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2021 Nissan Versa Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ryan Davis·2 Critical Recalls
2021 Nissan Versa Report

Overall Score

8.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 Versa achieved a top 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with strong scores in side-impact protection.
  • Fuel economy is a strong suit, delivering an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined.
  • Multiple recalls, including two for the Electric Power Assist System (EPS), are a significant concern and require verification of completion.
  • The absence of consumer complaints is noted, but does not entirely offset the implications of the recall history.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Nissan Versa

The 2021 Nissan Versa presents itself as a practical compact sedan, boasting impressive NHTSA safety scores and commendable fuel efficiency. It's powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) driving the front wheels. While it lacks consumer complaints in the provided data, a notable number of recalls, especially those affecting the steering system, suggest potential systemic issues that warrant careful consideration for used car shoppers.

Critical Failure Risk

Multiple recalls have targeted the EPS system, indicating a potential for steering assist failure. This can manifest as intermittent or complete loss of power steering, making the vehicle difficult to steer.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls8
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
30
MPG
City
27
MPG
Highway
35
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.0/ 10

Practicality

5.8/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious commuters prioritizing fuel savings and safety.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a flawless reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Nissan Versa Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Nissan Versa.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
30

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electric Power Assist System (EPS) Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Exterior Lighting Malfunction (Turn Signal Bulbs)

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: $75 - $125

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
8 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Nissan Versa reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Nissan Versa is 8.0/10. Reliability score is 8.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Nissan Versa for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.8/10. EPA combined economy is 30 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 425 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Nissan Versa?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Nissan Versa is 8.0/10. Overall score is 8.0/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 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 - Brake System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Electric Power Assist System (EPS) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $2,500).

What engine is in the 2021 Nissan Versa?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2021 Nissan Versa use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Nissan Versa, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Nissan Versa?▾

EPA combined estimate is 30 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Nissan Versa?▾

13 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Nissan Versa?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Nissan Versa, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Nissan Versa?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Nissan Versa, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Nissan Versa use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Nissan Versa, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Nissan Versa?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Nissan Versa?▾

This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Nissan Versa?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Toyota Yaris and 2021 Kia Rio.

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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