1998 Nissan Sentra problems
The Nissan Sentra is a series of automobiles manufactured by the Japanese automaker Nissan since 1982. Since 1999, the Sentra has been categorized as a compact car, while previously it occupied the subcompact class. Until 2006, Sentra was a rebadged export version of the Japanese Nissan Sunny, but since the 2013 model year, Sentra is a rebadged export version of the Sylphy. The Sentra nameplate is not used in Japan. Many other countries in Latin America sell their versions of the Sunny as the Sentra. In Mexico, the first three generations of the Sentra were known as the Nissan Tsuru (Japanese for crane), and the B13 model was sold under that name until 2017, alongside the updated models badged as Sentra.
In North America, the Sentra currently serves as Nissan's compact car, despite being rated as a mid-size car by the EPA due to its interior volume since the 2007 model year. While previous Sentras were subcompacts, the Sentra has grown over the years, with the Nissan Versa having replaced the Sentra in the entry-level area.
The Sentra name was created for Nissan by Ira Bachrach of NameLab, and Bachrach describes the origin as "Nissan wanted consumers to understand that it was quite safe even though it was small. The word Sentra sounds like central as well as sentry, which evokes images of safety."
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Common 1998 Nissan Sentra problems
The Nissan Sentra, produced since 1982, has faced various reliability issues throughout its generations, with specific problems varying based on the model year. This article examines common problems reported by owners of the 1998 Nissan Sentra, focusing on engine, transmission, and electrical issues.
Engine Issues
The 1998 Nissan Sentra's engine, the GA16DE, is known for its durability but has common problems related to the intake gasket. The intake gasket, which connects the intake manifold to the cylinder head, can break apart, causing a vacuum leak and misfiring. This issue often results in the engine stalling under load or failing to start.
Transmission Issues
Transmission problems are not uncommon in the 1998 Nissan Sentra. The car's automatic transmission may experience issues with shifting, causing delays or difficulty changing gears. This problem is often due to a worn-out torque converter or internal transmission issues. In some cases, the transmission may need to be replaced entirely
Electrical Issues
Electrical problems in the 1998 Nissan Sentra can manifest in various ways, including the car not starting or experiencing electrical failures while driving. The most common electrical issue is a faulty ignition system, which may require replacing the ignition coil or spark plugs.
Conclusion
While the 1998 Nissan Sentra has faced various reliability issues, many common problems can be resolved with proper maintenance and timely repairs. Regular inspections and addressing issues as they arise can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the car.
What common problem on Nissan Sentra?
Various fluid leaks, overheating, power loss, or CVT failure are also possible due to these mechanical issues. That said, if you suspect that you are having a transmission issue, be sure to get it checked out by your local mechanic as soon as possible.
How long can a 1998 Nissan Sentra last?
On average, a well-maintained Nissan can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles. This means if you drive around 15,000 miles per year, which is the average for most drivers, you can expect your Nissan to last between 13 to 20 years.
Are Nissan Sentra a reliable car?
The Nissan Sentra Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 14th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $491 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average and the frequency of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the Sentra.
Does Nissan Sentra have transmission problems?
Sentra CVT Transmissions Failure
Nissan Sentra owners have reported that their vehicles are experiencing potentially dangerous issues with their CVTs. These issues occur under a variety of conditions, including acceleration or driving at highway speeds.
1998 Nissan Sentra car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Sentra problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Visibility problems
- Service brakes problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Nissan Sentra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Nissan Sentra
The NHTSA has received 64 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Nissan Sentra. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Nissan Sentra vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-04
- VIN: 1N4AB41D9WC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I HAVE A 1998 NISSAN SENTRA AND THE PROBLEMS I HAVE WITH THIS CAR IS MY IGNITION SWITCH. MY KEY GETS STUCK IN MY IGNITION SOMETIMES AND MY CAR DOESN'T WANT TO START AT TIMES. THIS PROBLEM IS BECOMING MORE AND MORE CONSISTENT OVER THE TEN YEARS I'VE HAD IT. I'VE HAD PROBLEMS WITH MY ENGINE MULTIPLE TIMES AND I'VE GOTTEN IT FIXED MORE THAN THREE TIMES.
SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-04
- VIN: 1N4AB41D5WC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: COMING TO A STOP IN A L TURN LANE, WITH FOOT DEFINITELY ONLY ON BRAKE, AT UNDER 3 MPH. JUST AS I STOPPED, BRAKE FADED, ENGINE RACED, AND CAR SURGED VIOLENTLY FORWARD, SIMULTANEOUSLY. I BARELY CONTROLLED THIS SURGE WITH EXTREME BRAKE PRESSURE. EVENT LASTED APPROXIMATELY 5 SECONDS. IT DID NOT TRIP A TROUBLE CODE, OR RECUR. APPROXIMATELY 255,000 MILES ON CHASSIS. NO DAMAGE, BUT RISK OF IT VERY HIGH. MCGREGOR, TEXAS, TURNING L OFF OF US 84 EASTBOUND ONTO TX 317 NORTHBOUND. DRIVER IS RETIRED BUT VERY ACCOMPLISHED ENGINEER, WITH 3 ENGINEERING DEGREES, AND DECADES OF WIDE-RANGING EXPERIENCE. THIS HAD ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO DO WITH PUSHING THE WRONG PEDAL. I KNOW EXACTLY WHERE MY FOOT WAS.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-08
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3N1AB4105WL
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1998 NISSAN SENTRA WAS STRUCK BY UNIT 2 STRUCK IN THE REAR AS THE CONSUMER BEGAN HAVING ENGINE TROUBLE AND STARTED SLOWING DOWN. THIS CAUSED SENTRA TO GO OFF THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROADWAY AND OVERTURN IN THE DITCH. BF (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0414-89)*JB UPDATED 04/22/11 *BF
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-04
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 1998 NISSAN SENTRA GXE WOULD NOT TAKE FUEL. AT THE GAS PUMP, THE PUMP WOULD CLICK OFF, LIKE THE TANK WAS FULL. IT WOULD TAKE LESS THAN A GALLON OF GAS AT A TIME. *TR I TOOK IT TO BE SERVICED AND QUESTIONED IF THERE WAS A RECALL AND I WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS JUST A BULLETIN ON IT. I NEVER LOCATED THE BULLETIN. THE PRESSURE SENSOR WAS REPLACED. THAT PART ALONE, WAS OVER $300. DOLLARS. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-25
- VIN: 1N4AB41D1WC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED WORKING. IT SEEMS TO BE PART OF THE RECALL THAT IS PART OF THIS MAKE AND MODEL, HOWEVER, NISSAN CLAIMS THAT WHILE MY CAR IS THE SAME MAKE, MODEL, YEAR OF RECALL, AND FALLS WITHIN THE AFFECTED VINS THAT MY CAR IS NOT INVOLVED...*CN
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-14
- VIN: 3N1AB41D5WL
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN SENTRA. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE WIPER ARM LINKAGE SEPARATED FROM THE WIPER MOTOR LINKAGE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 98V093000 (VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES). AS OF SEPTEMBER 17, 2007, THE DEALER HAD NOT REPAIRED THE VEHICLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 120,000.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-15
- VIN: 1N4AB41D1WC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: MY WIPERS HAVE NEVER WORKED PROPERLY. THE OTHER DAY, THEY COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING. I CHECKED ONLINE, AND FOUND THAT MY CAR WAS PART OF A RECALL. I CONTACTED NISSAN, THE MANUFACTURE. AT FIRST, THEY SAID MY CAR WAS AFFECTED, THAT THEY WOULD CALL TO MAKE SURE THAT MY CAR HAD NOT ALREADY BEEN BROUGHT IN (I AM THE SECOND OWNER). I CONSULTED MY FRIEND, WHO I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM. SHE TOLD ME THAT THE WIPERS WERE ALWAYS A LITTLE OFF, BUT THAT SHE NEVER GOT NOTICE OF A RECALL, AND NEVER GOT THEM FIXED. I ALSO LOOKED FURTHER INTO THIS ISSUE ON THIS SITE, WHERE I FOUND THE VIN NUMBERS OF VEHICLES AFFECTED, AND ALSO SAW HOW THEY WOULD FIX THE PROBLEM. TWO DAYS LATER, [XXX], THE REP FROM NISSAN, CALLED TO TELL ME THAT MY CAR'S RECALL WAS "CLOSED". I ASKED IF HE SAID THIS MEANT MY CAR WASN'T INVOLVED IN THE RECALL. HE STATED THAT HE COULDN'T TELL ME THAT. WHEN I PRESENTED TO HIM THE INFORMATION THAT I GOT ONLINE, WHICH IDENTIFIED ALL AFFECTED VIN #'S, AND THAT MINE WAS ONE OF THEM, HE SAID HE COULDN'T TELL ME IF MY CAR WAS INVOLVED, BUT THAT "THE CASE IS CLOSED". I PERSISTED, STATING THAT MY FRIEND WHO WAS THE SOLE PREVIOUS OWNER SAID THE PROBLEM WAS NEVER FIXED, AND ASKED CHRIS TO PROVIDE ME WITH THE DATE/PLACE WHERE THE SUPPOSED FIXING OF THE RECALL TOOK PLACE. AGAIN, THE INFORMATION SUPPOSEDLY DOESN'T EXIST. ALL CHRIS WOULD TELL ME WAS THAT I AM OUT OF LUCK. I SINCERELY BELIEVE THEY ARE LYING. RIGHT NOW, I AM UNABLE TO DRIVE MY CAR IN THE RAIN OR SNOW. THIS IS DUE TO A DEFECT OF DESIGN, AND THIS IS DUE TO A RECALL THAT NEVER GOT FIXED, AND INSTEAD OF DOING THE RIGHT AND THE LAWFUL THING, NISSAN IS GIVING ME THE RUN-AROUND. *NM INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-22
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4AB41D5WC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS REAR ENDED BY A MERCURY MINIVAN (ESTIMATED SPEED 30 MPH) AND PUSHED INTO A DODGE MINIVAN. THE FRONT BUMPER GOT CRACKED IN HALF, THE RADIATOR AND BATTERY WERE ALSO DISPLACED. THE TRUNK WAS DAMAGED, THE REAR BUMPER WAS ALMOST TORN OFF AND THE REAR DRIVERS SIDE PANEL SHOWS DENTS BEYOND THE GAS CAP. I AM BEING TOLD THAT BECAUSE I WAS REAR IMPACTED, AND PUSHED INTO A VEHICLE WITH A HIGHER BUMPER THAN MY OWN THE AIR BAGS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN SUPPOSED TO DEPLOY. A REAR IMPACT STILL THROWS YOU FORWARD, AND THE NUMBER OF SUVS AND MINI VANS ON THE ROAD MAKES THIS SEEM LIKE A MAJOR HAZARD. PICTURES OF MY CAR AFTER THE ACCIDENT CAN BE PROVIDED UPON REQUEST. *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-06
- VIN: 1N4AB41D1WC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS WITH THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS ENGAGED, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGES SEPARATED AT THE JOINT PIVOT WITHOUT WARNING AND BECAME INOPERATIVE. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGES WHICH CORRECTED THE PROBLEM, HOWEVER AFTERWARDS, THE LINKAGES SEPARATED AGAIN WITH NORMAL USE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED. THERE WAS A NHTSA RECALL, # 98V093000, REGARDING THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-18
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3N1AB41D0WL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: I PURCHASED MY 1998 NISSAN SENTRA XE/GXE JANUARY 27, 2005, FROM A USED AUTO CAR DEALER. MAY 18. 2006 DEFECT ON THE VEHICLE OCCURRED THAT CAUSED MY VEHICLE TO GO UP IN FLAMES AND CAUSED IT TO BE DESTROYED. THE FIRE STARTED WITH THE HEAD LIGHT AND LEADING TO OTHER PARTS OF THE MOTOR. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED OUT TO THE SCENE. THE DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRE WAS THAT IT STARTED FROM THE RIGHT HEAD LIGHT WHICH HAD A SHORTAGE IN THE WIRING AND SET OFF A BOX BEHIND THE LIGHT WHICH CAUSED THE FIRE TO MELT THE TRANSMISSION FLUID BOX WHICH CAUSED THE FIRE TO SPREAD. *JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1N4AB41D7WC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DT: CONSUMER HAS A 1998 NISSAN SENTRA. WHEN SHE WENT TO REMOVE ITEMS FROM THE TRUNK, SHE SLICED HER HAND SLICED ON THE SURFACE OF THE TRUNK LID IN THE BACK THAT CONNECTS TO THE BACK OF THE CAR. THERE WAS A SHARP PIECE OF METAL THAT WAS UNSEEN TO THE CONSUMER. THIS CUT FELT LIKE A RAZOR BLADE CUTTING HER HAND. THE METAL WAS TOWARDS THE CENTER OF THE TRUNK. THIS HAPPENED ON JULY 2, 2005. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN CONTACTED AS OF YET. THERE WAS NO HOSPITAL VISIT. OWNER HAD NEVER NOTICED THIS BEFORE. CONSUMER DID NOT HAVE ANY INFORMATION ABOUT THE DEALERSHIP AVAILABLE. CONSUMER SAID IT WAS A SCARY THING TO FIND HAND CUT LIKE THAT.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-11
- VIN: JN1CA21D1WM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: IN FALL OF 2002 MY CAR BEGAN HAVING PROBLEMS, GETTING WORSE UNTIL AN OVERHAUL OF TRANSMISSION WAS REQUIRED FOR $1,269 DUE TO COMPLETE FAILURE.*AK THE CAR JERKED, THE DRIVETRAIN SEMED TO SLIP @ CY AND HWY USE, AND THE REAR GEARFAILED TO WORK AT ALL FINALLY. THE REPAIR SHOP GUESSED MY PROBLEM BEFORE EXAMINING THE CAR, STATING HE SAW IT ALL THE TIME. HE SHOWED ME A PACKAGE OF SMALL PARTS FROM NISSAN CORP.WHICH HE SAID THEY SENT OUT TO DEAL WITH THE PROBLEM. HE EXPLAINED NISSAN CHANGED THE TRANSMISSION STYLE FOR APPROX. A 3 YEAR PERIOD (96-98?), USING A SOLENOID (I BELIEVE) THAT HE SAID "FAILED IN ALL CARS MADE WHEN THE CARS REACHED 80,000 MILES." HE SAID THE CARS MADE BEFORE AND AFTER THE 3 YEARS DIDN'T HAVE THIS PROBLEM. MY CAR WAS 3 1/2 YEARS OLD AND HAD 67,525 MILES. THE DRIVETRAIN WARRANTYDIDN'T COVER THE CARSINCE IT WAS MORE THAN 3 YRS OLD AND HAD MORE THAN 60K MILES. PARTS REPLACED WERE TORQUE CONVERTER, BANNER KIT (NISSAN'S KIT), BAND, DRUM GEAR, SUN GEAR FRONT, PLANETARY GEAR SET FRONT AND REAR, AND 10 QRTS OF TRANS. OIL. PARTS COST $909, LABOR $360. DUE TO THE REPAIR SHOP'S KNOWLEDGE OF THE PROBLEM WITHOUT ANY INSPECTION, THEIR POSSESSION OF 'NISSAN FIXER KIT', AND PROBABLE LRG % OF CARS WITH SAME PROBLEM, I THINK NISSAN BUILT A FAULTY CAR COMPONENT, KNEW ABOUT IT,AND EVEN DESIGNED THE TRANNY THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN PUT IN THE CAR ORIGINALLY. I EXPERIENCED NO ACCIDENT OR INJURY, BUT IF THE PARTS CAME LOOSE WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY IT COULD CAUSE VERY QUICK 'SEIZING' STOPS WITH NO WARNING (BRAKE LIGHTS), AND POSSIBLE PROJECTILE LIKE BEHAVIOR OF THE PARTS. I BELIEVE NISSAN IS AT LEAST PARTIALLY LIABLE FOR THIS PROBLEM IF ALL THE INFORMATION I RECEIVED IS CORRECT.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-15
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ANOTHER VEHICLE CROSSED OVER INTO CONSUMER'S VEHICLE LANE AND HIT THE NISSAN HEAD ON. UPON IMPACT, BOTH AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, AND THE DRIVER 'S SEAT BELT SHEARED OFF DURING THE COLLISION. THIS CAUSED THE DRIVER TO BE EJECTED FROM THE VEHICLE. IT THEN CRASHED INTO THE CONCRETE BARRIER. PASSENGERS SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES, AND WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. THE DRIVER WAS DOA. VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND TOTALED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THIS INFORMATION WAS FURNISHED BY THE WIFE. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4AB41D8WC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION AT 40 MPH WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE AND NEITHER FRONTAL AIR BAG DEPLOYED. DRIVER SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES TO THE SHOULDER AND THE RIGHT ARM FROM THE SEAT BELT. INSURANCE COMPANY REPORTED THE INCIDENT TO THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VISIBILITY,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-26
- VIN: 1N4BB41D2WC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VISIBILITY,SEATS
- Summary: WINDSHIELD LINKAGE WERE DEFECTIVE, AND WINDSHIELD WIPERS DID NOT WORK. CONSUMER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER, AND THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL.98V093000. *AK THE CONSUMER HAD THE LINK ASSEMBLY REPLACED. *TC THE BRAKES FELT SPONGY AND THE LEFT FRONT SEAT DID NOT MOVE PROPERLY ON TRACK. *SC *JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-15
- VIN: 1N4AB41D5WC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE FRONT AND REAR SEAT BELTS BECAME TANGLED INSIDE THE RETRACTOR. *AK *SC *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-02
- VIN: 1N4AB41D9WC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDSHIELD WIPER MALFUNCTIONED. A RECALL WAS ISSUED FOR THIS MAKE, MODEL AND YEAR, HOWEVER THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS INCLUDED. *AK *SC *JB
SUSPENSION,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-23
- VIN: 3N1AB41DXWL
- Components: SUSPENSION,VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE SPRINGS THAT WERE CONNECTED TO THE STRUTS DROPPED AND PUNCTURED THE PASSENGER'S FRONT TIRE. PASSENGER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE FELL TO THE GROUND. *AK THE LEFT FRONT SPRING HAD BROKEN AS WELL. CURRENTLY THE RIGHT SPRINGS WERE TEARING A 6 INCH GASH IN THE TIRE. OTHER PROBLEMS WERE: THERE WAS A BANG NOISE AND GRIND WHEN IN MOTION DUE TO A BROKEN LEFT STRUT AND STRUT BEARING, AND NOISE IN THE WIPERS DURING INTERMITTENT RELAY. *SC *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-08
- VIN: 1N4AB41DXWC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: SINCE PURCHASE, BRAKES HAVE REQUIRED REPEATED REPLACEMENT STARTING AT 4,759 MILES 2 1/2 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASE. 1998-PRESENT IS THE PERIOD OVER WHICH THIS MATTER CONTINUES TO BE A PROBLEM. DATE BELOW IS NOT SPECIFIC AS RANGE CANNOT BE INPUT. THE CONSUMER NOTED THAT NISSAN HAS TAKEN EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO COLLECT PAYMENTS FOR SERVICES, THAT HAS NOT CORRECTED THE FAULTY BRAKE PROBLEM. *CB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-14
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4AB41D6WC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DRIVING APPROX 30-40MPH AND REAR ENDED ANOTHER CAR WHICH MY AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND MY CAR WAS TOTALLED. REPORTED TO NISSAN AND NOTHING WAS DONE REGARDING IT.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-15
- VIN: 1N4BB41D3WC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: NISSAN HAS A SAFETY RECALL FOR WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE (SEE NHTSA CAMPAIGN 98V093000). ACCORDING TO THE NISSAN WEB SITE MY VEHICLE [XXX] IS IN THE RANGE OF AFFECTED VINS. MY WIPERS FAILED IN THE EXACT MANNER DESCRIBED IN THE SAFETY RECALL (WEAR OF THE BALL JOINT IN THE WIPER LINKAGE CAUSING THE LINKAGE TO SEPARATE), BUT NISSAN (AND THE NISSAN DEALER) REFUSE TO PERFORM THE REPAIR WORK UNDER THE RECALL CAMPAIGN. THEY CLAIM THAT MY PARTICULAR VIN, ALTHOUGH IN THE CORRECT RANGE, IS NOT AFFECTED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED DURING A HEAVY DOWNPOUR ON A BUSY INTERSTATE HIGHWAY AND NEARLY CAUSED A VERY SERIOUS ACCIDENT. I THINK NISSAN NEEDS TO TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT WHICH VINS ARE TRULY AFFECTED BY THIS PROBLEM. *LA UPDATED 07/26/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING DOWN A BACK ROAD AND MY FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WENT OFF THE ROAD INTO THE SAND, CAUSING THE TIE-ROD TO BREAK. THE CAR SHOT TO THE LEFT AND I HIT A BRIM OF SAND AND ROCKS CAUSING THE CAR TO ROLL SEVERAL TIMES OVER. I WAS GOING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH AND THE FRONTAL AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *LA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-22
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY CAR LOST POWER,I HAD TO DRIVE MAYBE (6) SIX MILES TO THE DEALER.WENT I GOT THERE I GOT OUT AND NOTICED THAT THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FORM TRUNK.I OPEN TRUNK AND SAW THAT THE CARPET WAS SMOKING AND HAD MELTED.THERE WAS A BURNT SPOT WHERE THE CARPET WAS.MY POINT IS THAT I HAD THREE QUARTER TANK OF GAS IN MY CAR.I COULD HAVE BEEN BLOWN-UP IN THAT CAR IF I HAD TO GO MUCH FARTHER.IT REALLY BURNT THAT CARPET GOOD.THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM WAS THAT IT WAS THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND THE CONVERTER,WHICH COMES TOGETHER AND COST $901.87 TO REPAIR.I BOUGHT THIS CAR ONLY A WEEK PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT,FROM THE NISSAN DEALERSHIP ON HWY 70 EAST NO DOUGHT.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES FRONT COIL SPRING FAILED CAUSING LOST OF STEERING. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. TS *DT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-21
- VIN: 1N4AB41D9WC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WE PAID NISSAN $88.75 FOR THE TECHNICIAN TO TELL US THAT WE NEED A NEW GAS TANK ($900) DUE TO A CANISTER LEAKING AND CLOGGING THE AIR FILTER INSIDE THE TANK. THEY WANT US TO PAY $900 TO REPLACE THE GAS TANK! WE THINK IT MUST BE A DEFECT BECAUSE GAS TANKS SHOULD LAST THE LIFE OF THE CAR OR ATLEAST MORE THAN 4 YEARS. WE ARE DRIVING WITH THE SMELL OF GAS UNTIL THIS IS RESOLVED. PLEASE HELP. DT
1998 Nissan Sentra recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1998 Nissan Sentra.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. WATER CAN ENTER AND DISPLACE THE GREASE IN THE WIPER ARM LINKAGE BALL JOINT WHERE THE WIPER LINKAGE ATTACHES TO THE WIPER MOTOR LINKAGE.
- Consequence: THIS CAN RESULT IN GRADUAL WEAR OVER A PERIOD OF TIME INSIDE THE JOINT THAT COULD LEAD TO THE SEPARATION OF THE WIPER LINKAGE ASSEMBLY FROM THE WIPER MOTOR LINKAGE AT THE BALL JOINT. A LOSS OF WINDSHIELD WIPER FUNCTION CAN RESULT IN THIS SEPARATION OCCURS.
- Remedy: TO PREVENT GREASE FROM BEING WASHED OUT OF THE JOINT, THE DEALERS WILL MODIFY BY ADDING A WATER DIVERSION SEAL THAT WILL PREVENT WATER FROM ENTERING THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE BALL JOINT AREA.
Negative 1998 Nissan Sentra car reviews
Positive 1998 Nissan Sentra car reviews
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I received it as a gift for my 16th birthday back in 2004, and it's been with me ever since. I got it for a great price of around $3200, especially considering it had 90,xxx miles on it. I've taken really good care of it, and now at 195,xxx miles, it still runs beautifully! I've only had to replace the harmonic balancer, and that's it! I've been diligent about changing the oil every 4k miles and doing regular maintenance, and I'm still running full synthetic with no leaks! I've never had a problem, and this car runs like a dream! I just wanted to share my experience with you and let you know that if you take care of your car, it will last forever!
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I purchased my first 1996 Nissan Sentra GXE about 5 years ago for around $3500. It has been the best car I have ever owned, taking me everywhere without any complaints. I took the best care of my baby and it was spacious enough to fit both of my tall sons in the back. Recently, I blew a head gasket and considered getting a new car, but my car guy had the same make and model just 2 years newer for under $2000.00. I couldn't resist and took the offer. Although my son suggested a Volvo from his lot, I had my heart set on the Nissan. Now, I have my baby 2.0 and my car guy will fix the 96 and sell it for a profit. It's a win-win situation!
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The Nissan Sentra SE is a sporty little sedan with good power and handling. It's basically identical to the famous 200sx SE-R of that year, with the exception of the extra two doors that make the Sentra the more practical of the two. I bought it used only three months ago, and I am very pleased with the performance and value I got for the price.
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Best value for the $ at the time - new ones appear to be as well. Handles great in the snow and is a very reliable car. It doesn't require much maintenance and is always happy to go for a drive!
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No problems in 4 years and 38,000 miles... knock on wood. And I drive it hard.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Nissan Sentra problems:
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1998 Nissan Sentra GXE - Interior, Starting ...
Oct 28, 2010 ... the most common problems on this engine is the intake gasket (intake to cyl . head) it brakes apart creating vacuum leak and miss firing ...The ...
1998 Nissan Sentra Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Top 1998 Nissan Sentra Problems · Nissian Crankshaft and Camshaft Sensor Recall. 480 people have reported this. 133 · Nissan fuel pump recall. 329 people have ...
Q&A: 1998 Nissan Sentra GXE - Common Problems & Solutions
Aug 14, 2011 ... The pressure plate finger height when collapsed may be set wrong and cause this "gap" another thing i have seen is the shift lever gets tweaked ...
1998 Nissan Sentra Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Oct 22, 2014 ... Rear main seal early on. Headliner at 150k. Alternator about 130k. Timing chain @ 160k. Speed sensor and odometer @ 199,850. Radio back dash ...
1998 Nissan Sentra Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Most Common 1998 Nissan Sentra Problems ... The engine may stall at times due to a failed crankshaft position sensor and/or camshaft position sensor. these...
Other years of Nissan Sentra
Are you having problems with your 1998 Nissan Sentra?
Ernest Bauch 2024-08-23
I am confident in my ability to take care of a vehicle. However, this particular car has given me trouble despite my efforts. The engine unexpectedly failed at 94000 miles. Despite spending $2000 on upkeep in the last 6 months alone, the car remains slow, small, and uncomfortable on long trips.
Jarrell Powlowski 2024-06-13
We've had this car for over a year now since we bought it used. I really liked the styling and the interior is more spacious than the newer models from 2002 and above. The only issues we've had are the oil changes and brakes, but we also upgraded the stereo system with an amp and sub without upgrading those first, so that could have been a factor. We also had to replace the front axles, but my husband delivers pizzas in the hot Arizona desert, so that's understandable. Overall, the cost hasn't been too high and it drives much better than my mom's 2002 car. I would highly recommend this car to first-time buyers or college students.
Davon Marks 2024-01-21
I've owned this car for just over 3 years now, and it's been a great companion for me as a college student. Despite putting 64k miles on it in the first two years, it has been wonderfully reliable with just basic maintenance. It starts every time and stops just as well. However, I must admit that it's not the most peppy car, even with a manual and after-market intake (I had to try SOMETHING to speed it up!). Additionally, the interior can get a bit noisy at speeds over 70MPH, but that's to be expected. The cup holders are a bit self-defeating as they block the radio and climate control, and the STD model comes with no frills whatsoever. Oh, and the stereo bracket might as well have been made for stereo thieves, it's that easy to take. Overall, I would say that this is a good car for college and high school students.
Jules Steuber 2024-01-03
This car was pretty good. The only thing I didn't like was that when having more than 2 people in the car, it struggled a bit on hills. I live in Upstate NY where everything is a hill, so when driving with my friends, I had to give it some extra gas to get going at a good speed. But overall, I really like this car. It's easy to drive and very reliable.