1990 Nissan Maxima

1990 Nissan Maxima

The 1990 Nissan Maxima was a mid-size sedan offered with two engine options: a 3.0-liter V6 rated at 160 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter VG30E V6 rated at 200 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The Maxima was praised for its stylish exterior, spacious interior, and powerful engine. However, it also had some notable issues.

Engine

3.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, coolant leaks, overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattle or ticking noise from engine, especially at idle or acceleration
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and tensioners
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L VG30E V6

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, loss of coolant, overheating
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from valve cover area
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping out of gear, shuddering or vibration
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from front suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery warning light on, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Hinge Pin Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or drooping doors, difficulty opening or closing doors
  • Solution: Replace door hinge pins
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in dashboard material, especially over center vent
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Nissan Maxima is a generally reliable vehicle, but it can experience a number of costly issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. The severity of these issues can vary, but they can certainly impact the vehicle’s performance and value.