NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Nissan Sentra
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan aimed squarely at budget-conscious commuters and first-time buyers who want a practical, fuel-efficient car without a premium price tag. Competing in one of the most crowded segments in the American market, the Sentra has undergone a significant generational refresh that brought updated styling and a more composed driving character, making it a genuine contender for shoppers prioritizing everyday value and safety.
The 2021 Nissan Sentra earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 86 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Sentra as a competent, sensibly priced compact sedan that punches above its weight in interior refinement and everyday usability for the segment. Most acknowledge it is not a driver's car, but they tend to appreciate its composed ride and improved cabin quality in the post-refresh generations. Safety technology availability on higher trims earns consistent praise.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15524
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA23V628000
Risk: A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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 r
Reported 2023-09-08
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY23V581000
Risk: A bent tie rod can break and cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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
Reported 2023-08-15
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY21V461000
Risk: A bent tie rod can break, causing a loss of steering control and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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.
Reported 2021-06-17
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
127 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.