2016 Nissan Sentra

Above average

Owners filed 270 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the transmission. It has been recalled 6 times.

Not among the Nissan Sentra years to avoid. Which Nissan Sentra years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
60,510 milesMedian miles at failure

146 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2016 Nissan Sentra problems

99 of the 270 complaints (37%) are about the transmission.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Power Train · transmission94
301
Electrical System30
010
Engine28
110
Unknown or Other24
000
Air Bags · airbags23
908
Service Brakes · brakes12
202
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system9
000
Structure › Body · body and frame8
100
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control8
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration7
000

6 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch21V135000
Filed Mar 3, 2021807,376 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Nissan Sentra vehicles. The brake light switch may become contaminated, preventing the circuit from closing and the brake lights from illuminating.

Risk. The brake lights may not illuminate, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the brake light switch and install a protective grommet, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800867-7769. Nissan's number for this recall is PM971.

Air Bags17V253000
Filed Apr 13, 201730,038 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 LEAF and 2014, 2016 and 2017 Sentra vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error within the air bag inflators, the passenger frontal air bag may not properly deploy in the event of a crash.

Risk. In the event of a crash, if the front passenger air bag doesn't deploy properly, it can increase the risk of injury to passengers.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began June 7, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Electrical System › Wiring16V485000
Filed Jun 29, 20161,522 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016 Sentra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2016, through April 26, 2016. The engine room harness may have a terminal pin too large to maintain a connection with the Engine Control Unit (ECU).

Risk. If the engine room harness loses connection to the ECU, the vehicle may not start or the engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the terminal pin on the engine room harness, free of charge. The recall began on August 15, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module16V436000
Filed Jun 15, 20164,355 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016 LEAF vehicles manufactured February 24, 2016, to March 23, 2016, and Sentra vehicles manufactured February 9, 2016, to March 4, 2016. The wiring harness connector may disconnect from the dual-stage passenger air bag.

Risk. If the wiring harness disconnects, the passenger air bag may not to deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wiring harness connector for proper engagement and, if necessary, replace the passenger air bag module and main body harness, free of charge. The recall began on August 9, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification16V242000
Filed Apr 26, 2016645,898 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Sentra vehicles manufactured June 4, 2012, to April 9, 2016. The front passenger seat belt bracket may become deformed if it is used to secure a Child Restraint System (CRS). The deformed seat bracket may cause the Occupant Classification System (OCS) to incorrectly classify the installed CRS, resulting in the front passenger air bag to not be turned off as designed when a CRS is in the seat.

Risk. If the frontal passenger air bag deploys in the event of a crash when a child seat is installed in the front passenger seat, there will be an increased risk of injury to the child in the CRS.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will reinforce the seat belt bracket as well as reprogram the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) and OCS Electronic Control Unit (ECU), free of charge. The recall began on June 13, 2016. Owners are warned not to install a CRS in the front seat. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669.

Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification16V244000
Filed Apr 26, 20163,296,947 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.

Risk. If the passenger frontal air bag does not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, the passenger is at an increased risk of injury.

Remedy. Nissan will notify their owners. Chevrolet City Express owners will be notified by General Motors. Dealers will reprogram the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) and OCS Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in Altima, Maxima, Murano, Rogue, and Sentra vehicles, and replace the OCS ECU in LEAF, NV200, NV200 Taxi, Pathfinder, Infiniti Q50, JX35, and QX60 and Chevrolet City Express vehicles, free of charge. Interim notices were sent to owners on May 31, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669, Infiniti customer service at 1-888-833-3216 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.

All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Sep 9, 2026IN

The ECU problem is a major issue the vehicle is stalling, not starting, just malfunctioning tremendously while on the road in traffic while driving it stalls in traffic, shuts off in traffic. I was told this was a issue back in July 2017 The same issue has occurred again with safety concerns .

Exterior Lighting
Filed Sep 2, 2026130,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the traction control warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an AutoZone and DTC: C1116 “Stop Lamp Switch" was retrieved. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V135000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). The failure mileage was 130,000.

Power Train
Filed Aug 21, 2026CA

In 2023, my vehicle experienced a transmission/CVT-related failure that resulted in a loss of propulsion. The vehicle became unable to continue driving and was stopped in Chino Hills, California. A neighbor called the police, and officers responded to the scene, although no police report was filed. The vehicle was subsequently towed to an authorized Nissan dealership, where the transmission/transaxle was replaced. After the replacement, the vehicle later developed a transmission fluid leak. I returned the vehicle to the authorized dealership regarding the leak, and the concern was addressed at no charge. However, the transmission fluid leak has since recurred. An independent repair facility recently inspected the vehicle and observed an active fluid leak around the transmission assembly, as well as an apparent abnormal condition in the transmission area. The exact cause of the current leak has not yet been fully diagnosed and is currently unknown. The condition is available for further inspection. The Check Engine Light is currently illuminated, and the vehicle is unable to pass an emissions inspection. My primary concern is vehicle safety. This vehicle previously experienced an actual loss of propulsion associated with a transmission-related failure and had to be towed. Because the replacement transmission/transaxle is now experiencing a recurring fluid leak and an unresolved condition, I am concerned about the possibility of another transmission-related mechanical failure o

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Internal › Cvt
Filed Aug 5, 2026NY

On Friday, July 3, 2026, at approximately 9:30 PM, while driving on the parkway at an approximate speed of 65 miles per hour and preparing to merge onto the highway, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled completely. I was able to safely maneuver the vehicle to the shoulder of the road. After a few minutes, once the immediate traffic situation on the highway entrance cleared, I attempted to re-engage the vehicle. While the engine started, it immediately began revving excessively high without corresponding forward momentum. The vehicle moved at an extremely slow pace despite the high engine RPMs, indicating a severe loss of power transfer to the wheels. Current Status: The vehicle is presently parked and cannot be driven due to this ongoing issue. It remains inoperable.

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Jun 2, 2026149,244 milesFL

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Niss. The contact stated that they discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale/dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 107,242. It was later discovered upon checking Carfax, that the mileage was 149,244.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed Apr 21, 2026CA

The CVT transmission, which Nissan has had many issues with per the large number of class action lawsuits, failed while I was driving the vehicle on a main street in San Diego. The vehicle showed no indication (warning light) that there was any engine failure or issue. The CVT transmission just died unexpectedly while the vehicle was moving with traffic. I brought the vehicle to Mossy Nissan in National City and they confirmed the CVT transmission failed. The vehicle only has 87,762 miles on it. Nissan claimed they are not responsible. I only learned of the large number of CVT transmission lawsuits once this happened. They have broken their lawsuits into different vehicle years, makes, and models so to avoid listing this issue as a recall across the brand.

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 31, 2026MN

The vehicle stopped accelerating while driving and after stopping, would not exceed 5-10 mph. Vehicle was towed to a mechanic who advised that the transmission had failed.

Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Filed Mar 13, 2026142,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the sunroof exploded and shattered without impact. The contact exited the highway, pulled over to the side of the road, and took pictures of the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not informed of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.

Power Train
Filed Mar 5, 2026VA

The CVT transmission went out when I was driving on an interstate. I was driving 65 mph and within seconds my speed dropped with a tractor trailer behind me. I thankfully was able to pull off to the side of the road, but almost crashed in the process. The check engine light also did not come on until 17 minutes after the transmission failed. An independent service center confirmed the problem and stated that they’ve seen many other Sentra’s with the same problem. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, etc. Very dangerous situation with no warning signs.

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Jan 28, 2026119,200 milesCA

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was approximately 93,000. It was later discovered that the title mileage was 119,200. The contact called the dealer and requested the odometer be updated. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer. The dealer called the contact to pick up the vehicle, that the vehicle would not be repaired, and that the vehicle had too many failures.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 11, 2025CA

Ive took my car to alhambra dealer for a recall and before I did i scared my car with the obd2 to make sure everything was okay witch it scanned no check engine and all green check lights IM REDINESS.. AFTER I PICKED UP MY CAR FROM THE DEALER I TOOK THE CAR HOME AND PARKED IT FOR A WHOLE DAY. THE NEXT DAY MY CAR STARTS THROWING CODES AND NOW MY CAR WONT PASS SMOG BECAUSE THEE DEALER RUINNED MY CAR.

Power Train
Filed Dec 4, 2025163,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle erratically jerked and the vehicle stalled. The contact noticed an abnormal whining sound. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that days later, while attempting to start the vehicle, the gear shifter was shifted into reverse and the engine seized. The contact stated that the vehicle was inoperable. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 163,000.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 17, 2025PA

I purchased this vehicle from Capital Auto Auction, and it was listed as having only a “minor engine stutter” and that it “runs and drives.” However, within 5 minutes of driving away from the auction, the vehicle became unsafe and experienced multiple immediate safety failures. The vehicle developed a loud whining noise, lost acceleration, and would not move even with the accelerator pressed. The check engine light and red battery light came on immediately even though these warnings were not disclosed at the auction listing. The car became unable to drive and created a hazardous situation in traffic. I had to call AAA roadside assistance, and the vehicle had to be towed. A Nissan dealership inspected the vehicle and documented that it has serious safety and drivability concerns, including likely transmission failure and possible electrical system tampering. When attempting to diagnose the vehicle, the OBD2 diagnostic port would not power on, which indicates a potential electrical wiring issue or fuse failure. I also discovered signs that the electrical system may have been tampered with prior to the sale, including a blown fuse and wiring abnormalities. The vehicle shows multiple unsafe conditions: * Loss of acceleration in traffic * Sudden transmission failure * Electrical malfunction * Dashboard warning lights not previously disclosed * Diagnostic port not functioning * Battery warning light activation * Car becoming undriveable within minutes of use These issues were not d

Power Train
Filed Sep 19, 2025VA

CVT code P17F4 Judder i have not drove 356 miles in the last 2 days.

Power Train
Filed Aug 28, 2025PA

Transmission failed after used car purchase. Called regarding fluid on driveway and was told normal after oil change. Continued fluid leak past 30 day warranty. Tried to get Nissan dealer to look at it but was told must go back to used dealer (same company) next door as they sold it. Dozens of calls later, no return calls, wrong transfers, etc. then cancelled appts, got to shop and was told bad transmission. Called Nissan Corp. nothing. Back to dealer who has car that can’t be driven and told best can do is split cost of used or rebuilt $5300-6400. Online forums show there is definitely an issue with Nissan CVT transmissions. Nissan should extend warranty to used car purchasers for at least one year.

Power Train
Filed Aug 6, 2025116,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle briefly jolted and shook abnormally before losing motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 116,000.

Power Train
Filed Jul 21, 202511,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated while accelerating on a busy street, the vehicle stalled in front of an approaching tractor-trailer. The vehicle was restarted, and the contact continued to drive. The contact stated that while the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle decelerated and stalled. The vehicle was hard to shift into gear. There was an abnormal winding sound was detected. The contact stated that the engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who determined that the failure was due to the transmission. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall and referred the contact to the local dealer for a diagnostic test. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

Power Train
Filed Jul 5, 2025GA

CVT Transmission -available upon request to inspect. Safety was at risk as I was in flow of traffic and suddenly lost power to the transmission slowing suddenly, Cars behind me had to swerve to keep from hitting my car. Car has not been inspected at this time, there were no warnings or symptoms prior to the failure. During normal operation at interstate speed Speed over 60 mph. The cvt transmission slips and experiences a sudden loss of power making it difficult to safely operate on the interstate. This condition also occurs when leaving a stop. the vehicle loses power and does not want to accelerate properly under normal operation. Causing cars behind me to have to slow down to prevent accidents.

Power Train
Filed Jun 20, 2025120,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission started slipping. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed CVT transmission kit. The contact was informed that the CVT transmission kit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jun 3, 2025111,626 milesPA

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that the vehicle was difficult to start. The contact stated that the failure recurred after a Volkswagen dealer had completed the vehicle inspection. The dealer shifted to neutral(N) and pushed the vehicle into the garage. The dealer diagnosed that the brake light switch had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the part was previously replaced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V135000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to #1 Cochran Nissan West Hills (7900 University Blvd, Coraopolis, PA 15108), where the contact was informed that after a recall repair completion, the recall parts were only warrantied for 12,000 miles or 365 days, whichever occurred first. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle would be repaired at the contact's expense and provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 111,626.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed May 13, 2025PA

My 2016 Nissan Sentra SV has had two complete CVT transmission failures. I purchased the vehicle used with somewhere between 30,000 - 40,000 miles. The transmission failed shortly after, and was replaced under warranty. Now, at 139,447 miles, the replacement transmission has also failed less than 70,000 miles later. The car lost acceleration and came to a complete halt while driving, stopping on train tracks, I had to quickly put the car in park and back in drive and the car drove again. This is clearly a pattern of defective manufacturing. CVT failure results in sudden jerking, loss of acceleration, and stalling all of which are dangerous while driving. Nissan is refusing to offer assistance since the car is out of warranty, but two major transmission failures in under five years indicates a serious safety issue.

Power Train
Filed Apr 29, 202592,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the accelerator pedal made an abnormal vibrating grinding sound. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Ray Automotive, where an air flow sensor was replaced; however, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an air flow sensor was replaced under warranty; however, the failure recurred increasingly. The contact stated that the transmission was slipping while driving. The vehicle was taken to Ray Automotive, where the transmission fluid was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The mechanic determined that the transmission had failed. The vehicle was then taken to Richard Automotive, where it was determined that the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was out of warranty. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 24, 2025CT

There is a transmission issue with my vehicle. It has been present since I first obtained the vehicle. Generally, the gears tend to “slip” or stutter, creating a stalling motion upon accelerating. It has stayed the same relatively up until recently when it would not stay in gear or switch gears and I could not accelerate at all. This is very scary because it could lead to an accident, a crash, or not being able to move my vehicle to a safe place. Upon research, I have seen many other Nissan Sentra 2016 owners experience the same issue, and Nissan continues to do nothing about it. I had my personal mechanic look at it and he confirmed it was the transmission and it would need to be replaced. I spoke with Nissan and they said there is no active recall on my specific vehicle, even though the transmission is the original transmission. They quoted me at almost $9000.00 to get a replacement. There were no lights present in my vehicle indicating there was an issue, and as stated previously, I experienced the stuttering issue up until the transmission gave out completely. This has been occurring since I got the vehicle in 2021.

Power TrainCrash
Filed Apr 3, 2025NY

I filed a complaint a couple months ago, about my car driving erratic and slipping of gears , jolting, cutting off in traffic etc; Now this complaint is about an accident caused by the jolting of the car which crashed my car into the back of someone else’s… this car is a death trap… Nissan needs to be held responsible for these death trap cars Cvt transmission is its major problem… this season of car was recalled but my car was not…. It was a major recall on these cars I need my transmission repaired by Nissan…. My first complaint was of driving disasters jerking of transmission slipping cutting off in traffic my life’s been in danger since I bought this car now I damaged my car and someone else car do to Nissan’s negligence….Not holding up to repairing their malfunctioning cars….

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 26, 2025NM

Transmission failed/malfunctioned. While driving the car it started to slow down and I couldn't accelerate any longer causing the car to come to a complete stop in the middle of the road. I had my two young children with me. If a car would have been too close behind me they could have rear ended me and caused harm to myself or my children. I have not taken the vehicle to the dealership since it is over 30 miles away and is undrivable and I am unable to afford a tow truck at this time. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than my husband. There were not warning messages prior and the only other issues I had with the car prior is problems with the air conditioner not work and making a vibrating sound.

Power Train
Filed Mar 16, 2025MS

I have a 2016 Nissan Sentra SV with 103k miles on it. I was driving the car, and noticed at stop sign and red lights the car would strain and hesitate when the accelerator was pressed. It would jerk hard then drive normally. The car would also loose power while driving. It would drop from 65 mph to 20 mph. It has done this numerous of times, and I have to try and maneuver off to the side of the highway to avoid a crash. The check engine light illuminated.The car would sit for a few minutes, accelerate, and drive normal. A few minutes later, the cycle starts again. I would also smell as if something was burning. After taking it to the shop, it was determined it was the CVT which was recalled in 2018 for 2013-2017 Nissan Sentra due to faulty CVT's. However, it is based on your VIN number according to Nissan.I did speak to a representative from Nissan Consumer Affairs and she stated my VIN number should NO RECALLS!!!! I have this car that is doing everything that granted the recall, but because they did not put my VIN number on their list it doesn't qualify. Several transmission shop has told me they do not attempt to repair the CVT they buy a new transmission from Nissan dealership. The price starts at $5200. [XXX] please help!!! The check engine light code was a P2859 issues with the Power Tran transmission. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Mar 13, 2025170,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated while driving 15 MPH, the vehicle started to lose traction control. The check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while attempting to shift gear, the vehicle started making a grinding sound, causing the vehicle to lose motive power. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.

Power Train
Filed Mar 10, 202595,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle failed to respond as intended. The vehicle hesitated and lost motive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The contact became aware of an abnormal burning odor. The vehicle was able to be restarted; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated the indicator on the instrument panel was moving independently. The vehicle was not taken to the local dealer or independent mechanic. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving 50 MPH uphill, the vehicle jerked and failed to properly accelerate. After several attempts, the vehicle moved slowly and was able to drive up the hill. The vehicle was towed to the residence and was not driven since the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the warranty on the vehicle had expired. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.

Power Train
Filed Mar 6, 202596,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while approaching a traffic light, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. The driver depressed the accelerator pedal, but the vehicle hesitated and lost motive power. The vehicle was able to be restarted; however, the vehicle failed to move. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 96,000.

Power Train
Filed Mar 6, 202596,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while approaching a traffic light, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. The driver depressed the accelerator pedal, but the vehicle paused and lost motive power. The vehicle was able to restart. However, the vehicle failed to move. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT); and the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 96,000.

Power Train
Filed Mar 6, 202596,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while approaching a traffic light, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. The driver depressed the accelerator pedal, but the vehicle paused and lost motive power. The vehicle was able to restart; however, the vehicle failed to move. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT); and the contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 96,000.

Electrical System
Filed Feb 16, 2025NY

While driving car shuts down in traffic!!! Cuts off at stop signs!!! Cuts off driving up steep roads!!! Jerks and jolts forward!!! Speeds up and down while gauges fluster!!!! The car slips in and out of gear!!! My life has been in danger since I bought this car… I need the situation taken care of this car is a dear trap and a severe safety hazard!!! This car in whole was recalled I don’t know why Nissan missed my vin number….

Power Train
Filed Feb 11, 2025NY

Car stalls on and off especially driving up hills… the car jolts… speed dominator is fluctuating up and down… car is showing codes on OBD scanner (P2589) and (P0965) it was a recall for the 2013-2017 Sentra for cvt trouble actually a law suit that was won…. Since I didn’t own the car at the moment does that disqualify the fixing of a world wide issue or because my vin number doesn’t match the ones eligible, it is of total dishonorment to ignore my vehicle which is suffering from the same recall claim cvt gone bad goon bad has gone bad… I need my car repair… I need justice for my Nissan…[XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 8, 2025TX

While I was driving on [XXX] , a piece of ampact tap metal (the "C" piece) hit my front part of the car, it went on the lower rack of my car, and it got trapped in the car. This piece fell from a truck that was loaded, I got scared but kept driving, the car seems fine, but I couldn't see the truck information plaque. This was on [XXX] between [XXX]. close to Miller factory. The piece measure 5 x 3.5 inches and weights around 1-1.5 pounds. I would like to know if there is any recorded traffic tape on the [XXX] cameras. This will help me to hold accountable to the responsible vehicle. Many thanks in advance INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Power Train
Filed Jan 31, 2025OH

The vehicle just slows down and will not go while driving it. This could cause wrecks while driving and car just slows down and won't go. This has a cvt transmission that needs to be recalled. Nissan dealers and other automotive shops have said the cvt transmission in Nissans need to be recalled.

Engine
Filed Jan 26, 2025TX

I purchased the car as a graduation present for my son in 2018. He was using it to get back and forth to work and school. Currently the car has less than 60,000 miles on it. So, it was not being excessively driven. In Dec her of 2023, He began having issues with the vehicle stalling and overheating. It began to jerk and would randomly lose power. While driving to work the car over heated and we got it to a mechanic on 1/7/24. The independent service center stated the engine needed to be replaced and he would also inspect the transmission due to the loss of power and slipping my son was describing. Once the engine was replaced the mechanic confirmed the transmission would also need to be replaced. My son spent all his savings on the engine so we took the car home to determine options. The quote for a new transmission is 3-4k plus labor. I am too scared to let my son drive the car so it has been parked in my drive way since we got the car back in February of 24. My son has been saving to try and get it fixed. His coworker told him about a class action that was filed against Nissan for the same issue for Sentras from 2013-2017. I was never contacted and never received any recall notice. There were no warning lamps or other symptoms when the issues began. I tried to add the receipt from the engine replacement but it will not upload

Power Train
Filed Jan 20, 2025NC

The transmission gave out. There was no warning lights given, no issues.

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 28, 2024CA

The problem with the car is that after a stop sign, the car no longer moved forward, it stayed in the road, this was blocking traffic and it was dangerous to get out of the car, the tow truck arrived to move it from the road, several mechanics examined it and said that the transmission was damaged, the car has only traveled 78,140 miles.

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 18, 2024NC

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Brake Light Switch How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Per multiple reports this could cause the car not to start or to indicate to cars that the vehicle is slowing down and preparing to stop Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Back in 2019 I was having this issue and in 2020 took it to a Nissan dealership to have it looked into and repaired (Unknowingly that there was a recall for this specific issue) Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? After experiencing this years ago I knew what steps needed to be taken in order to have this resolved. This started to happen again on the night of 12/15/24

Power Train
Filed Dec 14, 2024FL

My 2016 Nissan Sentra malfunctioned while driving on the Highway three separate times. The car suddenly lost its ability to accelerate and seemed to power down while becoming more difficult to steer. It seemed to start shuddering and I thought it may have been a front end flat tire. After pulling off the road and putting the car in park, when I waited a minute or two, I placed the car in drive and there was no problem until a month later and it hppended again except on an interstate while driving over a long bridge. Two different Nissan dealers could not diagnose any issues and kind of threw up theirs hands with no suggestions except to bring it in again if it happens once more. The auto has become hazardous to drive for two seniors, and no one seems to be able to diagnose or fix the issues. I read online about Nissan CVT transmission recalls for these Sentras, but never received any recall notifications.

Power Train
Filed Sep 27, 2024NJ

My Nissan Sentra 2016 (CVT) Transmission Failed while driving in middle of road. Riverside Nissan in Hackensack, NJ and Nissan Consumer Affairs denies allegations, denies the occurrence of the class action lawsuit in 2017, refuses to take accountability, lured me to the Nissan dealership under false pretenses to squeeze money out of me, and denies my right to repairs to a faultily manufactured Nissan transmission, which was undisclosed to me 2 years ago upon purchase of vehicle at full price. In addition to, when I went back to contact the dealership that I purchased the vehicle from, Autoholding 46, 74 US-46, Mountain Lakes, NJ, they were closed down. My attached PDF, "NHTSA General- Nissan" consists of the general description and details for your review. Please convey whatever else is needed.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 18, 2024NY

Transmission began slipping in summer of 2023. Recall was already open on car and current when taken to dealership. Dealership refused to service, closed recall as corrected without inspecting the vehicle correctly. Transmission has gotten worse.

Engine
Filed Aug 15, 2024OR

My engine light came on I had it checked out and found out it was my Mass Air Flow sensor. Is this a normal problem or is it related to the recall under electrical?

Power TrainCrash
Filed Jun 23, 2024PA

My transmission has been acting up since 40k miles . I have took it to Nissan dealer update tcm same problems . I’ve also too it too ford apple dealership York pa and still have open ticket because they couldn’t figure it out . Me and my family are on our way home from Myrtle beach Sc and our transmission gives out at 60k miles causing us to lose control on highway hours away from home stranded.

Power Train
Filed Jun 18, 2024TX

I was driving about 55 mph in the left lane on Hwy 45S bypass and the transmission just stop working in the middle of the intersection causing traffic to have merge right then it would not accelerate in Drive but would go in Reverse. I had to push the car across traffic to side of the road and have it towed. This was the 3rd transmission that had been put in this vehicle. The Nissan manufacturers have admitted to transmissions are defective but would replace mine because it would have been the 4th transmission put in this vehicle.

Power Train
Filed Jun 5, 2024CA

DTC Code P285A Dealer said out of warranty

Power Train
Filed May 30, 2024PA

The CVT Transmission Bands unaligned themselves around 75,000 miles. Nissan refuses to replace their defective transmission in my vehicle due to not going to Nissan Service Centers for regular maintenance but instead going to smaller more affordable certified mechanics for my regular maintenance. When I did take it to Nissan in June of 2023 I was told to change my transmission fluid and filter and the issues would be resolved. I went to my private mechanic and had this done and my issues were not resolved. Upon further investigation it was a defective transmission and the extended powertrain warranty had expired by time and mileage. I was told to call Consumer Affairs for Nissan and they refused to provide any assistance due to my inability to afford paying for my regular maintenance to be done through their service centers. The cost of their synthetic oil changes is 80$ more than my reputable mechanic charges me. I am a single mother of two kids, a full time employee, and college student I live paycheck to paycheck as is and need to save money where I am able. I am being punished for not paying their outlandish prices for their sub-par mechanics.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 8, 2024NC

This car has the CVT, and it is worthless. I have a 2016 Nissan Sentra just hit over 100,000 miles, and I already had to replace the transmission in February 2024, and it just went again and needs replaced. That’s three months. it might have a warranty, but this is not worth my time. There is no way this should’ve went in three months and the first month, I did not drive because I had knee replacement. Nissan is not helpful at all about this issue and we have put over $4,000 Into this, and that does not count utilizing a car while the cars in the shop or anything else.

Power Train
Filed May 6, 202442,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle started losing motive power. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal and the vehicle failed to respond as intended. The contact pulled off the highway and attempted to shift the vehicle into park(P) however, the vehicle started moving backwards. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.

Power Train
Filed Apr 15, 2024NJ

I bought a 2016 Nissan Sentra brand new. It has 120,000 miles and the transmission needs replacement. This is a CVT so no way to check on fluid or anything. I was having pickup issues and brought it to the dealership and they are saying that it needs a new transmission which will cost $5600, which is more than the cars worth. This seems to be a defect on their CVT technology from what I understand, now I need help with resolving this issue since I don’t think it’s anything I have done.

Complaints 1-50 of 270, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202619110Routine
202531400Routine
202441300Routine
202320100Routine
202281200Routine
2021133310Routine
2020207400Above average
2019223210Above average
2018185231Fatalities reported
2017231360Above average
2016 — this page270620Above average
2015352330Above average
2014380560Above average
2013638641Fatalities reported
2012180040Routine
2011142260Routine
2010144340Routine
200955101Fatalities reported
2008167330Routine
20071541102Fatalities reported
2006116610Do not drive
2005170640Do not drive
2004197501Do not drive
20031801010Do not drive
20023181480Do not drive
2001236820Above average
2000171740Routine
199959300Routine
199858521Fatalities reported
1997108712Fatalities reported
1996141710Routine
1995117732Fatalities reported
199499050Routine
199358020Routine
1992620150Routine
1991632101Fatalities reported
199039231Fatalities reported

Compare every Sentra year →

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Mar 3, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.