Used 2004 Nissan Sentra Consumer Reviews
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Too bad it's not American
While looking for a new car I knew that I wanted something that would move when I wanted it to. After looking for countless hours of searching through all of the auto makers in the +/-$15K range it came down to the final three. The Honda Civic was a front runner. I was impressed with the handling Honda boasts, however I see so many Civic's on the road I want to barf. The Nissan Sentra took the prize at the end. From the moment I drove the car I knew it was a 4 cylonder engine, but with the soul of a V6. I am not one for racing at every stop light, but I do enjoy driving a car with good preformance and handling and the Sentra does that well.
All in all, not bad.
Power steering fluid leaks. I have to keep checking and topping up when necessary. Makes a squeaky noise on the driver's side, front end as I drive over bumps (speed bumps). Makes a squealing noise under the hood, mostly on wet days. CD player didn't want to give back a CD. I had to take it to the dealership. They replaced the CD Player but didn't return my CD. The trunk release no longer works from inside the car nor does the remote control open it.
- 1.8 S SedanMSRP: $3,99595 mi away
- 2.5 S SedanMSRP: $2,295286 mi away
- 1.8 S SedanMSRP: $4,490506 mi away
GOOD CAR
EVERYTHING IS WHAT I EXPECTED I ADDED A SLOILER AND BRA TO DRESS THE CAR UP A BIT
I only buy sentras!
I have always loved the nissan sentra. This is my third sentra. My sentra is a member family. I like the new longer front, the styling adds an elegance to the car. Great milage and excellent CD sound.
Best little car in town
I LOVE everything about my new 2004 Nissan Sentra 1.8S. I shopped on line for a month,comparing Honda, Toyota, Hyundai compact sedans.The Sentra was my last choice, until I saw it and test drove it. I knew this was MY car, and it moved all the way up to #1 spot. I also thought it was at least $10K more than it's actual price tag!I love the great front and rear design, sleek and elegant,the interior dash is well laid out with easy access to all controls, the exterior/interior workmanship, fabrics and construction is superior to it's competitors. This car has great zip, steering control and it really hugs curves on winding roads. The doors slam shut with the sound of a really expensive car.
Sorry, not a believer
Kick-ass acceleration and solid handling with some wonky oversteer at the limits. But I think the bad news outweighs the good. A chintzy interior - in a $20,000 car I had to tape padding to the hard plastique armrests. Generally cheap feel. And just terrible gas mileage for a four in a light sedan. At 17 or 18 mpg around town I for one would trade some zip for more mileage. With the small gas tank and a nervous computer the car can be begging for gas in less than 200 miles, way too often for me.
Great Value
The car is certainly not the fastest or best compact performance sedan out there, but for the price it is hard to beat. Shifter feels good, but can catch you off guard going from 4th to 5th. Power is great for a naturally aspirated 4 cyl. Brakes are powerful and linear. Great price! Lease for $156/month with $3,000 down and 15k miles a year. Fun to drive fast.
Love This Car!
I purchased this little gem on 2 Aug 03. It came equipped from the factory with the Spec V brake package, sunroof, mats, and micro filter. The dealer added a NISMO performance package, which consisted of a header exhaust system, further suspension modification which included the lowering of the body .20, decals, and window tint. In a word the driving experience is exhilarating. This machine handles like a go cart. Body lean is undetectable. Acceleration is simply amazing. Plenty of torque in all gears, including sixth. Gas mileage for city and highway has been 24.5mpg on premium fuel, 22.4mpg on regular. All this for right around $20K!
My 175 HP Baby
So Far the only probs in having is finding aftermarket parts that really fit. got a b&m shifter and had to make some mods to get it to fit. Also got a piggy back computer from Stillen and could not get it to work right, but they helped me with everything and gave me a refund for the chip. the car has alot of power to spare. if you like to play on the streets then this car is for you.
2004 Nissan Sentra
I bought the 2004 Nissan Sentra with the Road Trip package (leather steering wheel, 7-speaker stereo system and cruise control) because I also have a 1992 Nissan Sentra sedan that has been the best car since it was new. The 2004 Sentra drives heavier (a big plus) because it has larger tires and weighs more. Handling is tight and responsive, and the engine is very peppy. Overall quality is excellent and I am very happy with this purchase.
10,000 Mile Follow Up
No complaints. Still get over 30mpg combined highway and city. No rattles or repairs. Tires are not good in the snow - in fact look to replace them for Winter driving. Other than that I like the car and would consider Nissan when I buy a mid sized car in a few years. Nice trunk.
In Love
My first Nissan was a 1992 Sentra (XE) and it lasted me a good 11 years so its no surprise that when it finally said enough is enough and laid down to rest, that my next choice would definately be another Nissan. I finally decided on another Sentra (after looking at the Altima) with the additional safety features ABS and side air bags - AND the upgraded sound system. This car is GREAT and I absolutely LOVE IT.
The Little Sports Car that Could
Pound for pound, this is the best car you can buy for 20k. Did you want a sports car? You got it. Did you need something that can carry your friends from point A to points B, C, and D comfortably? You got it. How about something with trunk space for groceries this weekend? Yep, you got it. Not only does the Spec V perform a large variety of tasks, it does them all well.
the worst car ever
I bought this car two years ago. It had 63 k on it. I replaced head gasket after 1500k, I changed whole brake system, engine light has been always on! I changed oxygen sensor, crankshaft sensor. Steering wheel is making noise. Gas mileage is ok but you have to put premium gas! And the latest one I cannot pass emission test. Fantastic car! Nissan is my first and last car
Discrepancies of the '04 Sentra SE-R
I myself am a proud owner of a 2004 Nissan Sentra SE-R Auto. The car is unbelievably fast for my taste. Not knowing how to drive a manual didn't prevent my purchase from the Spec-V model but the auto version is much more at ease due to its convenience of gas and brake go. The interior design is useful, not too sporty yet not too dull either. Interior controls seem to be right or close to the right places for convenience. Rear-seat room could definitely have been improved. The only drawbacks I found w/this car was exterior front design, rear-seat room, and it being a four-door vehicle. Would've preferred the vehicle to be a coupe.
great car
The sentra ser-spec v offers sports car performance and handling at an economy car price. It has very responsive acceleration and handles very well with its sports tuned suspension and helical limited slip differential. It is incredibly fun to drive. If you are into sport compact cars you will not be dissapointed.
all around great car
the nissan sentra se-r is an all around well built car. yes it could use a little style flair in the interior design, but all buttons and nobs are in reach and plain view. it is quick and light on its feet and easy to handle.all this and you get a rockin sound system when you upgrade to the rockford fosgate audio system.
HORRiBLE
Car was purchased June 20,2009.52,000 miles. Good deal? wrong! First week: check engine light came on. They replaced my gas cap, sent me on my way. Light came back on! Charged $190.00 because evap system needed fixed. Light came back on! Replaced my gas cap again! Light stayed off.. I got screwed because they replaced something that wasn't broken. Now it's August 24,2009. My cd player is dying.. Cds go in very slow and say error and come back out.. That will soon need replaced. It barely starts. Power steering fluid leaks. Car screammmms everytime I start it.
nissan
this car drives very smoothly and nissans are usually built to last
Not the total truth
I Like the Vehicle. But when it was sold to me not everything was presented. Ex. I would never have bought the car without cruse control. I do long distance driving and use it all the time. My fault I should have asked. But i though all cars were coming with cruse control these days. Oh well. I know for the future. Otherwise I like the Car. I have no real need for a lot of Passenger space so the back seat is not a problem. But I could have passengers a little cramped. Seems to be good on gas and that is a very important point for me.
Oil Well Wanted
This car after dealership replaced catalytic convertor due to an engine code began using oil at an alarming rate-a quart every 6-700 miles. They don't know why and are putting me through hoops doing an "oil consumption test" that will take months to complete the way they want to do it. Meanwhile I have a car I can't trust to take far from home. Very sorry I purchased a Nissan.
Great auto!
This is a wonderful car and great fun to drive. I had a 1996 Sentra that was very reliable and I anticipate this one to be even better. It is roomy, comfortable, and solid. The price was excellent. The new color "inferno" is striking. It is a beautiful and impressive looking car.
great car
This is my first "new" car. I shared ownership with my mother on an older sentra, and this one is way better than I expected. Great torque, speed, handling, and look.
No problems here
Bought my 2004 Sentra 3 years ago and I love it. No problems whatsoever. Its a no frills car but it is a great commuter and gets excellent gas mileage. Ive seen some of the complaints and I guess I got one of the good ones. CD plays and the car just humms along. My kids never complained about the size of the back seat but they are kids. Very happy with car. Very inexpensive too.
great buy
the car is so much fun. with lots of goodies straight off the lot. best buy. and for only 17345. great interior and fast as hell.
not bad
for a small car it handles pretty well. The stopping power is excellant as was demonstarted to me during the recent blizzard. The ride is a little bumpy and the shocks in this car make you feel every nook and cranny in the road. Im used to having a Pathfinder so Ive been spoiled by the best SUV made. Wish I had my Pathfinder back ;:(
Compare apples to apples
What most of the econosport reviews say about the spec-v is generally on target (among the fastest but not as refined)...BUT...what they gloss over is that they are comparing the spec-v to cars costing thousands more.(Mine cost $14,500). Yes, it's a bit crude compared to a Mazdaspeed or Si, but compared cars with the same price such as a mid level corolla, mx3,or civic, the level of performance and FUN is outrageously better.
Smooth Ride
The Sentra drives very smooth. The front seats are comfortable. It has a great stereo system. There are great colors to choose from. The exterior design is up-to-date and unique.
Improved look
The new look for 2004 is a big improvement over 2003. Much sportier front design. It is quiet although alot of reviews tell you different.
CHK ENGINE SOON
WELL WITH LESS THAN 1200 MILES ON CAR MOST PUT ON IT WITH THE IDIOT LIGHT ON CHK ENGINE SOON THAT FIRST CAME ON AT 192 MILES AND NOW WORKING WITH THE SECOND DEALERSHIP TO TRY AND FIX THE PROBLEM ILL LET YOU MAKE THE CHOICE. ITS A GREAT CAR TO DRIVE HANDLES GREAT PLENTY OF TOURQ GAS MILEGE HOVERS AROUND 21-25 ON THE INTERSATE AND 18 AROUND TOWN MIGHT WANT TO INVEST IN SOME ELECTRICAL TAPE FOR THAT PESKIE LIGHT
I like it
Going from a 1986 Camaro to a 2004 Sentra is a big jump. The car is very quiet and feels pretty solid, light years beyond the creaky, rattly camaro. Definitely needs more rear leg room. I also wish there was a choice of wheels with this model, they only come with the 2.5 models. Otherwise I like my car alot, and look forward to driving it for a long time.
very satisfied
my second sentra good value great car, dont forget to compare this car with others in this class.
disappointed
I have had my car in the service center 3 times the first month for a problem which was claimed to be "par for all sentras." the problem still hasn't been identified and fixed. I have filed a complaint with Nissan under the "LEMON LAW" I am not pleased with this car and the mechanics representing Nissan! Would you?????
Good car
Bought it a few months ago.. test drove the toyota corolla which is like a cub compared to this car .. dont know why this is so underrated compared to the corolla and the civic
Did some one say fun?
I bought my Spec V about three weeks ago and I have no regrets. Well maybe just one, shifting the gears feels really crunchy. Other than a little getting used to shifting, this car is one bad MOFO. The interior is roomier than any civic, Integra, or lancer that ive been in and the ride is smooth, even for the SPEC V suspension. If you do your home work you will see that that this bad boy offer more bang for your buck when comparing to the VW GTI, the Civic Si, the Neon SRT4 and the Focus SVT. Tests drive them all and make your own decision, but for the budget conscious sport car enthusiast the Spec V is definitely the way to go.
A value leader
This is a car that can run with an RSX at Civic dx prices. Build quality is very good. Styling is understated (read not all riced out) compared to it's class. The power/weight ratio, suspension upgrades, and good seats make driving something to look foreward to. Steering is precise with good feedback, brakes are more fade resistant than most and easy to modulate at the limit. I appreciate the limited slip diff., especially with all that torque. From a performance standpoint it is among the better sport compacts, but it lacks the refined and intuitive driving feel of some Mazda and Honda products, but then it costs a lot less.
Fantastic car!
I bought this car about a year and a half ago and still love it! It is a Nissan so quality is excellent and the car performs great! Its got a lot of pick up so for those of you who want something with power, this is your car! Its great that its a four door because you get a powerful sports car without having to pay sports car insurance.
Nostalgic for older model
Extremely small tight backseat Nissan should seriously consider reverting to the older sentra design which had a wider body and a better decent back seat. The car also has a poor ride quality at 60 hitting a highway bump bounced my head into the cieling of the car.... Aside from that the car has decent fuel economy and features though the accord would be a better buy for less...
whatever
0-60 in about 9.3 seconds, even though it pulls to the right a little, its a nice fast car, for the motor and the build. The suspension is good, even though it is a little bumpy on the highway. Its a good car overall, with the power options, except the seat, but it does have the adjusting knob for the driver seats, that are buckets seats, a plus for those who have bad backs
Sporty and Cute
After test driving several other vehicles I was happy to find a car that was fun to drive. The transmition ran well at take off and engaged well while going in other gears. (so others I had tried didn't do as well) I like the little extras like standard 6 cd player.The brakes work great. This is a great buy for the money. Not to forget it's reliability.
Nissan could give more for your money
My experience has been ok. At 60,000 I was having several mechanical problems. I had to bring it in several times before they would bring attention to the real problem.
Built to be driven
Well built car. Worth the money
coll
i love my sentra!!
Nissan Customer Service Dissatisfaction
I have never had such poor service from a company and have never had such a poorly manufactured car. I have had to car in the shop 5 times since I leased it in August 2003. I am very displeased with Nissans quality of manufacturing and customer service. When I needed their help they turned their backs on me. I will never purchase another Nissan as long as I live. I will recommend to everyone to steer clear of Nissan. Nissan is not the company it once was. If you need any help whatsoever with your vehicle after you signed the papers, youre going to be in for a big surprise.
Never buy your car from Midway Auto Team
My only suggestion is to never buy your car from Midway Auto Team in Arizona. My car has had minor problems, but the service department just bills your warranty company and never satisfies the repairs.
Awsome Economy Car
I LOVE this car! I have recieved many compliments on the price, quality, style, and color (Vibrant Blue). It is very fun to drive, feels very solid, and even though it is a compact it is very roomy and feels fairly large on the road (don't feel vulnerable). There is, also, a ton of storage. I couldn't ask for much more in a vehicle!
Luvmynissan
I love this car. It provides excellent performance and handling and looks great on the road!!
Great Little Car
Had numerous Dodge Neons. This car is quick and also a blast to drive. First tank of gas combination city and highway driving got me 30 mpg. You can hot dog this car off the line and expect good gas mileage. Only complaint need more room in the back seat.
Exciting for less
I think that this car is an excellent deal if you goal is to find a fun ride for an economical price. It is not a particularly comfortable car and very few people could sit in the backseat. But if you are looking for driving pleasure for cheap this is it. I paid 15,800 after rebate and negotiations.
nice
Very nimble driving ability (there's a reason for all those gears.) Good pickup from a dead stop; passing ability is superb. On clean, level pavement the handling is nice and tight. On uneven pavement the can go airborne very easily. The front end is very light. I'm not looking forward to driving in the snow. There is not enough traction to keep even a modest start from making the tires squeal. The premium sound package is tight and well tuned. It is not super-audiophile quality, but it is mostly clear and has a good range. The back seat is _very_ cramped - there is hardly any leg room.