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2018 Nissan Versa Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ryan Davis
2018 Nissan Versa Report

Overall Score

8.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • The 1.6-liter engine and automatic transmission prioritize fuel economy (29 MPG combined) over spirited performance.
  • A moderate-severity recall for the ignition switch requires verification of repair. This system is a critical pre-purchase inspection point.
  • While no consumer complaints were logged, 23 Technical Service Bulletins indicate potential for various minor issues that may require attention.
  • The Versa achieved a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with solid scores in frontal and side impacts.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Nissan Versa

The 2018 Nissan Versa presents itself as a budget-friendly compact car, prioritizing fuel efficiency and basic transportation needs. Its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a standard automatic transmission, delivers an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined. Safety ratings are respectable, with four out of five stars in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests, and an overall rating of four stars. However, a history of recalls, particularly one concerning the ignition switch that could lead to engine shutdown, warrants careful consideration for used car buyers. While consumer complaints are absent in the data, a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest potential for various minor issues over the vehicle's lifespan.

Critical Failure Risk

The ignition switch can fail, leading to the key inadvertently moving from the 'run' position to 'accessory,' potentially causing the engine to shut off while driving. This is a moderate severity recall item.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
29
MPG
City
26
MPG
Highway
35
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

5.7/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious commuters seeking reliable, fuel-efficient daily transportation.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking engaging performance or advanced technology features.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Nissan Versa Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Nissan Versa.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic 4-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
29

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Most Common Issues

1. Ignition 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: $80 - $130

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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Nissan Versa reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Nissan Versa is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Nissan Versa for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.7/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 422 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Nissan Versa is 8.0/10. Overall score is 8.0/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

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: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Ignition Switch (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $400).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

Base MSRP is $13,005.

What engine is in the 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2018 Nissan Versa use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Versa, transmission is Automatic 4-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Versa, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Versa, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Nissan Versa use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Versa, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 4-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Nissan Versa?▾

This model year has 2 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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