Last updated on October 4th, 2023 at 11:09 am
The Nissan Sentra has been in the market since 1982 and is known for being an excellent choice at an affordable price for small families.
With a starting price as low as $20,000, the Sentra offers plenty of cabin space, advanced technology, and fantastic drivability.
The Nissan Sentra is a popular vehicle that can last for a long time. If you take care of it and maintain it well, it should last for at least 200,000 miles.
The brakes and tires on a Nissan Sentra can last anywhere from 25,000 to 65,000 miles. The transmission can last up to 60,000 miles.
Are Nissan Sentras Good Cars? Depending on the driver and how much you care for it, a Nissan can last for up to 16 years.
This article will talk about Sentra’s longevity and other facts; keep reading to find out more.
How Long Does a Nissan Sentra Last?
The Sentra can last between 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance and sensible driving.
If you drive an average of 15,000-miles per year, the Sentra can last up to 20 years before requiring severe repairs.
However, the lifespan of a vehicle is dependent on the driver and how well they have maintained the car.
Nissan offers a maintenance scheme for the Sentra for pre-owned and new models, which will keep the vehicle running for a long time.
The car has an average reliability rating of 4 out of 5 from Consumer Reports, which ranks it 14th out of 36 for compact cars. However, it is important to remember that your Nissan Sentra is still a new car, and it should receive regular oil changes and other maintenance.
The Nissan Sentra can last as long as 300,000 miles with the proper care. On average, a car will last for 16 years if you take care of it properly. Some models are even longer.
Although the car can be expected to last up to three decades, the actual life span will depend on the type of driver and the quality of maintenance.
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Are Nissan Sentras Good Cars?
the Nissan Sentra is a good compact car. With proper maintenance and a few tricks, Nissan Sentra will last for anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles.
The interior of the Nissan Sentra is roomy and comfortable. It is a nice place to spend time. Its flat-bottom steering wheel and round air vents make it a pleasure to spend time in. The interior also boasts good materials and large analog gauges.
The Sentra’s standard features include a power steering column, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, and an optional power-adjustable driver’s seat. It also features a heated front seat and a USB port in the front and back. Furthermore, it offers a variety of accessories.
The only negative is that the shifter is somewhat loose, and does not function like a joystick. Regardless of the car’s interior appeal, buyers will likely find the driving experience to be mediocre.
The 2013-2017 Sentra has a high number of recalls and complaints, especially with its CVT transmission. There was even a class-action lawsuit filed to help recoup costs. The only major complaint is that there are no rear air conditioning vents. However, that would only make the Sentra marginally more expensive.
Are Nissan Sentras Reliable?
The Nissan Sentra is a popular sedan that has a good reputation for reliability. Owners report low costs of ownership and positive reviews.
Based on anecdotal evidence and research data, it is safe to say that Sentra improves in reliability and quality with passing years.
RepairPal placed Sentra at 14 out of 36 for compact cars and has given it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5.
According to J.D. Power, Sentra’s quality and reliability rating from 2019 to 2021 has been 84 out of 100, above average.
The Nissan Corolla is a much more durable, but more expensive vehicle. It also has a huge advantage in terms of long-term value.
However, some model years are not as reliable as others, so it is important to understand the differences between the models.
We’ve provided some tips to make sure you’re getting the most out of your Nissan Sentra’s life span. In addition, we’ve provided information on how to avoid some common problems with your Sentra.
First, We’d recommend looking at used Sentras. They are often cheaper to buy secondhand, and can be a good trade-in option.
On the other hand, a new Sentra is less likely to retain its value, and the Sentra’s design is less attractive. While the Nissan Sentra is more stylish, the Honda Corolla is more functional, offers more interior space, and provides better performance.
A recent survey by Consumer Reports showed that transmission failure affected the Nissan Sentra from 2013 to 2017. A year later, the car has had no transmission problems, but the transmission isn’t dependable. While this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy a Sentra if you plan on keeping it for years to come.
Reliability Compared to Other Cars
| Model | Reliability |
| Hyundai Elantra | 4.5/5 |
| Mazda 3 | 4.5/5 |
| Ford C-Max | 4.5/5 |
| Kia Forte Koup | 4.5/5 |
| Hyundai Elantra Coupe | 4.5/5 |
| Chevrolet HHR | 4.5/5 |
| Nissan Sentra | 4/5 |
| Volkswagen Jetta | 4/5 |
| Mazda 5 | 4/5 |
| Nissan 370Z | 4/5 |
| Volkswagen Beetle | 4/5 |
| Volkswagen Golf | 4/5 |
| Chevrolet Cruze | 4/5 |
| Ford Focus | 4/5 |
| Dodge Dart | 4/5 |
| Mitsubishi Lancer | 3.5/5 |
| Chrysler PT Cruiser | 3.5/5 |
| Volkswagen Golf SportWagen | 3.5/5 |
| Subaru WRX | 3.5/5 |
| Subaru Impreza | 3.5/5 |
| Volkswagen GTI | 3/5 |
| Volkswagen Eos | 3/5 |
| Subaru WRX STI | 2.5/5 |
| Average Compact Car | 4/5 |
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How Long Does the Nissan Sentra Last Compared to Similar Cars?
This section compares the Nissan Sentra with some of its competitors.
Nissan Sentra vs. Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 is a compact car introduced in 2003, manufactured by Mazda in Japan.
The average miles expected for a Mazda 3 is 200,000 to 250,000 miles which are slightly less when compared to the 300,000 miles of the Nissan Sentra.
The average annual maintenance cost for the Mazda 3 is $433, which is $58 less than the Sentra.
RepairPal rates Mazda 3 and Sentra 4 out of 5 for quality and reliability.
J.D. Power scores the Mazda 79 out of 100, and the Nissan Sentra scores 86 out of 100.
If you are looking for a car which can last longer, the Sentra is better.
Nissan Sentra vs. Honda Civic
The Civic is a series of automobiles in production since 1972, manufactured by Honda.
A Honda Civic can last up to 300,000 miles on average or up to 20 years and is on par with Nissan Sentra in this matter.
The annual maintenance cost for the Civic is $368, and for the Sentra, the price is $491 on average.
According to RepairPal, Honda Civic gets a rating of 4.5 out of 5 for reliability, whereas Sentra receives 4 out of 5; both are good rankings.
J.D. Power scores both cars regarding quality and reliability, where, Civic gets 84 out of 100, and Sentra receives 86 out of 100.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, then Civic is a good choice, but the Sentra is worth spending extra in the long run.
Nissan Sentra vs. Volkswagen Golf
The Golf is a compact car, in production since 1974, produced by the German automotive manufacturer Volkswagen.
A well-maintained Golf can last between 200,000 to 250,000 miles on average, which is less than the expected mileage for Sentra.
The annual repair cost of the Volkswagen Golf is as high as $630, whereas, for the Sentra, the price is $491.
RepairPal rates both cars, Sentra and Golf, 4 out of 5 in reliability.
In consumer ratings, J.D. Power scores the Golf 74 out of 100, and Sentra scores 86 out of 100.
If you are looking for a vehicle that can last a long time, the Sentra should be your pick over Golf.
Comparison Chart
| Car Models | Nissan Sentra | Mazda 3 | Honda Civic | Volkswagen Golf |
| Expected Mileage | 250,000 to 300,000 miles | 200,000 to 250,000 miles | Average 300,000 miles | 200,000 to 250,000 miles |
| Annual Maintenance Cost | $491 | $433 | $368 | $630 |
| RepairPal Ratings | 4 out of 5 | 4 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 | 4 out of 5 |
| J.D. Power Scores | 86 out of 100 | 79 out of 100 | 84 out of 100 | 74 out of 100 |
| Price Range | Starts from $19,510 | Starts from $21,645 | Starts from $21,700 | Starts from $21,900 |
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Nissan Sentra Years To Avoid
Like any other vehicle which have been around for a long time, the Sentra has its best and worst years.
Best Years
The reliability of the Nissan Sentra has increased over the years; the latest models, such as 2020 and 2021, got the best reliability scores.
From 2013, the number of complaints dropped with each passing year.
As a general rule, the newer model of Sentra, the better. The best choice would be most models later than 2016.
Worst Years
Sentra with the most complaints overall is the 2013 model. The majority of complaints are related to transmission issues and some brake problems.
According to Car Complaints, the worst year for Nissan Sentra is the 2015 model due to high repair costs or increased problems at lower mileage.
The 2015 Sentra models are also known for transmission failures right around the 50,000-mile mark.
Thoughts on High-Mileage Nissan Sentra
A Nissan Sentra with more than 100,000 miles on the clock is considered high-mileage and often a tricky purchase.
Some factors to consider include the vehicle’s service and maintenance history and the number of previous owners.
If you plan to run the car for a long time, evaluate if the short-term savings value more than spending a bit extra for something more reliable.
Is the Nissan Sentra Expensive to Maintain?
The Sentra has a reasonable maintenance cost of only $491 per year, on average, according to RepairPal.
Usually, vehicles like the Sentra are more expensive to maintain than smaller cars, but they are still an affordable option for interested buyers.
Other Models of Similar Category and Their Annual Repair Cost
| Model | Average Annual Repair Cost |
| Toyota Corolla | $362 |
| Honda Civic | $368 |
| Kia Forte 5 | $424 |
| Mazda 3 | $433 |
| Hyundai Elantra | $452 |
| Kia Forte Koup | $469 |
| Nissan Sentra | $491 |
| Dodge Caliber | $501 |
| Chevrolet HHR | $542 |
| Ford C-Max | $557 |
| Ford Focus | $569 |
| Dodge Dart | $597 |
| Volkswagen Jetta | $609 |
| Volkswagen Beetle | $612 |
| Volkswagen Golf | $630 |
| Subaru Impreza | $653 |
| Subaru WRX | $682 |
| Subaru WTX STI | $758 |
| Volkswagen GTI | $791 |
| Volkswagen Eos | $824 |
| Average Compact Car | $526 |
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How Long Does the Nissan Sentra Tires Last?
The tires of a Sentra usually last between 20,000 to 60,000 miles with proper driving habits.
The tires’ lifespan mostly depends on how the driver controls braking, steering, and throttle usage.
To extend the life of tires, rotate the tires after every 5,000 miles and check if the tires have the correct amount of pressure.
How Long Does the Nissan Sentra Transmission Last?
Transmission on the Nissan Sentra typically lasts between 200,000 to 300,000 miles with reasonable care and proper maintenance.
The price of a new Sentra transmission can go over $3,500, depending on the vehicle.
Transmission services such as fluid flush and fluid changes are less expensive and cost less than $150.
How Long Does the Nissan Sentra Brakes Last?
Brakes on the Nissan Sentra will last up to 30,000 to 70,000 miles on average. Usually costs $50-$100 for each brake pad, and labor can cost $80 to $100.
If you go through much stop-and-go traffic or use heavy braking, expect the brakes to wear out much faster.
However, this depends on the driving habits and how the car was maintained.
Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Nissan Sentra
- Refrain from overdriving your Sentra and adopt smooth clam driving styles.
- Keep updated with maintenance schedules to ensure all the car components run smoothly.
- Fix any issues, no matter how minor, as soon as possible to avoid leading to more significant issues.
- Use good quality parts and fluids.
- Store your car under a shade to protect it from any unknown elements.
- Check engine oil, brakes, coolant, and transmission fluid levels and top them up whenever needed.
- Wash your Sentra regularly to clean off dirt and grime, which leads to rust.
- Read the driver’s manual to learn about the location of all essential components, what the Sentra requires, and understand symbols and dashboard warning signs.
We hope this article has supported you with any questions regarding a Nissan Sentra. It’s possible for a Nissan Sentra to last for two million miles or more if you’re careful and maintain it regularly.
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