2019 Nissan Sentra
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Electrical system is the leading concern among 222 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 8th highest complaint count among 26 Sentra model years with reports.
Of the 2019 reports, 16 involved a crash and 1 involved a fire. 18 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Exterior lighting, brake lights, switchMar 3, 2021
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Nissan Sentra vehicles. The brake light switch may become contaminated, preventing the circuit from closing and the brake lights from illuminating.
The brake lights may not illuminate, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the brake light switch and install a protective grommet, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800867-7769. Nissan's number for this recall is PM971.
Campaign 21V135000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, sensing system, cameraSep 12, 2019
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
Campaign 19V654000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
222 reports, newest first.
Other or unspecified, Sep 17, 2026
I am reporting a potential safety defect involving my 2019 Nissan Sentra. In June 2025, when my vehicle had approximately 56,000 miles, the overhead console located in the ceiling of my vehicle suddenly detached and fell while I was driving. The console struck me in the face. This was completely unexpected and created a potentially dangerous situation because I was operating the vehicle at the time. A component falling from the ceiling and striking the driver could cause the driver to become distracted, lose control of the vehicle, or potentially cause a crash. After the incident, I examined the overhead console and found that the components/attachment points that secured the console to the ceiling had broken. The console could not simply be reattached because the pieces that held it in place had broken. I am concerned that this may represent a defect or failure involving the design, materials, or attachment system of the overhead console. I do not believe an overhead component should detach and fall onto the driver during normal operation of a vehicle. The failure has also created a financial concern. Because the overhead console is no longer properly secured, I have attempted to sell or trade the vehicle and have been told by dealerships that the condition significantly reduces the vehicle's value. I have been informed that thousands of dollars may be deducted from the vehicle's value because of this issue. I am requesting that NHTSA document and investigate this complaint to determine whether other 2019 Nissan Sentra vehicles have experienced the same or a similar overhead-console failure and whether this presents a safety defect. I can provide photographs of the broken attachment points and overhead console. 2019 Nissan Sentra Mileage at time of failure: Approximately 56,000 miles Date of failure: June 2025 Safety concern: Overhead console detached while driving and driver was struck in the face
Other or unspecified, Jul 24, 2026
Transmission slipping
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Forward collision avoidance, Jul 11, 2026
Collision warning sound happens randomly for no reason
Suspension, Power train, Electrical system, May 20, 2026
Transmission Failure of drive train Acknowledged by Dealer Inspection by Dealer No warning signs prior to failure
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, May 18, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while his daughter attempted to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start immediately. The contact's daughter pressed the engine Auto Start/Stop button again, the vehicle restarted. The contact had AAA test that the battery, which had no failure, and it was determined that the brake light switch had failed. The cruise control later failed to operate as needed, and the message "Automatic Emergency Braking Malfunction" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently. The dealer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle had previously been repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V135000 (Exterior Lighting). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.
Power train, May 3, 2026
I am filing this complaint against Nissan North America due to a recurring transmission failure in my 2019 Nissan Sentra VIN#: [XXX] . Timeline of Events: Initial Purchase: November 2022 (61,000 miles). First Failure: September 2023 (~75,000 miles). Nissan replaced the transmission under the extended CVT warranty (84 months/84,000 miles) established by the Martinez v. Nissan class action settlement. Second Failure: March 2026 (109, 497 miles). The replacement unit has failed after only 31,000 miles of use. Nissan will not cover the repairs due to the mileage being out of warranty. The estimated cost per McGrath Nissan Dealer is $8,000, I am unable to afford this service so the car was towed back to my home until able to get resolution. Issues with Nissan’s Resolution Process: Premature Part Failure: The transmission installed by Nissan in 2023 should have a reasonable life expectancy beyond 31,000 miles. A secondary failure this soon suggests a defective replacement part or improper initial repair. Safety: Luckily, my husband was stopped at a traffic light when the transmission failed. However, had to receive help to push the vehicle out of the busy intersection. There was no warning message displayed on the dashboard prior to this incident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 19, 2026
It’s heisitant when excelerating gas pedal. The back up camera display blanks out , when backing up .
Electrical system, Apr 15, 2026
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2019 Nissan Sentra. The contact discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 78,129. It was later discovered from a Carfax Report that the mileage was 86,239.
Power train, Mar 31, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power. There were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact pulled over and restarted the vehicle. The contact stated that the transmission had previously been replaced twice. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the transmission needed to be replaced for the third time. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.
Other or unspecified, Feb 17, 2026
Drivers side Door Lock Actuator could not open the door from the inside handle or outside handle. In 2025 I replaced the part, Feb 2026 had to take the car to the dealership because could not open the door again. Dealership told me the Actuator failed internally. The part was only looked at by the dealership. There were no warning lamp, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure.
Other or unspecified, Jan 26, 2026
Recently, purchased this vehicle for my daughter & on her 2nd day driving it, a warning indicator light with a yellow triangle around an exclamation symbol & malfunction, see owner's manual message. We hade it checked by the purchased dealer who stated that it was probably a faulty sensor that the rain/moisture may be the problem. The owner's manual said this could be a braking/traction warning issue. This warning has happen a few times when it rains & we are concern it may effect steering or stopping during a emergency. Has there been any other complaints or alerts on this issue?
Electrical system, Jan 15, 2026
Odometer Fraud. The contact was attempting to purchase a 2019 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that the vehicle was advertised for sale by a local dealer on Facebook Marketplace with a photo of the odometer reading of 72,000 miles. After obtaining a Carfax report for the vehicle, the contact discovered that the mileage was 196,000.
Engine, Nov 29, 2025
To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to formally report an ongoing and serious issue regarding the transmission in my Nissan vehicle and to request assistance from Nissan North America. This is my third Nissan Sentra Sport, and unfortunately, I have experienced the same transmission failure in all three vehicles, each occurring before the vehicle reached 100,000 miles. In the two previous vehicles, I replaced the transmission, only to have the same problem occur again. At this time, I am having the same transmission issue with my current vehicle, which I purchased in 2022. I recently took the car to an authorized Nissan dealer for routine maintenance. However, the mechanic informed me that they were unable to flush the transmission and advised against it, stating that they could not guarantee the transmission would continue to function afterward. The vehicle currently has approximately 88,000 miles, and the transmission is already failing. This is extremely concerning, especially because: The car is still under 100,000 miles, I have maintained the vehicle properly, I have not yet finished paying off the loan, and This has happened repeatedly with the same Nissan model. Below are the details of my current vehicle: Model: Nissan Sentra Sport Year Purchased: 2022 Mileage: Approximately 88,000 miles VIN: [XXX] As a loyal Nissan customer, I am requesting that Nissan Manufacturing provide explanation, resolution, and assistance regarding this repeated defect. I believe this represents a manufacturing issue rather than normal wear and tear. I respectfully ask Nissan to review my case and advise on next steps. I am requesting one or more of the following: A full inspection and diagnosis at Nissan’s expense, A transmission repair or replacement, Financial assistance or reimbursement, Or a goodwill settlement or alternative resolution. Please contact me as soon as possible so this issue can be resolved before the vehicle becomes completely inoperable. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Structure, Other or unspecified, Nov 12, 2025
The driver side door lock is malfunctioning. Not unlocking or locking consistently from either the keyfob (Changed battery) or when in car. It is a safety issue that I can not lock doors with door lock when in car. Initially driver door effected and now both driver and passenger doors are effected. I am having difficult time getting it fixed. The mechanic is having difficulty fixing the safety problem. He believes its a nissan defect
Power train, Forward collision avoidance, Nov 9, 2025
My car just started to have transmission problems. It started to forced especially on hills and the transmission started to force itself and the at 115000 miles the transmission stopped working since it gave us the P 2767. It is just absolutely ridiculous that a new car would not last more than 4 to 5 years without having to replace a vital part of the vehicle. It’s just a shame to find out that issues like this happen to a lot of people with the same type of car as mine and that this issue the manufacturers can’t take responsibility and do the right thing and address this issue . We made an effort to get a new car thinking that it would give us a pease of mind for at least 10 years since it was not a pocket change price tag. We believed it was an investment or reassurance of not having issues since it was a brand new car.
Power train, Oct 15, 2025
No warner went out to head to work. Car moved very rough. Stopped parked car. Had car towed to a mechanic to be told Transmission was shot. 102,000 miles
Electrical system, Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Sep 20, 2025
I am writing to formally report a safety-related defect in my 2019 Nissan Sentra and to request reimbursement for repair costs associated with this issue. My vehicle experienced a failure of the brake light switch, which prevented the car from starting and disabled the brake lights—posing a serious safety hazard. Although I have been informed that my vehicle is not currently included in Recall Campaign PM971, the symptoms and defective part match the recall description precisely. I have verified my VIN through the NHTSA recall lookup tool, and I am concerned that the recall scope may be too narrow, excluding vehicles that are clearly affected. This defect required immediate repair to restore basic vehicle functionality and ensure safety. I have attached documentation of the repair, including the invoice and diagnostic notes, for your review. I respectfully request the following: Reimbursement for the cost of the brake light switch repair. A formal review of my vehicle’s eligibility for Recall PM971. Consideration for expanding the recall to include additional affected vehicles, including mine. I am submitting this complaint in the interest of safety and fairness—not only for myself but for other Nissan owners who may be facing the same issue without recourse. I trust that Nissan will take this matter seriously and respond with the integrity and customer care that your brand represents. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Sep 15, 2025
Push to start is having issues. Break stiffens up and car wont start.
Exterior lighting, Aug 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the Push-to-Start feature failed to function as intended. The contact stated that when the brake pedal was depressed, the brake lights failed to activate as designed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a failed stop-light switch. The contact was informed that the stoplight switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that in October 2023, the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V135000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Jun 23, 2025
I purchased a 2019 Nissan Sentra SR (VIN: [XXX] ) as a certified pre-owned vehicle from Star Nissan in Bayside, NY on [XXX]. Since the day of purchase, I have experienced repeated failures when trying to start the vehicle using the push-button ignition. Specifically, when pressing the brake pedal to start the car, nothing happens — the brake does not register, and the engine will not start. This issue directly matches the symptoms outlined in NHTSA Recall 21V135 (Nissan Campaign PM971), which addresses a known brake lamp switch defect in 2016–2019 Nissan Sentra models. I was not the original owner and was never notified of this recall. The selling dealership, who had custody of the car when the recall was issued, did not confirm or perform the required repair before reselling the vehicle to me. Nissan Consumer Affairs now claims there are “no open recalls” on my VIN, but the part in question — the brake switch — has never been replaced, and my Nissan service history confirms that it was not repaired. Instead, unrelated components like the brake booster were replaced multiple times, which did not resolve the issue. This defect has created multiple unsafe situations where I was stranded with my child in unsafe areas due to the car failing to start. The car’s brake system is critical to safe operation and starting function, and failure of this component puts both myself and my child at risk. I believe the recall was never performed and was falsely marked as completed or was never properly associated with my VIN. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate why this VIN is not being flagged for an active recall, despite clear matching symptoms and lack of documented repair. I also request that Nissan be required to fulfill the safety repair free of charge under the recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Structure, Jun 2, 2025
The hood latch isn't secure. Hood rattles.
Power train, May 21, 2025
Transmission actively failing. Transmission flush was done at dealership and car began jerking when accelerating and shifting gears. When the transmission flush was done, they did a multipoint inspection and said everything was clear. No lights have come on.
Electrical system, May 7, 2025
The drivers side door lock is defective. The automatic locking does not work. This is unsafe since the doors need to be locked manually which puts people at right of opening the door while driving. There are currently no recalls or warnings in regards to this malfunction. Also, the electrical and sound in the front radio screen is also defective. I did take it to Nissan and they said it would need to be completely replaced. This service would cost $400. Because of this defect, you cannot talk to emergency services if needed.
Power train, Apr 22, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission downshifted, and the vehicle stalled. The message to see “Owner's Manual” was displayed. The vehicle was able to restart. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 134,145.
Power train, Forward collision avoidance, Apr 9, 2025
Transmission is slipping when trying to go up hills. Also crash detection sensor malfunction and these items need recalled. Especially the transmission when I see I'm not the only complaint.