2017 Nissan Sentra: Consumer Reviews & Common Issues

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2017 Nissan Sentra: A Deep Dive into Consumer Reviews & Common Issues

Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of the 2017 Nissan Sentra. This compact sedan was a popular choice, and we'll be sifting through consumer reviews, digging up the dirt on common issues, and figuring out if this car is still worth your hard-earned cash. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

What the Heck is the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

First things first, what exactly is the 2017 Nissan Sentra? Well, it's a compact sedan produced by Nissan. It’s known for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and comfortable interior – making it a solid contender in the compact car segment. In 2017, the Sentra aimed to offer a blend of practicality and modern features, appealing to a broad range of drivers, from first-time car buyers to those looking for a reliable daily commuter. It competed with other popular cars like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3, all of which vie for a spot in your driveway. However, the Sentra's reputation is a bit of a mixed bag, which is why we’re here today! This review will help you understand if the 2017 Sentra is a good choice for your needs or if you should go with another vehicle.

The 2017 Sentra came in several trims, each with its own set of features and price points. You had the base S trim, the sporty SR, the luxurious SL, and the fuel-efficient FE+ trim. Each trim level brought something different to the table, allowing buyers to customize their Sentra to fit their specific needs and wants. The Sentra offers a comfortable ride and spacious cabin, particularly for its class. The seats are generally considered to be supportive and the ride quality is often described as smooth, making it ideal for daily commutes and longer trips. The car is also well-equipped with modern technology and safety features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and advanced safety technologies. Nissan has always tried to incorporate innovative technology to attract buyers. But let's be real, the consumer reviews and the reliability are the things that we are interested in. Let’s not get sidetracked and stick to our original plan!

Consumer Reviews: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. What do actual owners have to say about their 2017 Nissan Sentras? Reading through consumer reviews is a great way to get a balanced perspective, and understand a car's real-world performance, reliability, and ownership experience. Reviews can come from a lot of different places, but we can group them together to give a rough average of what people think of the car. We can see if there are common issues that appear over and over, and understand what the car is like to own in the long run. Many reviews highlight the Sentra's fuel efficiency, with owners often praising its ability to save money at the pump. The Sentra's comfortable ride is also frequently mentioned, with many reviewers finding it smooth and relaxing, especially for city driving. The spacious interior, particularly for rear passengers, is another plus point. Parents love the amount of space and legroom in the back.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Several common complaints emerge in the reviews. The performance of the base engine is frequently criticized, with owners saying it feels underpowered, especially during highway merging or when carrying passengers. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is another area of concern for many reviewers, with some reporting issues like sluggish acceleration or even premature failure. Many people are not a fan of CVTs at all. Reliability is another factor, with some owners reporting various mechanical problems over time. Despite those, the Sentra does well for its price range, and offers a good mix of features and comfort. Before you pull the trigger on one of these, make sure to read more about common problems, and see if they are a deal breaker for you. There are a lot of cars on the market, so you can always choose another vehicle if you want.

Positive Feedback

  • Fuel Efficiency: Owners frequently rave about the Sentra's excellent gas mileage, making it a great choice for those looking to save money on fuel costs.
  • Comfortable Ride: The smooth and quiet ride is often praised, making it a pleasant experience for daily commutes and long trips.
  • Spacious Interior: Many reviewers appreciate the generous legroom and headroom, particularly in the rear seats, making it a comfortable car for passengers.
  • Affordability: Many people love that the Sentra is an affordable vehicle.

Negative Feedback

  • Underpowered Engine: The base engine is often criticized for its lack of power, especially during highway driving and passing.
  • CVT Issues: Some owners report problems with the continuously variable transmission, including sluggish acceleration and premature failure.
  • Reliability Concerns: Some users have reported mechanical issues, which can be costly to repair.
  • Basic Interior: Some reviews mention that the interior feels cheap with low-quality materials.

Common Problems & Issues: What to Watch Out For

Alright, let’s talk about the problems. Knowing the potential issues with a car before you buy it can save you a lot of headaches (and money!) down the road. Several common issues have popped up in consumer reviews and owner forums regarding the 2017 Nissan Sentra. These are important to be aware of if you're considering buying one. One of the most frequently mentioned problems is the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Many owners have reported issues with the CVT, including shuddering, slipping, or even complete failure. These problems can lead to expensive repairs, so it’s something you should definitely investigate before making a purchase. You can avoid those problems by doing a lot of research before buying the car. Another issue to keep an eye on is the engine. While the 2017 Sentra is generally reliable, some owners have reported problems such as oil leaks, excessive oil consumption, or even engine failure. These are serious problems that can cost a lot to fix.

Aside from those big-ticket items, other minor issues have been mentioned in reviews. Some owners have reported problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing or malfunctioning, and the quality of the interior materials. While these problems might not be as serious as engine or transmission failures, they can still be frustrating and impact your overall ownership experience. So, it's essential to do your research, inspect the car thoroughly, and consider a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic before buying a 2017 Nissan Sentra.

Detailed Breakdown of Common Issues:

  • CVT Problems: The most notorious issue, with reports of shuddering, slipping, and complete failure. This can lead to expensive repairs and a potentially unreliable driving experience. A lot of owners have this problem and are not happy with the car.
  • Engine Problems: Reports of oil leaks, excessive oil consumption, and even engine failure are not uncommon, which can be costly to fix.
  • Infotainment System Issues: Some users have experienced freezing, malfunctioning, or other problems with the touchscreen display and infotainment system.
  • Interior Quality: Some owners feel that the interior materials are cheap and not up to par with the competition.

Should You Buy a 2017 Nissan Sentra? Weighing the Pros and Cons

So, is the 2017 Nissan Sentra a good buy? That depends. There are definitely pros and cons to consider before making a decision. The Sentra has some great features, like being fuel-efficient and having a spacious cabin. If you are not a performance driver, the car is perfect for you. It's often affordable, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.

However, it's also important to be aware of the potential cons. The CVT and engine problems could lead to expensive repairs and downtime. There are better cars out there on the market. Also, the base engine may feel underpowered for some drivers, and the interior might not feel as premium as some of its competitors. If you are looking for a reliable, no-frills commuter car that is also fuel efficient, you can make the argument that the Sentra could be right for you. But, if you are looking for a car with a more engaging driving experience, a higher-quality interior, or a more reliable powertrain, you might want to consider other options like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. Be sure to carefully weigh the pros and cons and read through as many consumer reviews as possible. Consider the car's maintenance records, and get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic. All of these will make sure that you are making an informed decision.

Pros:

  • Fuel Efficiency: Excellent gas mileage, which can save you money on fuel costs.
  • Comfortable Ride: Smooth and quiet ride, perfect for daily commuting.
  • Spacious Interior: Offers generous legroom and headroom, particularly in the rear seats.
  • Affordability: Typically priced competitively, making it a budget-friendly option.

Cons:

  • CVT Reliability: Potential issues with the continuously variable transmission, including shuddering and failure.
  • Engine Performance: The base engine can feel underpowered, especially on the highway.
  • Reliability Concerns: Some owners have reported mechanical problems that can be costly to repair.
  • Interior Quality: The interior materials may feel cheap compared to competitors.

Alternatives to Consider

If the 2017 Nissan Sentra doesn’t sound like the perfect fit, don’t worry, there are plenty of other options in the compact sedan market. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

  • Honda Civic: The Civic is known for its reliability, excellent handling, and fuel efficiency. It often scores high marks in consumer reviews and offers a more engaging driving experience. If you are looking for a reliable car, the Civic is a good choice.
  • Toyota Corolla: Similar to the Civic, the Corolla is renowned for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It’s also known for its comfortable ride and strong resale value. This is a very popular car and a very good choice.
  • Mazda3: The Mazda3 offers a sporty driving experience, stylish design, and a well-appointed interior. It's a great choice if you prioritize driving dynamics. This is perfect if you like to have fun while driving.
  • Hyundai Elantra: The Elantra offers a good value proposition with a long warranty, modern features, and a comfortable interior. It’s a solid competitor in the compact sedan segment. If you are looking for a great car at an affordable price, the Elantra is the car for you.

Final Thoughts: Is the 2017 Nissan Sentra Right for You?

So, what's the verdict? The 2017 Nissan Sentra can be a decent option for drivers on a budget who prioritize fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential reliability concerns, especially those related to the CVT and engine. If you decide to go with a Sentra, make sure to thoroughly research the car's history, inspect it carefully, and consider a pre-purchase inspection. If reliability and performance are high on your list, you might want to explore alternatives like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, or Mazda3. It really comes down to your individual needs and priorities. Hopefully, this review has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision! Happy car hunting!