Nissan Versa problems

Nissan Versa is an automobile nameplate used by the Japanese manufacturer Nissan in the Americas for the following models:
According to a Nissan press release in 2008, "versa" is short for "versatile space" meant to imply the spaciousness of the interior and configurable cargo arrangements. The Versa is one of the few remaining subcompact cars left on sale in the North American market, with most automakers dropping small cars from their lineups to focus on crossovers and SUVs.
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Nissan Versa model years
Common Nissan Versa problems
The Nissan Versa is a popular compact car known for its affordability and spacious interior. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most common issues with the Nissan Versa is transmission problems, particularly in the 2012-2017 models.
Steering problems have also been reported by Nissan Versa owners, particularly in the 2016 model.
Suspension system problems are another common issue with the Nissan Versa, especially in the 2009 model.
Windshield wiper issues have also been reported, with a broken wiper motor being the most common cause. This can affect the car's visibility, making it unsafe to drive in rainy conditions.
In addition to these issues, the Nissan Versa has also been reported to have problems with the fuel injection system, catalytic converter, and airbag system. While the Nissan Versa is generally considered a reliable car, these common problems are worth considering when purchasing a used model.
Is the Nissan Versa a reliable car?
The Nissan Versa Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 21 for subcompact cars. The average annual repair cost is $456 which means it has excellent ownership costs. The severity of repairs is low while frequency of those issues is average, so major issues are uncommon for the Versa.
Why did Nissan discontinue the Versa?
Many models have disappeared, making way for SUVs and crossovers of all styles and forms. Nissan is no exception to the rule. The Versa sedan was phased out at the end of 2014 in Canada due to low sales figures (but still continued to exist in the U.S.), while the Versa Note hatchback followed suit after 2019.
How many miles will a Nissan Versa last?
While it's impossible to accurately estimate your Versa's total mileage, you can get a rough idea based on available information from reputable sources and owner accounts. Having said that, the Nissan Versa can last up to 200,000 miles before you'll encounter major issues.
What years did the Nissan Versa have transmission problems?
Nissan Versa Years With the Least Reliable Transmissions
The 2012 isn't far behind the 2008 version, suffering from severe transmission faults. The transmission system in this car was so bad that Nissan had to recall the version. The 2007 and 2009 selections also have very severe issues with their transmission.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Versa years
We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Versa cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Versa model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Versa model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Versa years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Nissan Versa car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Versa , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Versa vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Versa model years
A total of 265 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Versa model years
There were a total of 36 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Versa model years
There were a total of 218 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Versa model years
There were a total of 12 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3273 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Versa . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Versa vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Nissan Versa 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 3N1CN8BV3RL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart; however, the failure recurred. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,000. The VIN was not available.
Nissan Versa 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 3N1CN8BV3R
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle downshifted with no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart however, the failure recurred. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 500.
Nissan Versa 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while her husband was driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle in front abruptly stopped causing the contact to depress the brake pedal in order to avoid rear-ending the vehicle in front. As a result, the contact was rear-ended, and the vehicle behind that vehicle that rear ended the contact crashed into the rear of the vehicle as well. During the impact, it caused the contact vehicle to be pushed forward and then rear-end the vehicle in front that abruptly stopped. The air bags did not deploy. The driver and passenger seats fractured in a backward position. In addition, the front passenger side seat belt failed to retract during the crash. The contact was seated in the front passenger seat and during the impact she hit her head dashboard and sustained a concussion, shoulders, head, back, jaw, and left leg. The contact sustained head, shoulders, back, and leg injuries. Both received medical attention via the hospital. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and opened a case. The failure mileage was unknown.
Nissan Versa 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 3N1CN8BV5PL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to properly accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal. Additionally, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were yet contacted. The failure mileage was 11,000.
Nissan Versa 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 3N1CN8BV9RL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH and as she was accelerating to merge onto a highway, the vehicle was losing forward momentum. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal and was still losing forward momentum. The contact manually shifted the vehicle to a lower gear and depressed the accelerator pedal but the vehicle was only driving at 30 MPH and no faster. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had pulled over and turned the vehicle off and on and was able to regain normal vehicle function. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent, but was a recurring failure. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed and was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.
Nissan Versa 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 3N1CN8BV1RL
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I just got my car yesterday. I was leaving work and my car had no power. I couldn't get up to speed for a very long time, it was as if it was in limp mode. I got home and scanned it and got a P2615 code. upon doing research I have found several others having this problem. It is very scary and dangerous to drive this way. Also, cleared the code and it runs fine until the next time. This problem needs to be addressed before someone gets hurt or worse.
Nissan Versa 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3N1CE2CP6EL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I had an accident, and it was pretty bad and my air bags did not deploy. The car might be a total loss and I was very surprised and concerned that the bags did not deploy. Even my phone detected the crash and alerted my family members. That happened immediately after the crash.
Nissan Versa 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 3N1CN8BV1RL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Brand new Versa delivered 8/16/2024. Started to hear chirping, whirring noise from clutch pedal when halfway depressed (right before bite) and also when releasing pedal, halfway up, when engine is warm. First started at 1200 miles and continues presently. Taken to Nissan dealership on 10/8/2024 and was told their mechanics don’t have the time to drive around and make engine warm to reproduce clutch symptoms. Major concern as this is brand new from the Nissan factory already exhibiting major clutch symptoms indicative of faulty release bearing/release fork, causing potentially catastrophic transmission damage a few hundred or thousand miles from now, when it could have otherwise been prevented promptly, under factory warranty. Vehicle is available for inspection by NHTSA. No one injured.
Nissan Versa 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 3N1CN8BV1RL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: New Versa delivered 8/16/2024. Rear seat belt alarm will NOT chime when 1,2, or 3 passenger(s) are seated in the rear without fastening their seatbelts. However when passenger(s) DO buckle in properly, the alarm falsely and unnecessarily chimes for 45+ seconds.
Nissan Versa 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 3N1CN8BV1RL
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: This Versa was purchased brand new with 6 miles on it, delivered 8/16/2024. Strong odor of fuel inside cabin after city driving about 90 minutes in 100+ degree heat with a/c (on either recirculating or fresh air) in [XXX] . So overwhelming, causing burning eyes, throat, and nose forcing me to shut off engine. Predictably occurs when outside heat is over 100 deg F. This occurred within only 30 days of purchase at about 1300 miles, and so far occurred 4 times thus far total since purchase date to present. It took me a few weeks to fully understand the root cause until inspection under hood revealed fuel leakage around fuel injectors where inserted in intake manifold, and possibly fuel rail. Brought car in to Nissan dealer that sold me it and they said they smelled no odor (most likely because engine was cold and they only test drove briefly) and found no leaks. No due diligence or urgency on their part, and it was after their dismissive response that I encouraged sent the service advisor photos of the leaky fuel taken from days prior, in order to be taken seriously and have it fixed with some urgency under warranty, as this leaky fuel on hot manifold can combust or leak into cylinders. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Nissan Versa 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Nissan Versa 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 3N1CN8EV4NL
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The issue that I am experiencing has been intermittent, however it seems to be a safety concern that Nissan is not taking seriously. As I am driving at any speed with no cars around me the car collision icon will come on and flash as well as the front portion of the car in the advanced driver assistant system will flash yellow. This has happened on more than one occasion, but will always go away eventually. I believe that my safety is at risk because what if I was driving with my cruise control on and this occurred, would it slam on my brakes causing an accident? It has not been duplicated by the dealership that I have taken my car to however I have been able to record it several times when it occurred. There are no other warning lights that come up when this occurs, however I have codes that show that some of my radar sensors are not functioning properly. Nissan has not done anything about this issue and has dismissed it as a common problem with the vehicle when it clearly is a safety issue.
Nissan Versa 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
- VIN: 3N1CN8EV5ML
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The brakes fight and lock from time to time. The steering will get a tug like a car is in front of me. The engine has a weird tug before pulling of and switching gears.when I pull off while turning the car feels like it completely losses power!?
Nissan Versa 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 3N1CN8BV0PL
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: I stalled my vehicle (5-speed manual) in a drive through. I quickly restarted the vehicle and proceeded through. When I pulled out onto the main road my car had no power. There was nowhere safe to pull over so I had to continue. My car would not accelerate above 20mph and even that was extremely hard. I had to downshift to 1st gear to proceed up the hill. Finally, I was able to pull off and restart my car. This fixed the issue and I was able to drive home. I’ve not stalled the car before so I had never experienced this issue. I’ve read about it, and having it happen is terrifying. Had the car who was driving behind me been going faster, I likely would have been hit when I pulled out of the drive through. This is extremely dangerous.
Nissan Versa 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 3N1CN8BVXRL
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Vehicle loses power, ability to accelerate and is unable reach a speed above 35-40 mph regardless of gear (manual transmission) or downshifting, requiring you to pull off road; has occurred four times now. After turning vehicle off and restarting, operation is normal. Nissan dealer checked and pulled up a code regarding coded keys and reprogrammed keys; could not replicate the power/acceleration issue. Problem still re-occurred. There are no warnings, warning lights or symptoms until you accelerate.
Latest 5 recalls Nissan Versa
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 68 recalls for different components of the Nissan Versa.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Nissan Versa 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-27
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys improperly may not protect the driver as intended during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front driver's air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD103, PD104, and PMA34.
- Model: Nissan Versa 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-27
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys improperly may not protect the driver as intended during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front driver's air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD103, PD104, and PMA34.
- Model: Nissan Versa 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-18
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 Versa and Kicks vehicles. An intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor can disable the power steering assist.
- Consequence: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code and replace the steering column assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA26. This recall involves vehicles that were previously inspected, but did not receive a steering column replacement, under recall number 22V-693. These vehicles will need to be reinspected for this recall.
- Model: Nissan Versa 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-09-15
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 Versa and Kicks vehicles. An intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor can disable the power steering assist.
- Consequence: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code, and replace the column, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 9, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PMA10 / PMA25.
- Model: Nissan Versa 2010
- Report Received Date: 2022-08-09
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain air bag inflator replacement service parts that may have been installed as part of a theft or collision repair. The parts include certain passenger-side air bag inflators designed to fit Infiniti 2002-2003 QX4, 2006-2010 M35 and M45; Nissan 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, and both driver and passenger-side inflators designed to fit 2007-2012 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback vehicles. Please see Nissan's recall report for the specific part numbers. These replacement inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the inflators as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 14, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
Latest negative Nissan Versa car reviews
Latest positive Nissan Versa car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2011
I recently wrote a review on my purple disaster of a Chevy Equinox, and not long after, it gave out completely at 40,759 miles. So, I finally got it started and drove it to Clay Cooley Nissan in Duncanville, Texas, where I absolutely fell in love with this Versa! It's huge inside! It absolutely blew my mind how large it was, and the gas mileage is unbelievable! I love everything about it, right down to the little meep horn! It's practical, affordable, and easy on the pump, as well as the eyes, legs, and back. However, this is not the car for speed. The Sentra has way more power, but the Versa can hold its own. Bottom line, it's the perfect car for me!
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Vehicle year: 2017
The car rides low, but it's very comfy and roomy. It's sleek on the outside, old-fashioned and simple on the inside, but you can add your own touch to make it fun and economically friendly. I live in a big city, and it maneuvers great in high traffic. It's a great choice for those who prefer simplicity. I really like it!
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Vehicle year: 2016
The Nissan Versa is an excellent car that offers great value for money. The car is comfortable and quiet, making it a pleasure to drive. The manual transmission and clutch are smooth and easy to use, and the steering is well-assisted, making it easy to turn the wheel. The trunk is spacious, and the hands-free phone works perfectly. The car also offers excellent gas mileage, and the engine provides acceptable power. Although the display could be better, the car is still a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle. The rear seat backs don't fold down on this model, and the rear brakes are drum, but these are minor issues that don't detract from the overall quality of the car.The Nissan Versa S is a great choice for an inexpensive commuter car with good gas mileage, hands-free phone, and the ability to play music on your phone. Although the glove compartment is non-locking, there are cup holders in the middle and on the doors, and a small slot between the seats. It would have been nice to have a space for quarters or storage of little things. The car has an amazing amount of space for the rear passengers. The locks are a bit more difficult to actuate than they should be, but I just leave the car doors open with nothing of value inside. Other than that, there is not much else to complain about. The car has hard plastic inside, but if that is the only thing to complain about, things are looking pretty good. The car does quite well in snow with its Yoko Avids tires. The key in the Versa S doesn't have a transponder chip and is thus very cheap if you need to make a copy. With over 115K miles, the car has been problem-free and I would buy it again in a heartbeat.
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Vehicle year: 2013
You've got yourself a great deal with this Sedan! At only $130.00 a month for 24 months, it's definitely a steal. While it may not be the most technologically advanced or sporty car out there, it's definitely practical and perfect for a student like you who needs a reliable car with good MPG. The stiff suspension makes for a solid drive, although it could use some improvement in the cornering department. The only downside is that it tends to swerve in high wind drafts at speeds over 60mph, but it's not too bad once you're out of the wind tunnels. Overall, it's a great car for the price and a no-brainer choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2021
Here’s a list of the features in my 2020 Base vs. 2010 Versa Base: power windows, locks, trunk, mirrors; integrated, full-color integrated Bluetooth audio screen (2010 did not have a radio!); A/C, interior trunk release, auto-dim high beam; cruise control; auto stop from front collision; lane drift warning; back-up camera; rear-backup bumper warning/braking, multiple interior lights; trunk light, window visor mirrors, multiple USB outlets, real seat cup holders, etc! All in a really good looking sedan. I think Nissan has packed a lot of features into a very affordable price. You should definitely consider buying it!
Daron Metz 2025-07-10
Vehicle year: 2014
I have the basic model of the Versa and I must say, for the price, it offers great value. The car is surprisingly spacious and the looks are decent. While driving, it has enough power to get you where you need to go, but it's important to take it easy on the road as it can be affected by strong winds. Unfortunately, my car has had some reliability issues. However, I am grateful for the warranty as it has covered the cost of four significant mechanical problems in less than 18,000 miles. These issues included a loose muffler shield, damaged sway bar links, malfunctioning valve, and foggy headlight.
Scottie Daugherty 2025-07-07
Vehicle year: 2018
I've had some issues with it, but let's see how we can fix them together.
Milton Fisher 2025-07-06
Vehicle year: 2007
I have been driving my 07 hatchback for 7 years now, and it holds a special place in my heart as my first new car that I paid for myself. While it is a manual transmission car and fun to drive, it could use a bit more horsepower and zip. The mpg is good as long as you stay under 60 mph, but if you have a lead foot like me, it might be a bit of a challenge. Unfortunately, I have had a few issues with the car, such as the hubcaps flying off after the first year and someone stealing the antenna tip in the second year. The tires seem to have a mind of their own and always find sharp objects to impale themselves on, which has resulted in me having to patch them up frequently. Despite my immaculate maintenance, I have had to change the tires every year, the rotors after 4 years, and the battery after 3 years. Overall, it has been a great car, and I have enjoyed my time with it.
Willard Kuhlman 2025-07-05
Vehicle year: 2012
Our experience with this Nissan car has been extremely disappointing. Despite our best efforts to maintain it, the car has suffered from multiple issues, including a failed transmission, after only two years and 80,000 miles. Unfortunately, the dealership was unable to offer a viable solution, and we were disappointed by Nissan's lack of assistance. As a result, we have decided not to purchase another Nissan vehicle and will share our experience with others. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Andres Zemlak 2025-07-04
Vehicle year: 2007
My Versa has been a reliable car, with 98,000 miles and still going strong. While I have had a few minor issues, such as the steering wheel peeling and the position being uncomfortable, overall it has been a great car. The hatchback is versatile and it gets excellent gas mileage. However, if you have a larger budget, there may be better used options available. Personally, I am considering purchasing a new 2015 Honda Fit EX for $18,000, as I am now able to afford a higher-end vehicle.