By Finn Hart The 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan is a well-rounded vehicle featuring a range of inline-4 engines, with the 1.8L version providing impressive fuel efficiency of approximately 36 mpg on the highway. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as moderate oil leaks, slipping transmission gears, and worn suspension bushings, each with owner satisfaction rates around 65-70%. Additionally, crucial recalls involve fuel pump malfunctions and airbag deployment risks. Despite lower maintenance costs, resale values remain modest compared to competitors like the Honda Civic. Exploring these aspects can help buyers make informed decisions about this model's long-term viability.
Overview of the 2002 Primera Sedan
The 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan is a compact car that combines comfort, performance, and practicality. It offers a roomy interior, ideal for families or anyone needing extra legroom and cargo space. The car measures about 4,490 mm long, 1,760 mm wide, and 1,420 mm high. This gives it a nice look and helps it move smoothly through the air.
Under the hood, there are three engine choices: a 1.6L inline-4, a 1.8L inline-4, and a stronger 2.0L inline-4. These engines offer good fuel efficiency and performance. The 1.8L engine can get around 36 miles per gallon on the highway. You can choose between a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission for easy driving in the city or on long trips.
For safety, the 2002 model comes with dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes, which were quite advanced for cars at that time. The suspension system ensures a smooth ride, with a multi-link rear suspension that handles bumps well.
The 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan is a solid choice for those who want reliability and practicality in a compact car.
Common problems reported for the 2002 Primera Sedan
| Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Oil leaks | Moderate | Steady | Oil spots under car, burning smell | Lower oil pressure, possible engine harm | 70% |
| Transmission | Slipping gears | High | Increased over years | Hesitation in acceleration, jerking | Sluggish acceleration, safety risk | 65% |
| Electrical System | Faulty wiring connections | Moderate | Stable | Warning lights on dashboard, power drop | Unsteady electrical function | 60% |
| Suspension | Worn-out bushings | High | More wear noticed | Noisy drive, bad handling | Less stability and comfort | 68% |
| Braking System | Brake pad wear | High | Common | Squeaking sound, longer stop times | Safety and response time issues | 62% |
| Fuel System | Fuel pump failure | Moderate | Increasing | Engine stalls, hard to start | Lower engine performance | 66% |
| Cooling System | Radiator leaks | Low | Decreasing | Overheating, coolant on ground | Risk of engine overheating | 72% |
Common Problems for the 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan
Engine
Many owners of the 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan report oil leaks from the engine. This happens moderately often and hasn't changed much over the years. People see oil spots under the car and sometimes smell burning while driving. This can lower the oil pressure and lead to engine problems, resulting in a satisfaction rate of about 70%.
Transmission
The transmission often has issues with slipping gears. This is reported a lot and has become more common over time. Drivers feel hesitation or jerking when they try to accelerate. This affects how the car speeds up and can be unsafe, leading to a satisfaction rate of 65%.
Electrical System
Wiring problems in the electrical system occur with moderate frequency and have stayed the same across years. Symptoms include dashboard lights turning on and losing power now and then. This inconsistency affects electrical performance, with a satisfaction rate around 60%.
Suspension
Worn-out bushings in the suspension are a frequent issue. Reports of wear have increased over time. This causes a noisy ride and poor handling, decreasing the car's stability and comfort, reflected in a satisfaction rate of 68%.
Braking System
Brake pads wear out often and are a common complaint among owners. Symptoms include squeaking noises and longer stopping distances, affecting safety. The satisfaction rate for this issue is relatively low at 62%.
Fuel System
Fuel pump failures are reported moderately and have been increasing. Owners experience engine stalling or trouble starting the car, which reduces engine performance, leading to a satisfaction rate of 66%.
Cooling System
Radiator leaks are less frequent and have been decreasing. Symptoms include the engine overheating and coolant puddles forming. This can overheat the engine, affecting reliability, with a satisfaction score of 72%.
Recall information specific to the 2002 Primera Sedan
If you're thinking about buying a 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan, be aware of some recalls that could affect how the car runs and keeps you safe.
Here are three main issues the car had:
- Fuel Pump Problems: The fuel pump might not work right, which can cause the engine to stall. If this happens, the fuel pump needs to be replaced to keep the engine running smoothly.
- Airbag Issues: Some cars had a problem with the airbags. They might go off without warning, which is dangerous. To fix this, the airbag control module needs to be checked and reprogrammed.
- Brake Problems: There was a problem with the brake system that could make it hard to stop the car. Parts of the brake system need replacing to ensure the car can stop when needed.
Before buying a used 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan, check if these issues have been fixed.
Look at service records and official recall information to see if the car has had the necessary repairs.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2002 model
Many people who own a 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan have mixed feelings about it. Some like its roomy interior and comfortable ride. They find the 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter engines to be responsive and fuel-efficient, getting around 35 miles per gallon on highways.
On the downside, some owners have faced mechanical problems with the transmission and suspension. Some cars have suspension parts that wear out quickly, making the ride less stable. There are also reports of electrical and air conditioning issues that can affect satisfaction.
The quality of the 2002 model varies. While some think the materials are durable, others feel that parts like the interior trim don't hold up well over time. This difference in quality can impact how satisfied owners are.
The resale value of the 2002 Nissan Primera has gone down due to common problems reported by owners. Buyers should think about these factors when considering this car.
The 2002 Primera Sedan has its good points, but buyers should consider their comfort with the reported issues.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Primera Sedan model years
The 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan stands out for its performance and safety improvements. It came with new engine options, including a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that offered better power and fuel efficiency, achieving about 32 mpg on the highway. This was a clear improvement from the 1998 model, which didn't do as well with fuel economy.
In 2004, the Primera Sedan shifted towards a sportier look and features. However, owners reported more problems, like electrical system failures and suspension issues. Many were unhappy with the car's long-term reliability, which was a big change from the solid reputation of the 2002 model.
Inside, the 2002 Primera had easy-to-use controls and plenty of space, which was appreciated more than both earlier and later models.
Later versions tried to update the interior but often lost some practicality, leading to mixed reviews from drivers.
Tips for buying a used 2002 Primera Sedan
When looking to buy a used 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan, it's important to do your homework and check the car carefully. This model is known for being reliable and comfy, but you still need to be cautious to avoid problems common with used cars.
Start by checking the car's history. Use services like Carfax or AutoCheck to find out about any past accidents, the title status, and service records. This info can help you spot issues that you might not see right away.
Next, give the car a good once-over. Check for wear and tear both inside and out. Here are some areas to focus on:
- Engine: Look for leaks and listen for strange noises when you start the car.
- Suspension and Tires: See if the tires are worn unevenly and if the suspension feels solid during a test drive.
- Inside Features: Make sure all the electronic bits work, like windows, locks, and the entertainment system.
Also, think about how easy it is to find spare parts and get repairs. The 2002 Primera has a good supply of parts and community support, which can help with upkeep.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2002 Primera Sedan
Taking care of your 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan keeps it running well. Regular checks and fixes keep it smooth and prevent problems later. Here's how to take care of your car.
Maintenance Schedule
| Task | How Often |
|---|---|
| Change Oil | Every 5,000 km or 6 months |
| Check Brakes | Every 10,000 km |
| Rotate Tires | Every 10,000 km |
Change the engine oil every 5,000 km or six months. This keeps the engine running smoothly. Using good synthetic oil can make the engine work even better. Check the brakes every 10,000 km to make sure they're safe. Worn-out brakes can be dangerous, so checking them helps catch problems early.
Rotate the tires every 10,000 km. This keeps them wearing evenly and helps them last longer. Check tire pressure often, because it affects how the car drives and how much gas it uses.
Look at fluid levels regularly, like coolant, brake, and transmission fluids. Change the air filter every 15,000 km. This helps the engine work better and more efficiently.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Many people think about resale value and long-term costs when choosing a car like the 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan. The Primera is known for being reliable, which helps keep its resale value steady, though it might not be as high as cars like the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic.
Looking at long-term costs, the Primera is usually cheaper to own. Maintenance and repair costs are often lower than other cars in its class. This makes it a good choice for those who want to save money over time.
Here's a look at key factors affecting the resale value and ownership costs of the Nissan Primera Sedan:
| Factor | Nissan Primera Sedan |
|---|---|
| Average Resale Value (2023) | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| Annual Maintenance Cost | $500 – $800 |
| Fuel Economy (mpg) | 28-32 |
| Insurance Premium (annual) | $800 – $1,200 |
| Depreciation Rate (5 years) | 45% – 55% |
Compared to other cars, the Primera holds its value reasonably well but not as strongly as some competitors. However, its lower maintenance costs and good fuel economy make it a smart option for those watching their budget.
People Also Ask
What Are the Common Engine Types in the 2002 Primera Sedan?
The 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan usually has two types of engines. One is a 1.6-liter engine with four cylinders, and the other is a 2.0-liter engine also with four cylinders. These engines help the car run smoothly and efficiently for different drivers.
Does the 2002 Primera Sedan Have a Turbocharged Engine Option?
The 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan does not have a turbocharged engine. It comes with regular gasoline engines that do not have a turbo. These engines are good for normal driving and give a mix of power and good gas mileage for a car.
What Is the Fuel Tank Capacity of the 2002 Primera Sedan?
The 2002 Nissan Primera Sedan can hold about 60 liters of fuel in its tank. This means you can drive a long way before needing to fill up again, making it good for both city driving and longer trips.
Are There Any Known Transmission Issues With the 2002 Primera Sedan?
The 2002 Primera Sedan sometimes has transmission problems like slipping and slow shifting. To keep the transmission working well, it's important to do regular check-ups and fix any problems quickly. This helps make sure the car runs smoothly for a long time.
What Safety Features Are Standard in the 2002 Primera Sedan?
The 2002 Primera Sedan has safety features like two front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), and seatbelt tighteners. These features help keep people safe in the car if there is an accident.