Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1979 Nissan 510 — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
ON SOME OF THE INVOLVED SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES, BINDING IN THE RETRACTOR MECHANISM MAY PREVENT THE BELT FROM BEING WITHDRAWN FROM THE RETRACTOR. THIS WOULD RENDER THE SEAT BELT UNUSABLE.
Remedy
DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1979 Nissan 510. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.