1992 Nissan Ichi Van

Introduction:

The 1992 Nissan Ichi Van was a versatile and reliable workhorse known for its spacious cargo area and fuel efficiency. It was available with a 1.3-liter CA13S gasoline engine or a 2.0-liter LD20 inline-four diesel engine. The gasoline engine produced 79 horsepower and 76 lb-ft of torque, while the diesel engine offered 65 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Ichi Van received praise for its practicality and affordability, but owners also reported several issues over the years.

Engine

1.3-liter CA13S Gasoline Engine

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Oil leaking from under the valve cover gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Cap and Rotor Failure: Engine misfiring or stalling due to a faulty distributor cap or rotor.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor cap and rotor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure: Engine overheating due to a failed water pump.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0-liter LD20 Diesel Engine

• Injector Pump Failure: Power loss and difficulty starting due to a failed injector pump.
  • Solution: Replace the injector pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Failure: Engine difficulty starting in cold weather due to failed glow plugs.
  • Solution: Replace the glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchromesh Failure: Difficulty shifting gears due to worn synchronizers.
  • Solution: Replace the synchromesh hub or transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure: Clutch pedal goes to the floor or spongy clutch pedal feel due to a leaking master cylinder.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Assembly Failure: Noise and vibration from the front of the vehicle due to worn strut mounts or shocks.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Battery not charging properly due to a faulty alternator.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Failure: Battery not holding a charge due to age or excessive discharge.
  • Solution: Replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light Assembly Moisture: Tail light assembly fills with water due to a broken seal.
  • Solution: Replace the tail light assembly seal or entire assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage: Corrosion on the undercarriage components.
  • Solution: Inspect and treat rust as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Panel Cracking: Dashboard panel cracking around the air vents or gauges.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Blower Motor Failure: No airflow or weak airflow from the air conditioning vents.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1992 Nissan Ichi Van had several common issues, particularly with the engine, suspension, and electrical systems. These issues could result in costly repairs, especially those related to the injector pump or alternator. However, the vehicle’s affordable price and practicality made it a popular choice for many drivers.