S15
Nissan Silvia S15 import check
S15 is the factory model code for the Nissan Silvia S15, built for the Japanese market from 1999 to 2002. Every genuine car has a chassis (frame) number that starts with S15-. That number is the one thing that links its Japanese history to its UK records.
S15 at a glance
- Model code
- S15
- Make
- Nissan
- Model
- Silvia (S15)
- Body
- 2-door coupe
- Built
- 1999 to 2002
- Engine
- SR20DET (1998 cc turbo petrol) or SR20DE (1998 cc naturally aspirated petrol)
- Drivetrain
- RWD
- Japanese trims
- Spec-S, Spec-R, Autech
- Chassis number format
- S15-nnnnnn
From our own model library. UK records sometimes drop the hyphen or the leading zeros of the serial; our check allows for that.
Is it a genuine S15?
If you paste the advert into the free check, we compare its wording with the chassis code. An advert that says “Silvia S15” on a car whose chassis code isn’t S15 gets flagged.
Known problems to check on a S15
- Drift use is common: check for crash repairs and chassis damage
- SR20DET timing-chain tensioner rattle
- Rust in the rear arches
These are common issues for the model, not facts about any particular car. Ask the seller about each one.
Kilometres, miles and the first UK MOT
A S15 sold new in Japan has a speedometer in kilometres. When it is imported, the speedometer is either converted to miles or left in km, and the first UK MOT should record whichever the dial shows. Mistakes here are common, and they’re where mileage problems hide.
We put the Japanese auction mileage and every UK MOT reading on one timeline and check the crossing: whether the readings agree after converting, whether the km figure was written down as miles, and whether the first UK reading is lower than the car had already done in Japan. See an illustrative example.
Questions
What is the chassis code for the Nissan Silvia S15?
S15. A Japanese-market Nissan Silvia S15 has a frame number that starts with S15, then a hyphen and a serial number. You’ll find it on the V5C and on a plate in the engine bay.
Which years was the S15 built?
From 1999 to 2002, with the SR20DET (1998 cc turbo petrol) or SR20DE (1998 cc naturally aspirated petrol) engines and RWD layout.
What should I check when buying a S15?
Drift use is common: check for crash repairs and chassis damage. SR20DET timing-chain tensioner rattle. Rust in the rear arches. Also check that the Japanese auction mileage lines up with the first UK MOT, because km and miles are easily mixed up.