1990 Nissan Tsuru

Introduction The 1990 Nissan Tsuru is a compact sedan known for its reliability and affordability. It was available with a single engine option mated to either a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission. Engine options include:

• 1.6L GA16DE 4-cylinder
  • 110 horsepower
  • 136 lb-ft of torque

People like the Tsuru for its low operating costs, spacious interior, and decent fuel economy. However, it has been criticized for its lack of features and less-than-stellar handling.

Engine

• 1.6L GA16DE 4-cylinder
  • Oil leaks from oil pan gasket: Leaks oil from the gasket between the oil pan and engine block.
    • Solution: Replace oil pan gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • Intake manifold gasket leak: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold gasket.
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Valve cover gasket leak: Oil leaks from the gasket between the valve cover and cylinder head.
    • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Transmission

• 4-speed manual:
  • Grinding gears: Gears grind when shifting, especially when shifting into 2nd or 3rd gear.
    • Solution: Replace synchronizers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Slipping gears: Gears slip out of place while driving.
    • Solution: Replace transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
• 3-speed automatic:
  • No issues found.

Suspension

• Front struts:
  • Strut mount bearing failure: Makes a clunking noise when turning or going over bumps.
    • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Rear shocks:
  • No issues found.

Electrical

• Alternator:
  • Alternator failure: Battery does not charge properly or the alternator makes a whining noise.
    • Solution: Replace alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Battery:
  • Battery drains quickly: Battery loses charge quickly or does not hold a charge.
    • Solution: Replace battery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Exterior

• Body panels:
  • Rust: Rust forms on body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.
    • Solution: Repair or replace body panels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Headlights:
  • Headlight switch failure: Headlights do not turn on or flicker.
    • Solution: Replace headlight switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Interior

• Dashboard:
  • Cracked dashboard: Dashboard cracks over time.
    • Solution: Replace dashboard.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Seats:
  • Seat upholstery wears prematurely: Seat fabric wears and tears easily.
    • Solution: Replace seat upholstery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Summary The 1990 Nissan Tsuru is a generally reliable car with low operating costs. However, it can experience some common issues, including oil leaks, transmission problems, suspension issues, electrical problems, and body panel rust. The severity of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem, but overall the cost of repairs is typically affordable.