What are the most common Nissan Sentra problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2003 Nissan Sentra has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Front Strut Tower Rust and Corrosion Leading to Suspension Separation Risk, ECM Power Transistor Failure Causing Engine Stall and Potential Overheating of the ECM, Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensor Failure Causing Intermittent Stall or No-Start. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Nissan Sentra reliable?
The 2003 Nissan Sentra has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Front Strut Tower Rust and Corrosion Leading to Suspension Separation Risk and ECM Power Transistor Failure Causing Engine Stall and Potential Overheating of the ECM. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Sentra problems?
Repair costs for known Nissan Sentra issues range from $0 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Front Strut Tower Rust and Corrosion Leading to Suspension Separation Risk, typically costs $1,000-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2002-2006 Nissan Sentra Front Strut Tower Rust and Corrosion Leading to Suspension Separation Risk?
A serious rust issue on 2002-2006 Sentras involves corrosion of the front strut housing/tower area, especially in states using heavy road salt. As corrosion progresses, the strut can break through the surrounding structure, causing sudden changes in steering and suspension geomet… Repairs typically run $1,000-$4,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2003 Nissan Sentra ECM Power Transistor Failure Causing Engine Stall and Potential Overheating of the ECM?
Certain 2002-2003 Sentras were recalled because the power transistor inside the engine control module could short internally. When this happens, the engine may stall unexpectedly and the ECM itself can overheat, creating both drivability and safety concerns. Owners describe sudde… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2006 Nissan Sentra Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensor Failure Causing Intermittent Stall or No-Start?
A common failure on B15 Sentras is deterioration of the crankshaft position sensor and, less often, the camshaft position sensor. Owners report sudden stalling while driving, extended cranking, or a hot no-start condition that becomes more frequent over time. Nissan issued servic… Repairs typically run $150-$450. Severity: medium.
What is the 2000-2006 Nissan Sentra Fuel Filler Neck Corrosion and Rust-Through Triggering EVAP Leaks and Fuel Smell?
In rust-belt climates, the Sentra's steel fuel filler neck commonly corrodes where road salt and debris collect behind the left rear wheel area. Owners report a strong gasoline odor after fill-ups, visible rust holes, EVAP leak codes, and in some cases fuel dripping during refuel… Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: medium.
What is the 2000-2006 Nissan Sentra Front Brake Rotor Warping and Brake Shudder Under Moderate Braking?
Many owners of this generation Sentra report recurring front brake pulsation caused by rotor thickness variation or heat-related warping. The issue often appears after relatively short service intervals, especially with low-quality replacement rotors or sticking caliper slide har… Repairs typically run $200-$700. Severity: low.
