1989 Nissan Sentra review from North America
"Great car, but be leary of the timing chain"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Alternator died.
Timing Chain problems, twice already.
Changed Muffler once only.
General comments?
This has been a good car overall. My only peeve is the timing chain. 2 years ago I had a rattling noise. The timing chain/rails were loose. I had these replaced for approx. $700 ($500 in labor). A year later, the same problem surfaced. I had the same maintenance done again by the same mechanic for nearly the same amount. A year later, which is now, the timing chain is acting up again. If it was'nt for this, this car would last a very long time. Don't think it's worth again to mess with the timing chain. I plan on selling the car for this. The timing chain situation could have been better engineered. Otherwise it's been a very good car.
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  | This thing will drive forever! |
| 1988 - Sentra E 1.6L 69hp 4cyl gas Economy backed up with solid quality and character |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 4 cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 98000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 142000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 8th February, 2005 |