By Finn Hart The 1999 Nissan Sentra, part of the B14 generation, features a 1.6L or 2.0L engine, with a fuel economy of 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. Common issues include engine rough idling (65% satisfaction), transmission slipping (55%), suspension strut wear (60%), and ignition switch failures (50%). Safety recalls involve airbag failures and fuel pump issues. Owners report average annual maintenance costs of $300, while resale values range from $1,000 to $3,000. Compared to competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Sentra offers lower maintenance costs and moderate depreciation, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious drivers. Further insights reveal deeper nuances on ownership experiences.
Overview of the 1999 Sentra
The 1999 Nissan Sentra is a well-known compact car for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It belongs to the B14 generation, which was available from 1995 to 1999. This car was designed for people who wanted a dependable vehicle without spending too much.
The 1999 model came with different engine options. One was a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 115 horsepower. Another option, in the SE-R trim, was a 2.0-liter engine that offered 140 horsepower.
The Sentra was known for good gas mileage. It got about 28 miles per gallon in the city and 36 on the highway, making it a strong competitor against cars like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Inside, the Sentra had enough space for five people and a trunk that could hold 13.1 cubic feet, making it useful for everyday needs. While it wasn't luxurious, buyers could choose features like air conditioning, a CD player, and power accessories, depending on the trim.
Safety features included dual front airbags and optional anti-lock brakes, which were becoming more common at the time.
The 1999 Nissan Sentra was a reliable and affordable choice for those looking for a compact car with essential features.
Common problems reported for the 1999 Sentra
Issues Reported for the 1999 Nissan Sentra
Engine
Many owners of the 1999 Nissan Sentra have reported problems with the engine. The car idles roughly and sometimes stalls when stopping. This issue often comes with vibrations when the car is not moving.
These problems make driving more difficult and affect the car's overall performance. About 65% of car owners are satisfied despite these issues.
Transmission
Transmission troubles, like slipping or slow shifting, are also reported. These issues tend to happen more as the car gets older.
Drivers feel a delay when trying to speed up. This can be frustrating and makes the car accelerate less effectively. The satisfaction rate for this is around 55%.
Suspension
The Sentra's suspension system wears out quickly. Struts and shocks tend to wear down early, leading to a noisy ride and poor handling.
This problem is common and doesn't seem to improve over time. It affects how comfortable and smooth the ride is, with a satisfaction rate of 60%.
Electrical System
Problems with the ignition switch are moderately common. They make it hard to start the car and can cause electrical issues.
These problems have increased with time, especially in older cars. The impact includes potential stalling, and satisfaction is low at 50%.
Fuel System
Fuel pump failures are another issue. They can cause the engine to sputter or lose power suddenly.
This affects the car's performance, and satisfaction in this area is at 58%.
Cooling System
Radiator leaks that cause overheating are less common but increase as the car ages. Symptoms include a rising temperature gauge and steam from the engine.
If not fixed, this can damage the engine. Satisfaction here is 62%.
Brake System
Premature wear on the brake pads is frequently reported. Symptoms include squeaky or grinding noises, leading to less effective braking.
Despite these issues, satisfaction is higher here at 67%, suggesting the problem is manageable.
Recall information specific to the 1999 Sentra
The 1999 Nissan Sentra has had several recalls due to safety and performance issues.
These recalls show Nissan's effort to keep their vehicles safe, though they also point to problems that can come up with older cars. Knowing about these recalls matters for both current owners and those thinking about buying a 1999 Sentra.
Key recalls include:
- Airbag Problem: The airbags might not work during a crash, which can be dangerous for passengers.
- Fuel Pump Issue: The fuel pump might fail, causing the engine to stall. This can affect how the car runs and might lead to accidents, especially when driving fast.
- Brake System Issue: There could be a problem with the brakes that makes it hard to stop the car. This can lead to serious accidents if not fixed.
Owners should check their car's vehicle identification number (VIN) with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to see if their car is part of any recalls.
Fixing these problems can help keep the car safe and reliable.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 1999 model
Owner feedback for the 1999 Nissan Sentra shows a mix of good and bad experiences. Many people like how this car saves on gas, often getting 25 to 30 miles per gallon, which is great for everyday driving. Its small size makes it easy to park, especially in crowded cities.
But, some owners are not happy with how the car is built. They mention that the inside materials wear out quickly and some electronic parts stop working, like the air conditioning. Some also had to replace the alternator and starter sooner than expected, which raises concerns about its reliability.
Satisfaction rates differ a lot. Many owners give it good reviews for being affordable and cheap to maintain. On sites like Edmunds and Consumer Reports, it gets around 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Yet, some owners are not happy with its safety features, as it doesn't have the advanced features that newer cars have.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Sentra model years
When you look at the 1999 Nissan Sentra, it's helpful to see how it stacks up against other Sentra models. The 1999 Sentra belongs to the B14 generation, known for being compact and fuel-efficient. Compared to the older B13 models from 1991 to 1994, the 1999 version added safety features like dual airbags and a sturdier frame, which helped with concerns about safety.
The next generation, B15, came out in 2000. It had a new look and a stronger engine, a 2.0L inline-four with 145 horsepower. The inside also felt nicer, with better materials and a smoother ride. This addressed earlier complaints about noise and fitting issues inside the car.
The 1999 Sentra is still liked for its straightforwardness and dependability. Owners often find it has fewer electronic problems than newer versions, which have more tech and sometimes more issues.
In the market, the 1999 Sentra is a good deal for those watching their budget. It hasn't lost as much value as newer models. While the B15 brought upgrades, the 1999 Sentra's lower price and simplicity can appeal to those wanting a reliable, basic car.
Each model has unique pros and cons that suit different people and their needs.
Tips for buying a used 1999 Sentra
Buying a used 1999 Nissan Sentra can be a good option if you're looking for a budget-friendly, reliable car. To make a smart purchase, keep these tips in mind:
1. Check the Car Carefully: Look over the Sentra from top to bottom. Pay close attention to the engine, transmission, and suspension.
Watch out for rust, leaks, or unusual wear, as these might mean expensive repairs down the road.
2. Look at Maintenance Records: Ask for the car's service history. Check if it has had regular oil changes, brake checks, and other important services.
A car with a good maintenance record usually lasts longer and has fewer surprises.
3. Take a Test Drive: Drive the Sentra to see how it feels on the road. Notice how it steers, stops, and sounds.
This will help you spot any problems you might not see in a regular check.
Maintenance recommendations for the 1999 Sentra
Regular maintenance keeps a 1999 Nissan Sentra in good shape. Following a set schedule helps it last longer and work better. Here's a table with key tasks and when to do them:
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Interval | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 3,000 miles | Keeps the engine running smoothly |
| Air Filter Replacement | Every 15,000 miles | Helps the engine run better and saves fuel |
| Spark Plug Replacement | Every 30,000 miles | Ensures the engine starts and runs properly |
| Brake Inspection | Every 12,000 miles | Keeps brakes working well for safety |
Oil changes are very important for engine health. Not doing them can cause engine problems. Changing the air filter regularly helps with fuel economy. Spark plugs are key for starting the engine; if they are worn, the engine might not run well. Checking the brakes often ensures they work right and avoids bigger problems later.
Doing these tasks can help avoid common issues like engine problems or brake failure. Regular maintenance makes driving the Sentra more reliable.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
When looking at the resale value and costs of owning a 1999 Nissan Sentra, it's helpful to know how these factors can affect your decision. The Sentra is known for being fuel-efficient and reliable, but there are both benefits and drawbacks in terms of resale value and costs over time.
Resale Value and Ownership Costs
For a 1999 Nissan Sentra, the resale value usually ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. This depends on factors like mileage, condition, and demand in the market. While it doesn't lose value as quickly as some other cars, you might face ongoing costs for maintenance and repairs.
Here's a breakdown of common ownership costs:
| Cost Category | Average Cost (USD) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Routine Maintenance | $300 | Annually |
| Repairs (minor issues) | $500 | Biannually |
| Insurance | $800 | Annually |
| Fuel (average) | $1,200 | Annually |
| Depreciation | $500 | Annually |
The table shows that while maintenance costs for the Sentra are generally affordable, you should think about the regular expenses for repairs and insurance. Compared to cars like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla, which might have a higher resale value but also cost more to maintain, the Sentra offers a good choice for those watching their budget. Knowing these details helps you see the financial side of owning a Sentra long-term.
People Also Ask
What Is the Best Engine Option for the 1999 Sentra?
The best engine for the 1999 Nissan Sentra is the 1.8-liter inline-four. It is a good choice because it gives a mix of good performance, saves fuel, and is reliable. This makes it great for different types of driving.
Are Aftermarket Parts Readily Available for the 1999 Sentra?
Yes, you can find many aftermarket parts for the 1999 Nissan Sentra. These parts are easy to get and not too expensive. They include items for fixing and improving your car, so you have lots of choices for making it better.
How Does the 1999 Sentra Perform in Different Weather Conditions?
The 1999 Nissan Sentra does okay in different weather. It handles fine in light rain and snow, but because it's not very heavy, it might not be as stable in really bad weather. So, it's important to drive carefully when the weather gets rough.
What Are Common DIY Fixes for 1999 Sentra Issues?
For a 1999 Sentra, you can change old spark plugs, fix oil leaks with a sealant, clean the throttle body, and swap out air filters. Doing these simple fixes can help your car run better and last longer.
How Fuel-Efficient Is the 1999 Sentra Compared to Newer Models?
The 1999 Nissan Sentra gets about 28 miles per gallon, which was good back then. But now, newer cars can get 30 to 40 miles per gallon or more. So, the 1999 Sentra isn't as fuel-efficient as the newer cars today.