1992 Nissan 240sx problems

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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".

1992 Nissan 240sx

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Common 1992 Nissan 240sx problems

The Nissan 240SX, specifically the 1992 model, has been praised by many owners for its reliability, fun driving experience, and overall value. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Based on the search results, three main issues have been identified:

  • Check valve clearance: Nine owners have reported this problem, but the specific details of the issue are not provided in the search results. Check valve clearance refers to the adjustment of the valves in an internal combustion engine to ensure proper opening and closing, which affects engine performance and longevity. This adjustment typically requires specialized tools and knowledge, so it is recommended to have a professional mechanic handle this issue.
  • HUD (Head-Up Display) problems: Some 1992 Nissan 240SX models with HUD have reported issues when the weather is cold, with the HUD, speedometer, and dash lights not working properly. This issue seems to be related to a bad capacitor in the speedometer, which causes the whole dashboard to malfunction. The solution to this problem involves either replacing the capacitor or purchasing a new speedometer from Nissan.
  • Acceleration problems: Several owners have reported issues with acceleration, including bogging, backfiring, and misfiring. These problems can be caused by various factors, such as vacuum leaks, faulty sensors, ignition issues, or fuel delivery problems. For instance, a cracked hose between the BPT Valve and EGR Valve can cause vacuum leaks, affecting acceleration.

In summary, the 1992 Nissan 240SX has some common problems, including check valve clearance, HUD issues, and acceleration problems. These issues can be resolved with the right tools, knowledge, and sometimes professional assistance. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues or catch them early, ensuring the longevity and performance of the vehicle.

1992 Nissan 240sx engine

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 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.

How much is a 1992 240SX worth?

Used 1992 Nissan 240SX Pricing

Original MSRPKBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average)
SE Coupe 2D$18,665$2,355
SE Fastback 2D$18,865$2,591
LE Fastback 2D$19,025$2,624
SE Convertible 2D$22,295$2,789

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.

1992 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:

  • Suspension problems
  • Tires problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Nissan 240sx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1992 Nissan 240sx complaints

The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Nissan 240sx.

2002-10-24

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-07-05
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: INDEX AND MIDDLE FINGERS BENT AND TWISTED TOWARDS THE BABY FINGERS. SEE PHOTOS AT: HTTP://PHOTOS.YAHOO.COM/MIKETOMICH THIS INFORMATION BEING SUBMITTED ON BEHALF OF JOHN REED BY MIKE TOMICH 989, 665-2311 DT
2001-04-19

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-04-14
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING OUT OF A RED LIGHT ABOUT 5 MPH LEFT REAR TIRE WAS PUNCTURED BY A NAIL ON SIDEWALL. INSURANCE COMPANY STATED THAT TIRE WORE OUT AND WAS UNEVEN, AND OVER INFLATED BY TIRE DEALER. P-195/60HR15, NISSAN, 240SX, 1992. *AK *JB
2000-08-13

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-08-20
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1N6HD16Y0NC
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: INTUITIVELY, I KNEW THIS WAS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT EVEN THOUGH AT THE TIME I WAS DENIED COMPENSATION OR ADJUSTMENT. I BOUGHT 4 NEW TIRES AFTER THE FAILURE OF MY FIRESTONE ATX'S BUT I SAVED THE "EXPLODED TIRE THAT DAMAGED MY TRUCK TO THE TUNE OF $500. AND SHOOK THE HELL OUT OF ME. IT WAS A REAL CLOSE CALL ON I -17 IN PHOENIX , AZ. IF IT HAD NOT BEEN AT NIGHT WHEN THE FREEWAY WAS UNCROWDED I AM SURE IT WOULD HAVE BEEN MUCH MORE SERIOUS. I WANT TO SHOW THIS TIRE AND THE STILL EXISTING DAMAGE TO MY TRUCK TO SOMEBODY AND I BELIEVE FIRESTONE SHOULD REIMBURSE ME NOW THAT THEIR LITTLE SECRET IS OUT IN THE OPEN.( DOT NUMBER: VD60ATN072 TIRE SIZE: 31X10.5R15 )
2000-07-16

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE MOTORBELT FAILED ON BOTH PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE. *MJS
2000-01-31

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-09-01
  • VIN: JN3MS36AXNW
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ABS BRAKES FAILED. *AK
2000-01-26

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-01
  • VIN: JN1MS36P8NW
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: SMOKE EMINATES FROM CENTER CONSOLE APROX WHERE GEAR SHIFT LEVER IS LOCATED, INSIDE VEHICLE. UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE SOURCE OF THE SMOKE, IT IS VERY LIGHT, BUT NOTICABLE. SMELL EVIDENT AS WELL
1998-02-27

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-02-14
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: JN1MS34P9NW
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THE CONSUMER SAID SHE WAS NOT AROUND WHEN THE VEHICLE GOT ON FIRE, BUT WHEN SHE GOT THERE, THE POLICE TOLD HER THEY DID NOT KNOW HOW THE VEHICLE GOT ON FIRE. ACCORDING TO CONSUMER, SHE THINKS THE FIRE HAD STARTED IN THE ENGINE. *AK
1997-06-20

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-08-02
  • VIN: JN1MS34P3NW
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: IDLE SPEED CONTROL FAILED.
1997-06-20

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-03-04
  • VIN: JN1MS34P3NW
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: HEADLIGHTS OUT OF ADJUSTMENT
1997-06-20

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-03-04
  • VIN: JN1MS34P3NW
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKES FAILED.
1997-06-20

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-08-22
  • VIN: JN1MS34P3NW
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: RADIO/CASSETTE FAILED.
1997-06-20

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-08-22
  • VIN: JN1MS34P3NW
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: PINION SEAL FAILED.
1997-06-20

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-10-04
  • VIN: JN1MS34P3NW
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: A CLANKING SOUND FROM THE REAR END.
1997-06-20

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-07
  • VIN: JN1MS34P3NW
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: RIGHT REAR SHOCK MAKES A NOISE WHEN GOING OVER A BUMP.
1997-06-20

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-08-02
  • VIN: JN1MS34P3NW
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: REAR END SEAL LEAKS.
1997-06-20

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-08-18
  • VIN: JN1MS34P3NW
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT STRUT BOOTS FAILED.

Negative 1992 Nissan 240sx car reviews

  1. Jordy Schneider 2024-05-29

    Hey there! I noticed that the car you're considering has some issues with the paint and interior, and it seems to break down frequently. Additionally, the gas mileage isn't great and it may not be the most enjoyable to drive. However, I understand that you need a car and I'm happy to help you find one that better suits your needs!

  2. Deon Gerlach 2024-04-18

    It's a really nice car! I'm sure it was a blast when it was fresh from the lot. However, it seems like age is beginning to catch up with it. The once very high-tech 4 wheel HICAS steering system is now buggy at best, and comfort items like the clutch dampner box have become problematic. The motor is a strong point, as it is very reliable and builds power uniformly across the power band. The interior is simple, neat and driver-friendly, while the exterior boasts a timeless design that still looks sporty even among the ranks of the new Z.

  3. Giuseppe Howell 2024-03-21

    This car has a great engine that is very reliable. However, I have had some expenses with this car. I had to replace one transmission, a battery, two clutches, two fuel filters, and had to have the injectors cleaned twice. Additionally, the automatic seatbelts stopped working, the wiring for the tail lights was replaced, the passenger lap belt locks and won't release, and the lines in the rear window for defrost are broken. The gas mileage is only around 18-20 mpg, which I think is low for a 4 cylinder. It doesn't have a lot of power.

Positive 1992 Nissan 240sx car reviews

  1. Toney Thompson 2025-01-08

    I'm so glad I bought this car a couple of years ago! It had 103,000 miles on it then, and now it has 155,000. I've only had to replace the water pump ($60) and the valve cover gasket ($17), and it still handles like a champ - even after a wreck that damaged the support core. Plus, it's got plenty of power to give a lot of cars a good run. One of the best things about this car is the huge selection of aftermarket and JDM performance parts available for it. It's even capable of making 400-500 horsepower with ease!

  2. Carol Schimmel 2024-11-10

    Excellent car!

  3. Rowland Fadel 2024-11-07

    This car has been amazing to own! I've had it since March 03, and I still feel the same excitement every time I drive it. Maybe it's because I used to own a 93 Ford Ranger, but the fact that it's an import and has great acceleration also adds to the thrill. It has so many cool features, like a HUD that shows MPH/KmPH, automatic seatbelts, a hardworking DOHC 4-cyl engine, and neat little fold-up headlights.

  4. Ignatius Armstrong 2024-11-05

    This vehicle has been a reliable and sporty car that adds a bit of excitement to your life. I have received many compliments on it and I believe it has changed my outlook on life. I wish I could afford the new 350 series.

  5. Wilfrid Littel 2024-11-02

    At 133,000 miles, the only issue I encountered was a problem with the power steering pump, which required replacement. All other costs have been related to non-engine components, such as the convertible top (which was covered under warranty when it was new), air conditioning, replacing the plastic rear window, and recent radio and upholstery maintenance. It's worth noting that the expected normal upkeep has also been manageable. The only downsides are the small trunk and back seat. Overall, I would definitely purchase this car again if it were available.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1992 Nissan 240sx problems:

List of Common 240sx Problems;list them here! - Nissan Forum ...
List of Common 240sx Problems;list them here! - Nissan Forum ...
https://forums.nicoclub.com/list-of-common-240sx-problems-list-them-here-t443911.html

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 ...
Hoping to get on that 240sx hype. What common problems should i ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/240sx/comments/3heh1g/hoping_to_get_on_that_240sx_hype_what_common/

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 ...

Idle Problem(common to 240's) | Nissan 240SX Forums
Idle Problem(common to 240's) | Nissan 240SX Forums
https://www.240sxforums.com/threads/idle-problem-common-to-240s.3310/

Dec 20, 2002 ... I had my Cat Convertor replaced this morning. Haven't had a chance to test the car. John Beach 1992 Nissan 240SX SE Coupe.

Common problems with SVX's? [Archive] - The Subaru SVX World ...
Common problems with SVX's? [Archive] - The Subaru SVX World ...
http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/archive/index.php/t-32455.html

Hi, I've been an owner of 3 nissan 240sx's (a 90 fastback, first car I learned to work on, a '91 Fastback, did a little work to, and my '95 240 ...

Power window problems | Nissan 240SX Forums
Power window problems | Nissan 240SX Forums
https://www.240sxforums.com/threads/power-window-problems.99067/

May 27, 2007 ... must be a common problem mine only doesnt work sometimes...i'm just going to replace it all. Save Share. Like.

Other years of Nissan 240sx

nissan 240sx 1993 photo
240sx 1993
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240sx 1995
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240sx 1996
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nissan 240sx 1998 photo
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