1991 Nissan Hikari

Introduction:

The 1991 Nissan Hikari (also known as the Maxima) was a popular mid-size sedan offered with multiple engine and transmission options. It was praised for its comfortable interior, responsive handling, and powerful engines. However, some owners have reported various issues with the vehicle over the years.

Engine

• VG30E V6 (190 hp, 187 lb-ft torque)
  • Head gasket failure: Blown head gasket resulting in coolant and oil mixing, overheating, and reduced engine performance. Fix: Head gasket replacement. Cost: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Timing belt failure: Broken or slipped timing belt causing catastrophic engine damage. Fix: Timing belt replacement. Cost: $500 - $800+
  • Valve cover gasket leak: Leaking valve cover gasket allows oil to escape. Fix: Valve cover gasket replacement. Cost: $200 - $400+
• VE30DE V6 (160 hp, 180 lb-ft torque)
  • Intake manifold gasket leak: Leaking intake manifold gasket causes vacuum leaks, reduced engine performance, and fuel mileage. Fix: Intake manifold gasket replacement. Cost: $300 - $600+
  • Catalytic converter failure: Clogged or damaged catalytic converter causing reduced engine performance and possible engine damage. Fix: Catalytic converter replacement. Cost: $500 - $1,000+
  • Power steering pump failure: Leaking or malfunctioning power steering pump causing heavy steering. Fix: Power steering pump replacement. Cost: $400 - $700+

Transmission

• CD4E 4-speed automatic
  • Transmission slipping: Loss of power or shuddering while driving. Fix: Transmission overhaul or replacement. Cost: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Torque converter failure: Malfunctioning torque converter causing slippage, shuddering, or overheating. Fix: Torque converter replacement. Cost: $800 - $1,200+
  • Shift solenoid failure: Faulty shift solenoid preventing smooth shifting. Fix: Shift solenoid replacement. Cost: $200 - $400+
• KA24E 5-speed manual
  • Clutch failure: Worn or damaged clutch slipping or chattering. Fix: Clutch replacement. Cost: $400 - $700+
  • Transmission noise: Noisy or grinding transmission indicating bearing or gear damage. Fix: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Cost: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Shifter linkage failure: Broken or loose shifter linkage causing difficulty shifting gears. Fix: Shifter linkage repair or replacement. Cost: $100 - $300+

Suspension

• Front struts: Leaking or worn front struts causing a rough ride and reduced handling. Fix: Strut replacement. Cost: $500 - $800+ (pair)
• Rear shocks: Worn or damaged rear shocks affecting ride quality and handling. Fix: Shock replacement. Cost: $200 - $400+ (pair)
• Control arm bushings: Worn or torn control arm bushings causing excessive vibration and noise. Fix: Control arm bushing replacement. Cost: $100 - $200+ (per arm)

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Malfunctioning alternator resulting in insufficient electrical power supply. Fix: Alternator replacement. Cost: $300 - $600+
• Starter failure: Worn or damaged starter motor causing difficulty starting the engine. Fix: Starter replacement. Cost: $200 - $400+
• Battery: Dead or weak battery affecting starting and electrical systems. Fix: Battery replacement. Cost: $100 - $200+

Exterior

• Sunroof seal: Leaking sunroof seal causing water damage to the interior. Fix: Sunroof seal replacement. Cost: $200 - $400+
• Door lock actuators: Malfunctioning door lock actuators causing difficulty locking or unlocking doors. Fix: Door lock actuator replacement. Cost: $100 - $200+ per door
• Power window motors: Failed power window motors preventing window operation. Fix: Power window motor replacement. Cost: $200 - $400+ per window

Interior

• Dashboard cracks: Cracking dashboard due to exposure to sunlight or heat. Fix: Dashboard replacement. Cost: $500 - $800+
• Climate control malfunction: Faulty climate control system causing temperature or fan issues. Fix: Climate control unit replacement. Cost: $300 - $600+
• Air conditioning compressor failure: Leaking or seized air conditioning compressor affecting cooling performance. Fix: Compressor replacement. Cost: $800 - $1,200+

Summary:

The 1991 Nissan Hikari is a reliable vehicle with good overall performance and features. However, some common issues include head gasket failure, intake manifold gasket leaks, and transmission problems. While repairs can be costly, many issues can be prevented through regular maintenance and timely repairs.