1996 Nissan Sentra Consumer Reviews

my 1st car ever bought, out of 4 today!

Written by: daddy-danny on 10/09/2008

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr XE Sedan

Review

Despite the fact that it was and still is a dull car, it was a ride or die! I bought this car for 1700 dollars, with 180,000 miles on it. It saved so much gas, and rode like a boss. I went to the bay area 3 times, and what not. But now that it has 230,000 miles, this car has faced a bit of problems. The catalytic converter is messed up, so it wont pass smog. But overall, this car has proved itself. I never had a tran problem, nor engine problem. It still turns on without hesitation, and still rides hard. I will always love the car for the memories I put in it, and the reliability.

Favorite Features

Gas, reliability, compactness (ability to park anywhere).

Suggested Improvements

Realistically, way too small on the inside, too plain, wished I would've got my hands on a GXE or 200ZX. outlook was too girly. I'm a dude trying to save a dollar, come on!

1 out 1 people found this review helpful

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Reliable commuter car

Written by: SaveGas on 09/23/2008

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr GXE Sedan

Review

My Sentra is now 12 years old, and I've had it for 8 years now. It's still fairly low mileage at 130k. I've also tried to ditch it many times before but never had a good reason to do it. It gets still 30+ mpg with automatic transmission. Interior is starting to deteriorate, such as fabric detaching and shredding. Other than that, I've never had major mechanical problems with it. Had to replace ERG valve, IAC valve, 3rd set of tires, 2nd pair of rotors, on 3rd battery, plus regular oil changes. Alternator, transmission and timing chain are still going strong. I have no complaints as it's taken me from college to graduate school, and so far all 5 jobs I've had!

Favorite Features

Reliability, fuel efficiency, peppy at low speeds.

Suggested Improvements

Cup holder blocking the radio, interior fabric quality, rear bumper doesn't stay attached fully (seen this on many other Sentras).

5 out 5 people found this review helpful

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She's a trusted friend!

Written by: cathionwhidbey on 09/09/2008

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr GXE Sedan

Review

I have had my Sentra for 10 years and couldn't ask for a better car. In those 19 years we have replaced the normal stuff, brakes, tires, and the alternator twice. She had over 140,000 miles on her and I still get 32-33 miles per gallon. I bought a Hyundai Sonata 2 years ago and was only getting 22 miles to the gallon. The luxury was great but with the rise in gas I am back to my Sentra. I spiffed her out with bright red flames and she is feeling young again!! I can pay a lot more but couldn't ask for a car that has been more reliable and cost efficient.

Favorite Features

GAS MILEAGE!!

Suggested Improvements

Same as everyone else. Cup holder interferes with stereo.

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Great car

Written by: wd on 07/29/2008

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr XE Sedan

Review

This is a reliable vehicle that gets good mileage (33 mpg highway). It's dependable and also handles well. Overdrive provides decent acceleration for its size. It's a good commuter vehicle.

Favorite Features

Mileage, handling.

Suggested Improvements

Side impact safety.

2 out 2 people found this review helpful

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Very cheap to drive

Written by: keith on 05/15/2007

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr GXE Sedan

Review

When I first got my license I bought this car with around 175k miles on it. The car is a great commuter and definitely cheap to own and drive. I get around 31 MPG in the city and 41 MPG when traveling, so trips are no longer going to eat your banking account. I carpooled with 3 other people to Chicago, 5 hours away, and paid about 12 dollars for a 2-way trip.

Favorite Features

Roomy for a small car (I'm 6'1 and no complaints or my 6'3 brother), fairly fun for a 115 hp car, reliable (only needed 2 oil changes in 5k miles).

Suggested Improvements

Outer styling.

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Old reliable

Written by: Chris on 05/04/2007

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr XE Sedan

Review

Bought this car new, and as of 2007 it's still going. I got it when money was tight, and have never regretted it. It's not fast, but it can be fun to drive. At 183,000 miles, it's not perfect. I replaced the ECU (computer) early on, and it's needed 2 alternators for some reason. I got a clutch at 150,000. I replaced the shocks around 120,000. Other than that it's just oil changes and brake pads. The seats are worn, the body's dinged, the paint's worn off the wipers and a few other spots, the rear defrost turns itself off, the headlight lenses are dim, the radio display is spotty, and the buttons are sticky from the poorly-placed cup holder, but it starts every morning and off we go!

Favorite Features

Mileage, reliability.

Suggested Improvements

Tachometer, voltage gauge, floor mats.

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Rusty but trusty

Written by: D-murray on 03/15/2007

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr GLE Sedan

Review

I stopped taking care of this car about two years ago and can't kill it. It has <150K miles on it. Rust started as a couple small bubbles in paint and EXPLODED over the last 18months. Only thing I ever did to this thing in over five years and 70k miles is replace spark plug wires, and of course brakes and tires.

Favorite Features

Good cheap transportation

Suggested Improvements

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Best car Ever

Written by: James Armstrong on 09/27/2006

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr GXE Sedan

Review

This car has been in the family for ever my Aunt bought it brand new and had no problems with it but didnt take care of it so her new husband made her get a new car. well my Uncle bought it for my Cousin and fixed all that was wrong. Well now ten years later and 142,000 i own it because my cousin got a new car to go off to college in i bought it from her for $50 and it has been worth it. just had it in to be worked on and the mechanic said it's the best car he has seen in a long time he said its a great car and will be for many years. I love it never regret the purchase even though it was only $50 it is an awesome car and love it a lot

Favorite Features

Gas mileage

Suggested Improvements

None

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Nissan Sentra 96

Written by: Monica Garcia on 12/27/2005

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr GXE Sedan

Review

I depend on this car for local traveling and far traveling. It has been a great car and I will get another Nissan Sentra. My mom has a Nissan Sentra Limited edition and it has been great too. My brother just got another Nissan Sentra 2001 and he is very happy as well.

Favorite Features

No only an economy car but fast car too!

Suggested Improvements

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Doesn't Owe Me a Dime!

Written by: Bob on 12/07/2005

Vehicle

1996 Nissan Sentra 4 Dr GXE Sedan

Review

The car just turned over 223,000 miles and I've had nothing major to complain about. Mileage with the 5 speed is still VERY good at about 37 MPG average for all types of driving, and upwards of 42 mpg on the highway. Just got my first tear in the cloth driver's seat, and one in the carpeting under the clutch pedal. A bit of rust inside the door openings but that's about all. I'm going to be sorry to see this one go, if it ever does! Just maintain the regular service schedule and you should always be good to go.

Favorite Features

Reliability, gas mileage

Suggested Improvements

Always thought the wheels were just a bit undersized for the look of the car.

5 out 5 people found this review helpful

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