1990 Nissan Ichi Van

Introduction

The 1990 Nissan Ichi Van was a popular compact van known for its spacious interior, efficient fuel consumption, and affordable price. It was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:

• 1.6L SOHC Engine (90 hp, 105 lb-ft torque)
• 2.0L SOHC Engine (110 hp, 125 lb-ft torque)
• 4-speed Manual Transmission
• 5-speed Manual Transmission
• 3-speed Automatic Transmission

Owners praise the Ichi Van for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs. Some common complaints include limited power with the smaller engine options and a somewhat cramped driving position.

Engine

1.6L SOHC Engine

• Cam Phaser Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, loss of power, rough idling, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace cam phaser
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil pressure warning light, rattling noises, engine damage
  • Solution: Replace oil pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L SOHC Engine

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattle noise on startup, engine timing issues, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro Damage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-speed Manual Transmission

• Input Shaft Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise when driving, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace input shaft bearing
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

3-speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, slipping gears, overheating
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Control Module Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission refuses to engage
  • Solution: Replace TCM
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, poor handling, premature tire wear
  • Solution: Replace front shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, poor handling, instability
  • Solution: Replace rear leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, charging issues
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, grinding noise
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Formation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, especially around wheel wells and rocker panels
  • Solution: Rust prevention and repair
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Panel Detachment:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door panels come loose, rattling noises
  • Solution: Reattach door panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cruise Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control not engaging or holding speed
  • Solution: Check and repair wiring, replace cruise control module if necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• AC Compressor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: AC not blowing cold air
  • Solution: Replace AC compressor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1990 Nissan Ichi Van is a reliable and affordable vehicle with a few common issues. Some of the more severe and costly issues include head gasket failure and transmission problems. However, most of the other issues are relatively minor and can be resolved at a reasonable price. Rust prevention is essential to extend the van’s lifespan in areas prone to corrosion.