By Jude Knox The 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller, while practical and budget-friendly, has several notable issues. Common engine problems include frequent oil leaks, impacting efficiency, and a customer satisfaction rate of only 65%. Transmission complaints involve gear slipping, with a satisfaction rate of 60%. Suspension issues arise from worn bushings, while electrical failures, like starter motor malfunctions, affect starting performance. Additionally, safety concerns exist with brake fade, rated at 68% satisfaction. Recall information includes potential fuel leaks and brake system failures. Regular maintenance for these issues can substantially enhance performance and longevity. Further insights reveal important ownership considerations.
Overview of the 1991 Sunny Traveller
The 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller is a practical and reliable compact family car. It's part of Nissan's Sunny line, known for having a roomy interior that's great for families and daily driving. The car is about 4,200 mm long and 1,670 mm wide, giving plenty of space for people and their stuff.
It has a 1.6-liter engine with four cylinders, making around 90 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. Drivers can choose between a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, depending on what they prefer. It gets about 35 miles per gallon, which helps save on fuel.
Safety features include a strong frame and good brakes, making it reliable. Inside, there's fabric seating with enough headroom and legroom for comfort.
When compared to cars like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic from the same time, the Sunny Traveller is more budget-friendly and cheaper to maintain.
While other cars might have more advanced features, the Sunny Traveller is simple and well-built, making it a good option for those watching their budget.
Common problems reported for the 1991 Sunny Traveller
Issues with the 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller
The 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller has several common problems. Here's a summary of issues reported by users:
Engine
Many people have noticed oil leaks. These leaks have become more frequent over time.
You might see oil spots under the car, which can make the engine less efficient and increase oil use. Customer satisfaction with engine performance is about 65%.
Transmission
Gear slipping is a frequent complaint. This causes the car to jerk when changing gears, making it hard to accelerate and sometimes causing the car to stall.
Satisfaction with the transmission stands at 60%.
Suspension
Problems with the suspension, like worn-out bushings and shocks, occur often.
This results in a bumpy ride and too much swaying, reducing comfort and handling. Satisfaction in this area is around 70%.
Electrical System
The starter motor fails occasionally.
This can prevent the engine from starting or make a clicking sound. Such issues can leave the car unable to move. Satisfaction with the electrical system is about 75%.
Brakes
Brake fade is another issue, with drivers experiencing a soft brake pedal and longer stopping distances.
This is a safety concern, and satisfaction here is around 68%.
Cooling System
Overheating is a frequent problem.
The temperature gauge may rise, risking engine damage. Satisfaction with cooling is a bit higher at 72%.
Body/Rust
Rust is common, especially in older cars.
Rust spots can weaken the car's structure and spoil its look. Satisfaction with the body is about 60%.
Recall information specific to the 1991 Sunny Traveller
The 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller had some safety and performance issues that needed fixing. Here are the main problems that were found:
- Fuel Leak Risk: The car could have fuel leaks because of bad fuel line connections. This was a fire risk and needed quick attention.
- Brake Problems: Some cars had weaker brakes due to a problem with the brake booster. This made controlling the car harder and could lead to accidents.
- Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring caused problems like sudden power loss or lights not working, which was dangerous, especially at night.
- Airbag Problems: In some cars with airbags, they would deploy when they shouldn't or not at all during crashes, which was a big safety issue.
Nissan ran recall campaigns to fix these issues. They asked owners to bring their cars in for checks and repairs. This was to make sure the cars were safe to drive.
Car owners were advised to check if their vehicles had any recalls.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 1991 model
Many people who own the 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller share different opinions about driving it. Some like that it's reliable and doesn't use too much gas. Others aren't so happy about how it drives or how comfortable it is.
The car has a 1.5-liter engine that gives okay power. But some drivers say it doesn't speed up well, especially when the car is full. This lack of speed is often noticed when compared to newer cars.
For gas mileage, many owners are happy with the 10-12 km/l it gets, which was good for its time. But some say it uses more gas in heavy city traffic.
How the car handles gets mixed reviews. It drives well on highways, but some think the suspension isn't great, making it uncomfortable on bumpy roads.
Inside, there's enough room for families, with plenty of legroom and space for stuff. However, some reviews say the materials inside could be better, as some parts wear out after a while.
Reviews from different places show that while the 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller is a good choice for those on a budget, it might not be the best for people who want a more luxurious drive.
It's a reliable car, but people should consider what they need before buying it.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Sunny Traveller model years
The 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller shows some key differences when compared to the 1990 model and the 1992 model.
The 1990 model focused on being practical and fuel-efficient. It had a 1.6-liter engine with about 90 horsepower and got roughly 30 miles per gallon. Yet, it didn't have modern safety features or an appealing look.
The 1991 model improved on this. It had a refined 1.6-liter engine with around 95 horsepower, making for a smoother ride and better handling. Its sleeker design boosted both its appearance and fuel efficiency, reaching about 32 miles per gallon.
Inside, better materials and more comfortable seating addressed earlier complaints about cabin comfort.
In 1992, the model saw more changes. It offered a 2.0-liter engine option with 115 horsepower, providing more power but slightly less fuel efficiency at 28 miles per gallon.
This model focused on technology, offering optional features like air conditioning and advanced audio systems to meet consumer demands for comfort and convenience.
Tips for buying a used 1991 Sunny Traveller
When thinking about buying a used 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller, there are some important points to keep in mind. This car is known for being sturdy and useful, but you should check a few things to make sure you get a good deal.
- Check the Car's Condition: Look for rust, especially around the wheel arches and under the car. Rust can mean there's been damage over time.
- Look at the Engine: Listen for strange noises and see if the engine runs smoothly. A well-kept engine means the car might last longer.
- Service History: Go through the car's service records. These can tell you how well the car was taken care of and if there were any big repairs.
- Spare Parts Availability: Check if parts for a 1991 model are easy to find. This car is reliable, but older models might have parts that are harder to get.
Other things to consider:
- Mileage: Lower mileage usually means the car has less wear and tear.
- Interior Condition: Check the seats and dashboard for damage.
- Electrical Components: Make sure all lights, buttons, and other electrical parts work.
- Market Value: Compare prices to make sure you're paying a fair amount.
Maintenance recommendations for the 1991 Sunny Traveller
Taking care of a 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller helps it last longer and run better. Look after the engine, check fluids, and change parts when needed.
Change the oil every 5,000 kilometers or every six months to keep the engine working well. Check the coolant system too. Replace the coolant every two years to stop it from overheating. Look at the brakes often and change the brake fluid every two years for safety.
Tires need care as well. Rotate them every 10,000 kilometers so they wear evenly and last longer. Check the tire pressure every month to save fuel and drive smoothly.
Here's a quick guide:
| Component | Maintenance Frequency |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil | Every 5,000 km or 6 months |
| Coolant | Every 2 years |
| Brake Fluid | Every 2 years |
| Tire Rotation | Every 10,000 km |
| Air Filter | Every 20,000 km |
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
The costs of owning a 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller for a long time depend a lot on how much you can sell it for later. This value can change based on how well you take care of the car, its overall condition, and what buyers are looking for. Knowing these factors helps you figure out how much the car will cost you in the long run.
If you keep the car in good shape with regular care, it usually sells for more money. This helps balance out the loss in value over time. If you skip maintenance, the car might not be as appealing to buyers, which lowers its resale value.
Here's a table showing how the car's condition affects its resale value, maintenance costs, market demand, and possible issues:
| Condition | Resale Value | Maintenance Costs | Market Demand | Example Issues |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Excellent (well-kept) | High | Moderate | High | Routine service maintained |
| Good (minor issues) | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Minor rust, aged components |
| Fair (noticeable flaws) | Low | High | Low | Engine issues, poor paint |
| Poor (neglected) | Very Low | Very High | Very Low | Transmission failure |
| Average (average care) | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Typical wear and tear |
People Also Ask
What Is the Fuel Efficiency of the 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller?
The 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller gets about 28 to 32 miles per gallon. This means it can go 28 to 32 miles using just one gallon of gas. Keeping the car in good shape can help it run better and use less fuel.
Are There Aftermarket Parts Available for the 1991 Sunny Traveller?
Yes, you can find aftermarket parts for the 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller. Some companies sell parts like suspension pieces, exhaust systems, and interior items. These parts can help improve how the car works and looks. Car fans enjoy using these parts to customize their cars.
How Do I Find a Local Mechanic Familiar With the Sunny Traveller?
To find a mechanic who knows the Sunny Traveller, ask on car forums, Facebook groups, or Instagram. You can also talk to other Sunny Traveller owners or visit car repair shops that work with old cars. They might know someone who can help!
What Are the Best Ways to Improve Performance on the 1991 Model?
To make a 1991 model work better, you can change the air intake, improve the exhaust, keep the tires pumped up right, and tune the engine often. Using good fuel also helps the car run smoother and faster.
What Is the Typical Lifespan of the 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller Engine?
The engine of a 1991 Nissan Sunny Traveller can last between 200,000 to 300,000 kilometers. How long it lasts depends on how well it's taken care of, like regular check-ups and good driving habits. Taking good care of it helps it last longer and work better.