1991 Nissan Stanza

1991 Nissan Stanza

The 1991 Nissan Stanza was a compact sedan that offered a combination of practicality and affordability. It was available with two engine options: a 1.6-liter inline-four with 106 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter inline-four with 130 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, while a 4-speed automatic transmission was available as an option.

Owners of the 1991 Nissan Stanza generally praised its reliable performance, spacious interior, and affordable price. However, some common issues have been reported, which we will detail below.

Engine

• 1.6-liter Engine
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, reduced engine performance
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
• 2.0-liter Engine
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch pedal feels spongy, difficulty shifting gears
    • Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Shift Solenoid Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or not shifting properly
    • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shuddering, overheating, or slipping
    • Solution: Replace torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging properly, electrical system not functioning properly
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking noise when turning the key
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on metal parts of the body, especially around wheel wells and door seals
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not operating properly or getting stuck
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or splits in the dashboard material
  • Solution: Replacement or repair dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1991 Nissan Stanza has mixed reliability ratings. While some components, such as the engine and suspension, have a relatively good track record, other areas like the transmission and electrical system have reported issues. The severity of the issues varies from minor (e.g., window failure) to major (e.g., transmission failure), and repair costs can be expensive. However, the Stanza remains a relatively affordable option for a compact sedan and can offer reliable transportation with proper maintenance and care.