What are the most common problems with the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

Confirm all four safety recalls, especially those for the brake light switch and passenger frontal airbag inflator, have been professionally addressed.

How many recalls does the 2017 Nissan Sentra have?

The 2017 Nissan Sentra currently has 4 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2017 Nissan Sentra a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Confirm all four safety recalls, especially those for the brake light switch and passenger frontal airbag inflator, have been professionally addressed. The brake light switch recall is a recurring concern; verify its proper repair and inspect for any signs of continued malfunction. While consumer complaints are low, a high TSB count indicates potential for other, less critical, issues to arise. Expect average fuel economy, with a combined EPA rating of 28 MPG. The Sentra earned a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with a perfect 5-star score in side crash tests. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2017 Nissan Sentra.

2017 Nissan Sentra Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026Ryan Davis3 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Confirm all four safety recalls, especially those for the brake light switch and passenger frontal airbag inflator, have been professionally addressed.
The brake light switch recall is a recurring concern; verify its proper repair and inspect for any signs of continued malfunction.
While consumer complaints are low, a high TSB count indicates potential for other, less critical, issues to arise.
Expect average fuel economy, with a combined EPA rating of 28 MPG.

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Overview

2017 Nissan Sentra

The 2017 Nissan Sentra presents a practical, if unexciting, compact car option. It delivers respectable fuel economy and a comfortable ride for its class. However, a significant number of safety recalls, especially concerning the brake light switch and airbags, coupled with a high TSB count, suggest potential underlying issues that warrant careful pre-purchase inspection and verification of completed repairs. While consumer complaints are notably absent, the proactive recall actions and internal technical service bulletins point to areas of concern for long-term ownership.

Critical Failure Risk

The brake light switch can fail due to contamination, leading to non-illuminating brake lights. This is a recurring issue addressed by recalls.

Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$400 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns4

Service Bulletins96

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing basic transportation and fuel efficiency.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing long-term, worry-free reliability above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Nissan Sentra Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Premium
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
EPA Combined MPG: 28

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Most Common Issues

1. Brake Light Switch Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator Defect

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

4 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2017 Nissan Sentra reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Nissan Sentra is 8.2/10. Reliability score is 8.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Nissan Sentra for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.6/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 428 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Nissan Sentra is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Nissan Sentra?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Light Switch (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $300).

What engine is in the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2017 Nissan Sentra use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Sentra, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2017 Sentra require Premium gas?

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Nissan Sentra?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Sentra, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Sentra, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Nissan Sentra use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Sentra, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Nissan Sentra?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Honda Civic and 2017 Toyota Corolla.