95 Nissan 240sx Performance Parts

So, you've got a 95 Nissan 240sx. Excellent choice! These cars are fantastic platforms for tuning and building a real performance machine. But, as with any car of this age, you're probably running into some common issues and wondering where to start with upgrades. Let's talk about some frequent problems and how performance parts can help.

Engine Performance Woes & Solutions

One of the most common complaints with older 240s is lackluster engine performance. The KA24DE, while reliable, isn't exactly a powerhouse straight from the factory. Here's how you can address that:

Problem: Sluggish Acceleration & Poor Throttle Response

Likely Cause: A combination of factors contributes to this, including a clogged air filter, old spark plugs and wires, tired fuel injectors, and a restrictive exhaust system.

Solution: Start with the basics:

Air Filter: Replace your old air filter with a high-flow filter from K&N or AEM. This allows more air into the engine, improving throttle response. You'll need a socket set and potentially some pliers. Expect to spend around $30-$70.
Spark Plugs & Wires: Upgrade to a set of NGK iridium spark plugs and new spark plug wires. This ensures efficient combustion and better engine performance. This job requires a spark plug socket and possibly a wire puller. Budget $50-$100.
Fuel Injectors: Consider upgrading to slightly larger injectors. While the stock injectors are generally adequate for a stock engine, they might be struggling on a car of this age or if you're planning on further modifications. DeatschWerks and Injector Dynamics offer quality options. You'll need basic hand tools and knowledge of fuel system safety. Injector costs can range from $300-$800.
Exhaust System: The stock exhaust is very restrictive. Upgrading to a cat-back exhaust system will dramatically improve exhaust flow and boost horsepower. Brands like ISR Performance, Megan Racing, and HKS offer popular options. You'll need wrenches, sockets, and potentially a cutting tool for removing the old exhaust. Expect to pay $400-$1000, plus labor if you're not installing it yourself.

Pro Tip: Before replacing injectors, try cleaning the existing ones. You can find fuel injector cleaning services or use a DIY kit. This might restore some performance and save you money.

Problem: Overheating

Likely Cause: A failing radiator, clogged coolant passages, a bad thermostat, or a worn-out water pump.

Solution: Cooling system upgrades are crucial, especially if you plan on track days or aggressive driving:

Radiator: Invest in an aftermarket aluminum radiator. They offer significantly better cooling capacity than the stock unit. Mishimoto and Koyo are reputable brands. This requires draining the coolant system and some basic mechanical skills. Radiator costs typically range from $200-$500.
Thermostat: Replace your old thermostat with a lower temperature thermostat. This will cause the engine to run cooler, reducing the risk of overheating. Expect to pay around $20-$50.
Water Pump: If your car has high mileage, consider replacing the water pump as preventative maintenance. A failing water pump can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Aisin makes reliable OEM replacement pumps. This requires more extensive mechanical knowledge. Water pump replacement can cost between $100-$300 for the part, plus labor.
Electric Fans: Upgrading to electric fans can also improve cooling efficiency and free up some horsepower by removing the mechanical load on the engine. SPAL and Flex-a-lite are popular brands. Expect to pay around $150-$400, plus labor.

Pro Tip: Always use the correct type of coolant for your 240sx. Consult your owner's manual or a trusted mechanic.

Handling & Suspension Improvements

The 240sx is known for its excellent handling potential. However, the stock suspension components are likely worn out by now. Let's discuss some handling upgrades:

Problem: Excessive Body Roll & Poor Handling

Likely Cause: Worn-out shocks and struts, soft springs, and worn bushings.

Solution: Upgrading your suspension is essential for improved handling:

Coilovers: Coilovers offer adjustable ride height and damping, allowing you to fine-tune your car's handling characteristics. BC Racing, Tein, and Fortune Auto are popular brands. Installing coilovers requires mechanical knowledge and specialized tools. Coilovers typically cost between $800-$2500.
Sway Bars: Upgrading to thicker sway bars will reduce body roll and improve cornering stability. Whiteline and Progress Technology offer excellent sway bar kits. This requires wrenches and sockets. Expect to pay $200-$500.
Bushings: Replace worn rubber bushings with polyurethane bushings. Polyurethane bushings are stiffer and more durable, improving handling and responsiveness. Energy Suspension and Prothane offer complete bushing kits. This is a time-consuming job and may require specialized tools like a bushing press. Bushing kits cost between $100-$300, plus labor.
Strut Tower Braces: Adding strut tower braces will stiffen the chassis and improve handling. Cusco and Megan Racing offer strut tower braces for the 240sx. This is a relatively easy installation. Expect to pay around $100-$300.

Pro Tip: When installing coilovers, make sure to get your car professionally aligned afterward. This will ensure proper handling and prevent tire wear.

Problem: Brakes Feeling Spongy or Weak

Likely Cause: Old brake lines, worn brake pads, and potentially a failing master cylinder.

Solution: Brake upgrades are crucial for safety and performance:

Brake Lines: Replace the stock rubber brake lines with stainless steel braided brake lines. This eliminates brake line expansion under pressure, resulting in a firmer pedal feel and improved braking performance. StopTech and Goodridge offer high-quality brake lines. This requires careful bleeding of the brake system. Expect to pay around $100-$200.
Brake Pads: Upgrade to performance brake pads. Hawk Performance and EBC Brakes offer a variety of brake pad compounds for different driving styles. This is a relatively easy installation. Expect to pay $50-$200 per axle.
Rotors: Consider upgrading to slotted or drilled brake rotors. These rotors improve heat dissipation and reduce brake fade. StopTech and Brembo offer performance rotors. Expect to pay $100-$400 per rotor.
Big Brake Kit: For serious performance enthusiasts, a big brake kit is the ultimate upgrade. These kits include larger rotors, calipers, and brake pads, providing significantly improved braking power. Brembo and Wilwood offer big brake kits for the 240sx. This is an expensive upgrade, costing between $1500-$5000.

Pro Tip: Always bleed your brakes after replacing any brake components. This removes air from the brake lines and ensures proper braking performance.

Other Performance Considerations

Beyond engine and suspension, there are other areas where you can improve your 240sx's performance:

Differential

A limited-slip differential (LSD) is a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you plan on drifting or track days. An LSD improves traction and prevents wheel spin. Kaaz, Cusco, and Tomei offer LSDs for the 240sx. This is a complex installation that typically requires professional assistance. Expect to pay $800-$2000 for the LSD, plus labor.

Transmission

Ensure your transmission is in good working order. Consider replacing the transmission fluid with a synthetic fluid. Also, a short shifter can improve the feel and responsiveness of the transmission. B&M and Hurst offer short shifters for the 240sx. Expect to pay around $100-$300.

Wheels and Tires

Upgrading to wider wheels and tires will improve grip and handling. Enkei, Volk Racing, and Work Wheels offer high-quality wheels for the 240sx. Choose tires that are appropriate for your driving style. Expect to pay $800-$3000 for a set of wheels and tires.

Conclusion

Upgrading your 95 Nissan 240sx can be a rewarding experience. By addressing common issues and investing in quality performance parts, you can transform your car into a true performance machine. Remember to prioritize safety and consult with a qualified mechanic if you're unsure about any of these upgrades. Good luck and happy tuning!

Disclaimer: Prices mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on the brand, supplier, and location. Always consult with a qualified mechanic for accurate estimates and professional advice.

Tools Commonly Needed: Socket Set, Wrench Set, Screwdrivers, Pliers, Torque Wrench, Jack & Jack Stands, Wheel Chocks, Brake Bleeder Kit, Bushing Press (optional), Cutting Tool (for exhaust).