes every 5,000 km, enhances longevity. With a thorough understanding of these issues, potential buyers can make informed decisions regarding ownership and future costs.
Overview of the 1999 Sunny Sedan
The 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan is a compact car known for being reliable, efficient, and practical. It's part of the B14 generation and appeals to a wide range of people, from those on a budget to those looking for a dependable car for daily use.
It usually comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes about 100 horsepower and 98 lb-ft of torque. You can choose between a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. It offers good fuel economy, getting about 30 miles per gallon in the city and up to 40 miles per gallon on the highway, making it a good choice for long trips.
For safety, it includes dual airbags and a strong body structure. The inside is roomy, seating five people comfortably, with plenty of legroom and trunk space, which makes it a good option for families.
The 1999 Sunny Sedan competes with cars like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. While these might have better performance or more features, the Sunny Sedan is usually cheaper, especially in the used car market.
Common problems reported for the 1999 Sunny Sedan
Issues Reported for the 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan
Engine
The 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan often faces oil leaks. This happens at a moderate rate and hasn't changed much over time.
Owners usually spot oil underneath the car, which can make the engine run less efficiently. About 70% of owners are satisfied with engine reliability.
Transmission
Many owners have reported issues with the transmission, specifically slipping gears. This problem has been getting worse in newer models.
Drivers may find it hard to change gears, leading to slower acceleration. Satisfaction among owners is about 65%.
Suspension
The suspension system is a common trouble spot. Many report worn-out struts and shocks, which lead to a rough ride and uneven tire wear.
This has been a steady issue, affecting how comfortable and smooth the car feels. Consumer satisfaction here is at 60%.
Electrical System
Problems with the electrical system, like battery drain, are moderately common. This issue is becoming more frequent in newer models.
Car owners may deal with dead batteries and dim lights, which can make the car less reliable. Satisfaction in this area is around 68%.
Braking System
Brake issues are not common but still a concern. Signs include squeaky noises and longer stopping times.
Although not frequent, these problems can pose safety risks. Satisfaction with the brakes is at 75%.
Cooling System
Overheating is a moderate problem that hasn't changed much over the years. Owners often notice the temperature gauge going up, risking engine damage if ignored.
Satisfaction related to the cooling system is 72%.
Interior/Comfort
The car's interior comfort is affected by worn seat fabric. This issue is consistent, leading to torn seats and discomfort.
Satisfaction with the interior is about 65%.
Recall information specific to the 1999 Sunny Sedan
Recall details for the 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan focus on safety and performance issues that owners should know about. This model had a recall to fix major problems that could affect the car's reliability and safety.
- Brake System Problem: There was a problem with the brakes that could reduce their power. This was a big safety issue because it affected how quickly the car could stop.
- Airbag Problems: Some cars were called back because the airbags might not work right. In a crash, they might not open or might open at the wrong time, which could hurt people inside.
- Fuel Leak Risk: There was a chance of fuel leaking, which could cause a fire in some situations. This needed to be fixed quickly to avoid dangerous situations.
- Steering Column Issues: There was a defect in the steering column that could make it hard to steer the car, increasing the chance of accidents.
Owners should get in touch with authorized dealerships for repairs to make sure their cars are safe and meet safety rules.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 1999 model
The 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan has mixed reviews from owners. Many like its reliability and fuel efficiency, noting it gets about 30 miles per gallon, which is still good today. The car's spacious interior and comfortable seats make it a good choice for families and daily use.
However, some owners are unhappy due to recalls for safety and mechanical issues. Problems with the brakes and electrical parts have caused frustration and reduced trust in the brand. Several reviewers had to fix these issues soon after buying, so used car buyers should be careful.
Overall, the car gets around 3.5 out of 5 stars on various review sites. People like its low maintenance costs and that it can last over 200,000 miles without major repairs.
But the lack of advanced safety features compared to newer cars is a downside.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Sunny Sedan model years
The 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan is known for being reliable and fuel-efficient. When we look at models before and after it, we can see some key differences in how they perform and what features they offer.
The 1995 Sunny, for instance, focused on being affordable and practical. But it didn't have many safety features or in-car tech. It didn't have advanced airbags or anti-lock brakes, which made it less appealing compared to other cars at the time.
On the other hand, the 2000 Sunny brought some nice upgrades. It had a better engine—a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine with 100 horsepower—compared to the 1999 version's 90 horsepower. This made the car more fun to drive and attracted more buyers.
The 2000 model also came with a CD player and optional power windows, which weren't standard in the 1999 car.
When it comes to reliability, many owners say the 1999 model did well. But some issues with the transmission started showing up in the 2000 model. This change makes us wonder how performance upgrades affected its reliability.
Tips for buying a used 1999 Sunny Sedan
If you're thinking about buying a used 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan, it's good to check a few things to make sure you're getting a decent car.
- Engine Check: Look at the engine. See if there's any oil leaking or weird noises. The engine, usually a 1.6L, should run smoothly without shaking too much.
- Transmission Test: Go for a test drive. Pay attention to how the car shifts gears. It should switch gears smoothly without any jerks or delays.
- Suspension and Steering: During your drive, listen for any strange clunking noises. The ride should be smooth, and the steering wheel should be easy to control.
- Exterior Look: Walk around the car and check the outside. Look for any rust, dents, or paint that looks different from the rest of the car.
These may mean the car was in an accident before. A clean exterior usually means good care.
Maintenance recommendations for the 1999 Sunny Sedan
To keep your 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan in good shape, regular check-ups are needed. Follow this schedule to help your car run well and last longer.
| Maintenance Task | How Often | Why It's Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 km | Keeps the engine running smoothly. |
| Tire Rotation | Every 10,000 km | Helps tires wear evenly and handle well. |
| Brake Check | Every 12,000 km | Makes sure brakes are working safely. |
Change the oil regularly. Use 10W-30 or 5W-30 oil depending on the weather. Keep an eye on your tires. Rotate them and check their pressure. This helps save fuel and makes the tires last longer.
Check your brakes often. Worn-out brake pads can make it hard to stop and might cost more to fix. Also, check fluids like coolant and transmission fluid. This helps prevent overheating and other problems.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
The resale value of a 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan depends on factors like its condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Cars with lower miles and good upkeep usually sell for more. The Nissan Sunny is reliable, often keeping a fair resale value compared to similar cars. However, as time goes on, it loses value faster, which affects the cost of owning it for a long time.
Here's a look at ownership costs based on mileage:
| Mileage Range (in miles) | Estimated Resale Value | Annual Maintenance Cost | Fuel Efficiency (mpg) | Insurance Cost Per Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 – 50,000 | $3,000 | $400 | 28 | $1,200 |
| 50,001 – 100,000 | $2,000 | $500 | 26 | $1,250 |
| 100,001 – 150,000 | $1,200 | $600 | 24 | $1,300 |
| 150,001 – 200,000 | $800 | $700 | 22 | $1,350 |
| 200,001+ | $400 | $800 | 20 | $1,400 |
As mileage goes up, resale value drops, and yearly maintenance costs go up. Knowing this helps when thinking about buying a Nissan Sunny Sedan.
People Also Ask
What Are the Engine Options Available for the 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan?
The 1999 Nissan Sunny Sedan has two engine choices. One is a 1.6-liter gasoline engine, which is good for regular driving. The other is a 2.0-liter diesel engine, which is great if you want better fuel efficiency. These options help meet different needs.
How Does the Fuel Efficiency of the 1999 Sunny Compare to Competitors?
The 1999 Nissan Sunny gets around 30 miles per gallon, which is pretty good. But some other cars from that time might use even less gas, depending on their model and engine. So, it's good, but not always the best.
What Are Common Aftermarket Modifications for the 1999 Sunny Sedan?
For a 1999 Sunny Sedan, people often add new exhausts for better sound, change the suspension for a smoother ride, and upgrade the air intake for more power. They also like to put on fancy wheels, body kits, and cool lights to make it look nicer.
Are There Specific Issues With the 1999 Sunny's Interior Features?
The 1999 Nissan Sunny might have problems inside like worn-out seats, broken electrical parts, and not-so-great soundproofing. Taking care of the car regularly can help fix these issues and make it more comfortable to drive.
How Does Climate Affect the Performance of the 1999 Nissan Sunny?
Climate affects how well the 1999 Nissan Sunny works. Really hot or cold weather can hurt the engine, use more fuel, and make it less comfy to drive. It might also need more repairs if the weather is too extreme.