2020 Nissan Sentra
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Forward collision avoidance is the leading concern among 205 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 9th highest complaint count among 26 Sentra model years with reports.
Of the 2020 reports, 8 involved a crash. 2 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Back over prevention, sensing system, cameraSep 8, 2023
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Altima and 2020-2021 Sentra vehicles. Damage to the camera harness can cause distortion or loss of the rearview camera display image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect the rearview camera and harness for damage and replace them as necessary. If no damage is found, the dealer will apply protective tape and reroute the rearview camera harness. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23C3.
Campaign 23V628000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, linkages, tie rod assemblyAug 15, 2023
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Sentra vehicles. The left and/or right tie rod may bend.
A bent tie rod can break and cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Owners are advised to contact their dealer for transport assistance if they are experiencing an off-center steering wheel or vibration. As an interim repair, dealers will inspect and replace any bent or broken tie rods, free of charge. Once newly designed parts are available, dealers will replace both left and right tie rods, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed November 27, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23B3. This recall replaces and expands recall number 21V-461. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-461 will need to have the new remedy completed.
Campaign 23V581000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, headlightsApr 13, 2022
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Sentra vehicles, equipped with LED headlights. The right-hand headlight aim may be misaligned. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamp, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
An improperly aimed headlight may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the right-hand headlight, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 10, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R20B4.
Campaign 22V244000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, linkages, tie rod assemblyJun 17, 2021
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Sentra vehicles. The left and/or right tie rod may be bent.
A bent tie rod can break, causing a loss of steering control and increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect and replace the left and/or right tie rods as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 5, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PM985.
Campaign 21V461000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: electrical system
45 reports, newest first. Show all
Electrical system, Jan 13, 2024
Drivers lock on door does not open and close also window don’t go up and down . Car has only 18,000 miles. I see many complaints on this. There should be a recall and consumers should not pay for this. Will be going to Nissan to see what they can do for me
Electrical system, Oct 25, 2023
I am writing to bring to your attention a critical issue regarding the recent malfunction of the actuator system in my 2020 Nissan Sentra. As a concerned consumer, I am compelled to report the circumstances that have led to significant safety concerns and financial burden. The details of this case are as follows: Vehicle Information: 2020 Nissan Sentra with approximately 43,000 miles. Initial Observation: It was discovered post-warranty that the car's locking mechanism was not functioning correctly. While I had assumed that the vehicle was locking upon using the key fob, it was only recently brought to my attention that this was not the case. Diagnostic Evaluation: Upon consulting a Nissan dealership, it was determined that the Actuator of the driver's door was defective and required immediate replacement. I consented to the suggested repair, which incurred an unexpected cost of $750. Unforeseen Complications: Following the initial repair, I was informed that the remaining actuators would also require replacement, posing an exorbitant additional financial burden. This development led to a grave concern as the sudden failure of all four actuators within a short span indicates a potential systemic issue rather than an isolated incident. Communication with Nissan: A formal request was made to Nissan for a thorough review of my case, under the reference number #49629281. However, despite the seriousness of the matter, I have yet to receive any substantial response or acknowledgement from Nissan, even after a waiting period of nearly two months. Considering the potential safety hazards and the unjustifiable financial strain imposed on me as a consumer, it is imperative that this matter is investigated further. The concurrent failure of all four actuators in a relatively new vehicle strongly suggests the possibility of an underlying electrical fault or a systemic defect in the manufacturing process.
Electrical system, Oct 3, 2023
The door locks simultaneously stopped working on the vehicle at the same time. The key fob chimes and the lights flash on the car but nothing happens with the door locks. The fuses all check out and you hear a sound when pushing the lock and unlock button but nothing happens. Faulty actuators seem to be a recurring problem with Nissan that I am hearing from other Sentra owners. This definitely presents a safety hazard because I have to manually lock all doors when I get out of the car. Also, in the event of an emergency I can not enter the car unless I undo the key fob and use the key to unlock it manually. I would hate for something to happen to me or my family while waiting to get in the car with how high crime has gotten with car thefts, car vandalism, and carjackings. Something needs to be done to remedy this problem for all Nissan owners to ensure our safety.
Electrical system, Sep 9, 2023
MY PUSH BUTTON START IS MALFUNCTIONING. WHEN I PUSH THE BUTTON, WHILE MY FOOT IS ON THE BRAKE, ALL THE DASH LIGHTS COME ON BUT CAR DOESN'T START. I HAVE TO PUSH THE START BUTTON AGAIN TO GET THE CAR TO START. A COUPLE OF TIMES LAST WEEK THE CAR TURNED OVER ONCE BUT DIDN'T START. SOMETIMES THE CAR STARTS RIGHT UP THE FIRST TIME I PUSH THE START BUTTON, BUT MOST OF THE TIME I HAVE TO PUSH IT TWICE. BASICALLY, IT IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM ONLINE AND IT APPEARS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM. IT SEEMS TO ME THAT THERE SHOULD BE SOME TYPE OF RECALL. THIS PROBLEM BEGAN SHORTLY AFTER I PURCHASED MY CAR IN MARCH OR APRIL.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, May 24, 2023
On May 23, 2023, I have parked to pick up a grocery order. I did not shut the engine off. Once the order was loaded, I put my car in reverse. The car started to back up, and then completely shut off. An error message related to the key fob came on. I was able to successfully start the car again. I currently have the car at Hyman Brothers Nissan. Their diagnostics indicate a failure, however, they are unable to determine the source of the failure at this time. My main concern is having this happen again while driving with my 2 year old in his car seat. I previously reported an issue with my back up camera going blue. They have also received a code for that, but again, are unable to determine the source. The dealership's number is 804-378-0266, and Jimi is the service advisor. Since the vehicle is in their possession, I do not have documentation at this time. The contact stated that the only advice given to her by the dealership was to drive the vehicle more but she has concerns about that.
Electrical system, May 12, 2023
car died wont start until jumped has done it 3 times
Steering, Electrical system, Forward collision avoidance, Apr 18, 2023
I purchased this vehicle new (172 miles) from a dealership that also sells used cars. The vehicle was driven from a dealership about 75 miles away from where I purchased the car. I was told the other miles were from test drives. I think the car salesman switched cars after the test-drive, while I was calling my insurance company (can't prove it). I never returned to that dealership. I took my car to a dealership closer to my home for service several times. The automatic braking system, forward collision warning, the adaptive cruise control all malfunction on a regular basis. The service person told me that Nissan couldn't service these issues without the manufacture of the braking systems approval. The dealership gave me paperwork on my first complaint- no repairs were made. The dealership gave me paperwork on my second visit stating intermittent electrical issues- no repairs were made. I did not receive paperwork on my 3rd visit. My 3year/36,000 miles bumper to bumper warranty (that never got used) has expired. I decided to live with these issues because the car runs well- getting a lawyer seems pointless. I took my car to a different dealership (over 45 miles away) because of the steering. I was told that it would cost me $170 for diagnosis. I agreed to the charge. The service person then had me call Nissan to get a work order number ( I found that very odd) Why didn't the service person call Nissan? A mechanic looked at the car and told me that I need a new power steering rack and that it isn't covered under warranty. I asked about the recall on the tie rod ends. I was told the tie rod ends have no bearing (ha,ha) on the power steering rack. I was told the power steering rack would cost $2,800 to have installed. The mechanic said he wouldn't drive the car because a wheel might come off while driving. I wasn't charge for my visit and didn't receive any paperwork. My car is parked in my garage with 47,xxx miles on it and is unsafe to drive.
Forward collision avoidance, Electrical system, Mar 15, 2023
The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Sentra. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 20 MPH, the self-driving feature inadvertently activated, and the vehicle experienced phantom braking. The traction control warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the key fob was not detected while inside the vehicle. The display screen intermittently went blank while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the crash collision sensor and speed limit camera were replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was then taken to Woodhouse Nissan (7801 Nebraska Dr, Bellevue, NE 68005) where the key fob was replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000. The VIN was unavailable.
Electrical system, Wheels, Forward collision avoidance, Mar 10, 2023
was driving down the highway nothing in front of me my car hit the brakes and flashed warning on the dash and made me come to a stop after this happened my fuel economy decreased over 100 miles per tank other times it just activates and taps the brakes for no reason also every window except the driver window gets stuck several times a week another thing some how one of my rims cracked
Electrical system, Mar 2, 2023
My backup camera constantly defaults to a blue screen. I have nearly backed into other cars as a result of this malfunction. I also have a toddler at home. While I do normal safety checks around my vehicle prior to leaving my driveway, there is still a possibility that he could dart out of the home and stand behind my car without my knowledge. I have asked Hyman Brothers Nissan on Midlothian Turnpike in Midlothian, Virginia to look at this. The service advisor told me that it was "probably due the multiple cell phones trying to connect to my vehicle". All cell phones associated with my vehicle have been removed as well as all charging cables. I still have this issue. My vehicle is NOT safe at this time. While I do drive it, I am forced to call my house before leaving in the morning to ensure my toddler is being adequately supervised before I put my car in reverse to leave. When parking, I make every attempt to pull through so I do not HAVE to put my car in reverse. Due to the malfunctioning equipment, my vehicle may be breaking the law that states vehicles manufactured after 2018 need to have backup cameras installed. While the law doesn't specify that the backup camera needs to work, it should be assumed.
Steering, Electrical system, Jan 5, 2023
I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE THERE WAS A POPPING SOUND WHEN YOU TURN THE STEERING WHEEL EITHER TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT I TOLD THE DEALER AND THEY SAID THEY COULD NOT HEAR IT. THEY TOOK IT TO THE SERVICE DEPT AND THE CAR WAS CHECKED OUT I WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS NO ISSUE WITH THE STEERING WHEEL TODAY THE CAR CONTINUES TO MAKE THE NOISE SOMEDAYS IT LOUDER THAN OTHERS I TOOK IT AGAIN TO NISSA AND THEY STILL SAY THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR I AM CONCERNED AND DISAPPOINTED WITH THE SERVICE AT NISSAN SOMETHING IS FOR SURE WRONG WITH THE CAR
Electrical system, Dec 29, 2022
The back door lock actuators does not lock automatic or not work at all with fob you have to manual lock the door from the inside button it does not lock when the car reach a certain speed my child open the door going down road and i just happen to see it when he did these need to be looked at before someone child gets hurt the doors does not work at all remotely or when it going certain speed
Electrical system, Forward collision avoidance, Sep 19, 2022
I have documented over 2 years of my AEB Failing by photograph and video time stamping the continual occurances of this system failing on my vehicle while driving. The vehicle has self engaged the braking in the middle of driving, thankfully I was draveling on a residential road at aprox 30 mph. It was quite scary to experience. I also now have no back up camera, the screen is completely black when vehicle is in reverse, drive as well as park. I have restarted the vehicle hoping it was just a glitch in the system. I feel like this vehicle has been and continuing to be more insane to operate and I have literally only had it for 2 years, brand new off the lot July 2020.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, May 1, 2022
The radio will turn it volume up own its own and the doors will lock you in the car and sometimes will not let you unlock the doors from inside or outside.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Mar 14, 2022
Locks on doors would not work with remote, and to get out keys to get fixed. When to Nissan 2 times for them to fix. Dark at night could not get in car safely. No warning signs Windows would not go up or down, had to get windows fixed, due to rain can hinder my vison while driving. No warnings, Nissan fixed after going back two times Back up Camera had to be replaced or fixed. Car would not start. Said it was a break lamp sensor, which was recalled on 2019 and prior Nissan Sentra's. I have a 2020 no recall yet No incident has happened yet, but could cause grave danger if not fixed! This whole car needs to be recalled!
Suspension, Electrical system, Back over prevention, Nov 23, 2021
Vehicle first developed a issue the following day I got it. The first issue was "Engine Malfunction, Power Reduced, Service Now". So I took it to the service center at Mossy Nissan in El Cajon, CA where they service the vehicle, but I continued to get that error on numerous occasions. Another issue, the instrument cluster and infotainment system would randomly restart while driving that has happened numerous times as well. Another issue, the panorama vehicle camera system would crash and not function any more, that occured numerous times. Another issue, while driving the vehicle I noticed the lane keep assist stopped functioning on numerous occasions. Another issue, while deriving the vehicle I felt the car would sway to certain side, I don't remember what side though. All of these issues have been addressed at the service center, but some of them still continued. So I filled a complaint with Nissan Motors and they were initially gonna repurchase the vehicle back as a lemon. But they backed out of the deal. Since I feel the car is unsafe to drive due to electrical issues, the car has been sitting at the Nissan service center since April 2021. They also refuse to address the recent recall associated with the vehicle.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Sep 2, 2021
While driving my 2020 nissan sentra, my car proceeded to brake on its own while i was depressing the accelerator. A red warning light flashed across the dash that looked like 2 cars colliding. I was able to maintain control of the vehicle, even though it was acting erratically. The braking occurred abruptly startling me and the drivers around me. Thankfully, the car did not cause a collision. The incidence scared me immensely causing my heart to palpitate and raising my blood pressure. I looked for the indicator light in my manual after I had come to a complete stop and was able to calm down after the scare. The warning was the automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection system warning light. The thing was, there were no pedestrians anywhere near my vehicle, nor were there any other vehicles or objects that could've possibly set the system off. It was clear that this system in my car was malfunction. I'm truly scared to drive my car now. I took the car to the dealer to have it looked at and fixed, however, a couple of weeks later, the same incidence occurred. This time I had my elderly mother in the car with me. She was able to witness what I had previously experienced. It scared her as well. This malfunction is going to cause unnecessary collisions that will result in harm to someone. This malfunction could easily induce an accident. It is also causing unnecessary wear and tear on vehicle due to the forceful nature of the abrupt braking. I will likely be trading this car in because the dealership cannot seem to remedy the problem. i spend a great deal of time in my car, and I cannot take the risk that this car imposes.
Electrical system, Mar 31, 2021
VEHICLE DELIVERED WITH 220 MILES FROM DEALER AT 5:30PM. AWOKE FOLLOWING MORNING AND IT REGISTERED 221 MILES. VEHICLE WAS KEPT IN LOCKED GARAGE OVERNIGHT AND NEVER DRIVEN.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Sep 28, 2020
SYSTEM MALFUNCTION DETECTION ACTIVATED WHILE DRIVING. ICON ADVISING AEB BRAKE FAILURE DETECTED LIGHT ENGAGED AND STAYS ON.
Electrical system, May 8, 2020, crash
I WAS SWITCHING LANES AND THE CAR BLIND SPOT SENSOR USUALLY TELLS ME WHEN SOMEONE IS IN MY BLIND SPOT BUT WHEN I WAS SWITCHING LANES TODAY IT FAILED TO TELL ME, THEREFORE RESULTING IN ME GETTING INTO AN ACCIDENT. *TR