NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Nissan Versa
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Nissan Versa is a subcompact sedan aimed squarely at budget-conscious commuters and first-time car buyers who need affordable, no-frills urban transportation. Now in its third generation, the Versa competes in one of the most price-sensitive segments in the American market, where buyers are weighing every dollar. MotorCaliber covers the 2019 through 2025 model years and puts its safety record under the microscope.
The 2021 Nissan Versa earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 85 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally position the Versa as one of the most accessible entries in the subcompact sedan class, praising its surprisingly spacious cabin for the segment and straightforward, easy-to-use controls. Most note that interior materials and overall refinement reflect the car's budget positioning, and driving dynamics are described as adequate for city use rather than engaging. Value for the money is consistently highlighted as its strongest selling point.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15523
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM23V496000
Risk: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code and replace the steering column assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA26. This recall involves vehicles that were previously inspected, but did not receive a st
Reported 2023-07-18
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM22V693000
Risk: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code, and replace the column, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 9, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PMA10 / PMA25.
Reported 2022-09-15
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL:BULBS21V471000
Risk: Inoperable front turn signals cannot alert on-coming drivers and/or pedestrians that the vehicle will be turning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the bulbs as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 20, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PM986 and PC811.
Reported 2021-06-23
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
31 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.