The 1990 Nissan Van has 4 recalls, all centered on engine compartment fire risks: leaking power steering fluid and deteriorating coolant hoses can both allow flammable fluid to contact hot engine surfaces and ignite.
The coolant hose issue has a longer history on this vehicle. The original recall addressed hoses that deteriorate at the clamp connections and spray coolant onto surrounding components, causing the cooling system to overheat rapidly if fluid levels drop. A follow-up recall later found that some of those repairs were not performed correctly, and engine fires continued to occur on vans that had already been through the remedy. There is also a broader concern about other engine compartment components that can fail from prolonged heat exposure and trigger a fire, though the specific part involved in that filing was not fully identified at the time of the recall.
At a glance
What can fail
Engine compartment fires have occurred in vehicles where a previous recall remedy was installed incorrectly, causing thermal incidents.
What the fix does
Nissan offers repurchase and destruction of affected vehicles, or free reinspection and any needed recall repairs for owners who decline.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
Engine compartment components may fail due to excessive heat from the engine.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a new cooling system with updated fan belts, radiator, water pump, alternator, freeze plug shields, hoses, auxiliary electric fan, power steering fluid cooler, and a monitoring system to detect overheating.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Cooling system hoses lack adequate heat resistance and deteriorate, first failing at clamp connections. This causes coolant to leak or spray onto engine compartment parts.
What the fix does
Replace hoses with heat-resistant versions, modify the coolant recovery system to prevent temperature and pressure spikes, and replace any damaged engine compartment components.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Power steering hoses may develop leaks, allowing fluid to drip onto the exhaust manifold.
What the fix does
Install heat-resistant power steering hoses and a new fan coupling to improve engine compartment cooling. Replace any damaged parts found.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
