By Jude Knox The 1959 Nissan Bluebird Sedan, known for its sleek design and efficiency, suffers from several reliability issues. Common problems include moderate oil leaks affecting engine performance, occasional gear slipping in the four-speed transmission, and worn suspension bushings leading to poor handling. Electrical system failures, particularly with the starter motor, hinder operation. Notably, recalls addressed brake deficiencies and potential fuel leaks. Owner reviews highlight satisfaction with driving experience and fuel efficiency, averaging around 30 miles per gallon. Prospective buyers should conduct thorough inspections and consider maintenance records to understand the car's condition better. Further insights are available for interested enthusiasts.
Overview of the 1959 Bluebird Sedan
The 1959 Bluebird Sedan stood out from other cars of its time with its smart design and usefulness. It was one of Nissan's key early models and showed a good mix of style and practicality, making it a favorite choice for many buyers.
The car had a unibody construction, which made it both light and strong, helping it save fuel and handle well.
The engine was a 1.5-liter four-cylinder with about 77 horsepower. This engine gave enough power for everyday driving and used fuel efficiently, which was important when fuel economy was a big concern. The car also had a four-speed manual transmission, allowing smooth shifts and a better driving experience.
The Bluebird looked classy and sleek on the outside, different from rivals like the Toyota Corona and the Mazda R360. Inside, it had a roomy cabin with seats for five people and useful features like lots of storage spaces, making it appealing to families and daily commuters.
Nissan's focus on quality and reliability was clear in the Bluebird Sedan. It received good feedback from buyers and did well in the market. Known for its durability, it became a trusted choice in the compact sedan category, helping Nissan grow in the global car market.
The 1959 Bluebird paved the way for future models and shaped Nissan's design approach for years.
Common problems reported for the 1959 Bluebird Sedan
Issues Reported for the 1959 Bluebird Sedan
Engine
The 1959 Nissan Bluebird Sedan's engine often has oil leaks. This happens moderately often.
Owners see oil spots under the car and smell something burning. This can make the engine less efficient and might cause damage later. About 65% of consumers are happy with engine reliability.
Transmission
Sometimes the transmission slips gears, but not often.
When it does, the car hesitates when accelerating and makes strange noises. This reduces power, which can be frustrating. The satisfaction rate for this is 70%.
Suspension
Worn bushings in the suspension occur moderately and are becoming more common.
Drivers hear noises over bumps and feel less comfortable. This leads to poor handling and instability, affecting confidence. Satisfaction with suspension is around 60%.
Electrical System
The starter motor in the electrical system fails occasionally.
This issue has not changed much over time. It causes trouble starting the car and makes a clicking sound. While it affects reliability, it's not seen as a major problem. Consumer satisfaction is 75%.
Fuel System
The carburetor has moderate issues.
Problems include rough idling, stalling, and poor fuel efficiency. These issues are slightly increasing, affecting overall performance. The satisfaction score is 68%.
Cooling System
Radiator leaks occur infrequently and are decreasing.
These cause the engine to overheat and leave coolant puddles. If not fixed, this can damage the engine. Consumer satisfaction with the cooling system is 72%.
Brake System
Worn brake pads are a moderate and consistent issue.
They cause squeaking and reduce braking power, which raises safety concerns. This significantly impacts safety and performance, with a satisfaction rate of 66%.
Recall information specific to the 1959 Bluebird Sedan
Nissan had to recall the 1959 Bluebird Sedan because of safety problems. These problems could make driving unsafe. Although the car was advanced for its time, it had some issues that needed to be fixed quickly.
Here are the main recall issues:
- Brakes: Some cars didn't stop well because of bad brake parts. This made stopping distances longer.
- Fuel Leaks: There was a problem with the fuel system design that could cause leaks and might lead to fires.
- Electrical Problems: The wiring could short-circuit, which would cause electrical failures affecting important systems.
- Steering Issues: There was a rare problem with the steering. It could lead to losing control of the car.
Nissan acted fast to fix these problems. They told car owners by mail and through local dealerships. Inspections and repairs were free.
These actions showed Nissan's focus on safety and making sure their cars were reliable and trustworthy.
Even with these issues, the 1959 Bluebird Sedan is an important part of Nissan's past, showing early progress in car design and engineering.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 1959 model
Owner reviews for the 1959 Nissan Bluebird Sedan talk about its unique design and features for that time. People liked its stylish look, which made it stand out. The car's shape was sleek and practical, catching many eyes.
The car had a 1.5-liter engine with about 65 horsepower. It was light, making it fun to drive. Owners liked how smoothly it handled, even when going fast, thanks to its good suspension.
Many owners felt satisfied with the car, noting its reliability and good gas mileage of about 30 miles per gallon. Some did mention the inside felt small, especially for taller people.
There were safety concerns that led to a recall, which worried some owners.
But overall, people had good things to say about the 1959 Nissan Bluebird Sedan. It left a positive impression and many stayed loyal to the brand.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Bluebird Sedan model years
The Nissan Bluebird Sedan has changed a lot over the years in design and technology. The 1959 model started it all with a classic look and simple mechanics. It had a 1.5-liter engine with about 75 horsepower, which was enough for city driving.
In the 1970s, the Bluebird Sedan got more advanced. The 1975 model had a 1.8-liter engine with about 90 horsepower, meeting people's growing demands for better performance. It also had a sleeker design, which was popular at the time.
By the 1980s and 1990s, models focused on saving fuel and adding new technology. The 1988 version had electronic fuel injection, which improved fuel economy to about 30 miles per gallon. Features like anti-lock brakes and air conditioning became common, matching the industry trend of better comfort and safety.
Later models in the late 1990s became bigger and had fancier interiors. However, some owners reported issues with reliability, such as electrical problems and more frequent maintenance.
Each model of the Bluebird Sedan offers different features, so buyers should think carefully about which year suits their needs for reliability and performance.
Tips for buying a used 1959 Bluebird Sedan
When looking to buy a used 1959 Nissan Bluebird Sedan, check the car's condition and how well it runs. This classic car has a unique look and is known for being reliable, but because it's old, you need to look it over carefully.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Body Check: Look for rust, especially around the wheel wells and under the car. Rust can make the car weaker and affect how it looks. Also, check the paint and see if there are signs it was repaired before.
- Engine and Transmission: The engine should run smoothly without making too much noise. Check for any leaks and look at the belts and hoses to see if they are in good shape.
- Service History: Get records of any work done on the car to see how well it's been cared for.
- Mileage: Cars with fewer miles usually have less wear, but also think about how it was driven.
- Original Parts: See if the car has its original parts, as they can make the car more valuable.
- Professional Inspection: Have a mechanic who knows classic cars look it over carefully.
Maintenance recommendations for the 1959 Bluebird Sedan
Proper care keeps your 1959 Nissan Bluebird Sedan running well. This classic car needs regular check-ups to stay in good shape.
Maintenance Schedule
Follow this schedule to keep your Bluebird Sedan in top condition. Here are some tasks, when to do them, and why they're needed:
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Interval | Why It's Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 3,000 miles | Keeps the engine running smoothly by reducing wear. |
| Brake Inspection | Every 6 months | Ensures brakes work well by checking pads and fluid. |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000 miles | Helps tires wear evenly, making them last longer. |
| Fluid Checks | Monthly | Checks coolant, brake, and transmission fluids to keep levels right. |
These tasks help prevent common problems like engine wear, brake issues, and tire wear. Regular checks can also spot issues early, saving time and money later.
When you need to replace parts, use OEM parts. They fit well and work reliably, helping your car perform better and last longer.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Investing in a 1959 Nissan Bluebird Sedan involves understanding its resale value and long-term costs. Classic cars like the Bluebird are valued based on how rare they are, their condition, and market interest. If you keep a Bluebird in good shape, it might sell for $5,000 to $15,000.
When thinking about owning one for a long time, consider costs like upkeep, insurance, and fuel. The Bluebird has a 1.5L engine, which gets about 25 miles per gallon. But finding parts and fixing it up can be expensive since vintage parts can be hard to find.
Here's what you might spend each year on a 1959 Nissan Bluebird Sedan:
| Cost Category | Estimated Cost (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Maintenance | $500 – $1,000 |
| Insurance | $300 – $800 |
| Fuel | $600 – $1,200 |
| Registration | $100 – $200 |
| Total Ownership Costs | $1,600 – $3,200 |
Owners should balance these costs with the car's resale value. Classic cars might increase in value, but this depends on how well you maintain them. Research and planning help in getting the most enjoyment and potential financial return from this vintage car.
People Also Ask
What Engine Options Were Available for the 1959 Bluebird Sedan?
The 1959 Bluebird Sedan had two engine choices. One was a 1.2-liter engine, and the other was a stronger 1.5-liter engine. These engines helped the car be both powerful and good on gas, making it a good choice for different drivers.
How Does the 1959 Bluebird Sedan Handle in Adverse Weather Conditions?
The 1959 Bluebird Sedan is okay in bad weather. Its rear-wheel drive and suspension can make driving tricky, especially if the roads are slippery. How well it handles also depends on the quality of the tires and how experienced the driver is.
What Is the Fuel Economy of the 1959 Bluebird Sedan?
The 1959 Bluebird Sedan gets about 20 miles per gallon. Back then, cars were made to be both fast and useful, so this was pretty good for that time. It shows how they tried to balance speed and saving fuel in a small car.
Are There Any Aftermarket Parts Available for the 1959 Bluebird Sedan?
Yes, you can find many extra parts for the 1959 Bluebird Sedan. These include parts for the engine, better suspension, and inside car accessories. Fans of the car and special stores can help you find what you need.
What Colors Were Offered for the 1959 Bluebird Sedan?
The 1959 Bluebird Sedan came in several colors like blue, red, green, and cream. These colors were popular back then and made the cars look stylish. Customers could choose their favorite color, making each car special for the owner.