Nissan Almera
1.5L naturally aspirated from the QG range. Simple and reliable, adequate for the compact class.
90 hp sensible car
The Almera N16 was a blameless mid-size representative without any ambition whatsoever.
Engine Weaknesses 3
The single-row timing chain of the QG15DE stretches at higher mileages. From around 70,000–150,000 km the tensioner can no longer compensate for the elongation. Nissan acknowledged the issue and issued a service recommendation.
Symptoms: Rough engine, dancing rev needle, misfires on all cylinders; engine light with camshaft or crankshaft sensor fault (P0340)
Nissan recalled approximately 84,000 German vehicles fitted with QG15DE and QG18DE engines (built March 2000 to September 2002) due to short circuits in the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors. Repair was carried out free of charge.
Symptoms: Engine warning light, irregular idle, occasional engine stall
With increasing mileage, QG15DE engines suffer from elevated oil consumption due to worn piston rings and valve stem seals. Typical from 100,000 km, as the engine uses shims rather than hydraulic tappets.
Symptoms: Blue smoke on cold start or under load, dropping oil level between services, oily exhaust smell