This page covers 3 recalls, 226 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2017 Nissan Sentra.
28–32 mpg combined
7.4–8.4 L/100km
Midsize Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 4 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The dominant pattern in 2017 Nissan Sentra complaints centers on the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners frequently describe hesitation during acceleration, slipping sensations, and sudden power loss, particularly noticeable when merging onto highways or entering traffic from a stop. These symptoms show up across a large share of the powertrain complaints, which lead all categories by volume. Engine complaints make up the second-largest group, though the reported symptoms there are less consistent. Airbag complaints round out the top three. Outside the main systems, a recurring issue involves the vehicle failing to start, owners describe a stiff brake pedal and an on-screen prompt to depress the brake even while doing so, with the no-start condition sometimes resolving on its own before dealers can diagnose it. A failed brake light switch was identified as the cause in at least one documented case.
226
Total Complaints
28
Crash-Related
6
Fire-Related
18
With Injuries
By System
The 2017 Nissan Sentra has 3 recalls, the most serious involving the ignition system, where a stall while driving raises the risk of a crash.
The ignition defect is linked to mechanical key ignition systems and affects a range of Nissan models from this era. There is also a passenger-side airbag concern: a manufacturing error in certain inflators can prevent the front passenger airbag from deploying correctly in a crash, reducing protection for that seat. On the lighting side, the brake light switch can become contaminated and fail to close the circuit, leaving brake lights dark when the pedal is pressed and giving drivers behind no warning that the vehicle is slowing.
At a glance
What can fail
The brake light switch may become contaminated, which prevents the circuit from closing and stops the brake lights from turning on.
What the fix does
The dealer will replace the brake light switch and install a protective grommet to prevent contamination.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The ignition switch may shift from the run position to the accessory position due to key ring weight or road vibrations, causing the engine to shut off while driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the ignition switch as needed at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A manufacturing error in the passenger front air bag inflator may prevent it from deploying properly during a crash.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
