1992 Nissan Sentra XE from North America

Summary:

A good car, but I won't be a repeat buyer

Faults:

The engine misses. I've had it tuned up and checked out, and the problem seemed better for a while. But, after having an accident (not in the car) and being sidelined for a while, I had to let it sit a few months, and found the problem has started again.

I've replaced the brakes a couple of times, the clutch, and a fuel pump. The car does have 200K miles on it. But there were also a couple of problems that, after it broke down, turned out to be recalls (silent or otherwise) such as a pump in or near the tank going bad.

The windshield wiper link broke and, in general, the wipers were not very good.

General Comments:

Overall, my feelings about this car, which is my second Nissan, are mixed. I can't complain too much, because I don't know of many cars that get anywhere near the 200K mark before being consigned to the junkyard, but it does seem to have had a number of problems over the years.

It's very roomy, handles fairly well, and is reasonably fun to drive. But, then again, it's been sitting in the driveway for a bit, as I bought an 88 Camry until I could regularly use a clutch again (as an aside, the Camry is reliable but boring).

I suppose the final point is that, I am still not driving the Sentra and am now shopping for a new car. After some consideration, however, my list does not include Nissan. I'm mostly looking at Hondas, now, although the Mazda Protege seems interesting.

Overall, I think this would be a good car for those in school or starting a career, but I don't want a second one.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 12th August, 2001

1992 Nissan Sentra SE 1.6 from North America

Summary:

Dependability and reliability are two words that complement the Nissan Sentra

Faults:

Fuel pump was replaced due to a factory recall. Two weeks later, the replacement pump went out and another replacement pump was re-installed.

General Comments:

This is the best car I have ever owned! Dependability & reliability would be the two words that describe my Sentra. Great gas mileage - 36 city & 44 highway.

Other than a defective fuel pump replacement, I have had not one problem whatsoever.

The only complaint I have about the car is that the SE's seats are just a tad cramped, but they do hold you in place.

My 1992 Sentra is a little over 9-1/2 years old and the original tires and brakes are still on the car as is the original battery. My mechanic is just amazed that the battery is still working after all these years!

As long as it gives the great service that it has, I intend to keep this little jewel of a car!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th August, 2001

22nd Oct 2011, 17:34

This is just a follow-up to my previous comments. I still have my Sentra SE as of October 2011. No problems at all. The little engine still runs like a "sewing machine"! Still getting 44 to 48 MPG on the highway. Come January 2012, she'll be 20-years old! Because of the excellent condition of the Sentra inside and out (original paint still looks new), I have had several folks trying to buy it for almost what I originally paid for it in 1992. I could never depart with it. A True Sentra Lover!!!

1992 Nissan Sentra EX 1.6 gasoline from North America

Summary:

A car that behaves more like its higher priced cousins!

Faults:

The transaxle had to be replaced at 85,000 miles.

The lights on the dash have started to burn out.

The rear suspension started to make "noises" at around 100,000 miles.

General Comments:

This car is perfect for commuting! It isn't a sports car, but it is still peppy and handles well.

The ride is soft and quiet, like that of a much larger car.

While the interior looks cheap and fragile, it has actually worn nicely.

Fuel mileage is excellent!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd July, 2001