2017 Nissan Versa Safety Report
2017 Nissan Versa: Airbag and Transmission Concerns Amidst Recalls and Mixed Crash Test Data
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Nissan Versa
Reliability Score
The 2017 Nissan Versa receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Nissan Versa
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Nissan Versa:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure/Malfunction Multiple complaints detail sudden transmission failure, loss of gears, vehicle stalling, and deceleration while driving, sometimes leading to crashes. This aligns with 'POWER TRAIN' complaints. |
High | Common | 25000-130000 miles |
| Airbag System Defects Two recalls address potential failures in passenger frontal and side curtain airbags. Complaints also mention airbag system failures without a crash, and non-deployment during crashes, aligning with 'AIR BAGS' complaints. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Electrical System Issues/Stalling A recall addresses ignition-related electrical system issues that can cause stalling. Complaints also describe sporadic starting, dimming lights, and complete electrical harness failure due to water intrusion. |
Medium | Common | N/A miles |
| Water Intrusion/Flooding Several complaints describe water leaking into the cabin, particularly on the passenger side, often attributed to clogged cowl drains. This can lead to electrical system damage and other issues. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Hood Latch Failure Complaints report the hood flying open while driving, even at moderate speeds, causing significant damage and posing a crash risk. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Nissan Versa:
9 complaints related to airbag system failures, non-deployment, and issues addressed by two separate recalls.
4 complaints specifically about transmission failure, sudden deceleration, and loss of power while driving.
7 complaints (combining 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER') covering issues like stalling, starting problems, and system failures, aligning with a recall.
4 complaints categorized as 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' often describe general vehicle malfunctions or issues not fitting other categories, some of which relate to water intrusion or stalling.
4 complaints regarding brake system malfunctions, including loss of braking power and ABS light illumination, sometimes linked to electrical issues from water intrusion.
3 complaints, including issues like hood latch failure and water intrusion points.
3 complaints, including engine breakdown at low mileage and issues related to stalling or not starting.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Nissan Versa
Is the 2017 Nissan Versa safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Nissan Versa has a concerning safety profile. While it achieved 4-star ratings in frontal and rollover crash tests, overall and side ratings are unavailable. There are 61 total complaints, 8 crashes, and 5 injuries reported. Critically, it has 3 recalls, two of which address significant airbag defects and one for electrical system/ignition issues that could cause stalling and increase crash risk. Common complaints also point to transmission failures and water intrusion affecting electrical components.
What are common problems with the 2017 Nissan Versa?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Nissan Versa are related to AIR BAGS (9 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (4 complaints). Specific problems include CVT transmission failures leading to stalling or loss of power, airbag system malfunctions (including those covered by recalls), and electrical issues that can cause the vehicle to stall. Water intrusion leading to electrical damage is also a recurring complaint.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Nissan Versa?
Yes, the 2017 Nissan Versa has 3 recalls. These include recalls for the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION (potential for stalling), AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE (potential for non-deployment), and AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW (potential for non-deployment due to a fabric seam issue).
How does the 2017 Nissan Versa perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Nissan Versa received a 4-star rating for frontal crash tests and a 4-star rating for rollover tests from NHTSA. However, the overall safety rating and side crash test ratings are not available, which means a complete picture of its crashworthiness cannot be formed from this data.
Is the CVT transmission a known issue in the 2017 Nissan Versa?
Yes, the CVT transmission appears to be a known issue. While not subject to a recall, 'POWER TRAIN' is among the top complaint categories with 4 reports, and several detailed complaints describe sudden transmission failure, loss of gears, and vehicle deceleration, sometimes at highway speeds. This aligns with a broader pattern of CVT issues reported in various Nissan models.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the significant recalls for airbags and electrical systems, coupled with numerous complaints about CVT transmission failures and water intrusion, potential buyers should proceed with caution and ensure all recalls have been addressed. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, specifically checking the transmission and for signs of water damage, is highly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Nissan Versa
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Nissan Versa. The data includes 61 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 8 reported crashes, 5 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.