2001 Nissan Serena SE review from North America
"Small car performance"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Headlight seal failed causing condensation. Dealer replaced unit, but did not align headlight properly. 4000 miles.
Overhead onsole lights do not function properly as they stick on and are difficult to operate.
Lights in console shift display failed. Repaired by dealer. 11000 miles.
Paint seems to chip very easily.
One point which is important is to be sure to point your wheels straight ahead when parking. Leaving the wheels turned makes it extremely difficult to start the car due to the steering wheel lock. My wife called me twice complaining she couldn't get the car started.
General comments?
I bought this car for my daughter. With the SE 2.0 package I found this to be a very enjoyable car to drive. The engine screams and the handling is excellent due to the firm suspension, H rated low profile P195/55H16" tires.
The stereo system is incredible with a 180 watt, 7 speaker package. Pop in a CD and this system will blast you out of the car (if that is your thing).
The seats are quite comfortable even on a long road trip. All gages and controls are logically located and simple to operate.
The 4 wheel disc brakes are absolutely the best I have ever seen on any car. When driving a Sentra be sure to wear your seatbelt or you might just put yourself through the windshield with a quick jab on the binders.
Although I have never been much of a small car guy, this Sentra is a blast to drive.
My only wish is that I had purchased the SE-R Spec-V package. I paid about $15,000 for this car. It was a demo that the salesman was driving.
Recommended Reviews:
![]() ![]() | Good car for its price range and value |
![]() ![]() | Great if you can afford the maintenance |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 3800 miles |
| Most recent distance | 17200 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Caprice |
| Date of Entry | 25th August, 2002 |




