1991 Nissan 240SX

Introduction

The 1991 Nissan 240SX is a compact, rear-wheel-drive sports car powered by a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter inline-four engine. It produces 140 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque, paired with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission. Known for its nimble handling, stylish design, and affordability, the 240SX has garnered a following among enthusiasts. However, like any vehicle, it has faced certain issues over the years.

Engine

KA24DE 2.4L Inline-Four with 5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Piston Ring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust, low compression
  • Solution: Replace piston rings, hone cylinder walls
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy engine, poor performance, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $750
  • Recalls: None Found

KA24DE 2.4L Inline-Four with 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Gear slippage, difficulty changing gears
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission:

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, clutch pedal feels spongy
  • Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shifter Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose shifter, difficulty finding gears
  • Solution: Replace shifter bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission:

• Transmission Slippage (See Engine)
• TCC Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shudder during acceleration, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace TCC solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises from front suspension, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery discharge, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $750
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Window Seal Leakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into trunk or cabin, fogged rear window
  • Solution: Replace rear window seal
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Clock Capacitor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inoperative clock
  • Solution: Replace clock capacitor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1991 Nissan 240SX generally has a good reliability record. However, like any car, it is prone to certain issues, especially with aging components. The most common issues include piston ring failure in the 2.4-liter engine, transmission slippage in the automatic transmission, and suspension component wear. These issues can range in severity and cost from minor repairs to major overhauls. It’s worth noting that maintenance, driving habits, and previous repairs can significantly impact the likelihood and severity of these issues.