Thinking about buying a used Datsun B110 in New Zealand? We've documented 5 known faults for this model spanning engine. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated major. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
5
Documented faults
Major
Most serious
$315–$630
Typical repair
1
Systems covered
Known Datsun B110 faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
01B110 / B210 Floor Pan and Sill Rust
MajorCommonEngine $1,260–$2,520 to fix
Floor pan perforation and structural sill corrosion are the most common reasons B110 and B210 vehicles fail WOF in NZ. Mud traps behind inner sill liners and around the rear suspension spring hanger points allow rust to penetrate the load-bearing structure. Lightweight panel steel used in 1970s Datsun construction corrodes through quickly once surface protection fails. Any purchase of these vehicles requires a full undercar inspection with a screwdriver probe for structural integrity.
Symptoms to notice
Evidence of engine wear or deterioration
Warning light or abnormal behaviour noted during operation
What to check
Check for oil leaks around valve covers, sump and gaskets. Inspect coolant condition and level. Listen for timing chain noise on cold start. Floor pan perforation and structural sill corrosion are the most common reasons ...
Ask the seller
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02A-Series Rocker Cover and Rear Main Seal Oil Leak
MinorCommonEngine $112–$224 to fix
Hardened cork and rubber gaskets on the rocker cover allow oil to seep onto the exhaust manifold, producing a burning smell at operating temperature. The rear crankshaft oil seal also weeps on many examples, dripping oil onto the clutch bellhousing. Neither leak is immediately mechanical-failure critical but both contaminate surrounding components and create fire risk on the exhaust. Cork gaskets should be replaced with modern nitrile equivalents.
Symptoms to notice
Oil leaks visible beneath engine
Fault codes or irregular readings when scanned
What to check
Check for oil leaks around valve covers, sump and gaskets. Inspect coolant condition and level. Listen for timing chain noise on cold start. Hardened cork and rubber gaskets on the rocker cover allow oil to seep onto the ...
Ask the seller
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EngineMajor
EngineMajor
EngineMajor
3 more documented faults on the Datsun B110
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 5 documented faults for the Datsun B110, the recurring problem areas are engine. A Datsun B110 with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Datsun B110?
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We've catalogued 5 known faults for the Datsun B110, covering engine. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Datsun B110?
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Most single repairs on the Datsun B110 fall between $315–$630 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 5 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Datsun B110?
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Yes. A Datsun B110 inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.