Nissan Van Parts UK - Quality Used & Genuine Parts

How to Replace Nissan Van Headlights

Nissan van headlight replacement is straightforward across most commercial models. Whether replacing standard units on an NV200 or upgrading bulbs on an NV400, this guide covers the main Nissan van range.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open the bonnet and secure it safely. Nissan commercial vehicles provide good access to headlight assemblies. On the NV200, NV300, and NV400, the engine bay layout allows straightforward access. Locate the rear of the headlight unit from within the engine bay.
2. Disconnect the electrical connectors. Nissan headlights have 2-3 electrical connectors depending on specification. These include main beam, dipped beam, and side light connectors. Press the release tabs carefully and pull straight out. Make note of connector positions for reassembly.
3. Remove the headlight mounting bolts. Most Nissan models use 10mm bolts to secure the headlight assembly. On the NV200 and NV300, there are typically 3 bolts along the top edge accessible once the bonnet is open. On NV400 large vans, expect similar mounting arrangements. Remove all mounting bolts completely and keep them organized.
4. Release any retaining clips. Some Nissan headlights have additional plastic clips for extra security. Check the inner corner and bottom edge for clips. Work carefully as clips can become brittle over time especially on higher-mileage vans.
5. Carefully remove the headlight assembly. With all bolts and clips released, gently pull the headlight straight forward. Nissan headlights slide forward on locating pins that ensure correct alignment. Support the weight as you pull to prevent dropping the unit.
6. Transfer components if needed. If your replacement doesn't include bulbs, carefully transfer these from the old unit. Wear clean gloves when handling bulbs to avoid touching glass surfaces with bare hands as oils cause premature failure.
7. Install the new headlight assembly. Reverse the removal process by aligning the new headlight with mounting pins and pushing firmly into place ensuring all locating pins engage correctly. Refit all mounting bolts and tighten securely. Reconnect all electrical connections ensuring each clicks firmly. Test all lighting functions including main beam, dipped beam, and side lights before closing the bonnet.

Important Notes: Nissan headlight replacement is simple on most commercial models. Never touch lens or reflector surfaces when handling new headlights. Check headlight alignment after fitting using adjustment screws on the rear of the assembly for optimal visibility and MOT compliance.

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How to Replace Nissan Van Front Bumper

Replacing a Nissan van front bumper takes 45-75 minutes depending on model. This process covers NV200, NV300, NV400, and Primastar models, though specific fixing locations vary between generations.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open the bonnet and secure it safely. Locate the upper bumper mounting bolts along the top edge. Nissan models typically have 4-6 bolts securing the top of the bumper depending on model. On the NV200, these are usually 10mm bolts. On NV300 and NV400 models, expect similar fixings across the top edge. Remove all upper fixings systematically.
2. Access the wheel arch areas on both sides. Turn the steering wheel fully to maximize access to the wheel arch liner. Behind each front wheel, locate the plastic arch liner. Remove 2-4 plastic clips or screws securing the front section to expose side bumper mounting points. Nissan uses plastic push-in clips that release by pressing the center pin first. Repeat on both sides.
3. Remove the side mounting bolts from both wheel arches. Behind each wheel arch liner, you'll find 2-3 bolts securing each side of the bumper. These are usually 10mm bolts on Nissan models. Remove all side fixings on both driver and passenger sides. Keep track of fixings as they may differ between sides.
4. Remove undertray screws and lower bumper fixings. Get underneath the vehicle safely using ramps or jack stands. Locate and remove bolts and clips securing the engine undertray and lower edge of the bumper. Nissan typically uses 6-10 fixings along the bottom edge. These may be 10mm bolts or plastic push-in clips. You don't always need to remove the entire undertray.
5. Disconnect fog lights and electrical connections. Reach behind the bumper and disconnect all electrical connectors including fog lights if fitted and parking sensor connections if equipped. Press release tabs carefully and pull straight out. Count how many connections you disconnect to ensure you reconnect them all during refitting.
6. Release the bumper clips and mounting tabs. Nissan bumpers are secured by plastic clips on each side that slot into the wing panels. With all fixings removed, firmly but gently pull the bumper forward from one corner while supporting the opposite side. You may need to wiggle slightly to release the clips. Listen for clicks as clips disengage.
7. Remove the bumper completely from the vehicle. With all fixings removed and clips released, carefully pull the bumper straight forward away from the vehicle. NV200 bumpers are reasonably lightweight. NV300 and NV400 bumpers are larger so benefit from a second person. Place the removed bumper on a protected surface to avoid scratching.
8. Prepare and fit the replacement bumper. Before installation, transfer any brackets, trim pieces, or components from the old bumper if not fitted to your replacement. Align the new bumper with mounting points and push firmly ensuring all side clips engage. Reconnect all electrical connections including fog lights and parking sensors. Secure with all bolts and clips in reverse order. Test all electrical functions and check panel gaps are even on both sides before final tightening.

Top Tips: Nissan bumpers are designed for practical replacement. When refitting parking sensors, ensure each clicks firmly into its mounting hole and sits flush. Check all panel gaps between bumper and wings are even before final tightening. The NV200's compact design makes bumper replacement straightforward.

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Common Nissan Van Parts Problems & Solutions

Nissan commercial vehicles benefit from the alliance with Renault sharing proven platforms and powertrains. The NV200 is regarded as a reliable alternative to competitors offering good fuel efficiency with EPA-estimated 25mpg combined. Nissan offers market-leading five-year/100,000-mile warranty coverage on all LCVs. However, certain components can experience issues particularly on higher-mileage examples. Here are the most commonly reported Nissan van parts problems based on verified UK data and owner experiences.

Gearbox Issues (NV200 and Primastar):

• Transmission Problems: Some NV200s experience gearbox issues with the Renault Megane-sourced transmission. Owners report the gearbox feels about as smooth as a tractor on bumpy fields with jerky and unpredictable shifting. The automatic version is known to be hesitant like a teenager on a first date. Symptoms include hard shifting, gear slippage, and difficulty changing gears. One owner reported gearbox repairs costing £1,300 with the garage stating the Renault Megane box is not really up to the job in this heavier vehicle. The Primastar suffered a reliability score of only 1.26/10 with first-time MOT pass rate of just under 47% in Moneybarn study. Regular transmission fluid checks and changes help prevent issues. Gearbox rebuilds cost £1,300-£1,600.

ECU Water Ingress (NV200):

• ECU Failure from Water Damage: The ECU can suffer water ingress requiring replacement along with engine wiring harness. This typically occurs around 74,000 miles and 4.5 years. Nissan recognizes this as a known issue and often covers repairs under goodwill especially with full dealer service history. Symptoms include engine management lights, loss of power, and starting problems. ECU and wiring harness replacement can be expensive but Nissan goodwill has covered this 100% for many owners. Ensure full service history is maintained to strengthen goodwill claims.

Radiator Damage (NV200):

• Radiator Stone Damage: The NV200 lacks a protective grille allowing stones to damage the lower part of the radiator. Owners report needing two radiator repairs due to this design flaw. Some vans have also required seven windscreens due to stone chips though this may be bad luck. Consider fitting aftermarket radiator protection grilles. Radiator repairs cost £200-£500 depending on extent of damage. Regular inspection of radiator condition helps catch damage early.

Brake Problems:

• Premature Brake Wear: Brakes work until they don't with some NV200 drivers facing issues with premature wear and less-than-responsive braking performance. This can turn every red light into nail-biting adventure. Heavy loads cause faster suspension wear in NV200 vans. Symptoms include squealing, vibration, or long braking distance. Worn pads or discs are common causes. Brake pads, discs, and caliper service costs £250-£600. Brakes wear quicker on vans frequently carrying heavy cargo. Regular brake inspections prevent issues. The NV300 has had recalls for rear brake calliper handbrake lever pivot pins breaking during handbrake operation.

Electrical Problems:

• Electrical System Issues: Nissan attempted to pack the NV200 with modern electrical systems but problems can range from quirky central locking systems to dashboards that light up like Christmas trees for no apparent reason. It's like the electrical system is possessed by a poltergeist. Central locking has failed twice on some vans requiring repairs under warranty. Interior lights pop out on bumps exposing cheapness of construction. Battery, starter, and alternator are most common culprits behind NV200 failing to start. The battery should last 3-5 years but driving habits, weather, and battery size impact longevity. Electrical fault repairs cost £200-£600.

Sliding Door Problems (NV200):

• Side Door Issues: The side door slider can make grating noise from as little as 500 miles. Overuse of door handles and actuators causes early wear and tear. Dirt, dust, hair, or packaging litter contribute to sliding doors becoming stuck. This problem can be prevented with regular cleaning and maintenance. Door mechanism repairs cost £150-£400. All door mechanisms on well-maintained vans can remain original and working fine even at high mileages.

Suspension Noise (NV200 and NV400):

• Front Suspension Bangs: Large bangs from the front when going over lumps in the road are common complaints. Some vans show this problem from as little as 3,000 miles. Front struts, drop links, and lower arms are common replacements. The NV200 is unstable in crosswinds and engine sounds like someone left a spanner in there. Clutch judder on first 5 minutes of driving is common but seems to go away. Suspension component replacement costs £200-£500.

AdBlue System Problems (NV400):

• AdBlue Counter Resetting Issues: One of the more frustrating NV400 problems is the resetting of the AdBlue counter. When owners top up AdBlue, the counter sometimes does not reset meaning the vehicle will stop working. Often caused by crystallization affecting sensors. Garage should be able to rectify the problem. NV400 also had recall for rear brake calliper incorrectly installed on February 2021 models potentially causing van to roll away when parking brake activated. Older NV400 models experience problems with master cylinder as seals can be weak. AdBlue system repairs cost £200-£600.

Airbag Recalls:

• Occupant Classification System Faults: The NV200 has had quite a few airbag recalls due to faulty Occupant Classification Systems that incorrectly classify adult passengers as children or occupied seats as empty. Combination of factors could cause the problem including high engine vibration at idle when seat initially empty then becomes occupied. Even passenger posture could cause airbag to deactivate. Recalls covered 2013-2014 models. If airbag warning light flashes when front seats occupied, contact dealer immediately.

Ignition Switch Problems:

• Ignition Switch Slipping: The ignition switch ball springs give out way too early. Without springs to support weight of heavy key chains bouncing on bumpy roads, ignition slips from on to accessory position. Nissan recalled over 150,000 vehicles for this issue. Drivers could find themselves cruising down highway with radios on and engines off. Ignition switch replacement is covered under recall.

EVAP System Issues:

• Evaporative Emissions Problems: All Nissan vehicles manufactured between 2013-2017 were credited with warranty extension due to faulty EVAP systems. Malfunctioning EVAP causes headaches from fumes circulating cabin, affects vehicle performance, and causes refueling issues when unburned vapors fill space inside EVAP. Strong fuel smell inside cabin requires immediate mechanic attention. Gas splash back at pump likely caused by EVAP clogs. EVAP repairs cost £300-£800.

Electric Vehicle Battery Degradation (e-NV200):

• Battery Pack Wear: Reduced range or slower charging indicates natural battery wear or damage from frequent fast charging. Avoid full discharge and fast charging in hot weather to extend battery life. Battery replacement or refurbishment costs £1,500-£4,000. Charging stops early or fails to start from faulty charging cable or connector. Charging component replacement costs £200-£600. Inverter or cooling fan electrical faults reduce performance.

Build Quality Concerns (NV400):

• Quality Issues on New Models: Some owners report build quality problems appearing almost instantly on new NV400s. Vans with less than 3,000 miles show side door slider grating noise at 500 miles and large bangs from front suspension at 3,000 miles. This is disappointing for vehicles costing over £25,000. Regular warranty claims address early problems but indicate quality control issues.

Nissan Van Reliability Assessment:

Mixed Reliability Picture: Nissan vans present a mixed reliability picture. The NV200 ranks 14th out of 54 Nissan generations in overall reliability showing decent performance. One owner reported 156,000 miles over 10 years achieving 48.58mpg with maintenance costs of only 4.13p per mile. The van still had original clutch, exhaust, turbo, injectors, and EGR valve proving excellent durability when properly maintained. However, Moneybarn study ranked the Primastar lowest and NV200 second-lowest among UK vans with reliability scores of 1.26/10 and 1.72/10 respectively. Both had average consumer ratings of only 3/5. First-time MOT pass rates were poor at under 47% for Primastar.

Warranty Coverage Excellent: Nissan offers market-leading five-year/100,000-mile warranty on all LCVs which is unusually generous. This is two years more than rivals and excellent for buyers wanting to hold vans for several years. Service intervals stand at 18,000-28,000 miles depending on model. The generous warranty and parts sharing with Renault mean components are well-tested and parts availability is good.

Regular Maintenance Critical: Regular servicing prevents major issues. Change oil every 5,000 miles or six months. Change air filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles. Stay up-to-date on recalls as Nissan has issued several. ECU water ingress is known issue so ensure full dealer history for goodwill claims. Clean sliding doors regularly to prevent sticking. Inspect radiator for stone damage. Check AdBlue system for crystallization. With consistent maintenance, Nissan vans deliver reliable service though quality control on newer models needs attention.

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