1990 Nissan Sentra problems
The Nissan Sentra is a series of automobiles manufactured by the Japanese automaker Nissan since 1982. Since 1999, the Sentra has been categorized as a compact car, while previously it occupied the subcompact class. Until 2006, Sentra was a rebadged export version of the Japanese Nissan Sunny, but since the 2013 model year, Sentra is a rebadged export version of the Sylphy. The Sentra nameplate is not used in Japan. Many other countries in Latin America sell their versions of the Sunny as the Sentra. In Mexico, the first three generations of the Sentra were known as the Nissan Tsuru (Japanese for crane), and the B13 model was sold under that name until 2017, alongside the updated models badged as Sentra.
In North America, the Sentra currently serves as Nissan's compact car, despite being rated as a mid-size car by the EPA due to its interior volume since the 2007 model year. While previous Sentras were subcompacts, the Sentra has grown over the years, with the Nissan Versa having replaced the Sentra in the entry-level area.
The Sentra name was created for Nissan by Ira Bachrach of NameLab, and Bachrach describes the origin as "Nissan wanted consumers to understand that it was quite safe even though it was small. The word Sentra sounds like central as well as sentry, which evokes images of safety."
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Common 1990 Nissan Sentra problems
The Nissan Sentra, produced since 1982, has been a popular choice for car buyers due to its aerodynamic exterior, technology features, and superior performance.
- Engine Problems: The second generation Sentra (1987-1990) ranks first in reliability out of 54 generations, but there are still 6 complaints, mostly about engine problems. These issues could be due to various factors such as worn-out engine components, fuel system problems, or ignition system failures.
- Drivetrain Issues: One complaint was about drivetrain problems in the 1987-1990 Sentra generation. These issues could be related to the transmission, clutch, driveshaft, or differential, and may cause symptoms such as difficulty shifting, noise while accelerating, or vibration during driving.
- Brakes: One complaint was about brake problems in the 1990 Sentra. Brake issues can be critical as they affect the safety of the vehicle. Problems with the brake system can cause symptoms such as a soft or spongy brake pedal, squeaking or grinding noises, or pulsating pedals.
- Electrical Issues: One complaint was about electrical problems in the 1990 Sentra. Electrical issues can be challenging to diagnose and may cause various symptoms, such as the car not starting, dimming lights, or malfunctioning electronics.
- Wheels: One complaint was about wheel problems in the 1990 Sentra. Wheel issues can cause symptoms such as vibration while driving, uneven tire wear, or difficulty steering.
These are some of the common problems reported by owners of the Nissan Sentra from the second generation. However, it is essential to note that these problems may not be exclusive to the 1990 model and may also affect other model years in this generation. Additionally, these problems may not be representative of all 1990 Sentras, as individual vehicles may have different maintenance histories, usage patterns, and operating conditions.
If you're experiencing problems with your Nissan Sentra, it's recommended to consult a professional mechanic or dealer for diagnosis and repair. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help prevent these problems and ensure the safe and reliable operation of your vehicle.
What common problem on Nissan Sentra?
Various fluid leaks, overheating, power loss, or CVT failure are also possible due to these mechanical issues. That said, if you suspect that you are having a transmission issue, be sure to get it checked out by your local mechanic as soon as possible.
Are older Nissan Sentras good cars?
Despite being two decades old, the first five from the fifth-gen Sentra models are widely considered reliable. For instance, the 2000 model year only had 240+ NHTSA complaints, but with a staggering seven recalls – and one that involves the “service engine soon” warning light that affected more than 600k vehicles.
What engine does a 1990 Nissan Sentra have?
Third generation (B13; 1990) The sedan featured the fuel-injected 110-126 hp (94 kW) and 108 pound-feet (146 N⋅m) 1.6-liter 16-valve 4-cylinder GA16DE engine.
Is the Nissan Sentra a reliable car?
The Nissan Sentra Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 14th out of 36 for compact cars.
1990 Nissan Sentra car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Sentra problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Nissan Sentra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1990 Nissan Sentra
The NHTSA has received 41 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Nissan Sentra. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Nissan Sentra vehicles.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-29
- VIN: JN1GB21BXLU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED VEHICLE HAD A FAULTY TRANSMISSION, VEHICLE LEAKED OIL AND TRANSMISSION FLUID. CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALER. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-22
- VIN: JN1GD21BXLU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED OR WHILE DRIVING IT WAS LEAKING TRANSMISSION FLUID. THIS CAUSED THE TRANSMISSION TO SHIFT HARD AND ROUGH. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-01
- VIN: 1N4GB22B1LC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BOTH FRONT SEAT BELTS ARE FRAYED AROUND THE RETRACTOR.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-01
- VIN: ADD
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MIDDLE SEATBELT ON BACKSEAT WILL NOT BUCKLE UP. TWO REAR OUTSIDE BUCKLES WILL ONLY WORK INTERMITTENTLY.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-14
- VIN: 1N4GB22B4LC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WITHOUT WARNING CONSUMER IS UNABLE TO HOOK DRIVER LAP SEATBELT, THE METAL PIECE GOES IN BUT WILL NOT HOOK. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-21
- VIN: 1N4GB228LC7
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CAR WENT TO SEARS FOR FOUR NEW TIRES AND ALIGNMENT, MECHANIC REPLACED BALL JOINTS PRIOR TO ALIGNMENT, WHILE ALIGNING REAR LEFT TOE CAM BOLT SNAPPED, SENT 16YR OLD HOME WITH VEHICLE UNTIL PART ARRIVES IN DAY OR TWO.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-08
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: 1N4GB21B4LC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: LEFT REAR TIRE BLEWOUT AND VEHICLE SPUN AND ROLLED OVER, BOTH PASSENGERS BRUISED, VEHICLE TOTALED (KELLY SPRINGFIELD MONARCH T-P RADIAL 175/70R13). NLM
SUSPENSION,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-08
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4GE2GB21B
- Components: SUSPENSION,TIRES
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 75 MPH ON HIGHWAY AND HEARD A BANGING NOISE. VEHICLE ROLLED AND SPRUNG FORWARD. *AK TIRE FAILED. *YH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1N4GB22B2LC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I AM CURIOUS IF THIS IS PREVELEANT PROBLEM, AND IF THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE PART. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JN1GB22B9LU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SHOULDER BELT WEBBING FAILED. THE WEBBING SEPARATED COMPLETELY DURING A HEAD ON COLLISION. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT MR. MARV SPRINKMAN, MOTOR CARRIER SPECIALIST, CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL CENTRAL DIVISION MAIT UNIT, (559)277-7250,CASE NUMBER CL-010-00. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4GB22B5L7
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY, 35-40 MPH VEHICLE HIT A TREE ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE. SEAT BELT SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING THE LAP BELT TO BREAK IN HALF. BUT DRIVER'S LAP BELT WAS STILL BUCKLED. SHOULDER BELT GOT CAUGHT AROUND THE NECK, CAUSING THE SEAT BELT TO CUT THROUGH THE DRIVER'S NECK, AND DRIVER SUSTAINED SERIOUS INJURIES. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-25
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NO SUMMARY.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-29
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RADIATOR CLOGGED,TEMP GAUGE DID NOT READ HOT,ENGINE MELTED,REPLACED
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-15
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: BOTH AXELS CRACKED,REPLACED: DEALER "SOMETIMES THEY WEAR OUT."
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JN1GB22B1LU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING CHAIN COVER CRACKED, AND OIL LEAKED ONTO RIGHT FRONT BRAKE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE UNHOOKS THE BELT BY ITSELF.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-01
- VIN: JN1FU21P9LX
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE OWNER SMELLED GAS FUMES.OWNER THEN TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND WAS TOLD THAT FUEL INJECTORS WERE FAULTY. PROBLEM HAS BEEN REPAIRED. *AK *SLC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-25
- VIN: 1N4GB22B3LC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL LEAKS FROM FAILED CRANKSHAFT SEAL ONTO PULLEY/DRIVE BELT AND OTHER PARTS OF ENGINE. THERE IS ALSO A DANGER OF FIRE. IN ADDITION, ENGINE COULD SEIZE, STRANDING VEHICLE IN TRAFFIC. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-25
- VIN: 1N4GB22B3LC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL LEAKS FROM THE DEFECTIVE CRANKSHAFT SEAL ONTO PULLEY/DRIVE BELT AND OTHER PARTS OF ENGINE. THERE IS A DANGER OF FIRE. ALSO, ENGINE COULD SEIZE, STRANDING VEHICLE IN TRAFFIC. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1N4GB22B9LC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DUE TO A DESIGN DEFECT IN THE TIMING SYSTEM THE CHAIN GUARD FAILED, PLASTIC ENDED UP IN THE ENGINE, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE LIFTERS.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-26
- VIN: 1N4GB22B2LC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT RECALL NOTICE RECEIVED, HOWEVER DEALERSHIP REFUSED WORK ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1N4GB22B4LC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELTS FRAY.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1N4GB22B4LC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALTERNATOR FAILED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-04
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JNIDB22B2LU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RECALL RELATED, 91V022, DRIVER SIDE LAP/SHOULDER BELT FAILED, DID NOT RETRACT, IMPACT 12:00 POSITION, SPEED 35MPH. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-12
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED.
1990 Nissan Sentra recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Nissan Sentra.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: IMPROPER BELT GUIDE PERFORMANCE CAN CAUSE FRAYING OF THE SHOULDER SAFETY BELTS NEAR THE RETRACTOR.
- Consequence: THE FRAYING OF THE SHOULDER SAFETY BELT WEBBING CAN CAUSEIMPROPER RETRACTION OF THE BELT, WHICH WOULD LEAD TO INADEQUATE PROTECTION OFSEAT OCCUPANT DURING A SUDDEN STOP OR ACCIDENT, AND COULD RESULT IN INCREASEDRISK OF INJURY.
- Remedy: MODIFY THE SAFETY BELT GUIDES TO PREVENT FRAYING; AND OR REPLACE RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY IF FRAYING IS PRESENT.
Positive 1990 Nissan Sentra car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Nissan Sentra problems:
1990 Nissan Sentra Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Top 1990 Nissan Sentra Problems · Failed Mass Air Flow Sensor May Cause Driveability Issues · Check Engine Light/Loss of Power Due to Throttle Body Unit Failure.
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Are you having problems with your 1990 Nissan Sentra?
Titus Herzog 2024-09-15
I purchased my Sentra back in 2005 with 210,000 miles on it. Everything was original and it's now time for it to receive new shocks and probably struts. However, thanks to the regular oil changes from the previous owner, the car has been saved from any noise that indicates a worn older engine. This car gets the best gas mileage of any car I've ever owned, which is great for California where gas prices are currently at $2.80 a gallon for regular. Although I'm not a big fan of the plain and plasticky interior, I understand that's what you get for a 90's car of any kind. I also own an '88 Honda Accord hatchback which is more comfortable, +8hp, a lot faster, and has more options. I got the Honda for $1000, which was a great deal, and the Sentra for $1175, all original.
Robbie Gutmann 2024-04-06
Sorry to hear about your MR2, but glad you found a good replacement quickly! I came across this car on Craigslist and it was in good running condition for only 1k bucks, so I jumped on it. The car handles well and gives good feedback, although it has small wheels and tires. With some wheels from a b13, it would do wonders for the handling. Surprisingly, the seats are really comfy and well padded for a car this old. It gets pretty good mileage, although I ended up with an automatic so it's not as efficient as it could be with only three speeds. The car has been pretty reliable, although it has some minor issues due to its age. The rear doors don't open anymore, the driver's side window doesn't roll down, and the weather stripping is shot. The paint is surprisingly good, but there is some rust on the car. The motor is strong and has an iron block, so I expect it to last a long time, but it has some idle issues and blew a head gasket at 150k (previous owner). Parts for it are hard to find, but they are cheap if you can locate them. The differential is starting to whine and chatter, and the front axles need to be replaced. The transmission shifts just fine, but OD is starting to slip on hard throttle inputs. Overall, for a 1k dollar car that I bought just to get me around temporarily, it has exceeded my expectations. With proper upkeep, I think it should last me until about 200k miles, but I don't expect the transmission to go much longer than that (although I really hope it proves me wrong). If you're looking at getting one of these today as a beater, just be aware of how hard parts are to find and get a manual. These cars are solid and they certainly don't make them like this anymore!
Tatum Marquardt 2024-03-19
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that I've been taking good care of my car by carpooling and cycling whenever possible. As a result, the mileage is quite low at 156,000 km, with only 85,000 km on the vehicle when I purchased it back in 1994. However, the car is starting to show its age and the cost of repairs is becoming almost as much as the vehicle is worth. Unfortunately, I need to replace two tires, the lower ball joints are worn, and the gas gauge isn't working. I think it's time to upgrade to a newer vehicle, especially since my children are getting bigger and we need more space. Thanks for understanding!
Johnnie Mayert 2024-03-05
I bought this car when it had 70K miles on it. Now, it has over 300K miles and still gets over 36 MPG on the highway without overdrive or cruise. I have only had to replace the clutch once (due to teaching my daughters to drive a stick) and both front axles (due to cracked boots). Other than replacing the timing chain guide, all other repairs were typical wear items such as brakes, struts at 250K, and control arm bushings. I have not had to replace anything else inside the engine other than oil every 3K miles.
Alexandro Homenick 2024-02-16
Since the day you bought it, you've loved it. It's only done 117,000 miles and you bought it for $1,000 just a month ago.