Looked at a 1990 240 today and we noticed while test driving it that there is a clicking noise coming from shifter while in reverse that is also audible from the outside. hoping it is no major issue as I really want to buy this car but just can't buy it without knowing the issue. If you have any insight on what this is that would be really excellent.

 

Let me get this straight. You're considering purchasing a 21 year old car and the worst concern you have is a clicking when the shifter is in reverse? So...no major rust or body damage? Compression is good on all 4 cylinders? Burns no oil? No signs of leaking coolant? Doesn't run hot? Heater fan blows on all 4 speeds? Front end is nice and tight, struts are good, bushings likewise? Brakes and pads look in reasonable condition? Hmmm....

 

Other than that and a wheel bearing not major issues no. I am assuming that is a good thing considering all those problems you listed. I was just afraid it was a transmission issue.

 

My apologies for being facetious. It's just I've seen my share of 20-30 year old 240's and the vast majority had issues far beyond a ticking. Not because the 240 is a bad car; more along the lines that most of 'em have been through 4-6 owners by now and poorly maintained. It's great when one runs across a keeper!. The clicking you describe...is it only when the car is physically moving backwards? Or will it make the sound without the car rolling? If the former, than most likely it is u joints or the carrier bearing. If it does it regardless of car actually moving, then possibly a bad transmission mount...

 

Nope only when in reverse. I noticed the reverse lights arent working either which read there are on the Neutral Safety switch as well I noticed that the shifter is off as well so sometimes the service needed light comes on until I put it in the correct spot for reverse. I am just going to assume it is all coming from that one spot so it needs some repair

 

The shifter being off is most likely due to shift linkage bushings. There are two little nylon bushings that fit in the ends of the linkage that connects your gear shifter under the car. Real cheap (less than $3 online) but are kind of a pain to install.