By Finn Hart The 2021 Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan that, despite its appealing design and advanced features, faces notable issues. Common problems include excessive oil consumption, with a 75% customer satisfaction rating. Transmission concerns, such as jerking during gear changes, receive a 70% rating. Brake pad wear, electrical glitches, and suspension noise also contribute to lower satisfaction scores, averaging around 65-72%. Recalls pertain to electrical malfunctions and airbag deployment issues, warranting prompt attention. Although the Sentra boasts a five-star safety rating, potential buyers should thoroughly assess previous ownership and maintenance records to make an informed decision moving forward.
Overview of the 2021 Sentra
The 2021 Nissan Sentra has been redesigned, keeping its practicality and efficiency as a compact sedan. It has a bold look with a V-Motion grille and sharp LED headlights, which help with both style and fuel efficiency.
The car runs on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that gives 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. It uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for a smooth drive and good gas mileage, getting about 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
The Sentra's independent front and rear suspension systems make handling comfortable and responsive.
Inside, the Sentra features quality materials and a modern design. The standard infotainment system includes a 7-inch touchscreen, with an optional upgrade to an 8-inch display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety is a priority, with Nissan's Safety Shield 360 suite available on all models. This includes features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Compared to the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Sentra offers a roomy interior and advanced safety features, making it a good choice for those who value comfort and security in a small sedan.
Common problems reported for the 2021 Sentra
Common Problems for the 2021 Nissan Sentra
Engine
Many owners of the 2021 Nissan Sentra have reported the engine using too much oil. The oil level drops a lot between service appointments. This issue has become more common compared to previous years.
Signs include the check engine light and oil warning light coming on, which can affect how well the engine works. Satisfaction with engine performance is about 75%.
Transmission
There are also issues with the transmission, mainly jerking during gear changes. This happens during both upshifting and downshifting, making driving less comfortable.
The frequency of this problem has stayed the same over time. This jerking reduces driving enjoyment, with customer satisfaction at around 70%.
Brakes
Brake pads on the Sentra wear out too quickly. Many owners have to replace them sooner than expected, which raises safety and cost concerns.
Symptoms include squeaking noises and reduced braking power. This affects safety significantly, with satisfaction at 65%.
Electrical System
Some glitches in the infotainment system have been reported. Screens freeze and buttons stop working.
This happens moderately often and hasn't changed much over the years. These glitches can distract drivers, affecting their experience. Satisfaction is about 68%.
Suspension
There are some complaints about noise from the suspension. Owners hear clunking and rattling when driving over bumps.
This is a new issue for the 2021 model. It affects ride comfort, with satisfaction at 72%.
Fuel System
The fuel pump has issues, but not very often. Problems include trouble starting the car and the engine stalling.
While not common, these issues are becoming more frequent. They raise concerns about reliability, with satisfaction at 74%.
Body and Interior
Owners have noted paint chipping and interior materials wearing out quickly. Paint peels easily, and upholstery wears down faster than expected.
These are mainly cosmetic issues and don't affect how the car performs. Satisfaction is around 70%.
Recall information specific to the 2021 Sentra
The 2021 Nissan Sentra has had some recalls to fix safety and performance issues. These are important for keeping drivers and passengers safe and the car running well.
Here are the recalls for the 2021 model:
1. Electrical System Issues: A recall was made because of a possible short circuit in the electrical system. This problem could cause the car to lose power, which might lead to accidents.
Owners should take their cars to the dealership for checks and repairs.
2. Airbag Deployment Problems: Another recall was about the airbag system. There was a problem that might stop the airbags from working in a crash.
Nissan contacted affected owners to get this fixed.
3. Transmission Concerns: There was also a recall on the continuously variable transmission (CVT). It could change gears unexpectedly, making it hard to control the car.
This could create unsafe driving conditions.
Nissan has contacted owners and offered solutions for these problems. They advise getting these issues fixed quickly for safety.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2021 model
Owner reviews for the 2021 Nissan Sentra show mixed feelings. Many people like its stylish look, modern inside, and safety features. It comes with automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, which are good for those who care about safety.
On the downside, some owners aren't happy with its performance. The Sentra has a 2.0-liter engine with 149 horsepower, which some find lacking, especially when driving on highways or hills.
Some drivers also find the continuously variable transmission (CVT) less responsive than the automatic transmissions in cars like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla.
About 75% of owners are generally satisfied, but some mention issues with the quality of interior materials and the space in the back seat.
The car has a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which appeals to families.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Sentra model years
The Nissan Sentra has changed a lot over the years. The 2021 model brought a fresh look and new features. It looks sharper on the outside and more modern inside than the 2020 version.
The 2020 Sentra was seen as old-fashioned and didn't perform well, so the 2021 update made a big difference.
For safety, the 2021 Sentra includes features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning as standard. These were not available in the 2019 model.
Back then, the Sentra was dependable but missed out on these new safety tools, making it less appealing compared to other compact cars.
The engine in the 2021 Sentra is better too. It has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 149 horsepower. This gives a more lively driving experience and better fuel economy—29 miles per gallon in the city and 39 on the highway.
Future models, like those expected in 2022, will likely build on the 2021 improvements. They might include more tech and eco-friendly options like hybrids.
But, it's important to keep these cars affordable, which will affect what buyers choose in the compact car market.
Tips for buying a used 2021 Sentra
When buying a used 2021 Nissan Sentra, consider these steps to make an informed choice:
1. Get a Vehicle History Report**: Use services like Carfax or AutoCheck to see the car's past. This report shows any accidents**, title problems, or issues with the odometer.
A clean history can make the car more reliable and valuable.
2. Look at the Condition****: Check the car inside and out for wear or damage. Focus on the tires, brakes, and suspension to see how well the previous owner took care of it.
It's a good idea to have a mechanic check for any hidden problems.
3. Take it for a Test Drive****: Always test drive the car. This helps you see how it performs and feels.
Listen for strange noises and check if the brakes and steering work well. Make sure things like the infotainment system and safety features are working.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2021 Sentra
Taking care of your 2021 Nissan Sentra regularly can help it last longer and work better. Stick to a simple maintenance schedule to keep your car safe and running well. Here's a quick guide on what to do and when:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Change Engine Oil | Every 5,000 miles |
| Rotate Tires | Every 5,000 miles |
| Check Brakes | Every 10,000 miles |
| Replace Cabin Air Filter | Every 15,000 miles |
| Inspect Battery | Every 30,000 miles |
Change the oil to keep the engine running smoothly. Synthetic oil can be a good choice as it might last longer. Rotate your tires so they wear evenly, which helps with grip and saves fuel. Check the brakes to make sure they're working fine. This can change depending on how you drive.
Swap out the cabin air filter for fresh air inside the car. Look at the battery to avoid unexpected problems. Often check the battery's connections and fluid levels to make it last longer.
Following these steps can help you avoid problems and enjoy your drive.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
When thinking about the resale value and long-term costs of owning a 2021 Nissan Sentra, you'll find its reliable performance and good fuel efficiency help keep its value. The Sentra is a strong performer among small cars. It holds its resale value well due to its low upkeep costs and great gas mileage.
Reports show that after five years, a Sentra is worth about 45% of what it cost new. This is good compared to other cars like it. This happens because the Sentra is built to last, and Nissan focuses on quality, attracting buyers looking for a used car.
For long-term costs, owning a Sentra is both affordable and effective. Here's a look at some key costs over five years:
| Cost Factor | 2021 Nissan Sentra | Competitor (e.g., Honda Civic) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Maintenance Cost | $3,000 | $3,500 |
| Fuel Cost (5 Years) | $10,000 | $11,500 |
| Depreciation (5 Years) | 55% | 50% |
These numbers show that the 2021 Nissan Sentra is a good choice for those who want to save money in the long run.
People Also Ask
What Are the Most Common Engine Issues Reported by Sentra Owners?
Sentra owners often report engine problems like using too much oil, the car shaking when it's not moving, and the engine stopping unexpectedly. These issues can make the car unreliable, so it's important to fix them quickly to keep the car running well.
How Does the 2021 Sentra Perform in Crash Tests?
The 2021 Nissan Sentra does well in crash tests. It got high ratings for safety because of its smart design and special features that help protect people inside during accidents. This makes the Sentra a safe car to drive.
What Warranties Are Available for the 2021 Sentra?
The 2021 Nissan Sentra comes with two main warranties. There's a basic warranty that lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. There's also a powertrain warranty that lasts for five years or 60,000 miles. These help cover repair costs.
Are There Any Aftermarket Modifications Recommended for the 2021 Sentra?
For the 2021 Sentra, you can add new air intakes, better exhaust systems, and improved suspension parts. These changes can make the car drive better, look cooler, and perform well, while still being safe and fitting with how the car was made.
What Is the Fuel Efficiency of the 2021 Nissan Sentra?
The 2021 Nissan Sentra is good on gas. It gets about 29 miles per gallon when you drive in the city and around 39 miles per gallon on the highway. This makes it a smart choice if you want to save money on fuel.