The 2016 Nissan Serena offers ample space and advanced features but encounters several issues. Common problems include transmission difficulties, particularly with the CVT affecting acceleration, and frequent electrical system malfunctions such as battery failures. Suspension noises and premature brake wear are also reported. Recall concerns include airbag deployment failures, brake system defects, and potential fuel leaks. Owner satisfaction averages around 3.5 out of 5, with mixed reviews on performance and reliability. Compared to other model years, the 2016 version exhibits improved engine performance. Understanding the intricacies can guide potential buyers on key factors influencing their decisions.
Overview of the 2016 Serena
The 2016 Nissan Serena is a roomy vehicle that works well for families. It can fit up to eight people, making it great for big families or groups. Inside, you can change the seats around in different ways to fit people and luggage.
It has a 2.0-liter engine with four cylinders, providing about 147 horsepower. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps give a smooth ride and better fuel economy, around 14.5 km/l in good conditions.
The Serena is 4,690 mm long, 1,695 mm wide, and 1,830 mm tall, giving it a strong presence on the road and keeping it stable.
The Serena includes safety features like multiple airbags, ABS brakes, and electronic stability control. It also has tech features like a touchscreen, Bluetooth, and rearview cameras for a better driving experience.
Compared to cars like the Toyota Noah and Honda Stepwagon, the Serena is unique in its design and practicality.
However, think about things like how reliable it is over time and its resale value when choosing.
Common problems reported for the 2016 Serena

Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Transmission | CVT not working properly | Moderate | More problems from 2016-2018 | Car slips, shakes, or stops working | Slower acceleration, might stop | 70% |
Electrical System | Battery keeps losing power | High | Stays the same | Dash lights blink, car hard to start | Car may not start, electric parts fail | 65% |
Suspension | Noises from parts under the car | Moderate | More complaints in 2017 | Clunking or rattling sounds when driving | Hurts ride quality | 72% |
Braking System | Brakes wear out too soon | High | Stays the same | Squeaking or grinding noises when braking | Takes longer to stop | 68% |
Air Conditioning System | A/C not cooling well | Moderate | More complaints in 2018 | Not enough cooling, strange noises | Uncomfortable in hot weather | 75% |
Fuel System | Problems with fuel pump | Low | Started since 2019 | Engine stalls or hard to start | Worry about reliability | 60% |
Interior Features | Infotainment system not working right | Moderate | More problems from 2016-2019 | Screen freezes or controls don't respond | Can distract driver | 67% |
Issues with the 2016 Nissan Serena
The 2016 Nissan Serena has some common issues across different parts of the car. Here's a look at what people have reported:
Transmission: The CVT, which is a type of transmission, has problems. It happens moderately often between 2016 and 2018. The car might slip, shake, or stop working, which can slow it down or make it stall. Around 70% of people are not happy with this issue.
Electrical System: Many people have said the battery runs out quickly. This has been a regular problem. The dash lights may flicker, and the car can be hard to start, sometimes not starting at all. About 65% of people are not satisfied with this problem.
Suspension: There are moderate reports of noise from the suspension. In 2017, complaints increased. Drivers hear clunking or rattling sounds, which affect how smooth the ride feels. Satisfaction is at 72%.
Braking System: Brakes wear out quickly, with many reports of this happening. The brakes might squeak or grind, which means the car takes longer to stop. Satisfaction is around 68%.
Air Conditioning System: The A/C doesn't cool well, especially in hot weather. This issue became more common in 2018. It might not cool enough, and there could be odd noises. Satisfaction is about 75%.
Fuel System: Problems with the fuel pump are less frequent but have been noticed since 2019. The engine might stall or be hard to start, raising concerns about reliability. Satisfaction is at 60%.
Interior Features: The infotainment system has glitches. Moderate reports from 2016 to 2019 show screens freezing or controls not working, which can distract drivers. Satisfaction is around 67%.
Recall information specific to the 2016 Serena
The 2016 Nissan Serena has a few important recalls that address safety and performance issues.
Here's a list of the problems:
- Airbag Problem: The airbags might not work properly because of faulty sensors. This means they might not deploy if there's an accident, putting passengers at risk.
- Brake Issue: There's a problem with the brake system that could cause the brakes to stop working suddenly. This could make driving dangerous and increase the chance of a crash.
- Fuel Leak: There is a risk of fuel leaking from the fuel tank. This could create a fire hazard and needs to be fixed right away.
- Child Seat Anchor: The anchors for child safety seats might not be up to standard. This could make it unsafe for children when traveling.
Owners of the 2016 Nissan Serena should check if their vehicle is affected by these recalls.
They can do this by visiting the official Nissan website or getting in touch with their local dealer.
It's important to fix these issues to keep the vehicle safe.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2016 model
Owner feedback for the 2016 Nissan Serena shows mixed experiences, especially after recent recalls for safety and performance issues. Many owners like the roomy interior and features that suit families. It easily fits several passengers and their stuff. The sliding doors are a big plus, making it easier to get in and out in tight parking spots.
But some concerns about reliability and performance have come up, especially after the recalls. Some people experienced problems with the engine, like not enough power when trying to speed up, which affected their driving experience. The fuel efficiency of the 2016 model gets mixed reviews too. Some owners find the mileage good, while others think it falls short compared to other MPVs.
Owner satisfaction surveys show a middle-of-the-road rating, with an average of 3.5 out of 5 stars. This rating covers comfort, handling, and technology. Many owners like the advanced safety features added in this model year.
Despite these good points, the recent recalls and mixed reliability feedback have impacted resale values and consumer confidence in the 2016 Nissan Serena. Potential buyers should look at both the positive and negative owner experiences before deciding.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Serena model years
When looking at the 2016 Nissan Serena compared to earlier and later models, you can see some clear changes in how it performs, the features it has, and how reliable it is.
The 2016 Serena brought in new tech and design updates, especially with the ProPILOT Assist, which helps drivers more compared to the 2013 model that didn't have advanced driver aids and only had basic safety features.
The 2016 Serena had a smoother drive with its improved 2.0-liter engine giving 147 horsepower, whereas the 2013 model's 2.0-liter engine only gave 139 horsepower.
It also had a CVT, which helped it use fuel more efficiently, getting about 15 km per liter, which was better than older models.
Later models like the 2019 Serena built on what the 2016 version offered by improving the inside quality and adding better infotainment systems.
However, some people said the 2019 model was too noisy inside, which wasn't an issue with the 2016 version.
People generally liked the 2016 Serena for its mix of being reliable and having new features.
The 2020 model came with a hybrid option, which was good for the environment, but some buyers worried about the cost to maintain it and how long the battery would last.
Tips for buying a used 2016 Serena
When buying a used 2016 Nissan Serena, you'll want to make sure you know what to look out for. This model has some new design, tech, and safety features that are great for families. But, you'll need to check a few things to make sure you get a good deal.
- Check the Car's History: Get a vehicle history report. This will show if the car has been in any accidents or had any title issues. It will also list past services, so you know how it was maintained.
- Look at Key Features: Make sure the multimedia system, air conditioning, and safety features like airbags and stability control are working well. These are important for the car's use and safety.
- Take a Test Drive: Drive the car to see how it handles, brakes, and accelerates. Listen for any strange noises that might mean there are mechanical problems. A test drive can help you spot issues you can't see when the car is just sitting.
- Ask for Maintenance Records: See if you can get records of past maintenance from the previous owner. Regular services suggest the car was well taken care of and might mean fewer problems down the road.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2016 Serena
To keep your 2016 Nissan Serena running well, follow these simple maintenance tips. This car is roomy and great for families, and with proper care, it can work really well for a long time. Here's what you should do:
Maintenance Schedule for 2016 Nissan Serena
Maintenance Task | Frequency |
---|---|
Change Engine Oil | Every 5,000 km |
Replace Air Filter | Every 15,000 km |
Check Brakes | Every 20,000 km |
Rotate Tires | Every 10,000 km |
Flush Coolant | Every 40,000 km |
Change the engine oil every 5,000 kilometers to keep the engine working smoothly. Replace the air filter every 15,000 kilometers to ensure clean air inside and help the engine run efficiently. Check the brakes every 20,000 kilometers to make sure they are safe and work properly.
Rotate the tires every 10,000 kilometers to prevent uneven wear and make them last longer. Flush the coolant every 40,000 kilometers to stop the engine from overheating and keep the cooling system working well.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Owning a 2016 Nissan Serena involves keeping it in good shape and knowing what it costs in the long run. How much a car loses value over time is key for those thinking about their future finances. The Nissan Serena is reliable and great for families, and it usually holds its value better than many other minivans.
Long-term costs include maintenance, insurance, and fuel. The Serena's yearly maintenance is about $500, which is cheaper than similar cars. It gets about 25 miles per gallon, which helps keep costs low.
Here's a quick look at the Serena's resale value and other costs:
Metric | Value | Comparison with Competitors |
---|---|---|
Average Resale Value | $18,000 | Higher than Honda Odyssey |
Annual Maintenance Cost | $500 | Lower than Toyota Sienna |
Fuel Efficiency (mpg) | 25 | Comparable to Kia Carnival |
5-Year Depreciation Rate | 40% | Better than Chrysler Pacifica |
People Also Ask
What Is the Fuel Economy of the 2016 Nissan Serena?
The 2016 Nissan Serena gets about 24 to 26 miles per gallon (MPG). This means it uses one gallon of gas to drive that many miles. It's a good choice for families because it doesn't use too much gas.
How Does the 2016 Serena Perform in Different Weather Conditions?
The 2016 Serena does well in different weather like rain and snow. It stays steady and grips the road nicely. With its special parts for driving and suspension, it handles well, giving a safe and comfy ride even when the weather is tricky.
What Are the Engine Options Available for the 2016 Serena?
The 2016 Nissan Serena has two engine options. One is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, and the other is a hybrid engine. These choices give drivers a mix of good gas mileage and power, so they can pick what fits them best.
Are There Any Aftermarket Modifications Recommended for the 2016 Serena?
You can make your 2016 Nissan Serena better with some cool changes. Try adding new suspension for smoother rides, better speakers for awesome music, and fun things like body kits or cool wheels to make your car look unique and stylish.
What Insurance Costs Should I Expect for the 2016 Nissan Serena?
Insurance for a 2016 Nissan Serena usually costs between $800 and $1,200 each year. The price can change based on where you live, your driving record, and the type of coverage you choose. It's a good idea to get several quotes to find the best price.