1990 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 1990 Nissan 240SX has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Rear Subframe and Strut Tower Rust ($200-$2,000 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 1990-1998 Nissan 240SX 2.4L KA24DE I4, the 240SX's rear subframe and strut towers corrode severely in rust-belt states. The rear subframe mounting points can rot to the point where the subframe separates from the unibody — an extremely dangerous condition. Rear strut towers also develop cracks and perforation from rust. Since the 240SX is popular for drifting, the additional stress from aggressive driving accelerates structural failure in rusted areas.
Inspect rear subframe mounting points and strut towers annually. Surface rust can be treated with a wire wheel and rust converter. Structural rust requires professional welding — reinforcement plates welded over the subframe mounting points ($300-$800 at a fabrication shop). Strut tower reinforcement plates/braces ($100-$200) add strength. For severe cases, a clean rear subframe from a southern/western car may be needed.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 1990-1998 Nissan 240SX, the Nissan 240SX is highly susceptible to body rust, particularly in the rear quarter panels, rear fender wells, door bottoms, rear hatch/trunk area, and rocker panels. The S13 (1989-1994) is more rust-prone than the S14 (1995-1998) due to thinner body panels and less corrosion protection. Rust in the rear quarters can compromise structural integrity. The increasing value of 240SXs as drift and enthusiast cars has made rust repair and prevention more worthwhile, but finding rust-free examples is increasingly difficult.
Inspect the car on a lift and remove trunk/hatch trim, rear interior panels, splash liners, side skirts, and rocker trim to probe common rust areas from both sides of the metal; use a pick/hammer and measure how far corrosion extends into the inner wheelhouse, rocker reinforcement, hatch lip, and rear quarter seams. Surface rust can be wire-wheeled or media-blasted, treated with rust converter, epoxy-primed, seam-sealed, painted, and then protected with cavity wax/undercoating, but any perforation or soft metal should be cut out and replaced with welded patch panels or donor/OEM sheet metal, especially in the rear quarters, rocker panels, and hatch surround. Expect roughly $300-$1,000 per area for minor localized repair, $1,500-$4,000+ per side for proper quarter/rocker metal replacement and paintwork, and substantially more if structural rust has spread into inner supports or suspension mounting areas. After repair, clear drain holes, replace missing liners/weatherstrips, and apply annual rustproofing to slow recurrence.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:BRAKE FLUID LOW WARNING: LAMP
THE INSTRUMENT PANEL BRAKE WARNING LIGHT WILL NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE FLUID LEVEL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER DROPS SUFFICIENTLY TO ACTIVATE THE LOW LEVEL SWITCH DUE TO AN IMPROPERLY WIRED DIODE, REQUIRED BY FMVSS NO. 105, "HYDRAULIC BRAKE SYSTEMS."
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According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 1990-1990 Nissan 240SX has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rear Subframe and Strut Tower Rust, Body and Chassis Rust (Fenders, Quarter Panels, Hatch). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 1990-1990 Nissan 240SX has 2 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Rear Subframe and Strut Tower Rust. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Nissan 240SX issues range from $200 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Rear Subframe and Strut Tower Rust, typically costs $200-$2,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The 240SX's rear subframe and strut towers corrode severely in rust-belt states. The rear subframe mounting points can rot to the point where the subframe separates from the unibody — an extremely dangerous condition. Rear strut towers also develop cracks and perforation from rus… Repairs typically run $200-$2,000. Severity: high.
The Nissan 240SX is highly susceptible to body rust, particularly in the rear quarter panels, rear fender wells, door bottoms, rear hatch/trunk area, and rocker panels. The S13 (1989-1994) is more rust-prone than the S14 (1995-1998) due to thinner body panels and less corrosion p… Repairs typically run $300-$3,000. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
