1993 Nissan Axxess LX 2.4 12v electronic fuel injection gas/petrol KA24

Summary:

Useful workhorse

Faults:

Rust (lots of rust -- sills replaced and also front suspension arms patched), usual wear and tear.

Rear shocks weak/bouncy.

Stretched handbrake cable.

Flex covers for CVT and steering rack.

Brake hoses and cylinders.

Clutch master cylinder.

Suspension bushes.

Now has the "normal" engine noises of an older KA24 engine (timing chain/chain guides/hydraulic chain tensioner/hydraulic valve tappets) and a whine, which may be an alternator bearing.

Non-service parts are now difficult to get hold of for all Prairies, mostly main dealer (who won't supply independent garages except as walk-ins, and are very expensive), Amazon (UK & US), eBay, and mail order from a Kia dealer who was formerly Nissan and who is involved in a Nissan based motorsport team (Humphris).

At least the parts manuals are online for free (Nissan4u) to help with parts sourcing.

General Comments:

(Track my mileage on Fuelly.com -- I'm the only Prairie/Axxess on the site!)

Mine is actually badged as a Prairie (the name used in the Europe for the M11). Base LX model, no air-con, no central locks. More basic front seats which are a bit low for me for leg comfort, needs a cushion (previous Prairie M11 was a higher spec model with raised front seats and drawer underneath).

It's a grey import from Cyprus to UK by a company that converted it for wheelchair passenger use with a drop ramp to the rear and a lowered floor in the rear, rear seats changed for roll out transport chair (and two little side seats) and controlled descent straps, and 1/2 size fuel tank, space saver spare on rack inside above rear wheel well. The company that did the conversion (Brotherwood) were converting officially imported M11 Prairies from 1988-1991 model years, then grey imported while they were selecting and developing a new conversion based on a different vehicle.

Does the job, carries lots of stuff (especially with the back seats out), but is a bit thirsty. The 2.4 engine is quite peppy (similar KA24 engine to a 240Z sports car, slightly de-tuned).

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th May, 2017