1990 Nissan D21

1990 Nissan D21

The 1990 Nissan D21 was a compact pickup truck available with several engine and transmission options. The standard engine was a 2.4L inline-four producing 106 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. A 3.0L V6 producing 140 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque was also available, along with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The D21 was popular for its affordable price, rugged construction, and versatility. Owners praised its off-road capabilities and spacious interior. However, it was also criticized for its lack of refinement, underpowered engines, and poor fuel economy.

Engine

2.4L Inline-Four

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure:
  • Symptoms: Engine stalling, hard starting, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace crankshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, engine knocking
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idling, vacuum leaks
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Gear Grinding:
  • Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace worn gears or synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Symptoms: Difficulty accelerating, delayed gear shifts
  • Solution: Overhaul transmission or replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure:
  • Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises, loose steering
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging:
  • Symptoms: Reduced ride height, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Symptoms: Dimming lights, weak battery, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Symptoms: Engine fails to start, clicking noises
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, frame, and exhaust system
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Symptoms: Headlights not turning on or staying on
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Symptoms: Cracks on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard or use a dashboard cover
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Foam Deterioration:
  • Symptoms: Sagging or torn seat cushions
  • Solution: Replace seat foam or cushions
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Nissan D21 was a reliable and affordable pickup truck, but it was not without its problems. The most common issues reported by owners include engine sensor failures, transmission slipping, suspension issues, and electrical problems. While some of these issues can be minor and inexpensive to fix, others could be more severe and costly. It is important to factor these potential issues into consideration when purchasing a used D21.