First Name: Not Known Last Name: Not Known Membership No: Not known
|
|
Smartphone uses, rotate the phone for a richer experience |
|
January & February 2024 Newsletter - Issue No 133 |
|
Figgy owner,
Happy New Year!
Welcome to our first Figgy newsletter of 2024! Here, you'll find a mix of stories from our members, supplier news, and helpful resources on owning a figgy. Our goal is to keep you informed and up-to-date on the latest figgy news and developments.
|
Let's kick off with last year's buzzword, AI (Artificial Intelligence). Creating images from words using AI.
The image here has been created by simply asking it to generate a Nissan Figaro celebrating the New Year! Facebook users may have seen countless examples of the technology in action and read more about what this amazing technology can do, it may blow your mind!
|
Isle of Man Launch Date - 1st February
For those of you who registered to attend this event next year, the website registration page will go live on the 1st of February 2024. We have over 100 notices of interest so to be fair to those who registered early we will be notifying them first to book the hotels so keep a look out for emails from us around that date and time.
|
15 years old
They say time flies when you're enjoying yourself and we cannot believe it will be 15 years since the club was launched on the 1st March 2009. Thanks for all your continued support over the years.
|
We need your stories/news/event ideas
The club is all about you the member so please get in touch. You may have an idea about an event, a story about your Figaro or where you are planning to go in it during 2024. We are all ears to please get in touch. Don't forget you can submit an event idea via our website for consideration.
|
|
Priced at £16 our 2 Year Insurance Valuation Certificates are highly recommended to protect your value
|
Our online platform allows you to buy and sell Figaro Cars, Parts & Accessories
|
Our Figaro Store contains over 20 designs and hundreds of gifts to keep any Figaro enthusiast happy
|
We have produced of 100 videos which will help you carry out ownership issues and repairs.
|
NEWSLETTER BACK
ISSUES
We have published over 100 Newsletters containing OWNERSHIP SUPPORT, MEMBERS STORIES...
|
|
A PERSONAL WELCOME FROM US BOTH |
|
We are thrilled to welcome you to our little car club, where we share a love for all things Figaro! Our club is run by Sue and myself, and we are here to assist you in any way we can. Although I may not know everything about cars, our club is blessed to have a community of helpful and friendly members who are always willing to lend a helping hand.
We encourage you to ask any questions you may have, as we are here to make your experience with us as enjoyable and educational as possible. Furthermore, we are always on the lookout for great stories and articles to share with our community. So, don't be shy, get in touch with us and share your love of your figgy with our members.
Kevin, Sue & Belle (Figaro)
|
|
MEET YOUR UK & COUNTRY CHAPTER COORDINATORS |
|
TEN UK CHAPTER COORDINATORS
We are thrilled to announce that we have expanded our team of coordinators to cover 10 regions across the UK! Our coordinators are all volunteers who represent our club locally and act as key points of contact for members in their area. We ask that you please support them in their roles and collaborate with them on meetings, events, and networking opportunities. Your contribution will help to strengthen our community and make a positive impact on the lives of our members. Let's give a warm welcome to our amazing coordinators!
CONTACT YOUR CHAPTER COORDINATOR
If you have an idea about an event or can offer help email your local coordinator by Click here
|
|
|
BRIAN CROCKETT
CHANNEL ISLANDS
|
|
|
CATHERINE HARDY
EAST & WEST MIDLANDS
|
|
VACANCY
NORTH EAST & YORKSHIRE
|
|
VACANCY
NORTH WEST ENGLAND
|
|
|
EIGHT WORLD CHAPTER COORDINATORS
We are pleased to introduce our Country Coordinators, who are 8 dedicated volunteers representing our club outside the UK. They will play a crucial role in organizing meetings, events, and networking opportunities. We request your support and cooperation in helping them fulfil their roles effectively. Please feel free to reach out to them with your ideas and suggestions. Together, let's make our club's presence felt across the globe.
CONTACT YOUR COUNTRY COORDINATOR
If you have an idea about an event or can offer to help email your country coordinator by Clicking here
|
|
|
|
|
JEAN-MICHEL DECROIX
FRANCE
|
|
|
|
PASCAL & JOYCE SNELL
HOLLAND
|
|
|
|
|
|
Events
Are you a Figgy owner who has never attended a get-together, event or rally before? We urge you to give it a try!
|
|
Why not get out in your Figaro and join the Figaro community? There are plenty of events and gatherings specifically for Figaro owners, many of which are free to attend. By attending these events, you can make new friends who have a shared love of the classic Figaro. So, go on, make this year the year you go out and meet more Figaro fans and expand your social circle |
|
Enjoy our latest You Videos
I've been busy with my Go-Pro again so enjoy watching my latest short videos
|
|
Storage – 10 Tips to Storing your Figaro |
|
|
|
Before we start discussing how to store your Figaro, it’s important to clarify what we mean by storing your car. Generally, experts recommend driving a car at least every two to three weeks. This ensures that all the mechanical and electrical components are kept functioning properly.
However, if you are using your Figaro less than that, you may be at risk of encountering problems.
We have shot a video below and in association with The Figaro Shop put together 10 tips to help you put your Figaro to bed!
Read all 10 tips and watch my video.
|
|
Seats - How to improve your seat comfort (for just £12) |
|
With over 9,000 views on YouTube, this is one of the most popular and must-view videos about the car.
As your Figaro was manufactured in 1991 the chances are your seats may not be offering the support you need. We had the same issue and having now investigated the problem it’s easy to see why. It’s simply the lack of foam used between your bottom and the supporting steel springs. This means you end up sitting much lower in the car than you should!
|
|
|
The Solution
If you remove the seats and place them upside down all is revealed. Under the supporting springs, there is moulded foam which due to its age is now heavily compressed offering very little in the way of comfort or support. There are several options here, you could replace the foam but we choose to leave this in place and simply insert additional foam as another layer, held in place by the springs.
Parts Required
We ordered a cut-off of 1,000mm x 500mm x 25mm seat foam from the internet for around £12 (will do both front seats). Be careful not to go too cheap as it needs to have good density and this is what makes it a bit more expensive. As an option, you can also insert a carpet tile to provide even more support.
It’s a simple job that only needs a few basic tools and is well worth the result!
|
|
|
|
Our YouTube Channel has received almost half a million views and features ownership help, past rallies and fun videos too. By subscribing you will not miss a thing!
|
|
|
|
General News
Read about members, services, new products and more...
|
|
Roof rubber seal - Coming soon
The Japanese manufacturer of discontinued rubber FANSITE has now re-manufactured the ‘no longer available’ Figaro top roof rubber seal. The product will be available through Didcot-based Figaro specialist The Figaro Shop very soon.
This is really exciting news as this item is one that causes owners a lot of issues especially when areas are deformed leading to water entering the cabin. Also, the complex rear moulding can become deformed causing water to enter the wet boot via the roof.
We will publish the pricing and how to buy on our website when we know more.
|
|
Heated Rear Window - New Product
Over time, the heated rear screen can begin to de-laminate and more commonly, the heated elements begin to fail reducing its ability to clear condensation from the rear screen. The glass is no longer available.
The Figaro Shop have re-manufactured this item to the same exacting standards as the original and has the same equivalent bronze tint making it a true direct replacement with all new modern heated elements to offer a very long service life for the future.
Fitted into the rear window frame available the all-new glass is simple to fit and allows for quick clearing of a misted rear window.
PRICE £180
|
|
Rubberised Cup Holder - New Product
The unit is made from a flexible rubber which is the same colour (ivory) and shaped to fit over the existing central console. It is virtually identical to an original, made of the same materials, using the same process to the same dimensions and once fitted it is almost impossible to tell the difference. Push fits in seconds.
This is a high-quality product. Highly recommended to provide much-needed additional storage space
PRICE £100 (Plus PP)
|
|
Polo Hub Caps - New Product
If your polos are looking a bit tired or even missing then we have some great news for you. These were discontinued by Nissan back in October 2021 but The Figaro Shop have now re-manufactured them.
The wheel trims can suffer damage over time due to their proximity to the road, salt and grime attack, brake dust and kerb marks causing the trims to crack and paint to fade.
PRICE £100 (2)– £190 (4)
|
|
Boot Light - New Product
The boot light was one of the 55 accessories sold when the car was manufactured back in 1991. The item is long longer available from Nissan but has now been re-manufactured by member Nic Caraccio and is complete with a handy switch so you can turn it on and off at your convenience. It's an ideal addition for those dark evenings when you are trying to see what's in the upper boat.
The light comes complete with a mounting kit and fitting instructions.
PRICE £75.00 (Plus PP)
|
|
Under Bonnet Engine Information Stickers - New Product
If you look under your bonnet you may see three white faded panels. These were important information stickers about the maintenance of the engine, emission figures and recommended fluids that have faded over time. Dutch Member Rob Janssen has reproduced these three stickers onto a single sheet. Rob had a very low mileage Figaro on where the existing stickers are in good original condition, which is very rare since they are mostly totally faded.
PRICE: 25 Euros
|
|
Prototype Pictures
You may be particularly interested in the early concept design of the Figaro. We have published some wonderful pictures that demonstrate how the early design was spot-on and very little changed when the car went into full production.
This is truly remarkable, and it’s a testament to the designers of the car that their original concept remains so recognisable today. It’s a great example of how the original design can be so timeless and classic.
We have some wonderful pictures of the very first ‘concept car’ built around 1998 and used to promote the Figaro in the 28th Tokyo Motor Show – 26th Oct – 6th Nov 1989 – 1st Launch of Figaro to public. Read more
|
|
Member translates 125 pages into English!
As most of you know by now, the Figaro was only ever meant to be driven in Japan which means that all the owner and service documentation has only been produced in one language, Japanese.
This is a real issue when you are trying to diagnose issues with the car and many use language-changing software on their smartphones as a way of establishing what the pages are saying. Nissan produced several service manuals such as the 125-page Engine Fuel & Emission Control Systems PDF.
At the club, we are blessed to have super-helpful members and one such member has gone out of his way to help us all in translating this complete PDF into English. That includes all the text and diagrams across numerous pages. We all gain from these actions because it means we have supporting manuals to help us keep our cute little cars running sweet as a nut.
PDF MANUALS
This manual along with extensive and comprehensive documentation such as Automatic Transmission, Accelerator Control, Fuel and exhaust, Body, Brake System Electrical System, Engine Lubrication and cooling Systems, Engine Fuel and emission Control Systems (Translated to English), Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel and emission Control Systems, Front Axle and Front Suspension, General Information, Heater, Air Conditioning, Maintenance, Rear Axle & Rear Suspension, Service Data and Steering System is available on our club's forum.
|
|
Nissan Figaro Children’s Book – Let’s go for a drive
This 24-page hardback colour book is a must-have for any Figaro fan. It documents a family with two children and a dog’s journey in a Nissan Figaro around some beautiful countryside. Some of the pages fold out and have been specially cut to create a 3D effect to make it all the more enjoyable. Every Figaro enthusiast should add this book to their collection! It is sure to bring delight and excitement to readers of all ages.
How to order
We have found a like via Amazon Prices at £23.18
We Googled the author and the ISBN Number and found this link to buy, You may need to use a translation app and with the camera on your smartphone find your way around to order.
Try an internet search
If this is too difficult then you may have to sleep searching using the name of the book, the author Naokata Mase and try the Naokata Mase. Good luck
Translate to English
Japanese member Yuki Saga kindly sent us a copy along with translated notes on each page. You too could do the same by using any online translation app on your smartphone
|
|
Updated Lubricants & Fluids Information
We have updated our extensive page on lubricants and fluids. One particular fluid which needs attention is the Radiator Coolant.
To check the level look at the small expansion tank which is located on the left of the radiator. it should be between the “MAX” and “MIN” levels on the tank. The coolant capacity is 4 Litres. Only open the radiator cap when there is no coolant in the reservoir tank and need to refill the water coolant into the radiator. To avoid being scalded, never fill the radiator when the engine is hot/warm.
Antifreeze based on mineral inhibitors – IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology) is recommended. These are designed for year-round use in any modern cooling systems containing copper, brass and aluminium components for which the use of an ethylene-glycol-based antifreeze is recommended.
|
|
Under no circumstances should not use anything with OAT ORGANIC ADDITIVE TECHNOLOGY or NAP Nitrates, Amines, Phosphates |
|
|
|
Ready Mixed
We recommend using a pre-mixed coolant. The reason is if you use tap water it can contain minerals and hardness which can cause a build-up within the system. Distilled and de-ionised water have their issues too.
Coolant Colour
As there is no industry standard, you should never just go by the colour, please always read the label.
|
|
Figaro Lego Set - New Product
Bring out the kid in you by building this Lego Figaro! This kit has been put together by owner Daniel Aires and contains 430 pieces to make a beautiful, detailed model. While it may be challenging to assemble, the end result is worth it. This model is perfect for any Lego or Figaro enthusiast and is a great way to bring out your inner child. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with friends or family. So grab your kit and start building!
Supplied in a kit set
The kit set has just over 430 pieces, available in one colour “sand blue” and is supplied in a customised box. All pieces are bagged and separated according to 10 different modules, instructions to build the set are also included on a CD so that they can be easily revisited at any time:)
Dimensions
16 cm long x 7 cm wide x 6cm high
Price
£165.00 (including UK Delivery which will be sent by registered mail and tracked with Royal Mail. Overseas pricing, please email me below.
|
|
Wheel changing torque and order - New Page
We have published a new page of information about the wheel's torque settings and order of tightening. The car has an emergency tyre located in the lower boot/trunk. To change the wheel you will need to loosen the clamp locking the tyre down and removing the tyre. Make sure it has good pressure before you fit. If you have a way of measuring the pressure it should be 4.2kg/cm2.
Setting the jack
- Park the car on flat ground
- Apply the hand brake and place the gear lever in P.
- Loosen the bolts on the flat tyre.
- Using the spanner supplied remove the hub cap
- Loosen each bolt but do not undo more than one rotation!
Jacking Points
The car has two jacking points which can be identified by a half-circle cut away below the front and back of the door. Insert the jack and turn the flange by hand until it reaches the cut-away area. Now connect the jack handle to the flange and turn it until the wheel rises above the ground. Loosen the bolts on the flat tyre. Remove the wheel and insert the emergency wheel.
Tightening order and torque
Follow the picture below to make sure you tighten the bolts in the correct order and torque.
|
|
The (AI) Image That Makes Us Smile!!
We love to share special pictures of our lovely cars...
|
|
As we mentioned in the intro, AI can be so much fun and it's all completely free. The above images were generated in minutes using Microsoft Bing Image Creator. All we had to do to create these images was login, enter the text we used above Create a Nissan Figaro swimming underwater and the platform churned away for a few seconds until four images were created of that type.
TRY IT YOURSELF AND SHARE ON FACEBOOK
- Search > https://www.bing.com/images/create
- Log in or create an account
- Go to the top of the page and click on Image Creator from Designer
- Now enter some chosen words into the box
THANKS TO ADAM WOODS
We confess that we first saw this imagery being used on a Facebook page called Findingafigaro, Click here > https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554782546390 and it might not surprise you to know that Adam Woods, the guy behind Figaro Smiles has recently launched this site and there is some truly wonderful Figgy related artwork to enjoy. |
|
Figaro owner beats ULEZ
London-based member Zac found a novel way to keep driving his car without paying the £12.50 daily fee.
|
|
Words and Picture by Zac Toumazi |
I am sure I am one of many people who live or need to travel through the ULEZ zone. Until the recent expansion I lived outside of the Zone, I now live on two roads within the perimeter, which is irritating, to say the least. My son generously gave me my Figaro as an amazing Birthday present 18 months ago and it has brought lots of joy into my life, along with the odd frustration when I need to figure out the latest issue – it all adds to the fun of course!
My Figaro is my second car and I tend to only drive it locally and mostly in fine weather. I won’t get into the politics or benefits of ULEZ, others better qualified can do that. I am faced with what to do next now that the expansion is up and running. So what are my options?
|
|
|
1. Modify the car - Not possible or cost-effective as far as I can deduce
2. Move home - Hardly practical
3. Sell or scrap the car - No way
4. Pay the charge and accept the situation. This means that every time my car leaves the drive I pay £12.00, not an enormous amount of money some would say but the cost would soon stack up
5. Change the way I use my Fig.
I have decided to go for option 5. Once I have prepared my car for the winter season. I will transfer it to my son's house which is outside of
the zone and when I decide to have a nice trip out
|
|
around our local countryside. I will drive over to my son who is 15 minutes away and venture out from there.
The other benefit apart from not paying the charge is that my son can also enjoy the car as and when he wants. This is hardly a genius option and could well be short-term until one of the other options (not option 3) becomes available to me.
In the meantime, I plan to make one toll payment to cover moving my car and that will be it. Winter well and see you in the spring – outside of the ULEZ zone of course!
|
|
SAVE MONEY - USE YOUR DISCOUNT CODES! |
Remember, as a club member you have access to lots of DISCOUNT CODES across a range of Figaro products and services. Click the link below and enter FOCMDC
|
|
|
Nissan Logos over the years
Although understated on the Figaro, we thought it would be fun to look back over the years on the Logo used by Nissan
|
|
Information sourced from the internet
Although the Figaro doesn't shout about its manufacturing heritage, we thought it might interest owners to learn more about the logo. As you can see from the picture on the right, the logo used on the car is outlined in orange. It is probably the most understated of the lot. This logo is used throughout the car's documentation. Sometimes coupled with what they called the "rising sun" the circle they use now.
The history of the Nissan logo features several variations of the Nissan emblem, all of which feature the shortened name of the brand “Nissan”.
Though the organisation has experimented with a range of styles and designs over the years, the current Nissan logo is a modern, attractive image featuring the “Nissan” title written in all-capital sans serif font, and a circular badge.
There are two versions of the Nissan logo currently in circulation. One is the badge you’re likely to see on the Nissan cars from 2020 and before, with a full chrome circle and a thick silver bar showcasing the “Nissan” word.
The new Nissan design replaces the thick silver badge with a simple black outline. In this version of the logo, the circle is separated into two halves by the wordmark in the centre. Both versions of the logo aim to demonstrate modernity, creativity, and inclusivity.
|
|
Our son Daniel had always wanted a Figaro having seen the car at his local garage when he was just 16. After saving for several years (plus a small contribution from his mum and dad!) he, at last, brought an emerald green model in May 2008 and named it "Figgy".
Following the purchase, Sue and I searched the internet for a club in the hope we could attend events and meet other owners. We were amazed that at that time no club existed so we thought, well why not and within a few days the Figaro Owners Club was born!
|
|
This is a picture of Daniel taken when he was just 19 back in 2008 with Figgy |
|
"We decided to build a basic website and forum which took a few months and on the 1st March 2009, pressed the publish button and waited to see if anyone wanted to join. Within a week we had 10 members, a month 35 and a year 478!" |
|
|
|
Today the club has around 1,200 members worldwide in countries including New Zealand, Japan, Australia, USA, Canada, Germany, Spain, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden and many more.
Kevin & Sue Fagan
Figaro Owners Club
|
|
|
|
58 Earl Howe Road, Holmer Green,
High Wycombe, Bucks, HP15 6QT
United Kingdom
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
