Ownership and Maintenance

As a club, we focus heavily on helping our members maintain their cars. Below are helpful links to enable you to do much of the work yourself and find suppliers to assist you. For further information see Video Tutorials & Forum

The following articles are listed in an A-Z order to help navigate you to the correct page.


Colour - How to find the original body, trim and cabin colour

As the Figaro was manufactured back in 1991 over the years you may find the car has been resprayed (sometimes twice). If you are buying a Figaro it’s important to find out as much as you can about the history and if any restoration work has been carried out on… Read More
Published on 12th February 2020

Covers - External and Internal Figaro Car Covers

The club works with two companies that specialise in custom-made Figaro car covers. CAR COVERS LTD – DISCOUNT AVAILABLE ON THIS RANGE For use externally. UK’s largest range of fully tailored, waterproof, breathable indoor and outdoor car covers. The company manufactures a car cover that fits the Figaro. This… Read More
Published on 27th July 2023

Covers - External Bubble cover for your Figaro

Protect your Figaro in style with our weatherproof outdoor car cover storage solutions. The Outdoor Car Shield is manufactured by In The Garage sets up in minutes and guarantees nothing touches your car. Continuously filtered airflow reduces condensation keeping your vehicle dryer, safe and clean. UV, fire, cold and heat… Read More
Published on 21st August 2023

Dashboard - End Bracket Support Repair

Words and pictures by club member Having noticed that the right-hand side dashboard plastic mounting bracket had started to crumble around the mounting holes, I decided to have a go at repairing it with something more permanent. Note, that I am not a fabricator, or a paint sprayer so please… Read More
Published on 5th June 2024

Dashboard - how to repaint the fascia

The Figaro Dashboard can become dull and dirty, especially around the glove box. There is a solution, however as it can be repainted. The process involves the removal of the complete dash, instruments, gauges and controls. They need to be thoroughly cleaned, we use a soda solution. After they have… Read More

Dashboard - Renovation

The Figaro dash top can suffer from cracking especially if the car has been left outside for much of its life. The reason this happens is the material used reacts over time to heat and UV rays causing it to expand then crack. Depending on where the crack appears this… Read More
Published on 26th January 2021

Door card - Changing securing screws to Stainless Steel

The upgrade was carried out by member Sue Worthington’s Husband Chris. He decided to replace the existing plastic screws that hold the door card in and change them to stronger and better stainless steel ones. Anyone who has removed the existing screws and tried to use them again will know… Read More
Published on 5th October 2023

Door Card - How to remove this to access the window and speakers

Words and Pictures Simon Smith. There are a number of reasons you may need to get into the inner door workings. Typically these can be to lubricate the lock mechanism, replace speakers or find the 4/5 digit lock number. REMOVAL 1. Wind down the window as it is… Read More
Published on 19th August 2021

Door Card Removal Video

If you have to replace the speaker or window motor you will need to remove the internal door card. This video takes you through all the screws which you need to remove and how to slide the card out. This video is published under license provided by The Figaro Shop… Read More
Published on 9th March 2022

Door Chrome Window Rubber Edging Replacement Video

As our Figaros gracefully age into their mid-30s, certain areas, particularly the rubber edging, can show signs of wear. The degradation of rubber and the drying out of the original glue can lead to unsightly detachment, often resulting in repairs that don’t always look great. For those of us striving… Read More
Published on 5th March 2025

Door Handles - Re-chroming Service

For those owners looking to create a Category I or 2 status for their Nissan Figaro, then the re-chroming of the chrome parts is a requirement. This video takes you through how to remove the handles, prepare them to be chromed and re-installed. Once removed you can send off your… Read More
Published on 23rd August 2024

Door Striker Plate Fitting Video

Over time the plastic buffer can wear out which causes problems when closing the door. Club founder Kevin Fagan takes you through removing the existing plates and fitting the new ones. Once fitted the door closes and opens much more smoothly. NOTE. SINCE SHOOTING THE VIDEO I HAVE BEEN ADVISED… Read More
Published on 9th December 2022

Driving - Preparations for Winter Driving in a Nissan Figaro

Let’s be honest, the Figaro is in its element on those sun-drenched roof-down days. But blessed with fantastic heating, the car can still be great fun to drive on those cold clear winter days, and for the brave, with the roof down and bobble hats on!  … Read More
Published on 27th November 2022

Driving Regulations - New UK Sticker Rules For Driving In Europe

As of September 28th 2021, British motorists driving their home registered Figaro in Europe must use the new ‘UK’ sticker on the rear of the car. In the past, you would attach a GB sticker but the term ‘Great Britain’ refers to England, Scotland and Wales. While the term ‘United… Read More
Published on 14th October 2021

Electric - Nissan Figaro Electric Conversions

Today, everyone seems to be talking about electric vehicles, and many Figaro owners are obviously wondering if it’s possible to convert the car to electric. The desire to travel in silence, produce zero emissions, and save money on fuel is becoming increasingly viable as battery… Read More
Published on 15th October 2025

Engine - 12 Reasons Your Figaro May Overheat

Here we explore the reasons why the the needle in the temperature gauge of your Figaro has risen to the H area of the gauge. If this happens you must bring the car to a safe stop, and turn the engine off. Lift the bonnet and carefully examine the engine,… Read More
Published on 16th October 2024

Engine - Air Filter

This little upgrade can be fitted in 5 minutes and may even improve your MPG and performance! If you enjoy tinkering with your Figaro and don’t mind delving under the bonnet then read on. Chances are the air filter fitted in your Figaro is a paper type which is perfectly… Read More
Published on 5th May 2019

Engine - Cambelt (Timing Belt) Change

The Cambelt is designed to keep the bottom half of the engine (pistons and crankcase) in sync with the top half (valves and cylinder head). It is one of the most important and essential parts of the engine and if it breaks or even slips the car can… Read More
Published on 19th December 2021

Engine - Checking & topping up Gear Box Oil Video

Prevention is cheaper than the cure and this is especially true when it comes to Figgy gearboxes. It’s important that there is always enough oil in the gearbox as this can help to prolong its life, as well as making a gear change feel smoother. Our 2-minute video will teach… Read More

Engine - Cost of reconditioned engine

The Nissan Figaro MA10ET 1.0L Turbo is a brilliant bullet-proof engine and if well maintained will provide years of good service. We know of some cars which have over 200,000 kms on the clock! However, at some point getting a Reconditioned Engine may be the only option if it undergoes… Read More
Published on 28th October 2024

Engine - Drive Shaft / Axle Left & Right Rebuilt

The Nissan Figaro’s automatic gearbox transmits its power through the driveshafts to the wheel hubs. Over time and due to wear and tear, the drive shafts can corrode, joints can break down and start making noises, boots can split due to dry rot/impact with road debris, vibrations can occur from… Read More
Published on 31st October 2024

Engine - Engine Bay Identification

We have created a useful picture identifying all the key parts. Items in BLACK require regular attention. Items in ORANGE are just for identification. Read More
Published on 9th October 2020

Engine - Engine Idle Speed (IAA Unit) Blanking Grommets

We know how much money a Figaro repair can usually cost but not this time! These little grommets seal the adjustment holes (normally empty) in the IAA unit located in the engine bay. The grommets stop dirt getting into the threads of the adjuster screws also acts… Read More
Published on 2nd June 2020

Engine - Hose Kit Silicone Coolant Upgrade

Engine overheating caused by old or faulty coolant hoses can lead to a very expensive repair bill!  These can provide a brand new Coolant Silicone Hose Kit. This includes all 9 hoses as pictured needed for the Figaro and new Stainless steel clips to replace the in-efficient standard Nissan clips. Read More

Engine - How to add Anti Freeze & check your Tyres Video

This 2 Minute Video shows you exactly how to check the antifreeze levels and your other winter checks in addition to tyre checks for tread and perishing. Note: This Video is published under license provided by The Figaro Shop   Watch more of our YouTube Ownership Help Guides… Read More

Engine - How To Replace The HT Leads On A Nissan Figaro Video

The Ignition Leads or HT Leads are one of the most common items that tend to go wrong on a Figgy. The symptoms include bad running and misfires and very often simply replacing these leads will cure these problems. Note: This Video is published under license provided by The Figaro… Read More

Engine - Ignition Lead Sets

Nic Caraccio from the Figaro Doctor have launched a brand new range of custom colour ignition leads for the Nissan Figaro. The lead set of 8mm performance silicone leads are made to order and hand crafted. Priced at £39.95 a set and available in Black or a… Read More
Published on 17th October 2020

Engine - Piston Replacements

Press Release by The Figaro Shop – 15th October 2021 Our new and exclusive Figaro pistons allow for ultimate engine reliability for many years to come and are now available in our online shop.  We wanted to share some background details on them with you. What’s unique about the Nissan… Read More
Published on 15th October 2021

Engine - Rocker Shaft Re-Tension Kit

This kit is to re-tighten the rocker shaft on the engine. The kit is sold by The Figaro Shop who claim that if not done the shaft can lift causing damage to the head / top of the engine or even a snapped rocker shaft. For a simple job to do… Read More
Published on 31st January 2017

Engine - Rocker Shaft Repair and Set Up

Our latest page of useful information delves into the intricate workings of the Figaro engine rocker shaft, specifically focusing on the consequences of its cracking and snapping. In this article, we provide a comprehensive explanation of the vulnerable areas that are prone to failure when the shaft cracks, as well… Read More
Published on 18th August 2023

Engine - Service Kit

The club works with Autolink UK who have put together a Figaro Service Kit. This consists of service parts which are perfect if you wish to have a go and do your own servicing. The kit contains Sump Plug Washer (the proper Nissan type), Oil, Air & Fuel Filters (quality,… Read More
Published on 19th August 2012

Engine - Spark plug replacement

Words & Pictures – Toby Brooks The Figaro Shop Although spark plugs may seem like a minor thing, you screw them in, you screw them out. The Figaro does have some quirks and over the years we have come up with a few tricks for making the job easier. Being… Read More
Published on 9th February 2022

Engine - Turbo Silicone Hose

According to the supplier, this is a Silicone replacement hose kit, which far exceeds the quality of the original genuine Nissan parts, will help eliminate any boost leaks and on top of that improve the looks of your engine. Leaking boost pressure causes noise, low power, bad running and eventually… Read More
Published on 8th October 2017

Engine - Two Little Black Dots And Why They Are Important!

Have you ever noticed two little black dots in your Figaro? They may seem small, but they are crucial in ensuring your beloved figgy runs smoothly. If you’re unfamiliar with their significance or where to find them, you’re in for a treat! We’ve created an informative video that uncovers the… Read More
Published on 15th October 2024

Engine – Engine Idle Speed (IAA Unit) Set Up

You may find that your Figaro is idling too slow or fast. Engine idle setting should be set at around 850rpm. WHAT THE IAA (IDLE, AIR, ADJUST) UNIT DO? The unit which is mounted to the engine allows you to set up Idle, Electrical (headlights, indicators) and AC Loading. Read More
Published on 14th October 2022

Engine Bay Heat Shield

The Figaro is equipped with a turbocharger, allowing the engine to produce more power, torque, acceleration and fuel economy from the 987cc power plant. The turbocharger works by using spent exhaust gas to spin a turbine, which in turn forces air into the engine to produce power. The front-mounted turbocharger… Read More
Published on 10th June 2025

Engine Number - How to find your Nissan Figaro Engine Number Video

Some countries require the 10 DIGIT Engine number when importing the car. Club founder Kevin explains where the number is located and how to find it within the engine bay. Using a light (recommended) to enhance the numbers and also a small extendable mirror Kevin locates the number which starts… Read More
Published on 23rd May 2021