2021 Nissan Sentra

The 2021 Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan known for its comfortable ride, stylish design, and fuel efficiency. It comes equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate the Sentra’s value for money, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. However, some common complaints include the CVT’s performance characteristics, the somewhat lackluster acceleration, and occasional issues with the electronics.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-ups between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms can include the low oil light illuminating, a burning oil smell, and visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: The solution may involve replacing piston rings or addressing valve seal issues, depending on the cause.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Juddering/Shaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced a juddering or shaking sensation, particularly during acceleration or at lower speeds. This can feel like the transmission is slipping or hesitating.
  • Solution: A software update, transmission fluid flush, or, in more severe cases, CVT replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (CVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Whining Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable whining noise emanating from the transmission area, especially during acceleration. The noise might increase in intensity with vehicle speed.
  • Solution: This is often indicative of internal CVT wear. Depending on the severity, a fluid change might help temporarily. However, CVT replacement is often the ultimate solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change)- $4,000+ (CVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash intermittently. This can affect navigation, audio, and other system functions.
  • Solution: Restarting the system or updating the software. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Restart) - $100 (Software Update) - $500-$1,000+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera may fail to display an image.
  • Solution: Replacing the camera, or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: False activation of the AEB system.
  • Solution: Recalibration or replacement of the AEB sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Buzzing Noises from Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling or buzzing noises emanating from the dashboard area, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the rattle, which may involve adding padding or tightening loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Nissan Sentra, while generally reliable, can experience a range of issues. The most concerning are potential problems with the CVT, which can be costly to repair or replace. Electrical glitches, such as infotainment system issues, are also relatively common. While some issues may be minor and easily resolved, others can be more serious and expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision, and potentially consider an extended warranty for powertrain components, especially given the possible CVT concerns.