Used 2003 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V Consumer Reviews
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i have owned 3, let me be the judge!
i just bought my 3rd Ser spec v today. and there is a reason i have owned 2 spec v's prior to this and the reason is simple, the cars are amazing for the cost. i know you will read alot of bad reviews here and a bunch of fake hype but you cant find another car to out perform or outlast a Spec v for 4000$-5000$ period. unless you wanna risk buying a lemon. i owned a 2002 spec v, a 2005 spec v and now just bought a 2003 spec v and have NEVER had any issues aside from the fuel pump Recall they had which was FREE. best car for the price and a great car to start learning how to tune on, super easy to find your way around the engine. change the oil and tires and it'll last you 250k miles NP
Not for the Average Joe.
If you are one of those non car savvy folks with little to no mechanical skills, this is NOT the car for you. Well, unless you have loads of cash at your disposal for repairs. I have owned my SPEC V since 2004, and trust me, changing the oil and basic maintenance just does not cut it for these things. The 2 main issues on this particular model are the butterfly screws inside the intake manifold that NEED to be loctited and the stock exhaust manifold that NEEDS to be replaced with an aftermarket header ASAP after purchase, due to the poor factory design that can cause SERIOUS DAMAGE to your engine. If you enjoy modding, working on cars and learning about them, this car can be very rewarding.
Fun car to drive
I've had my car for almost 6 years and it is still a fun little car to drive. And it handles very well. My biggest problems with it was the faulty pre cat failure and I had to replace the ignition coils a few times as well. Another thing that I don't like about my car is the gas mileage, its a good car for local runs but I don't think its good car for long distance trips.
Bought a 2003
It only had 30 miles on it and after 5 minutes of driving through some pretty rough roads it HAD TO BE mine. Stiff but not uncomfortable ride. Very secure handling and the 6 speed is one of the best I have ever driven. The enthusiast will be very pleased with the large wheels, suspension bars, and upgraded exhaust.
(Of Course) Bang for the buck
The Spec-V is one of the best 'bang for your buck' cars available. It is also one of the few with four doors. It will run a mid to low 15 second quarter mile stock, but there aren't many modifications available for the car yet, so for you tuners there isn't very much further to go. The car has its great points, handling, lots of torque, and styling, and it's bad points,
a pocket rocket for a low price
The nissan sentra se-r spec v, is an easy vehicle to maintain, all you need to do is keep up the usual maintenance and the spec v will be very reliable. the spec v does have alot of torque steer but you get used to it after awhile. the suspension setup in the spec v is ready for auto x, when you toss the spec v around the corners at higher speeds the spec v feels like its right at home. when you want to pass someone on the freeway it could be done in fifth gear without any problems. where else can you find 175hp, 180ft/tq with a helical limited slip differential, 6 speed manual transmission, auto x ready suspension and a fun car to drive for less that 20 thousand dollars.
Could have been better...
Bought the car new and had lots of problems within the first three years of ownership. The SE-R has a lot of issues that were never properly recalled such as a faulty pre-cat, poor MAF sensor, wheel hop, exterior paint, and a few other things. Had my engine replaced under warranty at 30,000 miles due to screws breaking off my intake runners and blowing up my engine. A simple locktighting of the screws would fix that issue. Aftermarket modification like motor mount inserts and header will get rid of some of the mechanical problems. Also, the plastic undercarriage pieces will gradually fall out. After dealing with those issues the car has gone strong the past 3 years
Not the best, but what really is?
Having traded in my 2001 Focus ZTS on what seemed like a whim, I became the owner of a pure white SE-R Spec V. It's made me feel like I got a much better car for a reasonable price. Though inoffensive on the exterior, it's certainly not ugly. The interior is pleasant and well thought out, though the plastics leave much to be desired. The red gauges are difficult to read sometimes. Seats are comfy, good back support. This is not a car for everyone. It doesn't even attempt to coddle you and your passengers. But I find myself looking for longer ways home just to spend more time driving. That's a hard thing to get people to want to do with an economy car.
A good thing gone wrong.
The Nissan Sentra Spec V looks great on paper, and it does drive very well at first. After about a month after buying the car, the transmission became clunky and it even grinds gears during shifts when it is cold out. The car can take up to 15 minuets for the transmissioin to loosen up. Multiple dealers have told as that this is normal operation, but the operation changed after I got it. There were some cosmetic problems with the paint, body molding, and trunk and engine lid that was all fixed under warranty. Mold in the AC system was fixed on the 3rd try. I would not recomend this car to anyone. Build quality is very poor.
03 Spec V
I have had my Spec V for a few months now and I would say that it is an excellent vehicle. Handling is great the accl. is very aggressive and fun (for anything, especially a 4 cyl.) and the vehicle seems to be put together very well. You can even feel it when you open and close the doors. Limited slip is a great feature that is tough to find in vehicles within this price range. When the secondaries open up at 5000 rpm, you can really hear it, very nice sound. I really do like this car, and I have had several different sports cars and this one is the most well rounded vehicle that I have owned. This car is so fun to drive, you will love it go ahead, buy one!!!!!!!!
Spec Vs Rule
I think this is a wonderful car in my opinion its the best front wheel drive car you can get. Great power and handling.
Practical and fun.
I bought a used 2003 Spec V in April 2005. The car has 60,000km on it. I researched many cars and tried to decide which one was best for my situation. As a recent grad with a new condo, the Spec V was the best bang for the buck. Low profile tires make noise on bumpy roads. Handling is very good, low body roll. 4 doors make it practical. I looked at the 1.7 Acura EL and was turned off when I had 4 passengers, the car bottomed out whereas the Spec V does not with 4 passengers. Gas mileage not as good as anticipated but it could be the way I drive. Stereo sounds good. The brakes are good. Torque-steer not an issue unless you're driving too hard. I would reccommend this car to anyone.
great fun car
This car is one of the most fun cars I've ever driven. It's fast accelerates good and hands decent but needs a little work. It doesn't seems to have any problems or kinks and is an all around great car. It gives you the biggest bang for the buck.
V is for me
Great car...best value if looking for performance and overall quality. 10 times better than Civic and it's not a Neon. 28-30 mpg. 6 speeds could be spread out better at the bottom end, but just a thrill to drive. Quick, comfortable, standard audio is great. Can't say enough how much I fall in love everytime i see it and climb behind the wheel.
Surprising to drive!
Ever since I first drove this car for the test drive, I've loved it. I like to drive fast and to be able to get around town when I need to, and this car is more than suitable for it. With plenty of power throughout the majority of the RPM's, it will not let you down. For tuner's out there, it has a good aftermarket backing. To other's, it comes with just about everything you will need. I'm having a hard time wanting to replace the stock sound system. In fact, the only thing I would want to replace is the factory header due to the precat restricting the powerband. With the sound package, sunroof, 6-speed transaxle and the 17" rims, you really can't beat this car for the price.
My review
My Nissan Sentra Spec-v has to be the funest car that i have ever driven and is also really relaible. The 6 speed transmission is really easy to shift and the clutch isnt to stiff or to soft it is just right.
Speedy Econobox
Very impressed overall. Got a great price, and I am very happy with the performance. Great buy just coming out of college. Has plenty of guts, but still gets almost 30 mpg. A friend with a '00 civic si loves it. Overall, higly recommended.
Great performance value
I bought this car brand new in 03. Car looks much better than 04 and up. Love the interior, transmission, and all that torque! Only trouble was the recall on the pre cat. I solved that by installing a header. Good performance and looks for the price. Only complaint is it is under powered. cant keep up with wrx or neon srt-4. But a car that can run low 15s for under 19k is hard to pass up. Car handles very well in stock trim but Eibach springs make it handle better and actually improve the ride quality. Suggest an after market shifter to clean up the sloppy action of the stock piece. This car is a blast to drive and it sets you apart from the thousands of civics out there.
Worst Car I've ever owned.
I purchased this car brand new in April 2003 and owned it for 3 years. It was nothing but problems for those 3 years straight. The catalytic converter failed within 2 months of owning the car and had to be replaced. This happened 3 additional times over the 3 year ownership. About 2 1/2 years in the engine blew all by itself and had to be replaced. The alternator failed multiple times and sometimes the car would die while in motion. The car had many rattles/creaks all over it always. The transmission developed many issues and grinds and had sounds like loose metal inside of it. I have read many problems with this car from others as well. Stay far away from it, its an endless money pit.
One of the Worst cars ever owned
I have owned over 18 cars thus far in my life. The worst by far either this car or the Cadillac I owned. I purchased this car used in 2005 with 27K miles on it. I only owned it till 2006. I sold it with 35K miles on it. It was a terrible car. (6 months) What broke in a year. Power windows (new motors) Door would not open due to cheap plastic clips in the door for the connection to the handle. Rattles in all the plastic Motor was burning oil due to bad piston rings. Seat adjuster broke and would not hold the recline adjustment. (I weighed at the time 135LBS) MPG was awful even when compared to a Roush Mustang. Left me stranded twice
2003 SPEC V
Purchased my SPEC V in April. .9% finance rate was the deal sealer. It's silver. The car was fully loaded from the factory. I tacked on many extras offered by the dealer such as LOJACK, Two tone leather seats silver/slategrey, gap insurance (not available in all states), rearview mirror w/auto dimm/compass/temp, wheel locks, and a wind deflector for the sun roof. I only have 970 miles on it so far and break in is 1200 so I haven't really broken 4500rpm yet. It handles REALLY well and the ride although firm is not harsh. Out the door I'm paying 384/60 with no down/no trade in. I love it and have no problems so far.
Handling & Acceleration for Less
I got my fully loaded (sunroof, audio, abs, mats, & microfilter) '03 Spec-V a week ago and have no doubt that I made the right decision. Paid $18,064 /w $500 cash back at 1.9% APR. Acceleration and handling are fantastic, as well as the look /w the mesh grills and 17" wheels. Seats are comfortable yet supportive. Fosgate stero is incredible. Overall a great choice.
Best bang for the buck, period
you absolutely cannot get a better car for the price.
Best Car under $20k!
I have had my Spec V for about 6 months now, and I love it. I push the car to its limits, and it keeps up with many cars much more expensive. Its fun to consistantly beat little hinda's, and acuras that have been hopped up.
I love it!
I bought this car in April, and I've loved every minute of it. Had already tested Mazdaspeed, Eclipse GT, Celica GT-S, Subaru WRX. Found this one more fun to drive than Mits or Toyota. WRX was really nice, but pricey. Mazda was closest, but the dealership sucked (Dobbs in Memphis). This car has great power in all gears, looks flashy in yellow, won't be confused with other Sentras, and is a joy to drive. Great craftsmanship, materials are very sturdy, everything feels very tight. I skipped the fosgate stereo. Also avoid the stripes down the sides, definitely don't pay for them. Floor mats look great but aren't necessary.
fast Spec v
I bought my Spec v in Jan. of 2003 that is the best car I have ever owned. The speed the car has is great. It's a quick car and good on gas. Just the wheels are very weak.
Spec V is Great!!!
i have just purchased my top of the line spec v, and i got it in sunburst yellow and it looks great, in fact i havent seen another yellow car on the road for awhile, and the tight suspension feels great, while acceleration at high speeds is even better, crusing at 60, i didnt even need to reach 3 rpms to pass up people at 80 mph, great pickup
Phat
Love my baby.I like the interior and the exterior and especially the sound system!
AWESOME!!!
THIS CAR ROCKS!!! ILOVE IT FAST AND FUN
What a way to learn to drive a stick!
I recently learned to drive a manual transmission due to my new job at Flemington Nissan. I learned on the Spec V and loved it so much, I bought one! The car handles incredibly well. Acceleration is very good and the ride is sporty. Having 6 speeds is nice for all the highway driving I do on my commute.
Bargain
Well after 3000 miles and first service, this car has not let me down (RF Package/Sunroof). It has good power, nice interior, great looks and a great feel on the road. The fact that I got this for easily under 18,000 feels like a steal. There is a pre-cat recall but it was taken care of with no problems. great car for the price.
great little sports car!!!!
i just bought this car a couple of weeks ago, and i cant stop driving it! it is so much fun to just drive around, and EVERYONE turns to look! (especially since my car is in sunburst yellow!) you dont see many spec-v's out on the road, and its nice if you want a car that will get people looking in your direction! it also drives like a little power house...quick starts, smooth shifting, i cant get enough of it!
2003 SPEC V - The Best of the Pack
I bought the 2003 Spec V yesterday in Molten Silver (Base Package). So far, it has been absolutely top notch. The best improvement over the 2002 model is the seat covers. The "loud" lava color has been replaced by a classy silver/gray with a matching stitch on the steering wheel. It looks a whole lot better, especially with black or silver exterior.
excellent value for the price
Awesome performance for under 20,000. Right from the test drive I knew that this car was a beast. Plenty of low and mid range torque that pulls all the way to 6200rpm redline.
2003 SE-R Spec V
This is a great car! I love everything about this car. I have about 400miles on it so far - I have nothing but good things to say about this car.... bnewton
Wow!
I've had my Spec V for 2 weeks and came out of a 2002 Maxima SE 6 speed. Wow! the go-kart handling, powerful engine, precise steering, etc. The 6 speed is a world apart from the clunky 6 speed in the maxima. Nissan did their homework on this one. The ride tolerable on all but the worst of roads. What a fun time can be had with the relatively small price of this vehicle.
Good Enough to Buy it Twice
I purchased my second '03 Spec V yesterday. I had my first one for about 4 months and was rearended, and 2 weeks later before I got the damage fixed, a 16 yr old pulled out in front of me totalling the car. I put 7,000 miles on it in that short time. After shopping around again, I could not bring myself to buy the ugly 04 Spec (Nissan's design team shouldn't have messed with the front of the car). Even though I paid $1200 more than my first one, I still bought another (RF stereo included this time). I have all options on the new one except the "safety" package(ABS, side airbags) and still paid under $17500 including shipping costs.
Mixed reviews
Had the car for 1 month catalyst backed up into engine. Nissan replaced engine. Torque steer very pronounced, makes handling a 2 hand job. The car is fast and handles nice, but needs some refinement.
Good as they say...
I was finally fed up with all of the reliablility and fit and finish issues with my 1999 Ford SVT Contour and was looking for a new vehicle. All of the reveiws said that the Sentra SE-R Spec V was an affordable and fun to drive car (including Edmunds)and I have to say that they were correct.
almost perfect
this is my second sentra in nine years.my last is a 93sentra with 180,000miles and still running.i wanted an upgrade with a little pep.that is why picked spec-v.
What a ride
I drove a 92 SE-r for 10 years and upgraded to the Spec V earlier this year. What a car for the money. Styling is on par with anything out there within 10 grand. I am biased, but you can't beat this one in black.
Good all-around!!
Good all-around vehicle..Performance is excellent for a naturally aspirated 4-banger....With such a rough-riding suspension, vehicle should handle better...Six speed might as well be a five speed seeing as how first gear is useless and sixth gear tachs around the same as most five speeds...It is still a blast to drive..
Best car for the money
Hands down, this is the best car for the money. Paid $16,395 out the door for a '03 SpecV w/ floor mats and microfilter. Great financing from Nissan. Each time I get out, I find myself looking back at it with pride. Why get an underpowered Celica or Civic, when you can get this beast at the same price?
Just Bought
I have had the car for a day now. The car is real fun to drive. Great pick up even without down shifting. Rides real nice. Turns well. I got it with all the options plus some. SE-R engraved leather seats, SE-R Bra, Wheel Locks,Moonroof visor.Rockford Fosgate sound system. Little bit more than some competiors but alot better of a car in my opinion.
Best Bang for the Buck
The Spec-V sets the standard that Honda Civic Si hasn't followed. Design - sleeker; performance - more HP; handling - tighter; price - cheaper. Why would anybody even buy a Honda Civic. And the only minor issue was torque steer which I understand has been rectified on the 2003 model. I wouldn't trade my Spec for 10 Civic Si's.
Ecellent
this car has given me no problems what so ever
shift!!!!!!
this is a very fun car to drive. the first time i got in it was at the dealership and i felt the power as soon as i pulled out of the space. very nimble. about the only down side to the spec-v was getting used to the outragous torque steer when really pushing it.
Street Racer
I bought the Spec V because I needed a 4-door car to transport the wife and kid, needed a low payment and good fuel economy, yet still wanted to autocross on the weekends. The Spec V does it all very nicely thank you. Room for the family and it also powers around the pylons like crazy. No complaints.
nice but fragile
After I had put 1500 miles on my Spec V both the airconditioner and cruise control failed to work. They were both fixed under warranty.
SER Spec-V
Asked for a free price quote thru Edmunds, got a 2003 Spec-v with Audio package ,mats and microfilter for $16835 plus tag title and taxes . What a car for that money. Other 4 Bangers had to be downshifted to get anywhere , Not the SER . Shifting is short and precise , alittle clunky , but its great to have six speeds . Tires and rims look great . If you are looking for the best bang for your buck , look no further than your local Nissan dealer.