Nissan Primera Common Problems and Solutions
The ABS Light Is Lit
Problem:
The ABS warning light is on, but the brake performance remains unaffected.
Solution:
If you ignore this issue, your brakes are likely to fail eventually. The common cause is a broken ABS ring on the driveshaft. These can be quite costly if you buy elsewhere, but we always have them in stock at a low price.
Difficulty level
ABS Rings
Jumping Out of 1st gear
Problem:
All other gears function properly, but the car continues to slip out of 1st gear.
Solution:
This issue is caused by a problem with your gear linkage. You will usually need to purchase a replacement gearbox unit from us, but in some cases, it could also be a worn synchroniser or a damaged selector fork. Check these components and replace them as needed.
Difficulty level
Gearbox ECU
Decreased Power
Problem:
You may notice a loss of power when accelerating and might also smell something burning while driving.
Solution:
Another well-known weakness of the Primera is its exhaust system, which can fail quite frequently. The rear box of the exhaust system is particularly prone to becoming loose and falling off, in which case you will need to order a new one from our shop.
Difficulty level
Exhaust Back Box
Loose Clutch Pedal
Problem:
The clutch pedal feels loose or spongy and occasionally remains stuck to the floor.
Solution:
The clutch on a Primera can wear out very quickly. You will need to replace the entire clutch system, which is quite a significant job, but you can find an affordable replacement on our parts list.
Difficulty level
Car Won’t Start
Problem:
In cold weather, the car won't start.
Solution:
This indicates that your head gasket is either about to fail or has already failed. Before replacing the head gasket, which you can order directly from us, check the coolant system first. There’s a small chance that the problem is caused by a coolant leak. If your coolant system appears to be fine and has no leaks, then the issue is likely the head gasket.
Difficulty level
Head Gasket Set
Gearbox problems
Problem:
It is common for the Primera to experience gearbox issues. The primary problem is the 5th gear slipping out as soon as you press the accelerator. Additionally, there are often difficulties when engaging reverse. The issue with the 5th gear appears to be the main gearbox concern for the Primera.
Solution:
The issue lies with the gear synchronisers. Sometimes, it is more economical to replace the entire gearbox. We can assist you in finding a suitable gearbox at a very competitive price.
Difficulty level
ABS warning light
Problem:
If the ABS warning light has illuminated on the dashboard, the common cause of this issue is a faulty ABS sensor.
Solution:
You will need to have a diagnostic check carried out to precisely identify which sensor is faulty and then replace the defective sensor to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Starting problems
Problem:
It is known on the Primera to have starting problems. The usual cause of these issues is a fault with the crank angle sensor.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement crank angle sensor to resolve the issue. Take a look at the video below to see how to replace the sensor.
Difficulty level
Turbo failure
Problem:
If you notice a whistling noise from the top of the engine or black smoke coming from the rear exhaust when you press the accelerator, you have a problem with the turbo.
Solution:
Fitting a replacement turbo will fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Suspension problems
Problem:
If you hear a knocking noise from the suspension when driving over speed bumps or rough surfaces, it usually indicates a problem with one of the anti-roll bar links.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement anti-roll bar link to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Stalling Regularly
Problem:
The car frequently stalls and refuses to restart.
Solution:
The position sensors of the engine management system are likely faulty, which led to a recall of Primeras manufactured between January 1999 and September 2002. You can order a replacement sensor from our online store and easily replace the faulty part.
Difficulty level
Engine sensor
Misfiring Engine
Problem:
The engine misfires and hesitates when accelerating.
Solution:
First, try replacing your air and fuel filters. If this doesn’t fix the problem, it could be a fault with the MAF sensor or a sign that your coil pack is failing. You will find both mass airflow sensors and replacement coils on our parts list.
Difficulty level