Sun-cracked dash and leaking sunroof or hatch seals
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What causes "Sun-cracked dash and leaking sunroof or hatch seals" on the Nissan 240SX (S13, 1989-1994), and how is it fixed?
UV damage on cars from sunny climates; aged sunroof and hatch seals. Fix: Spray water over the sunroof and hatch before buying.
Symptoms
Cracked dashboard, faded trim, water in the cabin or hatch area.
Cause
UV damage on cars from sunny climates; aged sunroof and hatch seals.
Fix (summary)
Spray water over the sunroof and hatch before buying. A dash overlay is the low-cost fix for minor cracks.
Other S13 problems
- Recall: front seat belt buckle release buttons can break (1989-1991)
- KA24DE timing chain rattle from worn upper chain guide (1991-1994)
- Rust: frame rails, strut towers, spare well and under the hatch spoiler
- Heads-up display (HUD) usually no longer works
- Pop-up headlight motors fail or stick
- Soft rear subframe bushings: clunks and wheel hop
More for this car
- All Nissan 240SX (S13, 1989-1994) fitment answers · S13 common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- 240SX buying guide — NICO Club (Nissan enthusiast site; Dec 10, 2009) (editorial; read 2026-10-26; full page read)Very few uncracked dashes remain; water-test sunroof and hatch.
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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