I have a 2013 C12 hatch, I am impressed on how frugal the engine is, even when pushing the engine a little harder than usual (7.9 l/100 kms). It is also not too noisy in the cabin, very roomy for a hatchback. Bought it second hand with 100.000 kms on the clock, now 250.000. The only problem I have had with it is that the air con belt and… Read more
compressor had to be replaced. (about $3.000 at 180.000 kms). Considering this car is used by everyone in the family to do all sorts of errands and I barely do minimal maintenance to it, I am impressed. Mine is a CVT, they are sealed from factory, but if you buy one it is a good idea to service the gearbox to preserve it better. Build quiality is not very good, plastics squeak a creek a lot.
Faulty transmission, stay away from CVT versions – As many already commented here, faulty transmission. Total transmission failure 5k kms before service. Car had only 122k on the clock had the transmission issue which costed me $5500 to fix, even the mechanic mentioned I give 12 months warranty but I recommend you to sell the car due to its unreliability, he was right 4 months after fixed it broke down again which the mechanic fixed under warranty, after that I sold the car. Show details
- +7
Quality and design was basic and amazing – Best car I’ve had. Stylish interior, sporty looking exterior and panel lines. Seats were really comfortable, had actual glass headlights, so no more yellowing or fading. the paint and the quality of the plastic was far better than my 2012 Corolla. Was my grandmothers car and she hardly drove it. Was inside her garage with a car cover on it, with… Read more
Towson the seats, a steering wheel cover and a old school steering wheel lock.
When I took ownership of it, it wouldn’t start, got her mechanic to look over it. All it needed was a $20 fuel filter, and started right up. I gave it a good detail, and it looks brand new, straight out of the showroom. Sadly being over 20 years old and having just 55,000kms on the odometer, it got written off, because some lady reversed into the side door and damaged it. Easily repairable. But insurance decided not to fix it.
Didn’t come with a passenger’s side airbag, as that was an optional feature when purchasing it from Nissan in 2000. It also didn’t come with a cabin filter, yet had the slot for one. Bought a cabin filter and installed it.
Reviews with attachments
TRANSMISSION ISSUE – I have 2015 nissan pulsar, only 170k, Transmission issue ONLY 8 YEARS OLD AND CAR FINISHED. Show details
Renovated 1998 Nissan Pulsar – Bought 2 nd hand Spent $8,000 over 7 yrs & not touched engine yet.New blue paint job.Looks 2 yrs old again.Manual 5 speed.RECCOMENDS renovating them but stash up spare exterior parts. Show details · 1
Very good old car – Mine was a little bit behind regarding maintenance when I bought it. spark plugs etc. However, it's just a matter of servicing it properly. The car was in good condition for its age and did not get me in trouble. Comfortable, good space. Good on petrol; not outstanding, but good. Good vintage look. Show details
In-depth reviews
BEWARE Transmission issues on all Nissan Cars. Only last 100,000 – Do not purchase any Nissan cars. I’ve been trying to make a claim with them all year in regards the the faulty parts which they continue to put in their transmissions. Once it hits 80,000 your car will jolt and rev the gears. We been trying to make a claim through Nissan and had to use the local Nissan dealer, they never made any claims through… Read more
head office and just keep sending us in a wild goose chase lying about the claim which was not in fact processed. I’ve had to escalate claim through head office in Sydney. I’m now at 95,000 km and can’t drive up hills, on hwy or long distance. Just local small trips and very slow otherwise car has major issues. The car isn’t not going to last longer and needs to be fixed. (yet our mechanic says the new one will only last another 100,000km also) We are at the point of making a class action against Nissan in Australia being conducted by Bannister Law. Please beware and do not purchase any Nissan cars.
It's a boring car that does Everything Ok – This car is the ultimate example of Accountants getting the final say on a car. First, the Positives. It is easily the most spacious small car in it's segment and has ample front and rear leg room for adults, even behind my (6'4") driving position. It is economical. Returns 5.8 - 6.3L/100 depending on driving regimen. It appears well built,… Read more
with no obvious rattles or buzzes at 60K.
It has been reliable so far, but mine is a 6 Speed Manual, so I sidestepped the CVT issues common with this model (and the result of most of the negative reviews here)
It is pretty quiet on the freeway.
The Negatives
It could actually be a really good car, but for whatever reason (cost most obvious) Nissan decided to do some odd things to the spec.
The wheel and tyre package is far too small for the body and styling.
The stock 195/60R16 is tiny, and doesn't fill the guards, the diameter of the tyre on the SSS is even smaller resulting in the car looking like a rollerskate.
Oddly, even the Speedo is literally 9km/h out at 100km/h on the stock wheels.
I fitted a 19 inch Nissan Wheel with a 225/40R19 that is 20mm bigger in diameter and it fills the guards alot better and the Speedo still reads a few km/h under.
Still rides really well. The Base model should've had 17's (with a 205/55R17) and the SSS 18's
Nissan decided to delete the external boot release button, so you have to go into the car to release the boot or use the key. This is really annoying for me as I occasionally do Uber.
The HVAC controls look like something from 1996.
The AC is pretty weak.
The Clutch is artificially springy and the take up point is quite vague, which combined with what is obviously a fairly light and torque-less engine in a biggish car means you can't really waft away gently without some revs on board
The Engine is a bit gutless down low. You need to drop it down a gear for hills more than should be required.
The Engine really needs balance shafts as it can get a bit buzzy at different rev ranges.
Good honest car!!! – Purchased 2012 build Pulsar ST-L sedan, 6 speed manual, with 175000 klm on the clock in late January 2020. Purpose of car is for learner driver education (driving instructor vehicle) Bought via private sale with fair/good service history. As expected, body/paint, engine/transmission, interior all fair to good condition for age and kilometres… Read more
travelled. Everything works with no signs of misuse or abuse.
This vehicle is an everyday drive, with learner drivers operating with ease. Nothing unusual or complex to operate. First service since buying, mid May 2020 with registration inspection revealing rear shocks to be replaced (no big deal, as they were the factory originals)
Only issue experienced is hydraulic clutch mechanism. When in gear (1st or reverse) and clutch is depressed, after a short time the clutch starts to engage and the car moves (either forward or back, depending on which gear you're in) This may be caused by the wear to the clutch slave cylinder or a worn seal in the clutch master cylinder.
Don't let the above put you off considering purchasing a Nissan Pulsar 6 speed manual. I put this down to normal wear and tear with consideration to age and kilometres travelled. As always, have any second hand vehicle checked out by a qualified mechanic for your own peace of mind.
Would I purchase another Nissan Pulsar? ABSOLUTELY!!!! They are a very good car.
Anyone who resides on the Central Coast of NSW wanting to learn to drive with instruction from an accredited driving instructor, call Murray Besley on Mob. 0401 003 581. Manual vehicle supplied or bring your own manual or automatic car.
Positive reviews
Best car I have ever owned Excellent reliability never lets me down – Purchased in 2006 had 40,000 klm on the clock now 150,000 Planned to have it for 2 years normally buy Toyota's it's just so reliable, can't recall changing brake pads tyres last forever, on second set of tyres now, servicing car doesn't cost much, it's had one new battery Visibility is second to none, large windows, find a new car with proper… Read more
windows Know I need to put new rubbers in suspension arms 18 years of road impact, probably do that myself Doing my own services now, put a torch over motor & gearbox no oil leaks, can't find any visible problems If you buy one make sure it's been serviced & not worn out, get it checked out
A family car – I had my Pulsar for 7 years now , done 120,000 kms. It's a family car for getting to work & around the city however no wow factor in handling. I have driven Melb - Sdy and to other regional trips in this car without issues. I note the reported issues with CVT on this forum so I rang my Nissan dealer to check on the warranty cover in case the… Read more
CVT fails. They said if the CVT fails -- its not a warranty issue; as this engine part is considered as subject to wear and tear ! So do not hold high hopes for them to come to the rescue on the CVT issue. So on that note I make sure I have the transmission fluid replaced every 70000 km. So far the CVT has held up -- touch wood.
Good fuel economy, plenty of space – I've got a 2016 sss pulsar sedan. Its a 6 spd manual, its a great car for around town. Car has plenty of boot space and comfortably fits 4 adults with ease. Plenty of legroom for a small car. Good on fuel aswell. I average 7ltrs/100 km. Show details
Negative reviews
Faulty transmissions – It has been over six weeks since my car has been parked in front of my house, unable to be driven due to a factory fault transmission issue. I find it unacceptable that Nissan is not taking responsibility for this known issue, which a simple Google search ("Nissan Pulsar common problems") reveals has affected many owners of similar models. It is… Read more
disturbing that your company has not addressed this problem or provided adequate support to customers like me.
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Third transmission after only 130,000kms – 2014 pulsar auto. transmission packed in after 70000. Nissan replaced it under warranty. New transmission packed in after 50,000. I hope they will replace but I don't think they will. 3 transmissions and only travelled total 140,000kms. Personally I'm keeping well away from Nissan in the future. Dreadful cars. Show details
You guessed it… MAJOR transmission problems (2013 Nissan Pulsar B17 ST sedan) – I would give this one star but given how the car has miraculously somehow lasted this long, I’ll give it 2 stars. Bought new currently at… believe it or not, 180,000kms with probably the worst transmission of any vehicle out there. Problems started around 70,000kms and Nissan wouldn’t help. I have to use low gear at times or “Sports Mode” on the… Read more
gear stick (which just lowers the revs as well) JUST so the transmission belt can shift up or else it gets stuck and CLUNKS. I’ve changed the transmission fluid too, the car is just gone and with all the other mechanical problems it’s had over 8 years (with servicing) I’m running this baby till she dies, hopefully not me along with it!
Recent reviews
Great Little Car – at 200,000kms there is a low growling sound when driving - consistently while moving. Is this a wheel bearing Show details
Nissan pulsar – Done only 69000km and facing transmission problems. When I spoke to the dealership I was told that to diagnose the issue, I need to come up with $250. They also commented that this was a common problem with most Nissan models. Won't go for a Nissan again. Show details
Quality performance! Fuel efficient – Just bought my N16 last week for excellent value. I never thought a car for that price would become one of the best cars I’ve ever owned! Filling up the tank is not a strain on my pockets at all, even during Sydney lockdowns and the increase in petrol prices — which is promising!! I’m a 20 year old red P-plater, and this car is perfect for me!… Read more
Only downside was the factory radio did not have Bluetooth comparability (to be expected) so if someone my age wants a car like this, ensure you have a plug n play OR you can purchase a 1 din aftermarket stereo from a supercheap store. The car is very roomy and reliable. Fits my sister (6’2) in the back seat comfortably. No mechanical problems whatsoever. I highly recommend this car for people learning to drive. If there was any car I would compare this one to, it would definitely be the 2005 Toyota Corolla.
Catastrophic Failure of CVT – Owner from brand new 2013 Nissan pulsar, just passed 150000kms, and noise from motor. Nissan diagnosis was catastrophic failure of the CVT transmission and deemed non-repairable. Definitely regret getting Nissan! Show details
Absolute piece of junk - Nissan Pulsar – Got transmission failure just under 70,000km when the vehicle has up to date service records. I got told by friends that Nissan X-trail has the same issue as well. My friend got his x-trail’s transmission replaced twice within a year and is very frustrated. Don’t go with any of Nissan’s car. Make a wise decision. Don’t buy these crapy cars in a rush, you will for sure regret after. Show details
Absolute piece of crap- transmission faulty do not buy – Faulty transmissions in the 1.8lt nissan know about it but wont replace them. They are a very common issue with the 1.8 lt. Do not buy this model as nissan will not come to the party to repair. Show details
Stay away from this car – This little car is very soft to drive, specious and comfortable and has a nice soft suspension, however has a HUGE problem......GEARBOX IS SUCKS. I have gone through 8 weeks fight and battle with the used car dealer to force him fix the big problem with noise and shake and after all stress he spent $4700 on a used gearbox and swap it with mine… Read more
and still it was rubbish. Eventually I sold this cancer for cheap and through it away and Never Ever go close to any Nissan in my life anymore. Stay away from all Nissans.
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the best ever bought – to work and holidays. use it every day. bought one new in 2014 and another new one feb. 2017 extremely spacious and easy to drive. have done the services and has never caused any problems. hope the new pulsar will come soon Show details
This is worsts car don’t buy my car transmission is gone – No good I was driving car suddenly stop when I press Exeter not moving my car is gone noises it’s is on warranty transmission problem please tell me what to do Show details
Transmission faults – My nissian pulsar is used for getting to and from work I was unaware of transmission fault with this car it is a factory fault.my car transmission blew after 6 years.I would not buy one of these unless has had gearbox overhaul. Show details
Bullet proof engine absolutely outstanding longevity perfect runaround car – Had this car for the last 5 years from my boss who sold it to me for $150 . cost $600 to put it on the road done now around 300Thous clicks been through Hell and Back I mean everywhere from city to Bush to high country even some 4wd tracks and its absolutely bullet proof. Just give it the old 10km yearly service and You can't go wrong I mean it… Read more
will not disappoint you and never let you down . I use it to work and it's a definite investment for cost savings very cheap to run .
Not worth buying this car. Don't waste your money – I brought this car 3 years ago from his previous in 2017..just driven to work and home in Sydney metro area mostly. Always regular service with registered mechanic. Extended warranty expired few months ago. 80k transmission failed. Mechanic told me its a common problem with this model of Nissan and second hand gearbox will cost around 4K plus… Read more
$800 fitting. This car not worth buying and Nissan Australia is not helping at all to sort this. Don’t waste your money.
CVT transmission hard to drive – Bought it from the Dandenong nissan dealership everything so far so good with this car but the worse transmission experience Acceleration feel worse Don’t recommend this car Compare to Toyota CVT no good Show details
CVT Transmission failure – I brought this car two years old from his original owner in 2015.just driven to work and home in Sydney metro area mostly .always regular service with registered mechanic .Around 85000kms transmission failed.so my mechanic told me its a common problem with this model and after contacting Nissan they agreed to repair as goodwill.So beware of this model with transmission. Show details
2014 st-s hatch Auto – Took a risk on buying this car has it was an x rental but was so cheap I decided to go for it as car came with full service history and a list of all issues it ever had. Brought her in 2017 with 45000k’s 3 years later she has now done 88000 and other than regular servicing we have not spent one extra cent on anything. The car has good power… Read more · 1
considering only 1.6, the roomiest back seat of all the hatches and uses around 8ltrs per 100k’s. So for $10000 it’s been a fantastic buy and we couldn’t be happier.
Beware CVT Transmission – Car is mostly driven on a freeway, family car & meticulous service history. At 160000kms the CVT transmission went on the vehicle. It has got a lot more kms than most who have CVT issues but 160000 for the trans needing to be replaced is not acceptable. Nissan haven't wanted to know about the issue, i will never purchase another Nissan again, or any vehicle that has a CVT trasmission. Show details
CVT transmission failed second time – CVT failed second time. It is a known issue to Nissan First time they replaced the whole CVT and at that time my car was under warranty. Now it would cost be a lot. They should cover it under warranty as CVT should come with separate warranty. This is absolute failure of Nissan but they are not fixing the issue Show details
Don't buy Nissan Pulsar Please!!! CVT failed – CVT transmission failed at 100,000km then It costs around $6000. I would read reviews before my purchase. Nissan's known fault with the CVT transmission Again please don't buy NISSAN PULSAR Show details
Reliable and well built – This has been an excellent car. The only thing that I has an issue with was the rear view mirror fell off but Nissan replaced it even thought it was out of warranty. Its not the speediest car but its reliable, safe and very economical. It has amazing handling. I would defiantly purchase a Nissan again. Only annoying thing is the stereo does not pair with IPhone contacts. Show details
Nissan Junk – I bought a 2005 Nissan Pulsar last week with 140,168 klms on it. On the way home with it there were times it would stall and need to be restarted. This week it cant start and the compression is very low on all cylinders. What a complete piece of junk. I have always had Toyota in the past and this kind of problem will never exist with any Toyota… Read more
that only has 140k on it. I should have known better from the problems with the Navara I had, never ever ever buy a Nissan......
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I agree The pulsar is crap they are a common issue Do not purchase any nissan or renault product they are crap.