Model-year record

2021 Nissan Versa
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.
Complaints filed
31
Reports to NHTSA, 2021
Safety recalls
3
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
32.5
EPA estimate
Known issues
Power Train issues lead owner complaints (26% of 31 reports), followed by electrical system (13%).
+ 2 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 31 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11741559, ODI 11740221, ODI 11724857, ODI 11719379, ODI 11689040.
Individual complaint reports(31)
Showing the 31 most recent reportsPower TrainJun 2026 · ODI 11741559Details +Close −
Automatic CVT failure confirmed by Future Nissan of Roseville CA. No warning prior to failure. Replaced by Kirkwood Autoworx Mechanical since Nissan Corporate denied a good-will replacement. Reason: 15k miles over warranty - 75081odometer reading at replacement on 5/27/26. CVT failed while on a busy street [XXX] ). I had only reverse and had to back my way out of traffic. Extremely dangerous situation. New Issue: Left Front Door (Driver) Locking actuator failure on XXX Not a safety issue yet. Will not lock or unlock with key fob. Manual entry only. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- May 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMay 2026 · ODI 11740221Details +Close −
Hi, My name is [XXX] and I live in [XXX] . In October 2023 I purchased a used Nissan Versa 2021 from a dealership. It only had 30k miles on it when I bought it. On May 9, 2026 I was driving to work when my car experienced acceleration failure. It had 80,600 miles on it. When the acceleration failed, I was in the process of making a left turn and came very close to being hit by oncoming traffic. After Nissan claimed to fix the issue and I paid a substantial amount of money and drove about 40 miles, the same thing happened. And again it was during a left turn into oncoming traffic. Twice I've come very close to an accident. Something needs to be fixed with these cvt transmissions. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- May 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMar 2026 · ODI 11724857Details +Close −
I got into the car and started it up. Put in reverse car shuts off. Re started and put in reverse. Was able to drive out of apartment parking lot then no power to speed and car was a little jerky and on dashboard it said warning malfunction see owners manual with a few pictures on dashboard
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainFeb 2026 · ODI 11719379Details +Close −
Cvt Transmission failed While driving transmission popped and no forward drive leaving us in traffic unable to move in forward. Had to get out and push the car to the side of the road. No warning lights no warning signs. Just immediate loss of forward drive. Engine revs up but no movement. Dangerously leaving us in harms way. Haven't had the vehicle inspected by nissan yet but will be doing so in the next day or so. Vehicle is and will be Available for inspection or assessment at any time.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Feb 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemFeb 2026 · ODI 11718275Details +Close −
Transmission failure 2 Times. First time experienced jerking and some smoke coming out and second time same jerking and smoke along with electrical system failure. Nissan paid 40% the first time to help and I paid 60% even though I did not agree with that I did it. 2nd time they refuse to pay anything because of warranty even though it only took 40, 000 miles and transmission went out gain. Obvious that the transmissions are trash. The constant jerking and smoking in engine and electrical failure not to mention I was in a hit and run and ran into a tree and brake system did not work and the air bag did not come out after running into a tree. Please people run from Nissan fast. I'm thankful for my life.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJan 2026 · ODI 11714561 · crashDetails +Close −
My 2021 Nissan Versa was struck at high speed while parked and required extensive repairs that exceeded the vehicle’s value. After the repairs, the transmission began acting erratically. The car shudders, hesitates, and feels unstable while driving. Acceleration is unpredictable and the vehicle does not feel safe or reliable. These issues were not present before the collision and have continued to worsen. I have children and do not feel it is safe to operate this vehicle, so it is currently parked.
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Electrical SystemJan 2026 · ODI 11708227Details +Close −
Mileage: Approximately 45,000 Current Status: Inoperable; held at Joe Machens Nissan pending evaluation by Nissan Consumer Affairs. Description of the Problem The vehicle has become completely inoperable, making it unsafe to operate. In the months prior to the failure, traction control warning indicators intermittently appeared on the dashboard. I did not recognize their significance at the time and did not document them, but they may have been early warning signs of the current operational failure. Approximately 22 days prior to the vehicle becoming completely inoperable, it underwent a recall update, oil change, and tire rotation at Joe Machens Nissan. Staff reported no concerns at the time. Shortly afterward, the vehicle began exhibiting reduced driving function and erratic power, which eventually led to complete inoperability. On [XXX], while commuting approximately 40 miles at highway speeds (up to 70 mph), the vehicle exhibited unpredictable engine response. The RPMs fluctuated erratically, and the vehicle would not accelerate beyond 70 mph. There were no dashboard warning indicators at the time. The vehicle is currently in the care of Joe Machens Nissan pending evaluation by Nissan Consumer Affairs. I am submitting this complaint to document potential safety concerns and to contribute to investigations regarding this vehicle model, including similar complaints reported by other 2021 Nissan Versa owners. Safety Impact Statement The operational failure poses a risk of reduced vehicle control and potential accident while driving at highway speeds, even in the absence of dashboard warnings. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainSep 2025 · ODI 11689040Details +Close −
Need to put in complaint the CVT transmissions has been doing a lot of whining and jerky. Spoke to the dealership they stated had no idea what it was. Started to investigate and found out there were recalls in the 2012 to 2015 CVT transmissions on Nissans and there is pending investigation in the years 2020 to 2023 for the same thing. Was told by a car repair to put in complaint. Due to the fact my Nissan stopped and would not move in the middle of an intersection which almost caused a wreck. There were no warning lights it just wouldn't go into gear. This is a big safety issue. It was due to the CVT transmission issues same as the ones in the 2012 to 2015 investigations. It was inspected by a independent service center.
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Seat BeltsMay 2025 · ODI 11661166Details +Close −
On three separate occasions while driving, my driver seatbelt has come unbuckled on it's own. Most recently today. It also sometimes sticks and is difficult to unbuckle.
- Reported
- May 2025
- Incident date
- May 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJan 2025 · ODI 11635655Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while attempting to reverse at 2 MPH, the vehicle made an abnormal grinding sound. Additionally, the contact stated that the high-beam headlights were failing and were independently deactivating. The contact stated that the high-beam headlights switch had to be held manually for the high-beam headlights to remain activated. No warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local Pep Boys to be diagnosed. The local Pep Boys was unable to duplicate the failure. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired, because the dealer was unable to duplicate failure. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
- Reported
- Jan 2025
- Incident date
- Jan 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringSep 2024 · ODI 11615709Details +Close −
The brakes fight and lock from time to time. The steering will get a tug like a car is in front of me. The engine has a weird tug before pulling of and switching gears.when I pull off while turning the car feels like it completely losses power!?
- Reported
- Sep 2024
- Incident date
- Aug 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherAug 2024 · ODI 11611743Details +Close −
Driving down the road, the car enters a phase where you can not accelerate at all. It seems like the fuel injectors are cut off by 90% and you can only accelerate to about 35 mph. It stalls often and feels as if it's struggling to switch gears. It only has 68k miles on it with regular maintenance being done. It is too new to have these problems.
- Reported
- Aug 2024
- Incident date
- May 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperJul 2024 · ODI 11605376Details +Close −
I purchased 2021 4 months ago. Two weeks ago on a very hot day my driver side visor broke. I called Nessan holiness and told them the visor drops. It obstructs vision of driving. I called today and first was put on hold, then call was disconnected. I recalled back and informed Nessan about driver side visor. As we were talking she asked me if I bought car with extended warranty. I said no. Car was sold as is. She hung up the phone on me. She did not call me back, nor did she explain why for hanging up the phone. I googled Nessan Versa driver side visor faulty and found several complaints by other owners about visor dropping down while driving do to cheap visor parts. I don't believe this is my responsibility or other Nessan owners to futuristic keep replacing the driver side visor. Nessan should have a recall on this problem and be forced to make a better quality visor to prevent possible accidents.
- Reported
- Jul 2024
- Incident date
- Jul 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringMar 2024 · ODI 11577638Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Versa. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V496000 (Steering) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Reported
- Mar 2024
- Incident date
- Jul 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMar 2024 · ODI 11577226Details +Close −
Driving down the road, the car enters a phase where you can not accelerate at all. It seems like the fuel injectors are cut off by 90% and you can only accelerate to about 35 mph. Although this has happened the whole life of the car 26,000 miles, today I was fed up with it and decided to make it known there is an issue. I've tried different fuel and that did not fix it. As a mechanic myself, I feel there is some kind of programming fault from the factory. I have taken my car into the Nissan dealer and they told me they couldn't find anything wrong and maybe i was using the wrong fuel. I told them the correct fuel was being used. Their technician told me i bought the wrong car for the harsh Minnesota environment. That did not please me. Thank you for your time and hopefully you can have a serious talk Nissan about this issue.
- Reported
- Mar 2024
- Incident date
- Mar 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2024 · ODI 11570706Details +Close −
Water collects on spark plug coils and the car does not exceed 50 mpg, check engine light comes on. This has happened twice so far, the first time was 1/04/2024. I actually didn't drive the car for two weeks after the first repair, it just sat in the driveway in the rain and snow. The first time I drove it after the first repair, the exact same thing happened. "The water is diverting improperly through the windshield wiper cowl, collecting on cylinder and bypassing seal causing misfire." This is a serious problem that can lead to completely destroying the engine. I joined a few Nissan/Versa forums and this seems to be a common, ongoing problem for 3rd generation Versa owners. I have ordered a 2024 Versa SR and am hoping this issue has already been corrected.
- Reported
- Feb 2024
- Incident date
- Jan 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainDec 2023 · ODI 11558512Details +Close −
When I bought the car, I knew it was not going to be a fast car. After driving for a couple months, I would be going to turn left at an intersection, and it would be sluggish getting across. Eventually you could feel it kick into gear and take off. It now seems to be getting worse. A local mechanic said it had a code P17F4. They would not do touch it there. I took it to Greeley Nissan now and am awaiting a diagnosis.
- Reported
- Dec 2023
- Incident date
- May 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherNov 2023 · ODI 11552996Details +Close −
Battery continues to die after 6 months of having a new one. Alternator and starter have been checked and are in good working condition.
- Reported
- Nov 2023
- Incident date
- Aug 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemOct 2023 · ODI 11552115Details +Close −
First the furl gage reads the wrong amount I filled up and the gauge never changed. The radio which is a known problem cuts in and out or just stops working
- Reported
- Oct 2023
- Incident date
- Oct 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesSep 2023 · ODI 11545075 · crashDetails +Close −
2021 Nissan Versa S on Aug 26th 2023 driving back from NY heading toward Ma. when a Malfunction sign came up on the dashboard of the car. we pulled over trying to figure out what was happening and took a picture of the warning sign also the Break Assist showing something just happened. turned the car off and the driver turned the car back on. Continue driving. 20 miles down the road the Car brakes locked up the car skid a bit jerking driver and passenger forward. The driver stopped the car. A warning sign was on the dashboard showing a yellow square in front of a car and above two cars colliding. Monday I called the Nissan dealership and explained it and how that is very dangerous and a safety issue. lady said yes it is and we need to get you right in and said she was going to connect me with the Service Manger. after learning what happened he said yes that could be an issue and we need you to bring it in. Then said you did purchase the vehicle here said no in Vt then changed his tune now said we cant get you in right away don't have any opening. made an appointment for Sept 7th 11:00 am. I called Nissan Corporation and reported the issue and the way I was treated and how this vehicle is a safety risk to us and the public. was connected to Nissan Consumer Affair. Explained it to the lady she was going up the chain and get this taken care of. We emailed. I have the emails. called another Nissan dealer where we purchased it. Took me in the next morning. Ran a test then explained the test showing there's been a number of malfunctions happening. Said vehicle isn't having the issue at this moment so it passed. Said it was ok to drive. happened again appointment day came the 7th. Service Manger called me saying he can't get me in needs to reschedule. That afternoon happened again causing a crash. with a Utility pole. Showing emails and pictures to police. The police report reads Mechanical issue. I've tried uploading won't let me. but can email if need be.
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Power TrainMar 2023 · ODI 11514275Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while depressing the accelerator pedal from a stop sign, the vehicle started stalling. The contact stated the crash indicator warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, but the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 21.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
WheelsMar 2023 · ODI 11511795Details +Close −
My tires go flat EVERY TIME I put in my rim caps. I spent so much money on new tires, thinking it was the tires but it’s actually my rim caps cutting where my air goes in at. I had to take all of the caps off and I’m still having problems. Besides that, it does not notify you when you need an oil change, my first time going…I could’ve messed up my car. Glad I went in early enough!!! And when I plug my charger piece up, smoke begins to come from it..I always have to take it out.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Dec 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsNov 2022 · ODI 11492174 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
Driver lost control of vehicle and slid along fence to hit a tree stump. Driver airbags went off in time and driver was unscathed. Passenger remembers seeing tree hit car (vision was not obscured by deployed airbag). Passenger was seriously injured and needed airlift to local trauma center. Car was hauled by H&H towing of Gunnison, CO No lights prior to accident. No inspection by manufacturer. No confirmed reproduction by dealer/service center. Attached are police report and detailed report from driver, explaining scenario and injuries sustained.
- Reported
- Nov 2022
- Incident date
- Sep 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Air BagsMay 2022 · ODI 11466320 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
Driving vehicle about 60-65 mph when collision with another vehicle occurred resulting in moderate front end damage to almost all of front bumper with no airbag deployment and put driver in danger due to speed and mechanism of collision which seems to be a malfunction in safety equipment.
- Reported
- May 2022
- Incident date
- May 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Electrical SystemApr 2022 · ODI 11461272Details +Close −
After filling my tank, and driving less than 5 miles, it's at 1/4 full or below. Last fill up @145.3 miles: days later @ 145.3 miles 1/4
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Apr 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperMar 2022 · ODI 11458357Details +Close −
It was a cold February morning when a hard frost had hit our area. I was starting my car to defrost the windshield and warm up before work. After finishing up inside I hopped into my car and noticed a crack RIGHT AWAY!!! IT STARTED AT THE VERY TOP WHERE THE DEFROST STARTS and has now traveled through the middle towards the bottom. After taking it to a dealership the response gives was that it was a stress fracture....There sincerely needs to be a recall on the windshields of other models too..like my daughter's 2020 Rogue..hers did the same thing!!!! Make it right Nissan!!???
- Reported
- Mar 2022
- Incident date
- Feb 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMar 2022 · ODI 11454792Details +Close −
The shape of the driver’s armrest is sharply pointed at front of it. While leaning over to pick something up from passenger side, front of armrest lodged between my ribs and I felt something physically pop. Excruciating pain was caused to point of feeling nauseous. Nearly three weeks later, I’m still sore in the spot where the armrest stabbed me.
- Reported
- Mar 2022
- Incident date
- Feb 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperDec 2021 · ODI 11443081Details +Close −
New car purchased 10/19/2021. Did not test drive at night. When I drove it the next night there is severe rear windshield refraction/distortion at night. Multiple head light reflections for every car behind. Unable to safely determine where cars are behind my vehicle. Contacted East Charlotte Nissan and made an appointment to have it fixed. When I arrived, the tint person told me it was a manufacturers defect and I would just have to get used to it. No one can safely drive at night when their rear view looks like this. Left the dealership and called back spoke with the service manager. They are going to remove the dealer installed tint today to see if that fixes this problem or if is fact it is a manufacturer defect.
- Reported
- Dec 2021
- Incident date
- Nov 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsDec 2021 · ODI 11443085Details +Close −
Rear window tinting - dealer installed. Causes severe distortion/refraction on rear windshield during night driving making it impossible to determine where the cars are behind me.
- Reported
- Dec 2021
- Incident date
- Nov 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJul 2021 · ODI 11425340Details +Close −
Car is still pretty new (less than 6,000 miles) and it is experiencing a loss of coolant. It was near the "max" mark on the reservoir when purchased brand new and now it is riding on the "min" mark. I have been checking my fluids and such occasionally since the day I bought it and have watched it progressively go lower. In comparison, I have a 20-year-old pickup truck that I personally replaced a head gasket on over a year ago and it holds coolant better than this brand new Versa. Wouldn't be surprised if other new Versa owners are experiencing the same issue. I'm doubtful the dealership will do anything quick to fix it
- Reported
- Jul 2021
- Incident date
- Jul 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringFeb 2021 · ODI 11398151 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
WELL DRIVING I NOTICE A CAR WITHOUT BRAKE LIGHTS ON STOPPED IN FRONT OF ME NOT MOVING. QUICKLY GOING TO BRAKE.. I HAD NO BRAKES I PUSHED AGAIN AND TURNED RIGHT. ALMOST INCHES TO HITTING A GAS PUMP. THANKFULLY BUMPS AND BRUISES . I WAS RENTING THE VEHICLE FROM INDIANA DRIVING TO NEW HAMPSHIRE TO FLORIDA. I ALMOST LOST MY LIFE. I ALSO GOT CHARGED AN EXTRA RENTAL DAY SINCE I WAS TOLD TO AWAIT A CALL. I'M NOT SURE WHO'S AT FAULT WHETHER IT IS A MASTER CYLINDER PROBLEM OR BOLT IN STEERING. PLEASE HELP ME. I HAVE BEEN STUCK IN FLA NOT ABLE TO GET HOME. I FEEL THIS SHOULD BE CHECKED INTO.*DT*DT*JB
- Reported
- Feb 2021
- Incident date
- Feb 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Recalls(3)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Exterior Lighting · 21V471000Details +Close −
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.
Risk: 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.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Steering · 22V693000Details +Close −
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.
Risk: 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.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Steering · 23V496000Details +Close −
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.
Risk: 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.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
1 NHTSA investigation on record
Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation on March 7, 2024, after receiving twenty (20) consumer complaints and multiple field reports describing reduced power (limp mode) after re-starting the vehicle following a stall on certain 2022-2024 model year (MY) Nissan Versa. A Preliminary Evaluation was opened to gather information and assess whether the subject vehicles contain a safety-related defect. During this investigation, Nissan explained that certain 2022-2044 MY Nissan Versa vehicles equipped with a manual transmission may, under specific conditions, experience a Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) along with reduced engine performance following an engine start-up after a stall. In certain conditions, if the vehicle stalls and an engine restart occurs within five (5) seconds, the vehicle will enter a fail-safe mode with limited engine torque. The fail-safe mode helps prevent damage to the engine, a complete loss of motive power, and allows the driver to maintain control of the vehicle. ODI reviewed over 180 incidents where drivers described entering a limp mode following a vehicle re-start after having stalled the vehicle. Review of these incidents did not identify any alleged crashes, near crashes, or injuries. In all of the cases reviewed, the driver was able to drive the vehicle to a safe location. On April 28, 2025, Nissan released a Technical Service Bulletin NTB25-024 on certain MY 2022-2024 Versa vehicles equipped with a manual transmission.The remedy applies to subject vehicles built through July 9, 2024, and consists of replacing the Valve Timing Control (VTC) unit and installing updated control software. The bulletin will be implemented at no charge to the customer and includes all parts and labor. Subject vehicles built after July 9, 2024 were manufactured with these changes already in place. Following updates to the subject vehicles, ODI has not received any consumer complaints describing a limp mode condition on vehicles built after July 9, 2024 or after having received the NTB25-024 remedy. ODI believes the campaign issued by Nissan addresses the concerns raised in this investigation. As a result, PE24007 is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The agency reserves the right to take any additional action if warranted. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Crash-test ratings
2021 Nissan Versa 4 DR FWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Versa | 1.6L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 32 | 40 | 35 |
| Versa | 1.6L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 5-spd | 27 | 35 | 30 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2021 Nissan Versa: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2021 Nissan Versa?
Owners filed 31 NHTSA complaints about the 2021 Nissan Versa. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2021 Nissan Versa?
The most-reported problem areas are Power Train (26% of complaints) and electrical system (13%).
How many recalls does the 2021 Nissan Versa have?
3 recalls have been issued that affect the 2021 Nissan Versa, covering components such as exterior lighting. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Nissan Versa get?
The EPA rates the 2021 Nissan Versa between 30 and 35 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.