1997 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 1997 Nissan 240sx problems
Based on the information gathered from various sources about common problems with the Nissan 240SX 1997, here is a detailed list of issues reported by owners:
- Check Valve Clearance:
- Nine people have reported this issue, indicating a common problem with the Nissan 240SX. Valve clearance refers to the small gap between the valve and the rocker arm or camshaft. Incorrect valve clearance can lead to poor engine performance, noise, and potentially engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Rust Issues:
- Rust is a significant concern with the Nissan 240SX, especially in areas prone to winter and salt exposure. Common rust spots include behind the fenders, wheel wells, quarter panels, engine bay, and under the battery. Rust can compromise the structural integrity of the car and lead to costly repairs if not treated early.
- Clutch Replacement:
- Around 150,000 miles, the clutch in the Nissan 240SX 1997 is likely to require replacement. A worn-out clutch can result in slipping, difficulty shifting gears, and decreased overall performance. Timely replacement is essential to maintain the car's drivability.
- Fluid Maintenance:
- Owners should invest in new fluids for the Nissan 240SX regularly. This includes engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. Proper fluid maintenance helps ensure optimal performance, longevity, and reliability of the vehicle's components.
- Suspension Components:
- Bushings, braces, and rod ends should be checked, especially if the car has been lowered. Stanced cars are prone to issues like harness rub, wheel bearing wear, steering rack problems, and strut/shock damage. Inspecting and replacing worn suspension parts is crucial for safe and smooth driving.
- Leaking Hatch/Sunroof:
- Signs of leaks around the hatch or sunroof should be carefully monitored. Water leaks can lead to interior damage, electrical issues, and mold growth. Addressing leaks promptly can prevent costly repairs and maintain the car's condition.
- Title and VIN Verification:
- Buyers should be cautious of cars with missing titles or removed VINs, as these could indicate potential theft or legal issues. Verifying the car's documentation is essential to ensure a legitimate purchase and avoid future complications.
By addressing these common problems proactively and conducting thorough inspections, owners can maintain the performance, safety, and longevity of their Nissan 240SX 1997.
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.
How much does it cost to maintain a 240SX?
The annual maintenance cost of a Nissan 240SX is $396.
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.
How much are 240SX worth today?
A: The average price of a Nissan 240SX - S14 is $16,753.
1997 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:
- Air bags problems
- Suspension problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Nissan 240sx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Nissan 240sx complaints
The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Nissan 240sx.
AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-27
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JN1AS44DXVW
- Components: AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: MY CAR (1997 NISSAN 240 SX) BEING DRIVEN BY MY SON WAS IN AN ACCIDENT WHERE THE CAR WAS TOTALED BY IMPACT. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED BUT YET THE LIGHT CAME ON SAYING THEY DID. IF THEY HAD MY SON MAY NOT HAVE SUFFERED FROM A SERIOUS CONCUSSION WHICH WE'RE ABOUT TO GO TO THE HOSPITAL THE 2ND TIME FOR NOR THE NECK SPRAIN THAT HE DID. I'VE E-MAILED NISSAN TO SEE IF I CAN GET AN ANSWER AS TO WHY THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY WHEN THE LIGHT INDICATES THEY DID BUT I'VE NOT HEARD BACK FROM THEM YET. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-11
- VIN: JN1AS44D8VW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THERE IS A LEAK FROM THE TOP OF MY 1997 NISSAN 240SX'S FUEL TANK THAT SEEMED TO SPRING UP FOR NO APPARENT REASON. FROM WHAT I'VE RESEARCHED, THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON PROBLEM FOR OWNERS OF THIS VEHICLE AND IS NOT EASILY FIXED. I AM PETITIONING FOR THIS TO BE A MANDATORY REPAIR FOR NISSAN, AS THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD DUE TO FAULTY CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-01
- VIN: JN8AR05Y5XW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GASOLINE LEAKING FROM VEHICLE AT FILLER PILE WHEN TANK WAS > 75% FULL. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-01
- VIN: JN8AR05Y6VW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER SE REAR SUSPENSION CONTROL ARMS NEEDED TO BE A RECALL ISSUED AS THIS WAS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE. NEAR FATAL SCARE WHILE ON THE FREEWAY RECENTLY @ HIGH RATE OF SPEED 65 MPH WHEN THE CAR BEGAN TO SWAY VIOLENTLY LEFT TO RIGHT. I ALMOST LOST CONTROL, BUT MANAGED TO GRIP STEERING WHEEL AND SOFTLY PULL VEHICLE OVER AWAY FROM SPEEDING TRAFFIC. THE VEHICLE IS NOW GARAGED UNTIL MECHANIC CAN REPLACE UPPER AND LOWER CONTROL SUSPENSION ARMS. I HAVE GOTTEN 2 MECHANICAL ESTIMATES BOTH TOTALING OVER $800.00. THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED AND COULD HAVE CAUSED A TERRIBLE ACCIDENT INCLUDING PERSONAL BODILY INJURY OR EVEN DEATH!!*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-01
- VIN: JN8AR05YXVW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*- IN MAY 2004 THE CONTACT RECEIVED A 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER AS A GIFT, IT HAD AN ODOMETER READING OF 90000 AT THE TIME. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO WOBBLE WHILE TRAVELING AT 65 TO 70 MPH SOON AFTER IT WAS PURCHASED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A NISSAN DEALERSHIP, WHERE ALL OF THE STRUTS WERE REPLACED, BUT THIS DID NOT RESOLVE THE ISSUE. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO WOBBLE ANY TIME THERE WAS A SMALL OBSTRUCTION ON THE ROAD. THE CONTACT CONTINUED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE WITH THIS PROBLEM WITHOUT TAKING IT TO ANY OTHER DEALERS SINCE THE PROBLEM WAS NOT RESOLVED WITH THE FIRST VISIT. THE CONTACT DROVE LONG DISTANCES FROM TIME TO TIME AND THE WOBBLE ON THE VEHICLE CONTINUED. IN MARCH 2007 THE CONTACT CALLED NISSAN, AND WAS TOLD TO TAKE IT TO A DEALER TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. NISSAN EXPLAINED THAT THE CONTACT WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR CHARGES. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 106971.*AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-15
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVING SLOWLY IN PATHFINDER 4X4 '97 HIT POT HOLE. SPOT WELDS ON FRAME TO INNER FENDER BROKE LOOSE. ONE FOOT LONG SEAM SPLIT 3 INCHES WIDE VIEWED FROM THE LEFT FRONT STRUT. COST $1,500 TO WELD AND BRACE. PROFESSIONAL SAID PATHFINDERS NOTORIOUS FOR THIS WEAKNESS. STEERING COLUMN JAMMED FROM FAILURE WHICH COULD HAVE CAUSED HEAD-ON FATALITY INTO ONCOMING VEHICLE. SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN FOR A M/V PURPORTED TO BE AN ATV! MY EXPERIENCE IN ACCIDENTS STEMS FROM BOSTON POLICE OFFICER'S ACCIDENT REPORTS FOR OVER A DECADE. INSURANCE AMICA CALLED IT A COLLISION AND INTENDS TO INCREASE MY RATE $600 PER YEAR AND RANK FROM PERFECT DRIVER 9 LEVEL INTO A 13 LEVEL FOR SIX YEARS. BELIEVE THERE IS A TORT JUSTIFICATION. OTHER OWNER MUST BE NOTIFIED. THIN WALLED STRUCTURAL METALS TO BLAME. *NM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-19
- VIN: 1N4AB42D3WC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DT: TOYO PROXY 4, TIRES ARE HAVING KNOTS COMING OUT ON THE SIDEWALL, AND THE OWNER HAS HAD ALREADY 1 BLOWOUT ON THESE TIRES. THE ONE THAT BLEW WAS LESS THAN 6 MONTHS OLD, AND THE OTHERS ARE LESS THAN 1 YEAR OLD. THIS IWASTHE FIRST TIME THAT THE OWNER HAS OWNED THIS BRAND OF TIRE. THE OWNER HAS CONTACT THE DEALERSHIP THAT SOLD THE TIRES TO THE OWNER, BUT THEY WOULD NOT HELP. THE OWNER HAS ALSO CONTACTED TOYO MANUFACTURER AND THEY REFERRED HER TO A DIFFERENT TIRE DEALERSHIP. THE OWNER IS PLANNING TO DO THAT ON 6-21-2005.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-30
- VIN: JN8AR05Y6VW
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BOUGHT A 97 NISSAN PATHFINDER IN SEPT. 03...SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THE ENGINE LIGHT HAS SINCE HAD A MIND OF ITS OWN, TURNING ON AND OFF DEPENDING ON THE CLIMATE OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. I RECENTLY LEARNED THAT IT IS THE EVAP VENT CONTROL VALVE AND O RING WHICH NEED TO BE REPLACED. I HAD TAKEN THE CAR INTO 3 DEALERSHIPS ON THE EAST COAST WHERE I WAS TOLD NUMEROUS OTHER ISSUES WERE CAUSING THE LIGHT. I HAVE PUT $4500 WORTH OF WORK INTO THE VEHICLE ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT IT WAS A $122 PART THAT SUPPOSEDLY NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I HAVE SPOKEN TO OTHER NISSAN OWNERS (MANY WITH OTHER NISSAN VEHICLES-NOT PATHFINDERS) AND THEY TOO HAVE HAD THIS SAME EXPERIENCE WITH THEIR VEHICLE. THE PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE THROUGH ANYBODY EXCEPT THE NISSAN DEALERSHIPS WHICH MEANS THERE IS NO WAY TO GET A COMPETATIVE PRICE. IN ORDER TO GET THE LIGHT TO SHUT OFF ONCE MY MECHANIC HAS REPLACED THE PARTS I WILL THEN BE FORCED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP TO PAY THEM TO SHUT IT OFF. I WAS INFORMED BY THE MECHANIC AT THE DEALERSHIP THAT THIS PROBLEM WOULD NOT EFFECT THE DRIVABILITY OF THE VEHICLE THAT IT WAS AN EMISSIONS SITUATION. ULTIMATELY, THE VEHICLE WILL NOT PASS EMISSIONS INSPECTIONS NOR WILL IT GET DECENT GAS MILEAGE UNTIL THIS PART IS REPLACED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-25
- VIN: JN8AR05Y6VW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: SUSPENSION CAUSING VEHICLE TO SWAY VIOLENTLY WHEN GOING 50MPH. I TOOK MY SUV INTO THE SHOP AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH MY VEHICLE. THEN I TOOK MY VEHICLE INTO ANOTHER SHOP AND THEY FOUND THE PROBLEM. THEN THEY CALLED NISSAN AND WAS TOLD THAT I HAD TO REPLACE THE LONG AND SHORT ROCKER ARMS FOR MY REAR SUSPENSION AND THAT WOULD FIX THE PROBLEM. I BELIEVE THAT THIS PROBLEM IS PRETTY DRASTIC CONSIDERING I HAVE ALMOST LOST CONTROL OF MY TRUCK ON HIGHWAY ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. I CHECKED FOR A RECALL MY MY VEHICLE AND DIDN'T HAVE ANY LUCK. BUT DID FIND A REPORT OF THE SAME INCIDENT. APPLICATION EQ-8007455-YN.PDF. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1N4AB41D8VC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY 1997 NISSIAN SENTRA TO WORK IN THE MORNING AND WAS APPOARCHING THE GUARD GATE. PUSHED THE SWITCH TO ROLLED DOWN THE PASSENGER AND DRIVE SIDE AUTOMATIC WINDOWS. SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT OF THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY. PULL OVER ON THE SIDE THE ROAD AND TURNED OFF THE CAR. RAN UP TO THE GUARD GATE AND OBTAINED A FIRE EXTERISHER. TURNED TO THE CAR AND SAW A TWO TO FOUR INCH FLAME COMING OUT OF THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY. I PUT OUT THE FIRE. CHECKED THE FUSE BLOCK FOR A BLOWN FUSE AND THERE WAS NONE. THE FUSE DID NOT BLOW FOR THE AUTOMATIC WINDOW CIRCUIT. PULLED SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND DISCONNECTED THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR. PLANNING ON REPLACING THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND SIDE PANEL.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-13
- Crash: 1
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED THAT WHEN HIT AT 45MPH IN THE FRONT CENTER OF THE VEHICLE THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY CAUSING MINOR INJURIES TO THE CONSUMER. DEALER NOTIFIED. TS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-23
- VIN: FILL IN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN INTO A DRIVEWAY BOTH DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED FOR NO REASON. CAUSE UNKNOWN. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-05
- VIN: JN1AS44B5PW
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: PARKED VEHICLE, SHIFT LEVER POPPED OUT OF GEAR/SOCKET. SIGNAL SWITCH ON & STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP. ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THERE WAS RATTLING NOISE WHEN DRIVING. TOOK TO DEALER FOR ENGINE LIGHT & SHIFT LEVER. MECHANIC COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. SAID RATTLING COMES FROM HUB CAP & CHANGED THOSE. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRES FAILED DUE TO LOSS OF TREAD RESULTING IN ACCIDENT DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER.
Positive 1997 Nissan 240sx car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Nissan 240sx problems:
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Jan 13, 2008 ... sommmatt wrote: There's a problem with the front end. Nissan ended up redesigning the whole thing for 1997 because it looked like a Ford Escort.
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Dec 20, 2002 ... 1997 Prelude w/type S pistons $6,500 1995 240sx- If I can ever find the time, I will put the RB25 actually into the engine bay. Save Share.
Other years of Nissan 240sx
Are you having problems with your 1997 Nissan 240sx?
Federico Howell 2024-10-27
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I've had it for about 5 months now and I'm happy to report that I haven't had any problems with it. It's a really nice sized vehicle and the handling is excellent. Plus, the acceleration is great for a naturally aspirated 4 cylinder. Overall, I'm really pleased with my purchase!
Garth Gottlieb 2024-10-17
I've owned an Integra GSR, and a Prelude SH. Both pale in comparison to the 240SX. The 240SX is hands down the most fun to drive of the three. Its rear wheel drive and extremely crisp steering combine to yield an extremely fun, agile and responsive handling set-up. It's my daily-driven race car.
Matt Nader 2024-09-23
Your 240sx may be hard to find, but it's definitely worth it for the fun driving experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to rescue one now, as they are sure to become classics someday!
Dewayne Kuhlman 2024-08-22
I've had this car for 3.5 years now and I don't think I could ever get rid of it! It's an absolute blast to drive, but if you're not careful, it can be a bit tricky in the rain. Honestly, I'd be thrilled if I never had to buy another car again!
Dante Schoen 2024-07-03
This car is so much fun to drive, whether it's just for your daily commute or for autocrossing on Sundays. I've actually owned two 240sxs now, and I absolutely adore them!