2008 Nissan Sentra problems

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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."

2008 Nissan Sentra

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Common 2008 Nissan Sentra problems

Transmission Issues

Transmission issues are among the most common and serious problems that can happen to a Nissan Sentra. In particular, some 2012 to 2016 Nissan Sentra owners have reported that the car's continuously variable transmission (CVT) can cause temporary loss of power and total failure. These problems can leave owners with crippled vehicles and large repair bills, as the CVT issues are so widespread that there have been class action lawsuits filed against Nissan.

The 2019 Nissan Sentra also has transmission problems, according to some consumers. Transmission issues can lead to significant inconvenience and costly repairs, making it a crucial area for Nissan to address in the Sentra model.

Brake Problems

Brake problems are a recurring issue for Nissan Sentras. Many 2013 Sentra owners report that the brakes don't engage after stepping on the brake pedal until it hits the floor. In some vehicles, the problem is caused by a master brake cylinder that failed prematurely. Replacing the bad cylinder will resolve the issue.

Even the relatively new 2020 Nissan Sentra isn't immune to brake problems. Some units have anti-braking lock systems that can stop working without warning. When the ABS gives out while the car is on a slippery road surface, the driver can potentially lose control and end up in an accident.

Drivers of some units of the 2016 Nissan Sentra report hearing loud howling or screeching noises during windy days and when driving at high speeds. While some owners suspect it's loose weatherstripping, others have had no luck determining where the sounds are coming from. The car could also vibrate enough to make noticeable noise at highway speeds.

Body and Paint Problems

A plethora of body and paint problems hounded many vehicles belonging to the Sentra’s 2016 model year. The paint and clear coat on the affected vehicles’ bodies may fade early or flake off. Chrome trims could also develop rust, while moldings and trims may become loose and eventually fall off.

These issues can significantly affect the car's appearance and value, making it a critical area for Nissan to address in the Sentra model.

Poor CVT Performance

The Nissan Sentra's continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been a significant source of complaints from owners. The CVT can cause temporary loss of power and total failure, leaving owners with crippled vehicles and large repair bills. These problems are so widespread that there have been class action lawsuits filed against Nissan.

Faulty Brakes

Brake problems are a recurring issue for Nissan Sentras. Many 2013 Sentra owners report that the brakes don't engage after stepping on the brake pedal until it hits the floor. In some vehicles, the problem is caused by a master brake cylinder that failed prematurely. Replacing the bad cylinder will resolve the issue.

Unusual Noises while Driving

Some Nissan Sentra owners have reported hearing unusual noises while driving, such as howling or screeching noises during windy days and when driving at high speeds. While some owners suspect it's loose weatherstripping, others have had no luck determining where the sounds are coming from. The car could also vibrate enough to make noticeable noise at highway speeds.

Bad Paint and Trim

A plethora of body and paint problems hounded many vehicles belonging to the Sentra’s 2016 model year. The paint and clear coat on the affected vehicles’ bodies may fade early or flake off. Chrome trims could also develop rust, while moldings and trims may become loose and eventually fall off.

Suspension Problems

Some Nissan Sentra owners have reported experiencing shaking, sputtering, and stalling, as well as RPM spiking while driving or the car's inability to accelerate properly. These issues can be caused by various suspension problems, including worn-out shocks, struts, or other suspension components.

Steering Problems

Some Nissan Sentra owners have reported experiencing steering problems, such as difficulty turning the steering wheel or feeling a loose steering wheel. These issues can be caused by various steering problems, including worn-out steering components or low power steering fluid levels.

These common problems with the Nissan Sentra can significantly affect the car's performance, safety, and value. It is crucial for Nissan to address these issues to ensure the Sentra remains a reliable and safe vehicle for its owners.

2008 Nissan Sentra engine

Is a 2008 Nissan Sentra a good car?

Although. At high speeds the buzz of the four-cylinder. Engine is noticeable. The engines performance is enhanced by the seamless operation of the CVT. Transmission. Great for the typical driver.

What is the biggest problem with the Nissan Sentra?

Top Nissan Sentra Problems

  • Brake problems are a recurring problem for Nissan Sentras. ...
  • Strut assemblies that dampen the shocks from driving on uneven surfaces may also fail without warning. ...
  • Transmission issues are among the most common and serious problems that can happen to a Nissan Sentra.

How many miles can a 2008 Nissan Sentra last?

A well-cared-for 2008 Nissan Sentra should be able to last around 150,000 miles, which is half as long as top-rated competitors like the Toyota Corolla. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other compact cars according to Repair Pal, at $359 per year.

Does a 2008 Nissan Sentra have a CVT transmission?

The Sentra SE-R, equipped exclusively with Nissan's Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), is a unique offering in the sport compact market. Enhancing the driving experience of the SE-R model are steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

2008 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
  • Service brakes problems
  • Power train problems
  • Engine problems
  • Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Nissan Sentra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2008 Nissan Sentra

The NHTSA has received 167 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Nissan Sentra. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Nissan Sentra vehicles.

2024-04-12

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-11
  • VIN: 3N1AB61EX8L
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Transmission problems! Dealer wants to Charge me $7,000.00 dollars to fix it! Recall has a warranty until 2022 or 120,000 miles . My car has 85,375 miles!they said that warranty already expired! But my car only has 85,375 miles and the warranty is 120,000 miles!
2023-03-20

AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-02-01
  • VIN: 3N1BB61E88L
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The car's airbag dashboard light has been on and blinking for about a month now- indicating an issue. I have not been in any recent accidents and it appeared on its own. Subsequently, the car horn does not work. Airbags and car horn are necessary to prevent accidents and serious injury, including death in the event of an accident. I advised my local Nissan dealership who stated there are no current recalls and the car would need to be inspected- which will likely be costly. No inspections have been made at this time.
2023-01-05

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-01-05
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E18L
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving approximately 45 mph, the vehicle in front abruptly depressed its brake pedal causing the driver to crash into the rear of the vehicle. During the crash, the front end of the vehicle was severely damaged but no air bags were deployed. No injuries were reported. A police report was taken at the scene and the vehicle was towed away. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 117,000.
2022-12-30

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-12-30
  • VIN: 3N1AB61EX8L
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Driver Air bag sensor light came on. The dealership reset it several times but it continues to come on. We paid the money to have them put the car on the diagnostic system. They are saying after review, the airbag needs to be replaced. It costs $1500 to replace the airbag. Which makes zero sense. The car has never been wrecked. Reports have shown issues with airbags in hundreds of thousands of Nissans. The 2008 Nissan Sentra needs to be reviewed for an airbag recall. This is extremely dangerous.
2022-03-14

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-03-12
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E48L
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: JUST DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY (NO BRAKES APPLIED) AND THE MASTER CYLINDER WENT BAD AND LOST POWER BRAKES.
2021-03-20

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-03-18
  • VIN: 3N1AB61EX8L
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I PURCHASED THE CAR DROVE IT HOME WITH NO PROBLEM. 2 DAYS AFTER MY PURCHASE IT DRIVES VERY SLOW AND WON'T PICK UP SPEED.
2020-12-15

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-11-24
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E08L
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 NISSAN SENTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO MOVE FORWARD. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. *BF
2020-11-27

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-11-24
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E48L
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: THERE THE CODE OF P1778 THAT KEEPS COMING UP ON ABOUT A CVT AND IFS AFFECTING THE DRIVE AND STRAIN THE TRANSMISSION I DONT UNDERSTAND THE ISSUE IS RECURRING.AND THIS HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. YOU CAN FEEL THE CAR HESITANT
2020-09-14

SUSPENSION,WHEELS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-09-13
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E38L
  • Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: BACKING OUT OF A DRIVEWAY MY AXEL AND BALL JOINT. THE CONTROL ARM DISCONNECTED FROM MY TRANSMISSION. THIS CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE SIDE PANELING IN FRONT MY TIRE. THE CAR WOULDN'T MOVE EVEN WHEN PUT IN NEUTRAL. WHEN I GO IN REVERSE BEFORE THIS HAPPENED MY CAR WOULD PUTTER AND THEN DIE. THE CAR WILL NOT REVERSE UNLESS I PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL AND ROLL OUT FROM WHERE I AM.
2020-09-06

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-09-02
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E68L
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT FLASHES ON DASH WON'T GO OFF. THIS SHOULD BE A SAFETY ISSUE... OVER 10 IN THE LAST YEAR ALONE REPORTED SAME PROBLEM
2020-08-03

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-08-22
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E68L
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
  • Summary: DRIVING OVER AN HOUR AND THE CAR STARTS TO STRUGGLE, I CAN FEEL IT LOOSING POWER, IN ORDER TO NOT PRESS DOWN ALL THE WAY, I'M DOING A GIVE N GO PRAYING I DONT STOP ON THE FREEWAY. I WOULD SOMETIMES FEEL JUMPING AND THAT I'M NOT IN FULL CONTROL AND IT HAS STOPPED ON ME IN A 15MINUTE DRIVE. I HAVE GOTTEN, A DIAGNOSTIC, 1TIME IT HAD 4DIFFERENT TRANSMISSION CODES AND ANOTHER A FUEL CODE. NOT SURE WHAT'S GOING ON, THIS STARTED AROUND THE 60,000 MILE I'M AT 90,000 NOW, SO YA, IT'S BEEN ROUGH.
2020-07-24

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-05-02
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E18L
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: MASTER CYLINDER IS LEAKING AND BRAKE LIGHT IS COMING ON
2020-07-12

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-05-01
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E48L
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT BLINKS CONSTANTLY WARNING THE OWNER THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE UNIT. OTHER YEARS AND MODELS ARE AFFECT BY RECALLS AND I BELIEVE THIS YEAR MAKE AND MODEL SHOULD ALSO BE.
2020-03-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-08-30
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E48L
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: MY AIR BAG LIGHT WILL NOT GO OFF IT WAS IDLE WHEN IT CAME IN BUT IT IS CONSTANTLY BLINKING , THE HORN COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING THE FIRST TIME WHEN I WAS TURNING THE CORNER, I GENERALLY REPLACED IT TWICE BUT IT STOPPED WORKING AGAIN, AND AGAIN, AND AS I WAS SITTING IDLE MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON EVEN AFTER I HAVE BEEN KEEPING THE MAINTENANCE UP ON IT.
2020-03-21

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-01-01
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E18L
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON. I TOOK IT TO A CERTIFIED DEALER AND THEY SAID IT IT SOMETHING TO DO WITH A 'COIL' THAT WENT BAD
2020-02-10

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-07-01
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E28L
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 NISSAN SENTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING STARTED, THE RPM REVVED UP WITH AN ABNORMAL SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO NISSAN INFINITI OF SAN FRANCISCO LOCATED AT 1395 VAN NESS AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109, TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FUEL INJECTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO NISSAN SERRAMONTE LOCATED AT 1500 COLLINS AVE #A, COLMA, CA 94014, FOR A SECOND DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE THROTTLE BODY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2020-01-07

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-02
  • VIN: 3N1AB61EX8L
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. MECHANIC DIAGNOSIS IS DEFECTIVE CATALYTIC CONVERTER SENSORS.
2019-12-30

AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-03
  • VIN: 3N1AB61EX8L
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: VEHICLE AIR BAG BEGAN FLASHING AND HORN STOPPED WORKING WHEN PRESSED.
2019-09-14

AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-08-01
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E58L
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT REMAINS ON AND BLINKING CONTINOUSLY. THE HORN ALSO STOPPED WORKING. FEELS VERY UNSAFE DRIVING WITHOUT A HORN. SINCE BOTH THE AIRBAG AND HORN ARE IN THE STEERING WHEEL AND READING THROUGH SEVERAL OTHER SIMILAR COMPLAINTS I WOULD ASSUME THEY ARE RELATED. SHOULD BE RECALLED AS MANY OTHER NISSANS HAVE BEEN RECALLED WITH THE SAME ISSUE.
2019-08-06

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-08-05
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E68L
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: ON JUNE 20, 2016, I TOOK MY CAR INTO A NISSAN CERTIFIED DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THE TRANSMISSION REDONE UNDER THE EXTENDED WARRANTY THAT NISSAN DID FOR THE CVT ENGINE. THE CAR DROVE FINE AND THEN IN THE BEGINNING OF AUGUST 2019 JUST 3 YRS LATER AND 40,00 MILES ON THE NEW TRANSMISSION, THE TRANSMISSION IS MESSING UP AGAIN AND WE ARE TOLD THAT WE HAVE TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION FOR THE SECOND TIME AT OUR COST. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH I FOUND OUT THAT THERE WAS A SERVICE BULLETIN SENT OUT TO THE TECHNICIAN ON AUGUST 15, 2014 STATING THAT A 2007-2012 SENTRA WILL NEED A TRANSMISSION COOLER ADDED TO THE CVT TO PREVENT IT FROM OVERHEATING. THE NISSAN DEALERSHIP DID NOT PUT THAT ON OUR CAR WHEN WE HAD OUR TRANSMISSION REDONE UNDER THEIR EXTENDED WARRANTY IN 2016, AND NOW BECAUSE OF THEIR LACK OF RESPONSIBILITY OUR TRANSMISSION IS OUT, AND NISSAN IS NOT WANTING TO MAKE IT RIGHT.
2019-05-22

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-05-01
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E48L
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT FLASHES CONSTANTLY ON DASH PANEL. CAME ON WHILE DRIVING AND WILL NOT GO OUT. HAS BEEN RESET BUT COMES BACK ON AFTER DRIVING WITHIN SHORT DISTANCE. CAR HAS NOT BEEN WRECKED IN FRONT AND I AM ORIGINAL OWNER. CONCERNED FOR OUR SAFETY AS WE ARE AFRAID AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT. WE DO NOT BELIEVE SAFETY EQUIPMENT SHOULD FAIL SO QUICKLY. ALSO SEE ONLINE WHERE MANY OTHER OWNERS ARE EXPERIENCEING SAME PROBLEM. WOULD LIKE TO SEE A RECALL TO FIX THIS SAFETY ISSUE. THANK YOU.
2019-04-23

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-18
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E28L
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL. THE TRANSMISSION IN MY 2008 NISSAN SENTRA HAS NEVER WORKED PROPERLY. IT'S A AUTOMATIC AND SOMETIMES IT DONT WANT TO SHIFT GEARS WHEN I GET AROUND 30 MPH. THEN I HAVE TO STOP AND PUT IT IN PARK AND THEN PUT IT IN DRIVE AGAIN AND IT WILL START WORKING PROPERLY. ALSO SOMETIMES WHILE I'M ON THE INTERSTATE GOING 65-80 MPH THE RPM WILL FLUCTUATE FROM 2 TO 3 1/2 RPMS AND THEN OTHER TIMES WHILE GOING DOWN A HILL THE RPMS WILL STAY ABOVE 2 BUT MOSTLY 2 1/2 RPMS UNTIL I GET BELOW 15 MPH BEFORE IT DOWNSHIFTS. THE TRANSMISSION IN THIS CAR HAS NEVER WORKED PROPERLY AND ALL THE FLUID IS GOOD IN IT. IT NOW HAS AROUND 152,000 MILES ON IT BUT THE NISSAN COMPANY PUT A NEW TRANSMISSION IN IT A FEW YEARS AGO SO THE ACTUAL TRANSMISSION DOESNT HAVE THAT MANY MILES ON IT AT ALL. I'VE SEEN ALOT OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS TRANSMISSION FOR THIS CAR AND I THINK NISSAN NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS BEFORE IT ENDS UP TEARING MORE THAN THE TRANSMISSION OUT OF IT!
2019-03-05

AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-01-01
  • VIN: 3N1AB61EX8L
  • Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT FLASHING, THEN HORN DIDN'T WORK; NOW THE CRUISE CONTROL IS NOT WORKING. I SEE SEVERAL SIMILAR PROBLEMS NOTED IN THE DATABASE. SEVERAL CLOSE CALLS WITHOUT THE HORN.
2019-03-05

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-04-04
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY 2008 NISSAN SENTRA AND THE CAR WOULD SHAKE OUT IF NO WHERE NEXT THING YOU KNOW IT DIDN'T WANT TO ACCELERATE ANY MORE IT'S JUST STOPPED AND I WAS DRIVING ON A HIGH WAY
2019-02-13

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-02-12
  • VIN: 3N1AB61E98L
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION COMING OFF THE HIGHWAY AND ONTO CITY STREET. THE TORQUE CONVERTER GAVE OUT AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN SPUTTERING AT STOP SIGNS AND LIGHT, AND THEN THRUSTING FORWARD JOLTING TOWARD TRAFFIC. I NEARLY HAD TWO OTHER VEHICLES REAR END ME DURING SPUTTERING, AND I NEARLY HIT A VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME WHEN THE CAR THRUST FORWARD VIOLENTLY. I TURNED IN TO THE NEAREST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP WHO TOLD ME MY TORQUE CONVERTER BLEW AND I WAS VERY LUCKY TO HAVE NOT BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT. I HAVE OWNED THIS VEHICLE 82 DAYS AND NOW HAVE TO DO AN ENTIRE TRANSMISSION REBUILD, WHICH AFTER EXTENSIVE RESEARCH I HAVE FOUND THIS IS VERY COMMON WITH A CVT TRANSMISSION. I FEEL LIKE THIS IS SOMETHING NISSAN SHOULD ADDRESS, AS I ENDANGERED THE LIVES OF MY CHILDREN, MYSELF, AND OTHER DRIVERS/PASSENGERS ON THE ROAD. THE CAR HAS BEEN REGULARLY MAINTAINED AND HAS ONLY ONE PREVIOUS OWNER. I DID NOT EVEN DRIVE 2,000 MILES BEFORE THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED, AND I FULLY BELIEVE THESE CONSTANT VARIABLE TRANSMISSIONS POSE A THREAT TO ANYONE OPERATING A VEHICLE, AND THAT THIS IS GROUNDS FOR A FACTORY RECALL OR AT THE LEAST ADDITIONAL SAFETY WARNINGS. THANK YOU.

2008 Nissan Sentra recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2008 Nissan Sentra.

2010-09-10
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES THAT WERE EQUIPPED WITH A GARMIN NUVI MODEL 750 NAVIGATION SYSTEM. THE BATTERIES CONTAINED IN THE AFFECTED GPS UNITS CAN OVERHEAT.
  • Consequence: OVERHEATED BATTERIES COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY GARMIN TECHNICIANS BY REPLACING THE BATTERY AND INSERTING A SPACER ON TOP OF THE BATTERY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 16, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GARMIN DIRECTLY AT 1-866-957-1981 OR NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
2009-11-03
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 SENTRA PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH BOSCH MASTER CYLINDERS. BRAKE FLUID MAY LEAK FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER. IF THE AMOUNT OF BRAKE FLUID IN THE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR DECREASES TO BELOW THE MINIMUM LEVEL, THE BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING INDICATOR WILL ILLUMINATE AS DESIGNED AND THE BRAKES WILL NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY.
  • Consequence: IF THE WARNING LAMP IS CONTINUOUSLY IGNORED, ONE OF THE BRAKE CIRCUITS ON THE VEHICLE MAY FAIL INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE MASTER CYLINDER BRAKE BOOSTER ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 14, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
2008-07-11
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING 169,202 MY 2007-2008 SENTRA PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED ROBERT BOSCH MASTER CYLINDER. DUE TO THE MACHINING IRREGULARITY BY THE SUPPLIER, THE INTERNAL SEAL GROOVE IN THE BODY OF SOME BRAKE MASTER CYLINDERS MAY ALLOW FOR A GAP IN THE GROOVE CONTACT AREA OF THE SEAL. THIS MAY RESULT IN BRAKE FLUID SLOWLY LEAKING FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER INTO THE BRAKE BOOSTER ASSEMBLY, CAUSING THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE.
  • Consequence: IF THE WARNING LAMP IS IGNORED, ONE OF THE BRAKE CIRCUITS ON THE VEHICLE MAY NOT OPERATE AS DESIGNED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE MASTER CYLINDER/BRAKE BOOSTER ASSEMBLY AND IF BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE IS DETECTED, THE MASTER CYLINDER WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 20, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

Negative 2008 Nissan Sentra car reviews

  1. Ignatius Ryan 2024-11-19

    Although my car is only 6 months old, I have noticed some rusting on both sides, back panel, below the doors. Despite the fact that there are many other Nissan cars with the same issue, Nissan has refused to cover the defect. However, I still enjoy driving the vehicle as it performs well. I have noticed some scratches on the interior plastic from normal use, but this is a minor issue that does not affect the overall quality of the car.

  2. Gerson Deckow 2024-11-08

    Avoid purchasing a Nissan if you anticipate needing replacement parts. In my personal experience, I had to wait over seven weeks for a roof and antenna after a tree limb damaged my car. Despite reaching out to Nissan customer service four weeks into the wait, I received no response. When I contacted the dealer where I purchased the car, Orland Park Nissan in Illinois, I was informed that they were unable to assist me. It has now been eight weeks and the parts are still on back order.

  3. Lonny O'Reilly 2024-08-01

    The Civic would have been a better choice. I purchased this vehicle on Feb. 29, 2008, and unfortunately, it has not lived up to my expectations. The wind noise is quite noticeable, and there are several rattles coming from the doors and trim. Additionally, the weather strips around the front doors are starting to come apart. The ride quality is not what I would consider luxurious, and you can feel every bump in the road. The fuel economy is also not meeting the advertised rating. The foot pedals are too close together, which could be problematic for anyone with a shoe size larger than 9. Lastly, the armrest is more like an elbow rest. Overall, this car has not been a good fit for me.

  4. Rupert Kilback 2024-07-24

    This car gets great gas mileage and the exterior of the car is very nice. However, I must say that it is the most uncomfortable car I have ever driven. The steering wheel is extremely uncomfortable, and I can never seem to adjust my hands and elbows to a comfortable position while driving it.

  5. Koby Stamm 2024-04-07

    I chose the Sentra because it had all the features I was looking for at a reasonable price. However, I did experience some issues with the car. For instance, I had to replace all four tires at 36K and there was a clanking noise under the car during the first week, which was caused by a missing clip that holds the exhaust pipe before the muffler. Additionally, the headrest wouldn't adjust and the fuel door stopped opening after a few months, which unfortunately wasn't covered by Nissan after 1K miles. I also noticed some bubbling and peeling paint on the hood, which required repainting, and had to replace both sun visors. There were rather large rust spots on the rear door jams and small ones on the roof at around 30K, which required two separate trips to the body shop for rather extensive repairs. The car only averaged 27 mpg. Overall, I had some issues with the car, but I still appreciate the features it offered.

Positive 2008 Nissan Sentra car reviews

  1. Joe Eichmann 2024-11-27

    The quick set up guide and DVD were really well done and helpful. I noticed that there is significantly more room in the rear seat compared to the Toyota Corolla LE, and it's also more comfortable than the Civic sedan. The visibility is good and it's easy to handle. I also appreciate the nice organization of controls. The CVT was significantly smoother than the Toyota version, which was a pleasant surprise! The slightly bigger engine made a noticeable difference in performance when merging onto the highway. It's also very quiet and the trunk with the false wall is a nice touch. The pass through back seats are also very easy to use.

  2. Cleve Mayer 2024-11-24

    This is a great car! It's so comfortable and, most importantly, safe. I had an accident yesterday when a woman ran a stop sign and t-boned me. The car took a beating and rolled three times from the force of the impact. It finally landed on its passenger side, but thanks to the safety features of this car, I was held suspended in the driver's side by my safety belt. If it weren't for these safety features, I wouldn't be here today.

  3. Felton Hammes 2024-11-20

    I chose the Sentra over the Corolla because I felt it had more personality. However, it doesn't have the same build quality as the Corolla. I also found that the CVT robs the car of performance, making it a bit slow from a dead stop. Once you're off, though, it's smooth and quick. The steering shakes a bit when slowing down from high speeds, but the interior is well laid out. Unfortunately, the materials are cheap and wear out quickly. On the bright side, the trunk is huge and the gas mileage is excellent. Overall, I would still recommend this car to someone who wants an economical option.

  4. Guido Huels 2024-11-18

    I've been driving my Sentra for over a year now and I must say, the new design is a significant improvement from the previous models. It's a French car with Renault roots, built for ride quality, comfort, and quiet traveling. Despite its compact exterior, the interior is as spacious as a mid-size car. I've taken several trips in this car and I don't miss having a bigger car at all. The CVT transmission takes a little getting used to, and on very windy days, the car may drift a little due to its height. If you're interested in a compact car, I highly recommend test driving a Sentra!

  5. Jaylon Johnston 2024-11-15

    I have had my Sentra for two years and I absolutely love it! I only had to get new tires once because I ran over a box-knife blade, but other than that, it has been problem-free. I have even driven it on ice without any issues. Of course, like any car, there is always a chance that something may go wrong, but so far my Sentra has been perfect. Tee hee!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2008 Nissan Sentra problems:

2008 Nissan Sentra Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
2008 Nissan Sentra Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/nissan/sentra/2008

Jul 30, 2022 ... The 2008 Nissan Sentra only lasts around 150,000 miles with serious transmission and engine issues. At $3,962 to $5,490 it's cheap, but you'll ...

2008 Nissan Sentra Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
2008 Nissan Sentra Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2008-nissan-sentra/problems

Top 2008 Nissan Sentra Problems · Nissian Crankshaft and Camshaft Sensor Recall · Nissan fuel pump recall · Failed Mass Air Flow Sensor May Cause Driveability ...

2008 Nissan Sentra CVT issues, again : r/MechanicAdvice
2008 Nissan Sentra CVT issues, again : r/MechanicAdvice
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/comments/ryeb2g/2008_nissan_sentra_cvt_issues_again/

Jan 7, 2022 ... The CVT started whining at highway speeds at about 36,000 miles in 2013 and Nissan replaced it. The CVT started whining again in 2016 at about ...

Q&A: Common Engine Problems with 2008 Nissan Sentra 2.0S ...
Q&A: Common Engine Problems with 2008 Nissan Sentra 2.0S ...
https://www.justanswer.com/nissan/6amjq-2008-nissan-sentra-2-0s-models-engine-prob.html

Feb 23, 2012 ... The warranty? Customer: No Thanks. You did a great job putting my mind at ease and answering my questions ...

Nissan Sentra 2008 — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Nissan Sentra 2008 — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/9987/nissan/sentra/nissan-sentra-2008

May 8, 2008 ... My 2008 white Sentra is also showing some issues on the paint job. I do only hand wash my car with ZipWax car wash, and have never take it to a ...

Other years of Nissan Sentra

nissan sentra 2009 photo
Sentra 2009
Nissan

55

1

26

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nissan sentra 2010 photo
Sentra 2010
Nissan

140

3

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
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  • 1
nissan sentra 2011 photo
Sentra 2011
Nissan

139

2

18

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan sentra 2012 photo
Sentra 2012
Nissan

176

0

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan sentra 2013 photo
Sentra 2013
Nissan

621

6

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan sentra 2014 photo
Sentra 2014
Nissan

351

5

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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