Nissan Sentra B17
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The Nissan Sentra B17 (2013–2019) is the seventh generation of the compact, going up against the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. With its 1.8-liter four-cylinder MRA8DE (145 hp), it's deliberately built for economy and a low price — a classic entry-level commuter, roomy for the class but no athlete. The dominant problem here too is the Jatco CVT, which became the subject of a class-action lawsuit. It's prone to jerking, overheating, and complete failure, often at modest mileage. Nissan extended the CVT warranty to 84 months / 84,000 miles, but many B17s have passed that limit. A transmission replacement quickly exceeds the car's remaining value. Safety-critical is the failure of the master brake cylinder: the brake pedal can sink to the floor. The 2013–2015 model years also fall under the Takata airbag recall — the replacement must be documented. Other weak points: failing A/C compressors and worn front control arms and ball joints (clunking and vague steering). Buying advice: test the CVT warm and on a longer drive without fail — jerking or an overheat warning are deal-breakers. Check brake function and pedal feel closely. Clear the Takata recall (2013–2015) and all other campaigns by VIN. Listen for suspension clunks, and test the A/C. Bottom line: the B17 is cheap to buy and to run, but the CVT and the master-cylinder risk are serious. With a documented healthy transmission, completed recalls, and a sound suspension, it's a usable, economical daily driver — without that proof, more of a gamble.
Generations
Engine Overview
The Nissan Sentra B17 is available with one engine variant at 145 hp.
The 1.8-litre MRA8DE is a low-maintenance naturally aspirated engine with a robust chain and unfussy valvetrain — no hydraulic lifters, but the valve clearance rarely needs checking. Typical age-related issues are catalytic converter breakdown on entry variants and oil consumption beyond 150,000 km. A solid bread-and-butter engine with no surprises, as long as oil changes are kept strictly to interval.
- !! Timing chain stretches at high mileage from 150,000 km
The MRA8DE timing chain can stretch around 150,000 miles, leading to timing errors and potential engine damage. Regular oil changes significantly extend chain life.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling on cold start that improves after warm-up, check engine light, rough running - !! Electronic throttle body failure (P2135) from 90,000 km
The MRA8DE electronic throttle actuator in the Sentra B17 and Rogue Sport J11 is prone to failure. Code P2135 indicates a voltage correlation error between the two throttle position sensors. Idle relearn after cleaning provides short-term relief; long-term fix requires full throttle body replacement.
Symptoms: Check engine light P2135, power loss, limp mode, sluggish or jerky throttle response - ! Alternator belt squealing from 80,000 km
The MRA8DE serpentine belt tends to squeal, especially in cold or humid conditions. Belt replacement or tensioner adjustment usually resolves the issue permanently.
Symptoms: Squealing or whistling noise on startup or acceleration, especially in wet weather
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| CVT transmission fails — class action settlement The 2013-2019 B17 Sentra is heavily affected by CVT failures. On average the CVT fails around 80,000 miles. A 2019 class action resulted in a warranty extension to 7 years/84,000 miles. Many owners outside the warranty face $3,000-5,000 repair bills. Symptoms: Jerking on takeoff, vehicle won't accelerate despite engine revving, transmission sticking in gear, shudder and vibration at mid-range speeds from 90,000 km | High |
Alternatives
Honda Civic FK7
Compact (2017–2022)
Honda Civic Type R FK8
Compact (2017–2022)
MINI MINI Countryman F60
Compact (2017–2024)
Subaru Impreza GK
Compact (2017–2023)
VW Golf VII-FL
Compact (2017–2020)
Hyundai i30 PD
Compact (2016–2026)
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 10 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan Sentra B17 (2013–2019) — 5 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Brakes, Other, HVAC. Considered reliable: MRA8DE (1.8L).
What to watch out for with the Nissan Sentra? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Nissan Sentra B17 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Sentra B17? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Nissan Sentra B17 engine is the most reliable? +
Which Nissan Sentra B17 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Nissan Sentra B17 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Sentra B17? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee