Head gasket needed replacing after overheating.
Radiator, radiator cap, thermostat, water pump and top hose replaced as a result of head gasket failure.
CV gaiters replaced at 70,000.
The 1.6 engine lacks mid-range torque and sometimes needs changing down a gear if going up a steep incline.
Overtaking and acceleration are very good for a 1.6 unit if in the right gear.
Handling and ride are superb.
Head gasket failure can occur when the engine over-heats, and it is not cheap to replace.
Cabin layout is simple and easy to use.
The seats are comfortable, but lack horizontal support.
Paint finish is good, but is easily damaged by stone chips.
Brakes are effective and ABS doesn't activate unless you really need it.
Main-dealer only parts are not cheap. For example, heater-speed controller (resistor) costs £30 for about £1 worth of raw material.
Scrap-dealers can be a good source for replacement parts.
Do you know how to change the heater speed control resistor? My '96 Primera has this fault.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
I bought my primera P10 1996 at an auction for 350 Euro, it was towed through, but the bidders were assured it was just a dead battery. It was the head gasket, and my mechanic said he thought the radiator was gone also. No problem, new head gasket and a rad from the scrapyard got the job done. Drove 3000 miles in 2 months before the water pump failed. Mechanic fitted that and sorted it. All the above faults were due to poor maintenance by the previous owner. It has done 116k miles and still is among the best cars I have driven. It is reliable now and everything still works. Not bad for a 9 year old abused car. I will be buying another.
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