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2011 Nissan Versa Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ryan Davis·27 Critical Recalls
2011 Nissan Versa Report

Overall Score

6.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant recall activity, particularly concerning air bag inflators, necessitates verifying completion of all manufacturer campaigns.
  • The vehicle's overall safety rating is low, warranting a close examination of its structural integrity and safety systems.
  • Expect reasonable fuel economy with a combined 27 MPG, contributing to lower running costs for daily driving.
  • Despite a lack of consumer complaints, the high volume of critical recalls indicates potential safety risks that must be investigated.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 Nissan Versa

The 2011 Nissan Versa is an economical compact car that prioritizes affordability and fuel efficiency. It offers practical transportation for daily commutes. However, its below-average reliability verdict, driven by a significant number of critical recalls related to air bag inflators, demands careful consideration. The vehicle achieves respectable 27 MPG combined, but potential buyers should be aware of its safety rating and the need for thorough pre-purchase inspections, especially concerning the air bag systems.

Critical Failure Risk

Extensive recalls exist for both driver and passenger side airbag inflators, particularly those manufactured by Takata. These can rupture upon deployment, scattering metal fragments. This is a critical safety defect.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$700 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls28
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
107–122HP
Torque
111–127 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
27
MPG
City
24
MPG
Highway
31
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.6/ 10

Practicality

5.3/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing basic transportation and fuel efficiency above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a dependable, long-term vehicle with a strong reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Nissan Versa Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Nissan Versa.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
107-122 hp
Torque
111-127 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic 4-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
MSRP Range
$9,990 - $17,410
EPA Combined MPG
27

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Most Common Issues

1. Air Bag Inflator Rupture

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Front Coil Spring Fracture

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 - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $80 - $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 (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
28 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2011 Nissan Versa reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Nissan Versa is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 28. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2011 Nissan Versa for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.3/10. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 391 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Nissan Versa is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag System (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What is the MSRP range for the 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

MSRP range is $9,990 - $17,410.

What engine is in the 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.8. Output is 107-122 hp • 111-127 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2011 Nissan Versa use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Versa, transmission is Automatic 4-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Versa, fuel economy range is 24-29 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Versa, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Versa, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Nissan Versa use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Versa, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 4-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 2/5 • Frontal 3/5 • Side 2/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Nissan Versa?▾

This model year has 28 official safety campaigns listed.

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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