At a Glance
The Nissan 180sx has 0 identified common problems across 1 generation (1989–1998) and electrical the most common problem category. Based on 523 MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Nissan 180sx common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Nissan 180sx generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Nissan 180sx owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Nissan 180sx owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Browse Nissan 180sx Generations
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Most Common Nissan 180sx MOT Failures
Every reason Nissan 180sx vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Number plate lamp not working | 7.91% |
| 2 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 7.71% |
| 3 | Indicator fault | 6.92% |
| 4 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 5.53% |
| 5 | Steering rack fault | 5.14% |
| 6 | Tyre condition | 5.14% |
| 7 | Headlamp aim defect | 4.94% |
| 8 | Fog lamp not working | 4.55% |
| 9 | Front lamp not working | 4.35% |
| 10 | Catalytic converter efficiency low | 3.36% |
| 11 | Windscreen washer not working | 3.16% |
| 12 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 2.96% |
| 13 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 2.57% |
| 14 | Exhaust system fault | 2.17% |
| 15 | Horn not working | 2.17% |
| 16 | Position lamp not working | 1.98% |
| 17 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 1.98% |
| 18 | Brake performance below minimum | 1.78% |
| 19 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 1.78% |
| 20 | Track rod end worn | 1.78% |
| 21 | Brake pads or linings worn | 1.38% |
| 22 | Exhaust emissions above threshold (non-catalyst) | 1.38% |
| 23 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 1.38% |
| 24 | Stop lamp not working | 1.38% |
| 25 | Front suspension fault | 0.99% |
| 26 | Headlamp fault | 0.99% |
| 27 | Seat belt condition | 0.99% |
| 28 | Suspension mounting corroded | 0.99% |
| 29 | MacPherson strut worn | 0.99% |
| 30 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.79% |
| 31 | Body corrosion or damage | 0.79% |
| 32 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.79% |
| 33 | Rear lamp not working | 0.79% |
| 34 | ABS fault | 0.59% |
| 35 | Brake fluid leak | 0.59% |
| 36 | Rear fog lamp not working | 0.59% |
| 37 | Subframe mounting corroded | 0.59% |
| 38 | Chassis condition | 0.40% |
| 39 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 0.40% |
| 40 | Electrical switch fault | 0.40% |
| 41 | Passenger seat fault | 0.40% |
| 42 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.40% |
| 43 | Steering coupling worn | 0.40% |
| 44 | Body security fault | 0.20% |
| 45 | Brake cable, rod, lever or linkage fault | 0.20% |
| 46 | Brake caliper fault | 0.20% |
| 47 | Brake pedal fault | 0.20% |
| 48 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.20% |
| 49 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.20% |
| 50 | Driver airbag fault | 0.20% |
| 51 | Driver seat fault | 0.20% |
| 52 | Driveshaft fault | 0.20% |
| 53 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.20% |
| 54 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.20% |
| 55 | Parking brake condition | 0.20% |
| 56 | Power steering pipe or hose leaking | 0.20% |
| 57 | Radius arm worn or corroded | 0.20% |
| 58 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.20% |
| 59 | Suspension retaining or locking device fault | 0.20% |
| 60 | Tie bar or rod worn or corroded | 0.20% |
| 61 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.20% |
| 62 | Ball joint dust cover split | 0.20% |
Showing all 62 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Nissan 180sx MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Nissan 180sx, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Nissan 180sx problems?
Based on analysis of 523 Nissan 180sx MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 0 identified common problems across 1 generation. Electrical is the most common problem category.
Which Nissan 180sx generation has the most problems?
We haven't identified significant problem patterns specific to any single generation of the Nissan 180sx yet — either this is a well-engineered model across all its generations, or the sample size per generation is still small. Check individual generation pages for MOT failure and advisory breakdowns.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Nissan 180sx?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Nissan 180sx owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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