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2019 Nissan Sentra Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2019 Nissan Sentra Report

Overall Score

7.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Sentra achieved a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with a perfect 5-star score in side crash tests.
  • A key recall addresses the brake light switch, which can fail and prevent brake lights from illuminating. This is a critical safety issue impacting visibility to other drivers.
  • Another recall pertains to the back-up camera system, which may intermittently disable. This is a compliance issue affecting rear visibility.
  • While owner complaints are absent, a high TSB count indicates potential for other minor to moderate issues, possibly related to electrical or HVAC systems.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Nissan Sentra

The 2019 Nissan Sentra presents itself as a practical compact car, prioritizing fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride. While it boasts a respectable overall safety rating and a lack of owner complaints, a significant recall related to the brake light switch and a notable number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest potential areas of concern for used car buyers. These issues, particularly the brake light switch, directly impact vehicle communication and safety on the road. Buyers should prioritize verifying recall completion and inspecting related systems.

Critical Failure Risk

The brake light switch can fail due to contamination or wear, leading to non-functional brake lights. This is a critical safety issue that can increase the risk of rear-end collisions.

Early detection can help you avoid a $150-$300 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
29
MPG
City
27
MPG
Highway
33
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.7/ 10

Practicality

5.2/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious commuters seeking good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand absolute mechanical certainty and minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Nissan Sentra Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Nissan Sentra.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
4x2
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
29

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Most Common Issues

1. Brake Light Switch Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Back-Up Camera Malfunction

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 - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

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
3 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Nissan Sentra reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Nissan Sentra is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2019 Nissan Sentra for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.2/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Nissan Sentra is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Light Switch (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $300).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

Base MSRP is $19,190.

What engine is in the 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2019 Nissan Sentra use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Nissan Sentra, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is 4x2.

Does the 2019 Sentra require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Nissan Sentra, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Nissan Sentra, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Nissan Sentra use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Nissan Sentra, drivetrain is 4x2. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Nissan Sentra?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Honda Civic and 2019 Toyota Corolla.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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