2008 Nissan Versa

The 2008 Nissan Versa is a subcompact car known for its spacious interior and fuel efficiency. It was available as a hatchback and a sedan. The standard engine was a 1.6-liter inline-4 cylinder engine producing 107 horsepower and 111 lb-ft of torque. Some models had the optional 1.8-liter inline-4 cylinder engine that produced 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. The 1.6L engine could be paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, while the 1.8L engine could be paired with either a 6-speed manual, 4-speed automatic, or CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Owners often liked the Versa for its affordability and roominess, but common complaints included the car’s somewhat bland styling, basic features, and potential reliability issues.

Engine

1.8L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Failed Ignition Coils
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, reduced fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $250+ per coil (depending on if you DIY or pay a mechanic)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, rattling noise from underneath the car, and the check engine light illuminating with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, rough running, difficulty starting, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, hesitation during acceleration, whining noises, and complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+ (Rebuild or Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM)
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission stuck in a gear, and failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TCM
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, and decreased handling.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ for all four.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Damaged Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, wandering steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Failed Blower Motor Resistor
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC fan only works on certain settings or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow or no start, and battery light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells, door edges, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of affected body panels, rust treatment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity, $100 - $1000s+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Broken Sun Visor
  • Description/Symptoms: Sun visor detaches easily or won’t stay in the desired position.
  • Solution: Replace sun visor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Nissan Versa, while practical and affordable, can suffer from several issues, particularly with the CVT transmission and engine components like ignition coils and catalytic converters. Suspension wear and tear are also common. Repair costs can range from relatively minor for issues like sun visors and blower motor resistors to significant for CVT replacements. Rust is a common issue, and should be inspected when purchasing a used vehicle.