The 2011 Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan available used from $5,617 to $8,518. It offers a more nimble driving experience than its competitors, but sacrifices some comfort in the pursuit of performance.
- Sporty and powerful optional engine choices.
- Interior materials are good for a car at this price point.
- Rides well and has an excellent steering feel.
- Cramped cabin with very little rear passenger legroom.
- Safety ratings are low for its class.
- Fuel economy is not as good as its competitors.
2011 Nissan Sentra: Quick Overview
- For 2011, Nissan added stability control across the board. The Sentra ranks average in overall reliability.
- Three engines are available. The most powerful option is exclusive to the SE-R Spec V model and offers excellent performance for a compact car.
- Sentra ranks 6th in its class for fuel economy with a combined rating of up to 29 miles per gallon.
- Below average in safety for its class, earning 4-stars overall in government crash tests, but only 3-star ratings in the frontal and side impact test.
- The 2011 Sentra ranks relatively low in the crowded compact car class, but that does not mean it is a bad car. For a simple compact sedan, the Nissan does well. It is enjoyable and responsive to drive.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Nissan Sentra Have?
A problem with the 2011 Nissan Sentra is noises coming from the engine. Owners report hearing loud rumbling and knocking sounds, which are fixed by replacing the engine in some cases. Fortunately for prospective buyers this is a rare problem with only 3 complaints from owners. Reports of transmissions slipping while driving and engines stalling are mentioned, but also not very common. Overall, the 2011 model year has relatively few reported problems compared to other years.
There are two recalls affecting the 2011 Sentra. Both are serious since they cover electrical components failing, including the battery terminal cable and the battery cable harness. Failing to address recalls increases the risk of damaging the electronic control module for the engine, which is expensive to replace.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2011 Nissan Sentra has six trims that range from dull 2.0 to 200-hp Spec V, and most offer decent features and great fuel economy. The 2011 Nissan Sentra can be found used from $5,617 to $8,518 depending on the model and mileage. When it was new it had a retail price of $16,060 to $20,620. Depreciation is faster than average, losing 56% of its value in the first 5 years.
- The base model is the 0. Standard is a CD player with an AUX input, cloth seating, 15-inch wheels, and either a 6-speed manual transmission or optional CVT.
- Above that is the 0S model. Features added include a standard CVT, cruise control, 16-inch wheels, keyless entry, and a stereo with an iPod interface.
- Next in the lineup is the 0 SR. Upgrades include alloy wheels, power windows and door mirrors, and a rear spoiler.
- Above the SR is the 0 SL. The improvements continue with a satellite-ready stereo, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
- Stepping up to the SE-R model gives you a more powerful engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, and improved exterior styling.
- The flagship model is the SE-R Spec V. It steps back to a manual transmission for a more connected driving feel. Upgrades include sport-tuned suspension, upgraded bucket seats, and larger brakes for improved stopping performance.
How Long Will the 2011 Nissan Sentra Last?
The 2011 Nissan Sentra is in line with class averages, lasting 150,000 to 200,000 miles when properly cared for. However, Repair Pal estimates it is much more expensive to own than other vehicles in its class, costing $490 per year to maintain.
Very reliable. Just have to make sure that you are easy on the steering because the studs get loose. Other than that, it last a long time with tender, love, and care.
Yes it is very reliable drives very good and have no problems. The make and model are good companies.
My sentra is very reliable. Not only does my car have great gas mileage. I know that I can get in it and go anywhere that I want to go.
Yes very reliable the engine light keeps coming on saying that the air mass flow something is going on with it but there's nothing wrong.
It had been a very reliable vehicle and I've had no problems with my 2011 Nissan Sentra. As with any vehicle as long as you take care of it and maintain the maintenance it will last many years to come.
It's very reliable and never had any issues. The engine and transmission is still going strong after 8 years and minimal maintenance completed.
It has always been reliable in the past. As it is beginning to wear out, my mechanic told me to sell because this particular model will one day just quit on me.
Super reliable! I bought this second hand, after being in an accident and it's gotten me everywhere for two years
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is sparse throughout the 2011 Sentra, and it leaves owners wishing there was more.
- Base technology includes a single AM/FM/CD stereo system with an Auxiliary input and four speakers.
- Technology upgrades include an improved stereo with six speakers, Bluetooth, and iPod/USB connectivity.
- For safety, standard features include brake assist, traction control, and six-airbags.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is above average for a compact car with the 2011 Sentra SE-R Spec V model getting from 0 to 60 in 6.8 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.0L 4-cylinder with 140 horsepower.
- An upgraded 2.5L 4-cylinder found in the SE-R makes 177 horsepower
- The 2.5L 4-cylinder in the SE-R Spec V model produces 200 horsepower.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Sentra?
Even for a compact car, the 2011 Sentra is small. Interior room is smaller than its competitors, and rear seat legroom is only acceptable for a child. If you know you will be carrying adult passengers, the Sentra is not the car for you. It has 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk, enough for three suitcases.
How Does the 2011 Nissan Sentra Compare to Other Cars?
Based on owner reviews, the 2011 Sentra ranks 19th out of 29 small cars. A strong competitor is the Honda Civic, which has better safety ratings and is more engaging and fun to drive in its base models. The Nissan offers a better interior, but the Civic is ranked higher according to owners, with a lower cost of ownership, making it the better choice overall.
Another competitor is the Chevy Cruze. It scores higher in safety tests than the Nissan, but that is where the positives end. The Sentra offers a better interior, more powerful engines, and more attractive styling than the Cruze. In this battle the Sentra wins since it is better equipped.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Nissan Sentra a Good Car?
Our final assessment of the 2011 Nissan Sentra is yes, it is a good car. The higher end models are fun to drive with the more powerful 2.5L engine, and the interior materials are better than other vehicles in its class. Safety scores are below average for a car this size. It also has cramped back seats not capable of carrying adult passengers comfortably. Overall, the Sentra is a good car if you want a responsive daily driver, but it’s not a class-leader.