Datsun Bluebird (610/710/910)

Bluebirds of the 160B/180B/200B era were built with thin steel and modest corrosion protection, and UK cars spent decades on salted roads. The most expensive rot hides beneath vinyl roof coverings and around the front and rear turret edges, while sills, rear quarters and floor pans rot from the inside out. Once rust reaches the roof pillars or floor structure the car is often economically irreparable, so a hoist-level inspection is essential.

The L-series overhead-cam four-cylinders are durable but timing chains, camshafts and valve trains wear with high mileage. A rattle from the front or top of the engine at cold start that persists after warm-up indicates a stretched chain or worn camshaft and valve-train components; left unattended it affects ignition timing, performance and can become an expensive rebuild.

The 160B, 180B and 200B Bluebirds use a recirculating-ball steering box with an idler arm on the far side of the car. After 40-plus years the box worm and sector, idler-arm bushings and rod ends all wear, producing a dead spot straight ahead, wandering on motorways and a knock over potholes and speed cushions. MOT data for surviving UK Bluebirds shows steering is the second-largest fault category at 17% of faults, with idler bushes and steering dust covers among the most common advisories. Tightening the box adjuster only masks wear; worn idler bushes need replacement and a tired box needs reconditioning or replacement.