1989 Nissan 240sx problems
The Nissan 240SX is a sports compact car that was introduced to the North American market by Nissan in 1989 for the 1990 model year. It replaced the outgoing 200SX (S12) model. Most of the 240SXs were equipped with the 2.4-liter inline 4 engine (KA24E from 1989 to 1990 and KA24DE from 1990 to 1998). The KA24E had single overhead cams and the KA24DE had dual overhead cams. Two distinct generations of the 240SX, the S13 (1989–1994) the S14 (1994-1998) were produced, based on the Nissan S platform.
The 240SX is closely related to other S platform based vehicles, such as the Japanese-market Silvia and 180SX, and the European-market 200SX. Although their names are similar, the 240SX is unrelated to the 240Z or the 280ZX.
The 240SX is known for its popularity within drifting and tuner culture. However, due to the popularity of the S-chassis in drifting and related competitions, prices for vehicles and parts have greatly increased due to higher demand. This problem is sometimes known as "drift tax".
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Common 1989 Nissan 240sx problems
Common Problems with the Nissan 240SX (1989)
- Engine Performance Issues: Some 240Sx owners report experiencing rough engine performance, which can be caused by various factors. For instance, a faulty ignition system, including worn-out spark plugs, a damaged distributor cap, or worn-out ignition wires, can lead to engine performance issues.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical issues are common in the 1989 Nissan 240Sx, with some owners reporting that none of the electrical components work when starting the car. This problem can be caused by a faulty electrical system, including corroded wiring or a malfunctioning alternator.
- Idle Issues: Idle issues are another common problem with the 1989 Nissan 240Sx. The engine may stutter or stall when the car is idling, which can be caused by a faulty idle control valve or a dirty throttle body.
- Radiator and Cooling System Issues: Some 240Sx owners have reported issues with the radiator and cooling system, which can be caused by a radiator that is too big for the car or a missing fan. These issues can lead to overheating, which can cause severe damage to the engine if not addressed promptly.
In summary, the 1989 Nissan 240Sx is prone to several common problems, including stalling, engine performance issues, electrical problems, idle issues, and radiator and cooling system issues. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these problems and ensure the car runs smoothly and reliably.
Can a 240SX be reliable?
The Nissan 240SX is one of the most reliable compact sports cars of the 90s. It comes with extremely simple mechanics and bulletproof engines. This can prove useful, especially for first-time builders who require more reliability than power and complexity.
Is a Nissan 240SX illegal?
The Nissan Silvia S14 is not legal in the United States. The S14s are completely legal; Nissan sold them in the United States. Yes, the S14 240SX are completely legal, but no real Silvias, not quite the same car. Importing a car into the U.S. is a task, but the Golden State poses obstacles even for American cars.
Is 1991 240SX reliable?
Quite reliable. Both the US models with the 2.4 Liter (KA24DE) or the Japanese models with the 2.0 Liter Turbo (SR20DET) are very good and reliable vehicles. To increase reliability (and fun factor) avoid the automatic transmissions in favor of standard. Although automatic transmissions are fine if taken care of.
Is a Nissan 240SX a good drift car?
The 240SX Is A Well-Balanced Drift Car For Beginners
You don't need to modify it heavily right away to make it skid around racetracks because this car weighs only 2,700 lbs. You'll also be able to drift with ease because of its KA24 inline-four engine that pushes between 135 and 155 horsepower.
1989 Nissan 240sx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan 240sx problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Nissan 240sx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1989 Nissan 240sx
The NHTSA has received 40 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Nissan 240sx. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1989 Nissan 240sx vehicles.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-30
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WHEN I WAS DRIVING MY CAR THE ELECTRONIC SEAT BELT WENT FORWARD, WHICH BASICALLY MEANS IM UNBUCKLED AND IT WONT GO BACK TO THE BUCKLED POSITION FOR SOME REASON.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-20
- VIN: JN1HS36P6KW
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT DOESN'T MOVE WHEN DOOR IS OPENED OR CLOSED. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JN1HS36P2KW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL FIRE IN THE INTERIOR OF VEHICLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-10
- VIN: JN1HS34P3KW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE LOWER BOLT THAT HOLDS THE BACK, LEFT BRAKE CALIPER HAS BROKEN TWICE WITHIN 3 YEARS. *NLM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JN1RS36P0KW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL INJECTORS LEAKING-- 2 OUT OF THE 4
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-20
- VIN: JN1HS36P2KW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL INJECTORS ARE LEAKING GAS, AND ITS A FIRE HAZARD.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-21
- VIN: JN1HS36P7KW
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT MOTOR DOES NOT WORK, AND THE SHOULDER BUCKLE DOES NOT LOCK IN PLACE, MAKING THE SHOULDER BELT USELESS. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-12
- VIN: JN1HS34P8KW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELTRETRACTOR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE ISN'T WORKING, AND THERE IS A FUEL LEAKAGE WITHIN THE FUEL INJECTORS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-12
- VIN: JN1HS36P6KW
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED THE VEHICLE IS STALLS AND DIES DUE TO THE TIMING CHAIN FAILURE. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-01
- VIN: JN1HS36P7KW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL INJECTORS ON CYLINDERS 1 AND 2 DEVELOPED FUEL EXTERNAL FUEL LEAKS. THIS WAS NOT THE SEALS AS THEY WERE REPLACED AND HAD NO EFFECT ON THE LEAK. INJECTOR REPLACEMENT @ $100 EACH SOLVED THE PROBLEM. POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARD. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-26
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ALL FUEL INJECTERS KEPT LEAKING AND SPILLING GAS,THE DEALERSHIP FAILED TO FIX IT RIGHT CAUSING FIRE
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-18
- VIN: JN1HS34P4KW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: STRONG GAS ODOR AROUND VEHICLE. OWNER CANNOT LOCATE ANY LEAKS.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JN1HS36P9KW
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION RESULTING IN A VEHICLE COLLISION.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-14
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JN1HS34P9KW
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION,RESULTING IN LOSS OF CONTROL/COLLISION. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-14
- VIN: JN1HS36P3KW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL INJECTORS: FUEL INJECTORS ARE LEAKING. EGR IS BROKEN, , VACUUM IS CRACKED. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: HAVE EXPERIENCED TWO CASES OF SUDDEN ACCELERATION. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: AN ELECTRICALSHORT IN THE WIRING IN THE DASH, CAUSING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS TO FAIL. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-06-01
- VIN: JN1HS36P1KW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING ON WET OR MOIST PAVEMENT AND APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE BACK OF THE CAR FISHTAILED, CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-21
- VIN: JN1HS34T2KW
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: FAILURE ON THE THROTTLE, CONSUMER WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AND THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JN1HS34P1KW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ONE OF THE FUEL INJECTORS IS LEAKING . *AK
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-07
- VIN: JN1HS36P9KW
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: KEY CANNOT BE REMOVED FROM IGNITION SWITCH, ALSO TILT STEERING MECHANISM DOES NOT LOCK STEERING WHEEL IN PLACE. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING NOTICED SMELL OF RAW GASOLINE IN INTERIOR DUE TO FUEL INJECTION LINE/HOSE LEAKS.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-31
- VIN: JN1HS34P1KW
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE ABOUT 65 MPH, REAR WINDOW JUST POPPED OUT WITH NO WARNING, LANDED ON TRUNK, PULLED TO SIDE AND PUT WINDOW IN TRUNK. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-18
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JN1HS36P6KW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDER THE HOOD DUE TO ELECTRICAL SHORT WHILE DRIVING WHILE STOPPED AT A STOP LIGHT.*AK *SLC
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-23
- VIN: JN1HS36P3KW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL IS LEAKING FROM THE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM. VEHICLE NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL. FUEL INJECTORS THROWING FUEL ONTO THE MANIFOLD AND COULD CAUSE AND ENGINE FIRE.*JB
1989 Nissan 240sx recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1989 Nissan 240sx.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
- Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Nissan 240sx problems:
List of Common 240sx Problems;list them here! - Nissan Forum ...
Aug 16, 2009 ... Re: List of Common 240sx Problems;list them here! (Mangid) ... Completely non working cigarette lighter that falls the f*** out (need to get that ...
Hoping to get on that 240sx hype. What common problems should i ...
Aug 18, 2015 ... Over the last year or so, as i've immersed myself in the JDM car culture, i've found myself coming back to the S13 fastback as one of my ...
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May 14, 2013 ... Previous owner and future owner, usually both are problems. And rust, bushings, high mileage motors, power steering leaking, vacuum lines ...
Common S13 problems? | Nissan Forum
Jan 10, 2003 ... im helping my little brother buy a S13 hatch and was just wondering what the common problems of a high mileage S13 are? for example, b13 ser's ...
Common RB problems. Fixes and advice! | Nissan 240SX Forums
Aug 30, 2011 ... The automatic transmission TPS will have two connections for two plugs. The standard should only have one. One of these plugs is the WOT switch ...
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