2002 Nissan Sentra consumer reviews

Had one of these cars for 5 years and NEVER had a problem with it. Extremely economic car with great gas mileage.

Its amazing for me to hear some of the negative reviews on this car. Especially if you bought the car used, and did not do your research on the history of the car first. Buying a used car is pretty much a shot in the dark, and of course you'll have to put some money into it. Its a used car! You have to know what kind of car your buying. For those who bought a SPec V like myself (used). You know it was beat on to some extent by the previous owner(s). Thats why they bought it to begin with. For its lively sports compact package. (DUH???) So if you bought one...you should already know what your getting yourself into. I love my 02 Spec V. It has never given me any issues and I have owned it for 2.5 yrs. Bought it with 42K, and it now has 98K. Knowing that its a used car, I first did some basic preventative maintanence on the car when I first got it, to atleast give myself a platform of where the cars mechanics stand. Upgraded the rotors to slotted cross drilled, change the brakes, and added a cold air intake, changed the oil (synthetic), use premium gasoline (recommended for the car). And it has been a great investment since. I use the car daily, in the city, and have no issues. Its a great car that gives you alot of perks/fun for a great price. 02 & 03 SPEC V models were the best, in my opinion in regards to design and individuality. It didn't look like its older brothers (Altima/Maxima). Great car. For a great price!

Pros: snappy acceleration, great in the turns, nice bucket seats, engine is flawless since I've owned and loves to be beat on Cons: Clunky shifting (common on spec V's according to the forums), Exterior could be more sporty Overall this compact car is tough to beat for the money. Naturally Aspirated engine means no messy turbo lag, great power and good gas mileage.

My family and I moved here from indiana and and our previous car gave out. This Sentra has been a true blessing for us.

great performance for normal aspirated engine (aka non-turbo) and one of the best handling cars for the money

I have been driving a 2002 Sentra SE-R for 5 years and have had very few problems with it. It gets great gas mileage and is fun to drive too! My only complaint is the amount of leg-room in the back, but sports cars don't generally have a lot of that anyway.

Great power in ALL 5 gears. No need to down shift all the time. Passes in a blink. Could use better gear ratio in second and third. Wish it had a 6-speed.

Good compact car for the family... great first car definitely! almost maintenance free and great value for money... gave me 28-30 mpg.. thats wonderful...

I've enjoyed this car while I've had it. It not only gets great gas mileage but hasn't broken down on me or had any real problems. :)

I averaged 28 mpg with the highest fuel efficiency being 44 mpg on a highway trip from Phoenix to Tucson!