1986 Chevrolet Nova problems
The Chevrolet Chevy II/Nova is a small automobile manufactured by Chevrolet, and produced in five generations for the 1962 through 1979, and 1985 through 1988 model years. Built on the X-body platform, the Nova was the top selling model in the Chevy II lineup through 1968. The Chevy II nameplate was dropped after 1968, with Nova becoming the nameplate for all of the 1969 through 1979 models. It was replaced by the 1980 Chevrolet Citation introduced in the spring of 1979. The Nova nameplate returned in 1985, produced through 1988 as a S-car based, NUMMI manufactured, subcompact based on the front wheel drive, Japan home-based Toyota Sprinter.
History
Origin
Chevrolet designer Clare MacKichan recalled about creating the Chevy II: "There was no time for experimentation or doodling around with new ideas from either the engineers or from us in design; And it had to be a basic-type car." The 1962 Chevy II rode a 110 in (2,794 mm) wheelbase, compared to 109.5 in (2,781 mm) for the Ford Falcon, at which Chevy's new compact was aimed. "I think that was the quickest program we ever did at any time," he continued. "We worked night and day on that car, and it didn't take very long to run it through our shop because we had a deadline." And that is what made the Chevy II one of the fastest new-car development programs in GM history – just 18 months after the designers got the green light, the first production Chevy II rolled off the Willow Run, Michigan, assembly line in August 1961, in time for its September 29 introduction. Unlike the Corvair, the 1962 Chevy II design team deliberately avoided any revolutionary features in concept or execution; their mission was to give Chevrolet buyers a simple, back-to-the-basics compact car. When he announced the Chevy II to the press, Chevrolet General Manager Ed Cole described the car as offering "maximum functionalism with thrift." When the Chevy II was introduced, it was the second post-WWII American made car from the "Big 3", after the Pontiac Tempest (and the first Chevrolet since the 1928 Chevrolet National), to use a four-cylinder engine.
There was a lot of debate within the Chevrolet organization over just what to call this new car, and the decision to go with "Chevy II" was a very late one. Among the finalists was Nova. It lost out because it didn't start with a "C," but was selected as the name for the top-of-the-line series. Ultimately the Nova badge would replace Chevy II, but that wouldn't happen until 1969. In almost every way, the creators of the Chevy II used Falcon as a benchmark. The 1962 model range included sedans and wagons, as well as a two-door hardtop and a convertible. The only body styles it didn't offer which the Falcon did were a 2-door wagon/sedan delivery and coupe utility (the Ford Falcon Ranchero).
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Common 1986 Chevrolet Nova problems
The 1986 Chevrolet Nova is known for several common problems, primarily transmission issues, engine stalling, and steering problems.
Transmission problems are a significant concern for Nova owners. The transmission in the 1986 Nova can exhibit various symptoms, such as shifting delays, grinding or jumping during acceleration, shakiness, or a burning smell or whistling sounds coming from under the hood.
Engine stalling is another common problem in the 1986 Nova. Some owners have reported difficulty starting the engine or the engine stalling when changing gears.
Steering problems have also been reported in the 1986 Nova. Some owners have experienced loss of control while driving at low speeds, resulting in accidents and totaled vehicles. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as problems with the steering system or tires. It is essential to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible if this issue is experienced.
In summary, the 1986 Chevrolet Nova is known for common problems such as transmission issues, engine stalling, and steering problems. These issues can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, loss of control, and even accidents. It is essential to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible if any of these issues are experienced. Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing transmission fluid, can help prevent some of these problems.
What is the most desirable year of the Nova?
Q: What year is the most desirable Chevy Nova? A: The 1970 Chevy Nova SS is often considered the most desirable. This model year introduced the powerful 350 cubic inch LT1 engine, a true gem for any muscle car enthusiast.
Was the Nova a good car?
It really wasn't that great a car when new. It's now over 40 years old. There will always be something wrong with it. While parts are available and there are no shortage of places that can work on the Nova, you will get to know those mechanics pretty well.
What is the most valuable Chevy Nova?
Only 37 Chevy Nova Yenko SC 427s were ever built, and it is thought that fewer than ten survive today. One sold at the 2015 Mecum Kissimmee auction for $380,000. Hagerty Price Guide puts pricing for a #1 condition SC 427 at $480,000, if you can find one for sale.
Was a Nova a muscle car?
While four- and six-cylinder engines continued to be offered, in 1968, the Nova became a member of the muscle car ranks with an SS package that included a 295 HP 350 CID small block, F41 heavy-duty suspension and other performance and trim upgrades.
What is the best year for a Nova?
We think the best Novas are the two-doors made between 1968 and 1971. That generation of Nova was arguably the best-looking compact on the market, and the SS version offered big V-8 engines that had real bite.
Was the Nova a good car?
It really wasn't that great a car when new. It's now over 40 years old. There will always be something wrong with it. While parts are available and there are no shortage of places that can work on the Nova, you will get to know those mechanics pretty well.
What is the best Nova car?
Chevrolet's entry in the compact car wars continued in 1969. Number two on our top five list of Novas was the 1968 Chevy II Nova 396. By 1969 Chevrolet had dropped the Chevy II name, and the nameplate was switched to Nova.
What is the most desirable Nova?
Q: What year is the most desirable Chevy Nova? A: The 1970 Chevy Nova SS is often considered the most desirable. This model year introduced the powerful 350 cubic inch LT1 engine, a true gem for any muscle car enthusiast.
1986 Chevrolet Nova car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Nova problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Chevrolet Nova vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Chevrolet Nova complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Chevrolet Nova.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: PLEASE ADD
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN REAR END ACCIDENT. SEATBELT DID NOT LOCK, CAUSING DRIVER TO HIT WINDSHIELD. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-06-14
- VIN: 1Y1SK1948GZ
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL TANK REPLACED 2 TIMES DUE TO GASOLINE LEAKING FROM SEAM. *SD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-15
- VIN: 1Y1SK684XGZ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LOUD WHINING NOISE IS HEARD AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. PLEASE EXPLAIN. TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS NOT EXCEEDING 20MPH VEHICLE BEGAN SPINNING OUT OF CONTROL RESULTING IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT, AND CAR BEING TOTALED. TT
Other years of Chevrolet Nova
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