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2001-2006 Nissan Sentra Pre-Owned

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Justin Pritchard
Sporty and comfortable Sentra has a long list of recalls
The last-generation Sentra brought Nissan's generations-old nameplate into the compact car class formerly occupied by the Altima- which itself also sized-up back in 2001. With the two entry-level Nissan models larger than before, the Japanese automaker's lineup was cleared to include the recent addition of the Versa.

Sentra competes with the Civics, Corolla's, G5's and Focus's of the world, bringing Nissan's attention to sportiness and performance to the affordable car market. Of course, no one ever bought a standard Sentra model because it was particularly exciting or the roomiest machine in the category. Sentra did do well when it came to delivering a comfortable ride combined with a powerful engine and a well-sprung ride, though.

2004 Nissan Sentra

Enabling a blend of performance and economy were a selection of four-cylinder engines. The first, a 1.8 liter unit, developed 126 horsepower and 129 lb.-ft of torque. Optionally available was a 2.0 liter inline four cylinder engine with 145 horsepower and 136 lb.-ft of torque. This engine occupied the upper portion of the Sentra model lineup until the high-performance SE-R and SE-R Spec V models were launched in 2002.

Regardless of trim level, Sentra drivers often comment on the machine's relative bang for the buck factor in the features and fun departments. Check out the Sentra if you're after an economical car that's still fun to drive. It's not a mileage leader, but it is one of the sportiest and most comfortable cars around for the price. If you want an affordable performance sedan with room for the kids, the high-powered SE-R variants will really get the job done.

Sentra's have historically been recognized as reliable used cars, though the last generation models were produced in Mexico and weren't without their share of annoying problems- including a long list of recalls.

A failure to start combined with random engine stalling. This can occur while the vehicle is driving- potentially causing an accident. A number of issues can cause this problem, though a corrosion-promoting foam used in the engine computer is most often listed as the culprit. In effect, the insulating foam slowly decomposes and releases small amounts of corrosive gas into the computer, eventually ruining connections. This can lead to a slew of drivability problems and 'check engine light' illumination. It's likely to be frustrating and hard to diagnose. Luckily, it's an easy fix, and a recall item.

Justin Pritchard
Justin Pritchard
Automotive expert
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