Are Nissan Versa Reliable? What You Need to Know Before Buying

Shopping for a budget-friendly car and wondering if the Nissan Versa will actually last? You’re asking the right question. The short answer: it depends heavily on which year you buy and what’s under the hood. Stick around—we’ll break down exactly which Versas to grab and which to avoid like the plague.

The Reliability Report Card: How Nissan Versa Really Stacks Up

So, are Nissan Versa reliable? The numbers paint a surprisingly mixed picture.

RepairPal gives the Versa a solid 4.5 out of 5.0, ranking it 9th out of 32 subcompact cars. Not too shabby. Most Versas will cruise past 100,000 miles without major drama, and plenty of owners report hitting 200,000+ miles with proper care.

The newer models (2020-2025) score around 4.0 out of 5 stars for reliability. J.D. Power hands the 2021 Versa an 83 out of 100 for quality and reliability—that’s above average for the category.

Here’s the kicker: these overall scores hide some nasty problems lurking beneath the surface. The transmission in particular can turn your “reliable” Versa into an expensive headache faster than you can say “warranty expired.”

What’ll It Cost You to Keep Running?

Annual repair costs average around $450—right in line with other subcompact cars and way cheaper than the $650 average for larger vehicles. That’s genuinely budget-friendly.

But here’s where things get tricky. That $450 average assumes everything goes smoothly. When the transmission decides to quit (and we’ll get to that), you’re looking at $3,500-$4,500 for a replacement. That one repair wipes out nearly eight years of “average” maintenance costs.

Think of it like this: most years, you’ll spend less than your friends with Civics or Corollas. But if you hit the transmission lottery, you’ll spend more in one visit than they will in five years.

First Generation (2007-2011): Steer Clear

The original Versa? Yeah, it’s got problems—plural.

The 2009 model year collected the most complaints of any Versa ever made. Owners reported engine knocking, transmission failures, and a laundry list of other issues that’ll make you wish you’d bought literally anything else.

Here’s what went wrong:

Deadly Airbag Issues: The 2007-2011 models came with faulty Takata airbags that could fail to deploy—or worse, explode and injure you. Over 500,000 vehicles were recalled. If you’re even considering one of these, verify the airbag recall was completed. Your life literally depends on it.

Rust-Prone Coil Springs: Nissan skimped on rust coating for the coil springs. They corroded, broke, and damaged tires, struts, and suspension components. Nothing says “reliable” like your spring snapping and potentially causing a blowout.

General Quality Issues: These early models just weren’t built well. Period.

The 2010-2011 models improved slightly, but “slightly better than terrible” isn’t exactly a ringing endorsement. Unless you’re getting one for free (and even then, think twice), skip this generation entirely.

Second Generation (2012-2019): The CVT Nightmare Years

This generation introduced the infamous CVT transmission—and boy, did Nissan hear about it.

The 2012-2014 Disaster

The 2012 Versa’s transmission failed around 72,850 miles on average, costing over $4,000 to replace. That’s barely past the original warranty period.

The problems got so bad that Nissan extended the CVT warranty from 60,000 to 84,000 miles after class-action lawsuits. That tells you everything you need to know—companies don’t extend warranties out of generosity.

Symptoms included:

• Jerking during acceleration
• Trouble shifting gears
• Whining or grinding noises
• Complete failure (leaving you stranded)

Avoid 2012-2014 models unless you enjoy gambling with four-figure repair bills.

The 2015-2019 Improvement

Things got better—noticeably better—from 2015 onward. These model years showed markedly fewer transmission complaints, with only single-digit reports across tens of thousands of vehicles sold.

Here’s the secret sauce: get the manual transmission if you can find one.

Versas with manual transmissions proved far more reliable than CVT models. Owners routinely reported 60,000-130,000+ miles with zero transmission issues. The five-speed manual is smooth, easy to operate (great if you’re learning stick), and won’t leave you stranded.

If you’re shopping for a used Versa from this era, the manual transmission isn’t just preferred—it’s essential for peace of mind.

Third Generation (2020-2025): Better, But Not Perfect

The completely redesigned 2020 Versa represents a genuine step forward. RepairPal gives the 2022 model a 4 out of 5 reliability rating, and the 2021 scored similarly with zero recalls.

Consumer Reports expects the 2025 Versa to have about average reliability compared to other new cars. That’s damning with faint praise, but it’s honest.

What Still Goes Wrong

Don’t think the third generation solved everything. Problems persist:

Electrical Gremlins: Some 2020-2024 models experienced electrical problems within 8,000 miles. MAF sensor failures trigger check engine lights regularly.

Transmission Shuddering: The CVT improved, but it’s not bulletproof. Some owners report shuddering, especially during acceleration.

Braking Issues: The 2024 Versa has documented problems with unexpected brake system activations. That’s… not ideal when you’re driving.

Steering Problems: Some 2021 models experienced loss of power steering assist, requiring recalls. Losing power steering at highway speeds ranks pretty high on the “things I’d rather not experience” list.

The good news? These issues affect a smaller percentage of vehicles than the catastrophic transmission failures of earlier generations.

Manual vs. CVT: The Reliability Showdown

Let’s talk transmissions—because this choice matters more than any other factor.

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission):

• Improves fuel economy by about 5 mpg
• Smoother acceleration (when working properly)
• Higher risk of catastrophic failure
• Expensive to replace ($3,500-$4,500)
• Newer Xtronic CVT (2023-2025) is better but still concerning

Manual Transmission:

• Significantly superior long-term reliability
• Lower repair costs
• More engaging to drive
• Requires learning stick (not hard on the Versa)
• Discontinued for 2025 (if you want one, buy 2024 or earlier)

Here’s my take: Nissan discontinued the manual for 2025, forcing everyone into the CVT. That’s unfortunate because the manual proved itself bulletproof while the CVT remained questionable.

If you’re buying used, hunt for a manual. If you’re buying new and want a manual, 2024 is your last chance.

Making Your CVT Last Longer

Stuck with a CVT? You’re not doomed. Change the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles or three years—Nissan’s official schedule says “lifetime fill,” but that’s corporate-speak for “it’ll last until the warranty expires.”

Drive smart:

• Accelerate smoothly (no jackrabbit starts)
• Avoid steep grades when loaded down
• Use sport mode when appropriate (reduces strain)
• Don’t tow anything (seriously, don’t)

These habits won’t guarantee your CVT reaches 200,000 miles, but they’ll improve your odds considerably.

The Best and Worst Versa Years

Buy These: 2017-2019 (manual preferred), 2021, 2022-2025 (manual if available)

These years balance proven reliability with modern features. The 2017-2019 models benefited from Nissan’s CVT improvements without being guinea pigs for a redesign. The 2021-2022 models represent the sweet spot of the third generation—past the first-year bugs but before Nissan dropped the manual.

Avoid These: 2009, 2012-2014, early 2020

The 2009 was a lemon festival. The 2012-2014 models represent peak CVT failure rates with the most expensive repairs. Early 2020 models suffered typical first-year redesign problems—electrical issues and transmission teething pains.

If someone offers you a 2012 Versa cheap, there’s a reason. Walk away.

Common Problems Beyond the Transmission

Steering Woes

Select 2016 models drift or wander unexpectedly, even after dealer realignment. That’s unsettling when you’re trying to stay in your lane on the highway.

Fuel System Issues

The 2007-2011 models developed fuel pressure regulator problems, causing extended cranking or failure to start. You’ll turn the key, wait, listen to the engine crank pathetically, and wonder if today’s the day you’re calling a tow truck.

Weak A/C Systems

Multiple model years suffer from weak cooling requiring evaporator core replacement—sometimes within the warranty period. Nothing like sweating through summer because Nissan couldn’t build a proper A/C system.

Check Engine Light Festival

The 2020-2024 models activate check engine lights frequently, often for MAF sensor faults or emission system codes. It’s like playing whack-a-mole with engine codes.

Premature Brake Wear

Owners report brake pads wearing out and squealing within 30,000-50,000 miles. That’s roughly half the lifespan you’d expect from quality brakes.

Warranty Coverage: What Nissan Promises

Nissan’s standard warranty covers three years/36,000 miles basic and five years/60,000 miles powertrain. That’s… not impressive. Hyundai offers 10 years/100,000 miles, making Nissan look stingy.

The extended CVT warranty for 2012-2019 models provides coverage to 84,000 miles—crucial given when these transmissions typically fail. For 2020-2025 models, you’re stuck with standard powertrain coverage ending at 60,000 miles.

New for 2025, Nissan includes three free oil changes during the first two years or 24,000 miles. That’s worth about $120 total—a small concession acknowledging that maintenance matters.

If you’re buying a used Versa outside warranty coverage, seriously consider an extended warranty. The CVT risk alone justifies the cost.

Long-Term Ownership: What to Expect

Here’s the honest truth about owning a Versa long-term.

The Good:

• Purchase price under $20,000 (incredibly affordable)
• Fuel economy of 32-40 mpg combined on CVT models
• Surprisingly spacious interior
• Modest annual maintenance costs ($450 average)
• Parts widely available and reasonably priced

The Bad:

• Transmission replacement risk hanging over your head
• Economy construction means some repairs cost more than you’d expect
• Resale value drops faster than competitors
• Not particularly fun to drive
• Road noise and ride quality reflect the budget price

Maintenance Is Non-Negotiable: Skip oil changes or recommended service, and you’ll guarantee engine and transmission problems before 100,000 miles. The Versa forgives nothing.

Some repairs cost surprisingly much due to awkward engineering. Replacing a blower motor? That’ll be $800+ because you’ve got to disconnect steering linkage to access it. Budget engineering creates expensive labor.

The Verdict: Should You Buy One?

Are Nissan Versa reliable? The answer depends entirely on which one you buy and how you treat it.

Buy a Versa if:

• You need affordable, fuel-efficient transportation
• You’re buying 2017-2019, 2021-2024 model years
• You can find one with a manual transmission
• You’ll follow the maintenance schedule religiously
• You understand and accept the CVT risk

Skip the Versa if:

• You need maximum reliability above all else
• You’re considering 2009, 2012-2014 models
• You can’t afford a potential $4,000 transmission repair
• You want a fun, engaging driving experience
• You’re bad about keeping up with maintenance

The newest Versas offer solid value for budget-conscious buyers with realistic expectations. You won’t confuse it with a sports car or luxury vehicle, but it’ll get you to work and back without drama—most of the time.

The manual transmission delivers genuinely good reliability. The CVT? It’s a calculated risk that’s gotten better but remains the Versa’s Achilles heel.

For maximum reliability within the Versa lineup, grab a 2024 or earlier model with a manual transmission. That combination offers the best long-term durability prospects, though Nissan’s decision to drop the manual for 2025 means the window’s closing fast.

The Versa isn’t the most reliable car you can buy—that honor goes to something boring like a Corolla or Civic. But with smart model year selection and proper maintenance, it’s reliable enough for buyers who value affordability over perfection.

Just steer clear of those 2012-2014 models. Your wallet will thank you.