Most Common Nissan Versa Problems

When Nissan released the Versa, the subcompact sedan quickly became a sought-after vehicle due to its budget-friendly price tag, competitive MPG, modern features, and good performance. With recently released models starting at just over $15,000, the Nissan Versa continues to be a great option for shoppers looking for a reliable vehicle at a great price. Similar competitor cars like the Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, and Toyota Corolla start at a higher price point, making the Nissan ideal when on a budget.

Nissan has built a good reputation for producing reliable cars, but like all vehicle makes and models, there are some Nissan Versa problems that have risen to the surface. No car is perfect, so this is by no means an attempt to pick on the Nissan Versa issues. However, we do want to inform potential buyers of the Nissan Versa common problems they may run into as an owner. This will allow them to make the most sound decision when shopping for a vehicle and make sure the vehicle they are buying is right for them. Now let’s look into some of the most common Nissan Versa problems owners are experiencing.

Top Reported Nissan Versa Issues 2022

1. 1. Transmission Issues
      Nissan Versa transmission problems are among the most reported issues. Thankfully, most of these reports are regarding the older 2012-2017 models due to the CVT transmissions being used, but it is still good to know what to expect if you have a newer model. The reported symptoms included trouble shifting, jerking while driving, odd tachometer gauge behavior, whistling noises, and randomly stopping. For the most part, the reports involved a transmission that began to fail at around 73k miles on average, and could cost upwards of $4,000 to fix or replace.

1. 1. Steering Problems
      Nissan Versa owners have reported that their vehicle tends to want to drift into other lanes and sometimes locked up without warning. According to reports, this drifting issue often happens when driving on the freeway at average speeds. Although many drivers thought this was due to alignment issues, the steering problem continued after repairs were made. This issue was especially prominent in the 2016 Nissan Versa.

1. 1. Suspension System Problems
      Based on the issues reported on CarComplaints.com, nearly 30% of Nissan Versa problems can be linked to the suspension system in one way or another – especially in the 2009 model. The most common issues were due to broken or failed coil springs just after passing 70k miles. Unfortunately, when your coil springs are prone to breaking down, they often also mess up other parts of the suspension in the process. When addressed in a timely manner, owners reported that repairs hovered around $600. However, if you ignore the issues or the issue happens while driving and it ends up causing a tire blowout, the damage, cost, and danger can be heightened.

1. 1. Windshield Wiper Issues
      According to Repairpal.com, if you find that your Versa’s windshield wipers aren’t working, it is likely that you have a broken wiper motor (75% of the time) and/or switch issues (25% of the time). There are a few other issues that may come up, like a broken windshield wiper arm or dry wiper blades, but these are often very easy to fix and usually don’t require a trip to the repair shop. Although this isn’t the most expensive repair, the cost is still likely more than you would expect to pay – especially if your vehicle is still relatively new. Below are some of the estimated repair costs you may be looking at if you find yourself with a malfunctioning or broken windshield wiper. 
      • Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement: $50-$90
      • Windshield Wiper Arm Replacement: $100-$120
      • Windshield Wiper Switch Replacement: $190-$230 
      • Windshield Wiper Motor Replacement: $310-$370

1. Defective Airbags
   Although this isn’t totally the fault of Nissan, by using Takata airbags in their Versa (a popular airbag choice for many vehicles, so this was not just a Nissan Versa problem), the airbags in the vehicle were defective. This was particularly an issue in the 2007 – 2011 models of the Nissan Versa. These faulty Takata airbags were subjected to a recall following numerous reports claiming the airbags would not deploy upon collisions. In addition to engaging too slowly or not at all, these Takata airbags were said to be prone to bursting, resulting in further injuring the driver and others in the vehicle.

Now that you are aware of some of the common Nissan Versa problems that owners have reported over the years, hopefully you can feel more confident about making the decision to purchase one or to look into a different vehicle. Regardless, Nissan vehicles are still one of the best options for shoppers looking for a reliable vehicle at a great price. Remember, no vehicle is perfect, so this article isn’t meant to discourage you from buying a Versa. It is simply to help potential owners be more aware of the common issues you might be facing when getting a new vehicle so you will be more confident about your purchase. If you have any questions about a given repair, give us a call at (385) 492-6965 or visit our shop in South Jordan. We look forward to assisting you!