Is the Nissan Versa reliable?
44% of the 25 we inspected scored 60/100 or higher, with an average of 58/100 — it scores about average.
25
Cars inspectedreal pre-purchase inspections58/100
Average conditionall cars we check: 60/10044%
In good shape (60+)all cars we check: 52%Across 25 used Nissan Versas we inspected, this model scores about average — average condition 58/100 vs 60 for all cars we check. Every number on this page comes from real pre-purchase inspections — cars people were about to buy and paid an independent inspector to go through point by point, engine to underbody, paint depth to error codes. Not owner surveys, not warranty statistics, not forum lore: what we actually found.
What we found
Most common faults
Oil leaks · Engine
52%
Active error codes · Electronic equipment
40%
Tires condition & wear · Brakes and tires
36%
Cracked or torn suspension bushings · Suspension
32%
Abnormal noise · Engine
24%
Share of inspected Nissan Versas where each item was flagged.
How they score
Excellent 12%
Good 32%
Mediocre 40%
Poor 16%
Hidden history
What the seller might not mention — how often we find it on this model.
52%had a repainted or replaced panelall cars: 75%
16%showed structural repairall cars: 4%
24%had fault codes recently clearedall cars: 23%
More on Nissan
Other Nissan models we've inspected — or see the full Nissan profile.
Straight from recent Nissan Versa reports
2024 Nissan Versa · 24k mi — flagged: oil leaks, signs of airbag deployment, supplemental restraint system. Inspected Jul 24.
2021 Nissan Versa · 95k mi — flagged: abnormal noise, charging voltage, electronic components issues. Inspected May 22.
The bottom line
These Versas often hide serious past damage alongside neglected engines and suspensions. Structural repairs appear at four times the fleet rate, so make a thorough frame and underbody inspection your absolute first move—any sign of it and you should walk. Oil leaks show up on over half of them, frequently paired with cracked bushings and active codes, so budget for those fixes or negotiate them down hard before you commit. Skip any example that already needs tires or sounds off under the hood.
FAQ
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What are the most common problems on a used Nissan Versa?
The items we flag most often are oil leaks (52%), active error codes (40%), tires condition & wear (36%). Have these checked before buying.
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Should I worry about cleared fault codes?
On 24% of these cars the ECU codes had been erased shortly before sale, which can hide active faults. Ask for a diagnostic scan and start the engine from cold.
Thinking of buying a Nissan Versa? Get the exact car inspected before you pay.
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Based on 25 inspections · updated Jul 25, 2026
