1997 Nissan Sentra

1997 Nissan Sentra

The 1997 Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan that was praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. However, like many vehicles, it has some known issues.

Engine

• 1.6L GA16DE
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the top of the engine
    • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the front of the engine
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
• 2.0L SR20DE
  • Timing Belt Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start or run rough
    • Solution: Replace timing belt and components
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level, blue smoke from exhaust pipe
    • Solution: Replace piston rings
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, slipping, or grinding
    • Solution: Replace clutch kit
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Slipping Gears
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, transmission slipping out of gear
    • Solution: Replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arms
  • Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises when turning or going over bumps
    • Solution: Replace lower control arm bushings
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorbers
  • Leakage
    • Description/Symptoms: Poor ride quality, bouncy rear end
    • Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not crank or clicks when starting
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors will not lock or unlock using the key fob or interior controls
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuators
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Switches
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not working
  • Solution: Replace window switches
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material becoming loose and sagging
  • Solution: Replace headliner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Nissan Sentra is a reliable and affordable vehicle overall. However, it does have some known issues that can be costly to repair. Common engine problems include valve cover gasket leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks, and timing belt failure. The transmission may also experience clutch failure or slipping gears. Suspension components such as control arms and shock absorbers can wear out and cause noise or poor ride quality. Electrical system issues, such as alternator or starter failure, can also arise. Exterior problems may include faulty door lock actuators or power window switches, while interior issues include dashboard cracks and headliner sagging.