🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Nissan

Model:

Stanza

Year:

1992

Generation Code:

T12 (Late Phase)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1992 Nissan Stanza, as part of the compact/mid-size sedan and wagon segment, competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Tempo, and Chevrolet Corsica. It was positioned as a reliable, practical, and affordable option in Nissan's North American lineup.

Competitive Analysis:

The Stanza was known for its fuel efficiency and Nissan's reputation for durability. However, in 1992, it faced strong competition from more refined and feature-rich rivals, particularly from Japanese manufacturers. Its primary advantage lay in its functional design and straightforward mechanics, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers and fleet applications.

Key Features:

Front-wheel drive platform, choice of sedan or wagon body styles, available with reliable four-cylinder engines, practical interior space, straightforward and durable mechanicals.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Diagnostics

Body And Chassis Coverage:

Includes procedures for body panel removal and installation, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal, chassis lubrication, and basic body repair guidance.

Page Count:

Not explicitly stated, but expected to be comprehensive based on factory OE materials.

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software (Licensed OE Data)

Source Of Information:

Licensed information derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software / Web Browser Accessible

Access Duration:

One year of access included, with discounts available for extended periods.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical (including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft), Engine control (EFI, ignition), Fuel system (pump, injectors, lines), Cooling system, Exhaust system, Drivetrain (front-wheel drive, transaxle/CVT/automatic/manual transmission, drive shafts, differentials), Brakes (hydraulic, ABS if equipped), Suspension (front struts, rear shocks, control arms, stabilizer bars), Steering system (rack and pinion), Electrical system (battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams), HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), Body (panels, doors, windows, interior trim), Chassis, Safety systems.

Electrical System Coverage:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, including engine control, lighting, HVAC, power windows/locks (if equipped), instruments, and audio. Troubleshooting procedures for electrical faults are included.

Suspension And Steering Coverage:

Detailed procedures for front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering system diagnostics (rack and pinion, tie rods, power steering pump), alignment specifications, and wheel bearing service.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Major repairs (engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement), Component diagnostics (troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation), System adjustments (timing, idle speed), Replacement procedures (timing belt, water pump, clutch, struts, steering components), Electrical diagnosis and repair (wiring harness tracing, component testing), HVAC system servicing, Body panel alignment and repair, Emission control system diagnosis.

Engine Rebuild Procedures:

Includes step-by-step instructions for cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing service, timing belt replacement, and general engine assembly/disassembly.

Brake System Procedures:

Covers brake pad and shoe replacement, caliper and wheel cylinder service, rotor resurfacing or replacement, brake line and hose inspection/replacement, and bleeding the brake system. ABS diagnostics are also covered.

HVAC System Procedures:

Includes diagnosis and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant handling (if applicable to the system), compressor service, blower motor replacement, and control panel diagnostics.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers detailed diagnostic procedures, torque specifications, special tool requirements, exploded views, wiring diagrams, and factory-recommended repair sequences, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

Diagnostic Charts:

The manual includes comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting tables that guide the user through identifying the root cause of various problems, from engine performance issues to electrical malfunctions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based, accessible via internet browser. No specific file download format mentioned, implies streaming or portal access.

Software Compatibility:

Compatible with any PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection and a web browser.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format). Content is derived from OE materials, implying high-quality technical illustrations and data.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format).

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

GA16DE (1.6L Inline-4 SOHC)

Horsepower Ga16De:

Approximately 93 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ga16De:

Approximately 96 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Options:

Likely the GA16DE 1.6L. Some markets or specific trims might have offered a 2.0L engine (e.g., CA20DE), though less common for the US market in this generation. Manual confirms available engine configurations.

Engine Construction:

Cast iron block, aluminum alloy cylinder head.

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with distributor or distributorless ignition system (DIS) depending on market and specific engine variant.

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system.

Common Engine Codes:

GA16DE (1.6L), potentially CA20DE (2.0L) in some markets.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission (likely Jatco 3N71B or similar)

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive transaxle. The manual will cover clutch operation, gear selection, torque converter lock-up (for automatic), and fluid specifications.

Gear Ratios:

Detailed gear ratios for both manual and automatic transmissions will be provided in the manual.

Transmission Types Covered:

Manual (5-speed) and Automatic (3-speed).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 99.8 inches (2535 mm) for sedan and wagon.

Length:

Approximately 171.1 inches (4345 mm) for sedan, 172.4 inches (4379 mm) for wagon.

Width:

Approximately 66.5 inches (1689 mm).

Height:

Approximately 53.9 inches (1370 mm) for sedan, 56.3 inches (1430 mm) for wagon.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2400-2600 lbs (1089-1179 kg) depending on body style and transmission.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Will be specified in the manual for each configuration.

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Not specifically listed, but the wagon offered practical cargo space, enhanced by folding rear seats. The manual may contain dimensions related to cargo access.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Specific NHTSA or IIHS ratings for the 1992 Stanza are not readily available in a standardized database format for this model year. The manual will cover safety system components.

Active Features:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional ABS available on some trims.

Passive Features:

Three-point seat belts in the front and rear, crumple zones, side-impact door beams (standard on later models).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available on higher trims. Manual covers radio removal, speaker replacement, and wiring.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by era. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available. The manual details ABS system operation, diagnostics, and component replacement.

ABS System Description:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is typically a 2-channel system. The manual covers its components: ABS control unit, wheel speed sensors, hydraulic modulator, and warning lights.

Connectivity Features:

N/A. No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.

🔧 Maintenance

Recommended Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes. The manual will provide specific recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

The GA16DE engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval is typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Consult the manual for the precise interval and replacement procedure.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Manual will specify correct spark plug type and gap.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate. Consult the manual for exact specifications and capacity.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Typically a 50/50 mixture with water. Capacity: approx. 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters). Consult manual for precise type and capacity.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: approx. 2.1 quarts (2.0 liters).

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Dexron III ATF (or equivalent). Capacity: approx. 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) for a drain and fill. Consult manual for precise specifications and capacity.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Nissan Genuine ATF or Dexron II/III equivalent. Consult manual for specific type and capacity.

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 gear oil for front differential (integrated with transaxle). Consult manual for capacity and specific requirements.

Common Issues And Maintenance Points:

Timing belt maintenance is critical as failure can cause severe engine damage. Check for coolant leaks from the water pump and hoses. Suspension components, especially struts and bushings, can wear over time. Ignition system components (spark plugs, wires) require regular inspection. Automatic transmission shifting may become less smooth with age and mileage. The manual provides detailed troubleshooting for these and other common concerns.

Common Electrical Issues:

Corrosion on ground points, aging wiring harnesses, and intermittent faults in switches or sensors. Manual's wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures are crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Nissan, formerly Datsun, has a long history of producing reliable and practical vehicles. The Stanza lineage traces back to Nissan's early front-wheel-drive compact cars.

Model Evolution:

The 1992 Stanza (T12 chassis) was part of the third generation of Nissan's compact car offering. It was a significant redesign from its predecessors, adopting a more aerodynamic and modern appearance. This generation saw the introduction of front-wheel drive as standard, enhancing fuel efficiency and interior packaging.

Chassis Designation:

T12 chassis, representing a move to a more modern FWD platform for Nissan's compact offerings.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan. Some models may have been assembled in other regions.

Production Years For T12 Generation:

1986-1992 (North America)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 1992 Nissan Stanza did not receive any widely publicized major awards. Its market appeal was based on practicality and value.