1992 Nissan Stanza

Introduction

The 1992 Nissan Stanza is a compact sedan known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It was available with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine (GA16DE) or a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine (SR20DE), both paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Stanza is praised for its smooth ride, spacious interior, and impressive gas mileage. However, it also has some reported issues that potential buyers should be aware of.

Engine

GA16DE 1.6-liter 4-cylinder

• Head gasket failure: Blown head gasket causing coolant leaks, overheating, and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket and associated seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake manifold gasket leak: Leaking intake manifold gasket causing vacuum leaks, rough idling, and poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

SR20DE 2.0-liter 4-cylinder

• No major engine issues reported

Transmission

5-speed manual transmission

• Synchronizer wear: Worn synchronizers causing difficulty shifting gears, especially into second or third.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed automatic transmission

• Slipping gears: Transmission slipping when shifting gears, causing loss of power and rough shifting.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut mount bearing failure: Worn strut mount bearings causing a clunking noise when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Malfunctioning alternator causing battery discharge and electrical system issues.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter motor failure: Worn starter motor causing difficulty starting the engine or no-starts.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hood latch failure: Broken hood latch causing the hood to pop open while driving.
  • Solution: Replace the hood latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door handle breakage: Plastic door handle breaking off or becoming loose.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat belt malfunction: Seat belt retractor not working properly, failing to lock or release.
  • Solution: Replace the seat belt assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1992 Nissan Stanza is a reliable vehicle with a good track record for longevity. However, it does have some potential issues to be aware of, primarily related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but they can be significant. Potential buyers should factor these issues into their purchase decision and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing.