The second-generation Versa has been on the market since the year 2012. Even though the updates it has received through these years have been pretty minimal, Nissan has done well in cutting down the complaint number drastically with each succeeding year. From over 10 recalls and 462 complaints to just 2 recalls and 36 complaints for the 2018 model year, that too with the recalls not being specific to just the Versa but, most cars in Nissan’s line up for this year. This makes the 2018 Versa one of the best model years to own say apart from maybe the fact that it is too old now. The "1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics Know" has noticed that just like us that there is unwanted acceleration compared to higher RPM and misalignment of the axle in the bearing. To know more, Click on the video below:
2018 Nissan Versa User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical Complaints
- Engine- Random engine stalls/shut-offs have been a common sight on certain batches of the 2018 Nissan Versa. Owners complain about the vehicle just shutting itself off without showing any symptoms or even warning lights. Some also complain about the steering locking and the brakes losing complete assist when this happens. Though the issue was left undiagnosed initially, the cause was later found to be with the ignition switch, which with the wait of the key or when driving through undulation can cause it to lose contact and turn the vehicle to turn to accessory mode, switching off the vehicle in the process. The issue was later resolved through a recall (ID-18V551000).
- Transmission-The CVT unit on the 2018 Nissan Versa has always been a common trouble spot. Issues vary from jerking, slipping, hesitation to accelerate, whining noise, and occasional engine free-revving when in drive mode. Nissan has done a good job in bringing down the CVT complaints, but it is still something that they haven’t eradicated completely.
Electric System complaints
- Backup camera- Trims equipped with a backup camera have got owners complaining about the rearview screen going blank when the gear is shifted to reverse mode. This has been a common issue with various Nissan vehicles since the last model year and the issue was found to be a faulty infotainment software setting. The issue was later fixed through a factory-initiated recall (ID-V18V551000).
- AC blower motor- The AC blower motor is a common fault point to look out for on the 2018 Nissan Versa. The motors themselves are known to prematurely fail and the open wiring below the dashboard is susceptible to rodent attack as reported by the owners.
Safety Complaints
- Airbags- Airbag problems are the single most recorded complaint on the 2018 Nissan Versa. Complaints range from the airbag lights remaining illuminated intermittently to the units not deploying in the event of a crash. At least 6 crashes and 6 injuries have been reported against this issue by the NHTSA officially. An investigation has been opened on this issue and initial assumptions lead to faults with the airbag inflator system.
2018 Nissan Versa Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
12th September 2019 |
19V654000 |
No Backup camera display image. |
The backup camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rearview image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse, limiting the driver’s view of what’s behind and increasing the risk of a crash. |
The dealers update the backup camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019. |
|
2 |
21st August 2018 |
18V551000 |
Ignition switch may turn off. |
the weight on the keyring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. |
The dealers will inspect the production information on the ignition switch, and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on October 1, 2018. |
Should you buy a used 2018 Nissan Versa?
If there is one car that Nissan needs to update without fail, then it definitely would be the Nissan Versa. Don’t get us wrong here, it is a decent seller for Nissan, but would easily fall out of our recommendation lists given its overall dated outlook. But if you are looking for a fuel-efficient, reliable and economical daily-driver machine, the Versa still is a pretty good choice, more so when bought used. Just make sure that it has got a clean maintenance record and no history of transmission issues before you jump onto one.
