1996 Nissan 240SX

1996 Nissan 240SX

The 1996 Nissan 240SX is a sporty coupe that offers agile handling and a powerful engine. It’s available with two engine options: a 2.4-liter inline-4 and a 3.0-liter V6. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

The 240SX is praised for its fun-to-drive nature, responsive steering, and comfortable interior. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as its cramped rear seats, limited cargo space, and lack of modern safety features.

Engine

2.4-liter Inline-4

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown head gasket, coolant and oil mixing, overheating, white smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from engine, loss of oil pressure, engine failure.
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Input Shaft Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise from transmission, difficulty shifting into gear, transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace input shaft bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from suspension, uneven tire wear, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noise from rear end, unstable handling, premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, difficulty starting the engine, battery warning light on.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak battery, slow cranking, inability to start the engine.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draw, replace battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Underbody:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on frame, suspension components, and exhaust system.
  • Solution: Rust prevention treatment, replacement of affected parts if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard material.
  • Solution: Replace dashboard or use a dash cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inoperative power windows, burnt-out motor or switch.
  • Solution: Replace motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Nissan 240SX is a reliable and fun-to-drive sport coupe. However, it can experience some common issues, particularly with its engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of these issues can vary from minor to major, and the repair costs can range from affordable to expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a 240SX.