GradeNissan Sentra Reliability Grade
Above-average reliability
Grade a specific Nissan Sentra
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Nissan Sentra earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an A for its engine and a B- for its transmission. It ranks 8th of 14 compact cars we grade. The transmission (B-) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 2,715 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Nissan Sentra reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2006, 2007, 2009, 2018, 2021 and 2023
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Nissan Sentra last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Nissan Sentra vs. other compact cars
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | A | A | A |
| Mazda Mazda3 | A | A | A |
| Subaru Impreza | A | A | A |
| Toyota Prius | A | A | A |
| Honda Civic | A- | A | A- |
| Nissan Versa | A- | B- | A- |
| Chevrolet Cruze | B+ | B | A- |
| Nissan Sentra | A | B- | B+ |
| Kia Forte | B- | B+ | B+ |
| Volkswagen Jetta | B | B+ | B+ |
| Volkswagen Golf | B | B | B |
| Hyundai Elantra | C+ | B | B- |
| Ford Fiesta | C+ | F | D |
| Ford Focus | F | F | F |
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Rate your SentraNissan Sentra reliability FAQ
Is the Nissan Sentra reliable?
Above-average reliability. The Nissan Sentra earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an A for its engine and a B- for its transmission. It ranks 8th of 14 compact cars we grade. The transmission (B-) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 2,715 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Nissan Sentra last?
We estimate a well-maintained Nissan Sentra lasts around 180,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Nissan Sentra?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Nissan Sentra model years are 2006, 2007, 2009, 2018, 2021 and 2023.
What Nissan Sentra years should I avoid?
No Nissan Sentra model year stands out as a problem year in NHTSA owner complaints.
Is the Nissan Sentra transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Nissan Sentra transmission a B- (average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Nissan Sentra engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Nissan Sentra engine an A (excellent reliability).