1992 Nissan 240SX

Introduction

The 1992 Nissan 240SX is a compact sports car that was popular among enthusiasts due to its rear-wheel-drive platform, agile handling, and potent engine options. It was offered with a range of engines and transmissions, including:

• 2.4L KA24E inline-four (140 hp/159 lb-ft) with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission
• 3.0L VG30E V6 (160 hp/180 lb-ft) with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission

Engine

2.4L KA24E

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L VG30E

• Timing Chain Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle or ticking noise, loss of power, engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Shift Linkage Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, missed or hard shifts.
  • Solution: Replace worn shift linkage components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power during acceleration, harsh or delayed shifting.
  • Solution: Recondition or replace transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or creaking noises, poor handling, excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system malfunctions, no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Struts Weak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hatchback struggles to stay open, sags while being opened.
  • Solution: Replace rear hatch struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Knobs Break:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knobs for temperature, fan speed, or airflow direction break off or become loose.
  • Solution: Replace climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1992 Nissan 240SX is a fun and engaging sports car, but it is not without its issues. Engine and transmission problems can be expensive to fix, while suspension and electrical issues are relatively minor but can still be annoying. Interior issues are mostly limited to minor inconveniences. Overall, the severity and cost of the potential issues should be considered when weighing the pros and cons of purchasing a 240SX.