1991 model year · 100+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 100+ owner reports, the 1991 Nissan Stanza has 5 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Automatic Transmission Failure ($1,000-$2,500 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $100 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 1990-1992 Nissan Stanza KA24E, the 4-speed automatic transmission in the Nissan Stanza is prone to premature failure, particularly the torque converter and forward clutch packs. Symptoms include slipping, harsh shifts, and eventual loss of forward gears. The transmission was marginal for the KA24E engine output and deteriorates faster with aggressive driving or towing. Rebuilds are possible but finding a transmission specialist familiar with the Stanza-specific unit can be challenging.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 1990-1992 Nissan Stanza, the distributor in 1990-1992 Stanzas fails due to internal coil and module degradation. The optical distributor pickup malfunctions intermittently, causing no-start or random stalling conditions. Given the age of these vehicles, finding replacement distributors is increasingly difficult and remanufactured units are the primary source.
Replace distributor assembly with remanufactured unit. Replace spark plug wires, cap, and rotor at the same time. Check ignition coil output.
Parts and tips from 100+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 1990-1992 Nissan Stanza 2.4L KA24E I4, the Stanza's alternator fails prematurely, often between 70,000-100,000 miles. The internal voltage regulator and brushes wear out, causing undercharging or overcharging. Undercharging leads to a dead battery, while overcharging can damage the battery and electrical components. The alternator's position near the engine exposes it to significant heat, shortening its lifespan.
Replace the alternator with a remanufactured unit ($150-$250) or new ($200-$350). The replacement is straightforward — remove the serpentine belt, disconnect wiring, and unbolt the alternator. Always replace the serpentine belt at the same time. Test the new alternator output (should read 13.8-14.4V at the battery with engine running). Check battery health as a failing alternator may have damaged it.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 1990-1992 Nissan Stanza, the KA24E engine in the Stanza uses a timing chain (not belt) with plastic-backed chain guides that deteriorate and break apart. The broken guide material can jam the chain or clog the oil pickup screen. The chain then develops excessive slack, causing valve timing issues, rough running, and potential valve-to-piston contact if the chain jumps timing.
Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and all guides proactively at 150,000 miles or when rattling begins. Use updated metal-backed guides if available. The job requires removing the front engine cover and timing cover. Replace the water pump and front seals during the repair. The KA24E is a non-interference engine, so a jumped chain usually won't cause valve damage, but it will leave you stranded.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 1990-1992 Nissan Stanza KA24E, the KA24E engine in the Stanza develops oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal, and front crank seal as the gasket materials age and harden. The most common and visible leak is from the valve cover gasket, which drips oil onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning oil smell. The rear main seal leak is more serious and labor-intensive to repair. These leaks are typical of aging KA24E engines across all Nissan applications.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
IT IS POSSIBLE FOR A MIXTURE OF MUD AND SALT TO GET TRAPPED BETWEEN THE FUEL FILLER TUBE AND WHEEL HOUSING. THE TRAPPED MUD AND SALT CAN RESULT IN CORROSION OF THE FUEL FILLER TUBE AND THE WHEEL HOUSING.
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According to Au7o's analysis of 100+ owner reports, the 1991-1991 Nissan Stanza has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Automatic Transmission Failure, Distributor and Ignition System Failure, Timing Chain Guide Failure (KA24E). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 1991-1991 Nissan Stanza has 5 known issues documented across 100+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Automatic Transmission Failure. 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 Stanza issues range from $100 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Automatic Transmission Failure, typically costs $1,000-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The 4-speed automatic transmission in the Nissan Stanza is prone to premature failure, particularly the torque converter and forward clutch packs. Symptoms include slipping, harsh shifts, and eventual loss of forward gears. The transmission was marginal for the KA24E engine outpu… Repairs typically run $1,000-$2,500. Severity: high.
The distributor in 1990-1992 Stanzas fails due to internal coil and module degradation. The optical distributor pickup malfunctions intermittently, causing no-start or random stalling conditions. Given the age of these vehicles, finding replacement distributors is increasingly di… Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.
The KA24E engine in the Stanza uses a timing chain (not belt) with plastic-backed chain guides that deteriorate and break apart. The broken guide material can jam the chain or clog the oil pickup screen. The chain then develops excessive slack, causing valve timing issues, rough… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. Severity: medium.
The KA24E engine in the Stanza develops oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal, and front crank seal as the gasket materials age and harden. The most common and visible leak is from the valve cover gasket, which drips oil onto the exhaust manifold c… Repairs typically run $100-$800. Severity: medium.
The Stanza's alternator fails prematurely, often between 70,000-100,000 miles. The internal voltage regulator and brushes wear out, causing undercharging or overcharging. Undercharging leads to a dead battery, while overcharging can damage the battery and electrical components. T… Repairs typically run $150-$400. 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.
