2018 Nissan Versa note problems
The Nissan Note (Japanese: 日産・ノート, Hepburn: Nissan Nōto) is a supermini/subcompact hatchback or a mini MPV manufactured and marketed globally by Nissan. Introduced in 2004, the first-generation Note was primarily marketed in Japan and Europe, and was produced in Japan and the United Kingdom. The second-generation model was sold in other regions, including North America where it was manufactured in Mexico and marketed as the Versa Note, and Thailand, where it serves as one of the B-segment hatchback offered by the brand alongside the smaller March/Micra under the Eco Car tax scheme.
In 2017, the second-generation Note was replaced by the French-built K14 Micra for the European market. The Versa Note was discontinued in North America in 2019 due to the decreasing demand for subcompact hatchbacks in the region. It continued to be produced and sold in Japan up to the introduction of the third-generation Note in late 2020.
The Note was introduced with a series hybrid drivetrain in late 2016 as the Note e-Power. Due to its popularity and the push of electrification, the third-generation Note is only available with the e-Power drivetrain, which consumes 29.5km/l (69m/USg).
Social links
Common 2018 Nissan Versa note problems
The 2018 Nissan Versa Note has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to airbags, engine, transmission, and interior features.
Airbags:
- Faulty sensor: A faulty sensor can lead to airbags being deactivated, which can be dangerous in case of a crash.
- Airbag light: The airbag light may remain blinking, indicating a problem with the airbag system.
Engine:
- Slow acceleration and lackluster handling: The Versa Note's engine is known for slow acceleration and poor handling, which can be frustrating for drivers.
- Noisy engine: The engine is also known to be noisy, which can be distracting and uncomfortable for both the driver and passengers.
- No telescoping steering wheel: The absence of a telescoping steering wheel can make it difficult for drivers to find a comfortable driving position.
- Low-quality interior materials: The interior materials are reported to be low-quality, which can affect the overall driving experience.
Transmission:
- Transmission failures: Some owners have reported transmission failures, which can be expensive to repair.
- CVT slippage: The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is known to slip, which can lead to a loss of power and poor fuel efficiency.
- Brake issues: Brake problems have been reported, which can be dangerous if not addressed promptly.
Interior features:
- No touchscreen: The base model of the Versa Note does not come with a touchscreen, which can be a drawback for some drivers.
- Low-quality interior materials: The interior materials are reported to be low-quality, which can affect the overall driving experience.
These common problems with the 2018 Nissan Versa Note can affect the overall driving experience and safety of the vehicle. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.
Does the 2018 Nissan Versa have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely and regularly change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2018 Nissan Versa Note transmission will quickly slip.
What is the common problem with Nissan Versa?
Some of the most common Nissan Versa issues involve its transmission, steering, air bags, and coil springs.
Is a Nissan Versa 2018 a good car?
While the previous model was our top-rated subcompact sedan, the changes made to the new version have dropped it to the bottom of its category. On the positive side, this Versa gets much better fuel economy -- 32 mpg overall vs. 27 -- and it provides a roomy rear seat. But it's slow, noisy, and handles clumsily.
What is the common problem of Nissan Note?
Problem: It is common on the Note for the gears to slip when changing. This is due to a fault with the torque converter in the gearbox. This can be a very expensive repair.
2018 Nissan Versa note car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Versa note problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Nissan Versa note vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Nissan Versa note complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Nissan Versa note.
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-26
- VIN: 3N1CE2CP6JL
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: DRIVING ON HIGHWAY AT LEAST 3 DIFFERENT TIMES. WHEN EXITING HIGHWAY CAR SLOWING DOWN. WHEN GETTING TO INTERSECTION BRAKES APPLIED. PULSATING FELT ON BRAKE PEDAL. LOUD THUMPING NOISE HEARD FROM LEFT FRONT OF CAR. TOOK CAD STILL UNDER WARRANTY TO DEALER SERVICE. DEALER TEST DROVE CAR STATED THEY HEARD OR FELT NOTHING SO THERES NOTHING WRONG WITH IT.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-06
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3N1CE2CP1JL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT RENTED A 2018 NISSAN VERSA NOTE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO TURN, THE VEHICLE SHIFTED INTO REVERSE ON ITS OWN. THE VEHICLE STRUCK A WALL AND DAMAGED THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE RENTAL COMPANY HAD THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL WAS PRESENT INSIDE THE CABIN WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS RENTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,058. *TT CONSUMER WAS A RENTER OF THE DEFECTIVE VEHICLE.*JB
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-06
- VIN: 3N1CE2CP0JL
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NO BACKUP CAMERA. DEALER: NOT ALL HAVE THEM
2018 Nissan Versa note recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2018 Nissan Versa note.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2017 Nissan NV200, Sentra, NV3500 Van, NV3500 Bus, NV200 Taxi, NV1500, NV2500 Van, Chevrolet City Express, 2017-2018 Frontier, Versa Note, and Versa Sedan vehicles that have a mechanical (physical) key ignition system. In these models, over time, the weight on the key ring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the vehicle stalls, it can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the production information on the ignition switch, and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2018. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018 Nissan Versa Note vehicles. During deployment of the side curtain air bag, a component of the air bag inflator may detach. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) number 214, "Side Impact Protection," and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Consequence: If the component detaches during deployment, it may enter the passenger compartment and be a projectile within the vehicle cabin, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side curtain air bags, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2018. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
Negative 2018 Nissan Versa note car reviews
Positive 2018 Nissan Versa note car reviews
-
Depending on your driving behavior and budget, the Nissan Versa is an excellent choice for the price. It offers great effectiveness, efficiency, and utility, and I paid only 16K out the door. With a mileage of 38.2 miles per gallon, it is a fuel-efficient car. Although I would love to have a Leaf or a hybrid, they are too expensive, and I refuse to pay that much for a car that is similar to my Versa. By the way, this is my third Versa, and I am still in love with it. If you are looking for a cost-effective, practical, and stylish car, the Versa is the perfect choice. It is easily 2-3K less expensive than the Yaris and Fit, and it outperforms them in every aspect. Enjoy!
-
I recently downsized from big cars like SUVs and vans to a subcompact, and I was pleasantly surprised by the Nissan Versa. The interior is surprisingly spacious, even for someone tall like me. I compared it to other subcompact competitors like the Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, Chevy Spark, and Mitsubishi Mirage, and the Nissan Versa was the roomiest. The back seat has plenty of legroom, and the cargo area is quite roomy for a subcompact. I love the hatchback feature, which makes it easy to store packages and groceries. Additionally, the fuel door has a release similar to the hood release, which is a nice feature to protect against fuel theft. Although it's not a luxury vehicle, it's fun to drive with enough pickup for entering highways, good mileage for gas savings, roomy enough for 4 adults, and a fairly quiet engine. The best thing is, it has a tight turning radius and can parallel park in small spaces. I've owned this car for 13 months now, and everything I stated above is still true. Although I've noticed that the engine noise is louder than in our other car, it's not unbearable. I also feel bumps in the road more than in our other car, but this is true with any small car. The only repair I've had to make in a year was to replace the third brake light (rear window light), which was a bit pricey because Nissan makes it one piece instead of a $3 bulb, but it was easy to install.I'm still enjoying this car! Just wanted to give an update - after owning it for 2 1/2 years, it's still running smoothly like a kitten. I did have to replace the two front tires this year since they were worn down, but it was very affordable due to the small tire size. The only issue I've noticed is that the radio/clock display has dimmed over time, but it's still readable. Another update - I've now owned this car for 6 years and the engine is still running like the day I got it! However, the radio/time display has dimmed so much that it's almost unreadable during the day. I've been keeping up with regular oil changes and have replaced a couple of tires, but overall maintenance has been easy and it still gets great gas mileage!
-
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share our experience with the 2016 Versa Note SV. We actually had the previous model and loved it so much that we decided to get another one. We purchased this one through Enterprise Car Sales and the buying experience was fantastic. The car itself is perfect for our needs as a commuter car. It's comfortable, spacious, and has all the electronic features we could want. The backup camera is a nice touch, but with so many windows, it's not entirely necessary. The body style is a significant upgrade from the previous model and the cargo space is remarkable. I especially love the Divide-n-Hide storage feature. As for the driving, I personally enjoy the CVT, but I can understand why some drivers might prefer a five or six-speed. Overall, we're very happy with our purchase and would highly recommend the Versa Note SV to anyone looking for a reliable and economical vehicle. Thank you for reading!I can't argue with the results though. My average gas mileage has been an impressive 41.5 mpg in combined highway and local driving. I watch this stuff carefully (with my budget I have to) and this is not just accurate, it's spot-on. Those are near hybrid numbers, at what, a half of the cost? A third? Remarkable! Mind you, I drive with a light foot mostly, but hey, I stay out of the way and don't slow anybody else down. I bet I could speed up a bit with little loss in mileage, but I'd rather be kind to the car. The small fuel tank probably helps too, holding about 2.5 gallons less than the 2011 Versa. Less gas, less weight. Less range too, you would think, but at 41.5 mpg you're talking 450 miles per tank, and that's more than the 2011 ever got. The steering is precise on the road but remarkably light in the parking lot...nothing to complain about there. The car mags all note the supposedly gutless engine, but hey, it gets me up to speed just fine and I don't have any problem keeping up. So far as costs go, apart from gas, regular oil changes, and rotating tires, the Versa would be frugal on that score too. Summing up, as a used vehicle, fleet or otherwise, the Versa Note is a remarkable bargain, proof that you don't have to give up much to gain a lot of value. I expect to be driving it for many years to come. UPDATE 5/5/20 This may not come as much of a surprise to other Versa owners, but we have now had serious problems with our machine. It started with a sudden Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) that noted that we apparently had problems with our ABS system. Next time the car started, the error cleared. Bemused, I continued to drive the car. A couple of weeks later, the same error reappeared. In order to clear it, I shut the car down and restarted it (yes, I am an IT tech, no, it wasn't terribly bright to do this whilst stopped at a traffic light.) To my alarm, the car would not restart again!I received some help to push my vehicle off the road. After a few minutes, it restarted and I was able to get it home. I took it to a shop where they replaced the Camshaft Position Sensor. I brought the car back home and tried to start it the next day to go to work, but unfortunately, it happened again and it wouldn't start. The shop took the car back and later informed me that the computer was faulty and needed to be replaced. They tried to replace it but were unsuccessful, so they refunded all my money and suggested that I take it to a dealer. I did, but unfortunately, the dealer didn't want to work on it. They suggested that I look at some of the other cars they had on the lot instead. So, I took the car back home and it's been sitting there ever since. Interestingly, it seems to have something to do with temperature, as it was fine all winter but now that the weather has gotten warmer, the problem has recurred. Unfortunately, the Versa has been discontinued, and I'm disappointed that it had to end this way. UPDATE 11/5/21: I'm happy to provide an addendum to this story. We finally managed to convince someone to take a serious look at the car. After spending $2200, the wiring harness was replaced (the whole wiring harness!) and the car now starts as it should. However, we do still have a Check Engine light that comes on every so often. We invested in a code reader and it tells us that an oxygen sensor is bad, which we're told is not an uncommon problem. We clear the light when it appears and continue to drive the car, which has over 110K miles on it and is still holding on. In this frantic age, that's definitely a good thing!
-
This is a great vehicle to buy if you're looking for good transportation. The handling is excellent and the in-city mileage has been amazing. Although I hope the mileage will remain good during the colder months. The vehicle handles nicely and is fun to drive. It may not be a race car, but it does a very nice job of getting you from point A to point B. There are a few small points to consider - the headlights could be better, as could the defroster. Also, the little engine takes a minute to warm up, so my quick ride to work in the winter can be a bit chilly. However, I took it out for a road trip to Maine and it performed very well, holding the road and keeping up with traffic nicely.
-
Here is my review. Unfortunately, my sale did not go through due to financing. I use my car for puttering around town, going to work, to the store, and more. I really liked the 2015 Versa SR and the 2017 Versa Note Sr & SL. I went to two different dealerships and tested these cars against my 2013 Toyota Yaris, which I am very happy with. I was shopping for a car with more details on the dashboard than I presently have. Specifically, I was seeking a light or reminder on the dashboard to remind me to turn off the lights or headlights. The new technology has the USB placement in a more ideal place, not hidden away or hard to reach. The car has four cup holders. The seating was fine, and I didn't notice any issues with exterior room during my test drives. Overall, I would recommend this car, whether new or used. I don't feel that vehicles need to cost 20K dollars. That's all.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Nissan Versa note problems:
2018 Nissan Versa Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Aug 8, 2023 ... Common problems found on the 2018 Nissan Versa include delayed throttle response, cracked tail light housings, along with some paint fade issues ...
2018 Nissan Versa Note Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2018 Nissan Versa Note? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
The Most Common 2018 Nissan Versa Problems | GetJerry.com
Dec 13, 2023 ... The most common 2018 Nissan Versa problems ... 's airbags, electrical system, and engine. Five of these complaints allege that the airbags failed ...
The Nissan Versa Note Years to Avoid - CoPilot
Jul 13, 2023 ... Common Issues with the Nissan Versa Note · Transmission failures · Windshield cracks · Tire slipping · Brake issues · CVT slippage · HVAC problems.
Oil Leak. 2018 Nissan Versa | Nissan Versa Forums
Aug 29, 2018 ... I had a sentra in the 90's and it was a very good car with no issues. Alot has changed since then IMO. I had originally planned on paying this ...
Other years of Nissan Versa note
Are you having problems with your 2018 Nissan Versa note?
Keith Parker 2025-03-05
Not a bad little car except for the CVT transmission. Fortunately, we had an extended warranty and the transmission was replaced at 61,000 miles. However, my wife drove the car for only 2 days before the transmission quit again. It is currently at the dealer awaiting repair. Although I no longer trust the car, I appreciate the support we received from the dealership. I would be hesitant to buy another Nissan product with the CVT transmission, but I am grateful for the assistance we have received.
Stefan Blanda 2024-11-22
I experienced some issues with the radio not functioning properly from the very beginning, but the dealership was able to resolve the problem. During the first oil change, I was informed that both front axle nuts were loosening, but the dealership was able to address the issue. Although the car handled well during a long-distance trip, I did notice some transmission slipping. As a result, I have scheduled a third repair appointment. While these issues are concerning, I remain confident in my choice of car and trust that the dealership will continue to provide effective solutions.
Cristopher Cronin 2024-10-06
After experiencing the initial excitement of having a new car, you may begin to notice some issues with the vehicle. Unfortunately, the windshield has unexpectedly popped and the dealer has been unwilling to replace it. Additionally, there was a safety recall six months ago that the dealership failed to inform you about, which is concerning. Furthermore, after consulting with mechanics, it has become apparent that the CVT transmission requires more expensive maintenance and shop time than anticipated. We understand that these issues can be frustrating, but we are here to help find a solution.
Gerardo Tromp 2024-09-26
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2015 Nissan Versa Note SV. While I did have to replace the transmission this year (2020), I unfortunately found out that my 5yr Powertrain warranty had expired by just a month. Nissan was unable to assist with the repairs, so I ended up paying $5,000 for a new transmission. It turns out that this is a common issue for the Versas and Sentras from 2012-2017, so I would recommend being aware of this if you own one. If you're considering trading in your car, it may be worth doing so before the CVT transmission gives out. Nissan offered me $2,500 for my car with the broken transmission, so keep that in mind. Let me know if you have any questions!
Brett Cormier 2024-09-09
Transmission shudder at 60,000 miles. Brakes failed at 25,000 miles. Dashboard lights indicate a problem.