2019 Nissan Versa Note

The 2019 Nissan Versa Note is a subcompact hatchback known for its affordability and spacious interior for its class. It comes with a 1.6-liter inline-4 engine producing 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners often appreciate its fuel efficiency and maneuverability, but some dislike its basic interior and somewhat underpowered engine.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, check engine light illumination. Could be caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils and/or spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, reduced engine performance, potential rattling noise from the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Failure/Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, hesitation during acceleration, jerking, unusual noises (whining, humming), or complete transmission failure. This is a common issue with Nissan CVTs from this era.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT. Some owners attempt fluid changes and valve body replacements, but these are often temporary fixes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission stuck in one gear, check engine light illumination, potential difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the TCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise that increases with vehicle speed, vibration in the steering wheel, potential looseness in the wheel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per wheel.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining quickly, difficulty starting the car, needing frequent jump starts. Could be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty component.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. Common culprits include faulty door locks, BCM (Body Control Module) issues, or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working, intermittent locking/unlocking, unusual noises from the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air, weak airflow, strange noises coming from the A/C system.
  • Solution: Recharge refrigerant. If this does not work, then diagnose and replace the compressor, condenser, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+, depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ for replacement, $20 - $100+ for a cover.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Nissan Versa Note has several common issues. The most severe and costly problems are related to the CVT transmission, which is prone to failure. Electrical issues, such as battery drains, can also be frustrating to diagnose and repair. Suspension and interior issues, while less severe, can affect the overall driving experience and comfort. Buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used Versa Note, paying particular attention to the transmission’s performance.