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Nissan 200sx Problems

The Nissan 200SX was a sporty compact coupe produced across multiple generations, most notably from 1984-1998 in North America. With 418 complaints and zero fatalities, it offered affordable performance with Japanese reliability. The name covered different platforms over the years, from the S12 to S14 chassis. The 200SX provided entry-level sports car fun without significant maintenance concerns.

418
Total Complaints
0
Total Recalls
13
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

1996 1995
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1983 1984 1985

Common Problem Categories

Air Bags 96
Fuel System, Gasoline 44
Visibility 42
Engine And Engine Cooling 36
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 30

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2001 10 0 0 0 Good
1998 56 0 2 2 Below Average
1997 36 0 2 0 Average
1996 88 0 6 2 Avoid
1995 130 0 46 2 Avoid
1991 2 0 0 0 Good
1989 4 0 4 0 Good
1988 16 0 0 8 Good
1987 28 0 0 6 Average
1986 28 0 0 0 Average
1985 16 0 0 0 Good
1984 2 0 0 2 Good
1983 2 0 0 0 Good

Nissan 200sx Years to Avoid

The 1995 200SX recorded the most complaints, with engine and electrical issues leading concerns. The 1995-1998 B14-based 200SX had more issues than earlier generations. Some 1.6L engines experienced head gasket failures. The automatic transmission showed weakness under spirited driving. Electrical problems with window motors and locks were common. The 1996-1997 models also showed elevated rates of minor quality issues.

Best Nissan 200sx Years

The 1983 200SX represents an earlier, simpler generation with fewer reported issues. The 1987-1988 S12 200SX models offer turbocharged performance with proven reliability. For B14-based models, late 1997-1998 show improvements over early years. A manual transmission S12 200SX with the turbo engine offers the best enthusiast experience.

Frequently Asked Questions