The 2021 Nissan Versa has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 29 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Nissan Versa. Severity signals include 5 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (6), Electrical System (4), Steering (4).
Versa reliability snapshot
77/100
Latest model-year reliability score
4.0/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$456
Avg annual repair cost vs $456 category avg
#9/21
Ranking in subcompact cars · better than 57% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Nissan Versa before checking the VIN
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Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Power Train6
Electrical System4
Steering4
Unknown Or Other4
Visibility Wiper3
Air Bags3
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Nissan Versa
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Test drive to check for transmission shudder or jerky movements
☐Inspect for any dashboard warning lights, especially traction control
☐Verify accurate fuel gauge readings after refueling
☐Check for coolant levels and any signs of leakage
☐Test brakes for proper function and any locking tendencies
☐Inspect windshield for stress fractures or distortion
What owners reported
2021 Nissan Versa owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 5 crashes and 3 injuries to NHTSA for the 2021 Nissan Versa. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints6
POWER TRAIN
Owners report issues with the CVT transmission in the 2021 Nissan Versa, with common symptoms including a sudden loss of forward drive, stalling, and a jerky or sluggish response. Several complaints describe the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly, failing to move in gear, and making abnormal grinding sounds, often without any prior warning lights. These problems are noted at various mileage points, with some occurring around 21,000 miles and others at higher mileages like 75,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as multiple owners mention being left in traffic or intersections, unable to move the vehicle, posing a risk of collision. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these reported transmission issues and their potential impact on drivability and safety.
Owner complaints4
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2021 Nissan Versa report several distinct issues. A common complaint involves water collecting on spark plug coils, leading to misfires and a check engine light, particularly after exposure to rain or snow. This issue is noted to recur even after repairs and is associated with improper water diversion through the windshield wiper cowl. Another reported problem is a sudden inability to accelerate beyond 35 mph, often accompanied by stalling and difficulty switching gears, even with regular maintenance at around 68,000 miles. Additionally, there are reports of batteries failing prematurely, despite the alternator and starter being in good condition. While no direct safety incidents are mentioned, the acceleration issue could potentially impact driving safety. These complaints highlight potential concerns for used car buyers considering this model.
Owner complaints4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners of the 2021 Nissan Versa frequently report issues related to the electrical system, with common symptoms including erratic power and dashboard warning indicators, such as traction control lights. Complaints often mention problems with the vehicle becoming inoperable around the 40,000 to 45,000-mile mark, with some owners experiencing reduced vehicle control at highway speeds. Additionally, multiple owners describe issues with inaccurate fuel gauge readings, where the gauge fails to reflect the actual fuel level after refueling. Safety implications are noted in reports of electrical failures coinciding with transmission issues, leading to vehicle inoperability and, in one case, contributing to a crash. These patterns provide potential buyers with insight into the reliability of the vehicle's electrical components.
Owner complaints4
STEERING
Owners of the 2021 Nissan Versa report issues primarily related to steering and braking, with significant safety implications. Complaints frequently mention erratic steering behavior, including unexpected tugs and a loss of power while turning. Additionally, braking problems are noted, with reports of brakes locking or failing entirely, contributing to crashes and one injury. These issues appear to arise after collisions or during normal driving, but specific mileage ranges are not consistently reported. Potential buyers should be aware of these safety-related complaints, particularly as they involve crashes and injury.
Owners of the 2021 Nissan Versa frequently report issues with the visibility and wiper components, particularly involving the driver side visor and windshield. The driver side visor is said to break or drop down unexpectedly, obstructing the driver's vision, with complaints arising within months of purchase. Additionally, some owners describe windshield problems, such as stress fractures appearing during cold weather and distortion at night due to rear windshield refraction, which complicates safe driving by creating multiple headlight reflections. These issues can pose safety risks by impairing clear visibility, especially in adverse weather or nighttime conditions.
Owner complaints3
AIR BAGS
Owners of the 2021 Nissan Versa report issues related to airbag deployment during crashes. In one incident, the driver airbags deployed effectively, but the passenger was seriously injured, suggesting possible passenger airbag failure. Another complaint describes a significant front-end collision at highway speeds where airbags did not deploy, placing the driver at risk. These reports involve crashes and injuries, indicating potential safety concerns with the airbag system. No specific mileage or timeline patterns are evident from the complaints, but the incidents involve significant impacts and airbag non-deployment, which may be critical for potential buyers to consider.
Owners of the 2021 Nissan Versa report two distinct engine-related issues. One complaint describes a significant loss of acceleration, where the vehicle struggles to exceed 35 mph, occurring consistently over the car's lifespan, which includes 26,000 miles. This owner suspects a factory programming fault, though dealership visits have not resolved the issue. Another owner notes a coolant loss in a vehicle with less than 6,000 miles, observing a drop from the "max" to "min" mark on the reservoir. While no crashes or fires are mentioned, the acceleration issue could imply a potential safety risk due to limited speed control. These patterns may be relevant for buyers considering a used 2021 Versa, particularly in assessing the vehicle's performance in various environments and its maintenance needs.
2021 Versa recalls (3)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Versa. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
STEERINGNHTSA 23V496000Jul 18, 2023
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 Versa and Kicks vehicles. An intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor can disable the power steering assist.
Consequence: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code and replace the steering column assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA26. This recall involves vehicles that were previously inspected, but did not receive a steering column replacement, under recall number 22V-693. These vehicles will need to be reinspected for this recall.
STEERINGNHTSA 22V693000Sep 15, 2022
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 Versa and Kicks vehicles. An intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor can disable the power steering assist.
Consequence: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code, and replace the column, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 9, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PMA10 / PMA25.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGNHTSA 21V471000Jun 23, 2021
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Titan, Titan XD, and Versa vehicles. The front right and/or left turn signal bulb can crack and fail to illuminate.
Consequence: Inoperable front turn signals cannot alert on-coming drivers and/or pedestrians that the vehicle will be turning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the bulbs as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 20, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PM986 and PC811.
Used-market value
2021 Nissan Versa resale snapshot
57.1%estimated value retained after 5 years
188listings in the model-level benchmark
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2021 Nissan Versa scores 77 out of 100, placing it above the segment average of 68. This suggests a solid reliability performance for its class. Complaints are relatively low and distributed across several areas, with no single issue category overwhelmingly dominant. This dispersion indicates a lack of systemic problems, although the power train has the highest number of complaints.
The recall count stands at three, which is moderate and does not significantly detract from the vehicle's overall reliability profile. As the third year of its generation, the Versa benefits from prior model refinements, contributing to its consistent performance.
Overall, the 2021 Nissan Versa presents a solid reliability profile with moderate risk, making it a generally dependable choice within its segment.
What you get in a 2021 Nissan Versa report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2021 Nissan Versa now
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2021 Nissan Versa — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Nissan Versa reliable?
The 2021 Nissan Versa scores 77 out of 100, placing it above the segment average of 68. This suggests a solid reliability performance for its class. Complaints are relatively low and distributed across several areas, with no single issue category overwhelmingly dominant. This dispersion indicates a lack of systemic problems, although the power train has the highest number of complaints.
How many recalls does the 2021 Nissan Versa have?
3 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Nissan Versa. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Nissan Versa problems?
The most-reported 2021 Nissan Versa problem areas are: Power Train (6), Electrical System (4), Steering (4).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Nissan Versa?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Nissan Versa, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
