Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1980 Nissan 200SX — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
MOISTURE PRESENT IN THE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION SYSTEM MAY, UNDER CONDITIONS OF SUB-ZERO TEMPERATURES AND LOW EGR FLOW RATE, CONDENSE AND FREEZE IN THE THROTTLE CHAMBER. AN ICING CONDITION COULD OCCUR IF THE VEHICLE OWNER FAILS TO ADEQUATELY WARM UP THE ENGINE BEFORE DRIVING. THIS COULD PREVENT THE THROTTLE FROM CLOSING COMPLETELY AND WOULD RESULT IN HIGHER THAN NORMAN IDLE RPM.
Remedy
THE DEALER WILL INSTALL A THROTTLE CHAMBER HEATING KIT TO PREVENT ICING AT NO CHARGE TO OWNER.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1980 Nissan 200SX. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the 200SX years to avoid are 1995, 1996. The cleanest record among 200SX years belongs to 1999.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.