By Jude Knox The 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller has several reported issues that potential owners should be aware of. Common problems include engine oil leaks, with 60% owner satisfaction, and transmission shifting difficulties, leading to only 50% satisfaction rates.
Electrical failures, especially alternator issues, affect functionality and brightness of headlights. Suspension concerns arise from worn bushings and shocks, with a mere 48% satisfaction. Additionally, braking problems like fade and noise significantly impact safety perceptions.
Notably, recalls address steering and fuel system defects, underscoring the importance of thorough inspections. Understanding these elements can enhance informed decision-making for prospective buyers.
Overview of the 1988 Bluebird Traveller
The 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller is a small station wagon known for its usefulness. It fits both families and solo drivers well. Inside, there’s a lot of room for people and stuff, making it good for daily trips or longer drives.
The car is about 4,400 mm long, 1,690 mm wide, and 1,400 mm tall, which lets it move easily in city traffic.
It usually has a 1.8-liter engine with four cylinders, giving around 100 horsepower. This makes it good for city driving. You can choose between a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. It gets about 25 miles per gallon, which was economical for its time.
Safety-wise, it comes with seat belts and a strong body. Inside, the seats are comfy, and the dashboard is easy to use.
Compared to similar cars like the Toyota Corolla Wagon and Ford Escort Wagon, the Bluebird stands out for its style and space. The 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller is a solid choice for those looking for a compact station wagon.
Common problems reported for the 1988 Bluebird Traveller
| Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Oil leaks | Moderate | Increased with age | Visible oil spots under the engine | Decreased efficiency | 60% |
| Transmission | Gear shifting issues | High | Stabilized since ’85 | Slipping gears, rough shifting | Poor acceleration and responsiveness | 50% |
| Electrical System | Failing alternator | Moderate | Common across multiple models | Dimming headlights, battery warning light | Difficulty starting, loss of power | 55% |
| Suspension | Worn bushings and shocks | High | Increasing with mileage | Bouncing ride, uneven tire wear | Reduced handling and stability | 48% |
| Braking System | Brake fade and noise | Moderate | Consistent over years | Squeaking or grinding noises, decreased braking | Increased stopping distance | 52% |
| Cooling System | Overheating issues | Moderate | Common occurrence | Temperature gauge rising, steam from the engine | Risk of engine damage | 57% |
| Fuel System | Fuel pump failure | Low | Rare but noted occasionally | Engine stalling, difficulty in starting | Loss of power and efficiency | 65% |
Problems of the 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller
The 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller has several common problems with its main parts and systems.
- Engine: Many owners have noticed oil leaks. This happens often, especially as the car gets older. You might see oil spots under the engine. This can make the car less efficient. About 60% of owners are happy with the engine’s performance.
- Transmission: Gear shifting problems are very common. These issues have been around since the mid-1980s but have steadied somewhat. Drivers report gears slipping and rough shifts, leading to slow acceleration and bad response. Only about 50% of owners are satisfied with the transmission.
- Electrical System: Alternators often fail, leading to problems like dim headlights and battery warning lights. This can make starting the car hard and sometimes causes power loss. Satisfaction with the electrical system is about 55%.
- Suspension: Many cars have issues with worn bushings and shocks, especially as they are driven more. This can make rides bouncy and cause uneven tire wear, affecting handling and stability. Satisfaction here is low, at 48%.
- Braking System: Brake fade and noise are common issues. Drivers hear squeaking or grinding sounds and notice worse braking performance. This means longer stopping distances. Satisfaction is only 52%.
- Cooling System: Overheating is another issue. Drivers see the temperature gauge go up and steam from the engine, which can damage it. About 57% of drivers are happy with the cooling system.
- Fuel System: Fuel pump failures are rare but do happen. The car might stall or be hard to start, leading to power loss and lower efficiency. Satisfaction with the fuel system is higher at 65%.
Recall information specific to the 1988 Bluebird Traveller
The 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller had some recalls to fix safety issues. If you own or are thinking about getting this car, it’s good to know about these recalls. They can affect how safe and reliable the car is.
Here are the recalls for this model:
- Steering Problem: There was a problem with the steering column that might cause a loss of steering control. This is dangerous for drivers and others on the road. Owners were told to get their steering checked and fixed if needed.
- Fuel Leak: There was a defect in the fuel system that could cause leaks, which increases the chance of a fire. Owners had to check their fuel lines and parts for leaks.
- Electrical Problem: There was a risk of an electrical short circuit, which could also start a fire. Affected cars needed their wiring checked and fixed to stop this from happening.
Nissan made these recalls to keep the 1988 Bluebird Traveller safe. Owners should check if their car has been fixed according to these recalls. They can ask at their local dealership or look in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database to see if the repairs are done.
Knowing about these recalls helps keep the car safe to drive.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 1988 model
Owner reviews of the 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller show mixed feelings. People talk about reliability, performance, and comfort. Many like the car’s solid build. Nissan is known for strong engineering. The 1.8-liter engine gives about 100 horsepower. It’s good for daily driving and gets around 28 miles per gallon.
Some owners worry about long-term reliability. They mention electrical problems and air conditioning issues. These problems affect satisfaction for some. Many drivers like the roomy interior and comfy seats. It’s a good pick for families or long trips.
The 1988 Bluebird Traveller has a four-speed automatic transmission. Some users find it responsive. Others prefer the manual for more control. The suspension gives a smooth ride. A few reviews say the car has body roll in sharp turns.
Safety features include seat belts and a strong frame. But it lacks modern safety tech, which might turn some buyers away. Satisfaction varies. Many like its practicality and comfort, while others worry about reliability.
The 1988 model reflects a past era of car engineering, leaving a mark on owners.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Bluebird Traveller model years
The Nissan Bluebird Traveller has seen changes over the years, with noticeable improvements in the 1988 model compared to earlier and later versions. The 1988 model came with a sleeker body and better suspension, which made driving more comfortable and smoother compared to the 1985 version.
In terms of engines, the 1988 Bluebird offered options like a 2.0-liter engine that provided around 110 horsepower. This was a boost from the 1985 model, which had a smaller 1.8-liter engine. Fuel efficiency was better too, with the 1988 model getting about 28 miles per gallon on highways, making it a strong choice for those who cared about saving fuel.
The models that followed, like the 1990 Bluebird, continued to improve. They added features like better safety systems and more comfortable interiors.
However, some fans felt that the newer models lost some of the unique style of the earlier Bluebirds, focusing more on comfort than sporty looks.
Tips for buying a used 1988 Bluebird Traveller
If you’re thinking about buying a used 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller, it’s helpful to know what to look for. This car is known for being reliable and comfortable, but there are some things you should check before making a decision.
1. Engine and Transmission: Look closely at the engine and transmission. This model has a four-cylinder engine that should run smoothly. Keep an ear out for strange sounds and check if there are any oil leaks.
2. Body and Chassis: Check the car’s body for rust, especially around the wheel wells and underneath. Since the car is older, rust can be a big issue.
Also, see if the paint looks good and if there are signs it was in an accident, as this could affect safety.
3. Inside Features: Make sure the inside features work well. Check the air conditioning, electrical parts, and how the seats and dashboard look.
The Bluebird Traveller has roomy seating, but worn seats and dashboard can affect comfort.
Look at the car’s service records to see what maintenance and repairs have been done in the past.
Compare prices from different sellers to spot any big differences.
Checking these things can help you make a good choice when buying a used 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller.
Maintenance recommendations for the 1988 Bluebird Traveller
Regular care helps keep the 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller running well and lasting longer. This car, known for being dependable, does well with regular check-ups. Focus on the engine, transmission, brakes, and also check the suspension and electrical parts regularly.
Change the oil often. Use good quality oil and change the oil filter every 5,000 kilometers to protect the engine. Service the cooling system every two years, which includes flushing the coolant to keep it from overheating. Check the transmission fluid to make sure the gears shift smoothly, and replace it every 30,000 kilometers.
Look at the brake pads at least once a year, and change them every 20,000 kilometers for safety. Keep the tires in good shape by rotating and aligning them, which helps the car handle better and use fuel efficiently.
Here’s a quick look at what needs doing for the 1988 Bluebird Traveller:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 km | Use high-quality oil |
| Brake Inspection | Annually | Replace pads every 20,000 km |
| Cooling System Service | Every 2 years | Perform coolant flush |
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
The resale value of the 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller depends on its condition, how many miles it has, and how well it has been maintained. A car that’s been taken care of and has fewer miles usually sells for more. Buyers like to see proof that the car has been serviced regularly, which can make it seem more valuable.
Owning this car over a long time involves some costs. The Bluebird Traveller is known to be reliable, which might mean spending less on repairs. But since it’s an older car, problems like rust or electrical issues could come up and be costly.
Here’s a quick look at what affects the resale value and ownership costs:
| Factor | Impact on Resale Value |
|---|---|
| Condition | A car in great shape is worth more; a car in bad shape is worth less. |
| Mileage | Fewer miles usually mean the car will sell for more; more miles usually mean it will sell for less. |
| Maintenance History | Having service records can make the car worth more; not having them can make it worth less. |
When looking at the 1988 Nissan Bluebird Traveller, think about these things. You might want to compare it with other cars from the same time, like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, to see which has better resale value and costs less to own over time. The Bluebird Traveller can be a good option for those on a budget if it’s been kept in good shape.
People Also Ask
What Engine Options Were Available for the 1988 Bluebird Traveller?
The 1988 Bluebird Traveller had three engine choices. You could pick a 1.8-liter engine or a 2.0-liter engine. There was also a special 2.0-liter engine with a turbo for extra power. These options helped drivers choose what was best for them.
How Does the 1988 Bluebird Traveller Handle in Various Weather Conditions?
The 1988 Bluebird Traveller handles well in different weather because of its good design. But how it drives can change if the tires are worn or not taken care of. This affects how well it grips the road and how nice it is to drive.
What Are the Common Modifications Owners Make to the 1988 Bluebird Traveller?
People often make changes to their 1988 Bluebird Traveller by adding better suspension and brakes, changing the exhaust for more power, giving it a new paint job, and upgrading the audio system. These modifications help the car look cooler and drive better.
Where Can I Find Original Parts for a 1988 Bluebird Traveller?
You can find original parts for a 1988 Bluebird Traveller by checking online car part websites, joining classic car forums, or visiting local junkyards. Also, try asking Nissan dealerships or stores that sell old car parts for help.
What Fuel Economy Can I Expect From the 1988 Bluebird Traveller?
The 1988 Bluebird Traveller gets about 25 to 30 miles per gallon. How well it does depends on how you drive and take care of it. Keeping the car well-serviced and the tires properly inflated can help it use less fuel.