REDLINE ALLEYNissan Silvia S13 and 180SX buying guide
1988 to 1998. An S13 suits a buyer after a light rear drive turbo coupe who is happy to find a straight, honest one among many modified cars.
Big jobs
- CA18DET timing belt. The CA18DET uses a timing belt, and a snapped belt can cause serious engine damage.
- Turbo wear and oil smoke. Smoke of any kind, especially white, can mean the turbo is burning oil. Other signs are heavy oil use, slow acceleration and late boost.
- Head gasket and overheating. Past overheating is called a big problem. Signs of a failed head gasket include milky oil, a frothy dipstick, bubbles in the overflow tank and a sweet exhaust smell.
- Rust in wheel wells, rails and boot. Rust is reported in the rear wheel wells, frame rails, boot and round the original brake master cylinder. Replacement panels for early cars are scarce.
Workshop jobs
- SR20DET timing chain. The SR20DET uses a chain that should last but can wear, along with its tensioner and guides. It depends on clean, regularly changed oil.
- Clutch shudder and drivetrain. Clutch shudder from high rpm standing starts is reported. Clutches last roughly 65,000 km, and inner edge rear tyre wear points to incorrect alignment.
Small jobs
- Oil leaks. Common leak points are the front crank seal, the oil pan gasket and the oil filter area.
- Air dam and body kit. Cracks in the air dam or body skirts and broken locating lugs are common.
Questions for the seller
- Is it the CA18DET or the SR20DET, and does the engine match the papers?
- If it is a CA18DET, when was the timing belt last changed?
- Has it ever overheated, and has a compression test been done?
- Has it been drifted or used on track?
- What modifications does it have, and is there an LVVTA plate for them?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-03. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.