Years
The Nissan M is a subcompact hatchback produced by Nissan from 1982 to 2020, sold mainly in Japan and also known as the March or Micra in export markets. It spanned five generations (K10 through K14) and served as Nissan's entry-level model in its domestic lineup. Typical strengths included compact dimensions suited to urban driving, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The model was discontinued in 2020, with its role in the lineup effectively taken over by the Nissan Note.
Manufacturer: Nissan
Nissan Motor Company was founded in Yokohama, Japan, in 1933 and became one of the world's largest automakers, forming a long-standing alliance with Renault beginning in 1999. The company released the Leaf in 2010 as one of the first mass-market electric cars and is also known for the GT-R performance car and its pioneering work with continuously variable transmissions. Nissan's reputation has been mixed in recent years, with its CVTs drawing reliability complaints and the company experiencing financial difficulties and leadership turmoil following the arrest of former chairman Carlos Ghosn in 2018.
Model: M
The Nissan M is a subcompact hatchback produced by Nissan from 1982 to 2020, sold mainly in Japan and also known as the March or Micra in export markets. It spanned five generations (K10 through K14) and served as Nissan's entry-level model in its domestic lineup. Typical strengths included compact dimensions suited to urban driving, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The model was discontinued in 2020, with its role in the lineup effectively taken over by the Nissan Note.
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2007_M45-M35The 2007 Nissan M35 and M45 were the second model years of the redesigned Y50 generation, with changes limited largely to trim and feature adjustments rather than mechanical revisions. The M35 used a 3.5L V6 with rear- or all-wheel drive, while the M45 used a 4.5L V8, both paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Common service items include timing chain components on the V6, transmission fluid condition, front suspension wear, and ignition coil failures. Regular fluid changes and inspection of valve cover gaskets and power steering components are typical maintenance considerations for higher-mileage examples.
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2003The 2003 Nissan M was a rebadged K12-generation Nissan Micra sold in the UK as an entry-level model, with minimal changes from its 2002 introduction. It was available with 1.2-liter and 1.4-liter petrol engines, mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Common service considerations include timing chain condition, suspension component wear, and rust protection in regions where road salt is used. Regular oil changes, brake inspections, and tire maintenance are recommended to keep the vehicle reliable.
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2004_M45The 2004 Nissan M45 received a mid-cycle facelift with revised front and rear styling, updated interior trim, and minor equipment changes. It is powered by the 4.5-liter VK45DE V8 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Common service items include valve cover gasket oil leaks, ignition coil and spark plug replacement, and timing chain tensioner inspection. Suspension bushings, control arms, and brake components also merit regular inspection as these vehicles age.
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2006_M45-M35The 2006 Nissan M introduced the second-generation M35 and M45, both built on Nissan's FM platform. The M35 used a 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 with rear- or all-wheel drive, while the M45 paired a 4.5-liter VK45DE V8 with rear-wheel drive, each with a five-speed automatic transmission. Common service considerations include timing chain and tensioner wear on the V6, transmission fluid condition on the 5R05 automatic, front suspension component wear, and power steering leaks. The V8 can also develop increased oil consumption as it ages.