Nissan's compact sedan gets a few more standard features and a bit of an exterior makeover for its 2005 editions. One of Nissan's most popular cars, the 2005 Nissan Sentra comes in four trims this year. The base 1.8 and 1.8S feature a somewhat anemic 1.8-liter, 126-hp I4 engine with either a 5-speed manual or automatic. For more power and a sportier feel, you can step up to the SE-R or SE-R Spec V, which feature a 2.4 I4 that gets 165-hp and 175-hp respectively. The SE-R comes with a 4-speed auto tran only, the Spec V with a 6-speed manual.
In terms of changes, the 2006 Sentra borrows its look from the Maxima, with a higher rear end. It also gets a new grille and new interior fabric. Satellite radio is now an option on all but the base 1.8, and the 1.8S comes standard with a trip computer and cruise control this year. A Sport Package for the 1.8 sedans includes bigger 16-inch wheels, leather trim, and a rear spoiler. The sportier SE-R versions have a stiffer suspension, stronger shocks, and larger wheels. The Spec V ups it with bolstered seats and Brembo brakes, plus the appropriate trimmings. ABS is only available as an option on all but the base model. The 2005 Sentra is popular for how much it gives you at an affordable price. Gas mileage is good, say owners, and the car is reliable. The SE-R models handle well and are pleasingly zippy. Trunk space is also good, though interior cabin room feels cramped, especially the backseat. Other complaints point out the noisy ride, labored acceleration with the 1.8 models, and poor placement of the cupholders.
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.
I think the car’s a good value. It has a regular transmission and not a CVT. May 13, 2024
by Bruce K
Apr 20, 2023
This is a reliable make and model. If the price is right, a great value!Apr 20, 2023
by Osiris R
Jan 21, 2022
Muy Buena la information de los carros estoy Conte toJan 21, 2022
User rating:
by Angela M
May 13, 2024
I think the car’s a good value. It has a regular transmission and not a CVT. May 13, 2024
by Bruce K
Apr 20, 2023
This is a reliable make and model. If the price is right, a great value!Apr 20, 2023
by Osiris R
Jan 21, 2022
Muy Buena la information de los carros estoy Conte toJan 21, 2022
by Anonymous
Nov 25, 2014
Didn't like the apparently common repair at 65000 miles of a new head gasket. Also, the interior is showing a lot of wear for a car with only (currently) 75000 miles of driving time. Colors used inside are very light and show dirt easily.
Did appreciate the relatively high fuel economy (38 mpg on the highway!), and the otherwise low repair costs and ownership costs...I have comprehensive insurance for only 200 bucks a term (6 months)Nov 25, 2014
by Anonymous
Jul 07, 2014
This car gets me where I need to go safely and smoothly. It has an awesome sound system that is great for blasting music. However, I personally like manuals more than automatics but thats my only problem with it. All in all its a great car for either a first car or a family car or even just a car to commute to work everyday.Jul 07, 2014
by Anonymous
Jun 15, 2014
I bought this car as a "sleeper" a car people dont think of as fast and that the police tend to ignore. I needed 4 doors for my dogs. I've been modding it since 05 and am posting well over 210 HP now.( no turbo) that being said. i'm SICK of dead o2 sensors and cam sensors ( this happened before i started modding it.) to make it truly track worthy, some suspension work needs to be done or it gets a waggly tail when it loses grip in the rear.
factory tires are JUNK they have no grip in any weather. prepare to buy decent tires
bottom line- IF you want a car for your faimily needs but dont want it to be dog slow and with no options this is the car you want. you or or your spouse will have no problems passing and merging with this car but also plenty of room for 2 car seats in the back and darn big trunk.
IF your a modder this car has potential. BUT look up its known issues and prepare to address them BEFORE you buy one. used B15s are in the 2000-5000 dollar range and that makes them pretty cheap
Jun 15, 2014
by Anonymous
Nov 12, 2013
I've had this car for 8 years. I got it with 7,000 miles from a very good friend who got it brand new from the dealership. Up to that point I had only driven Nissan cars. This Sentra was my second Sentra, and my 5th Nissan. I love the way the Nissan handles. It's smooth to drive, even if it is underpowered. I love the fact that in the 8 years I had it I only had to call for assistance once, as my battery died in the middle of a very hot summer. Apart from that, it never ever had any engine trouble. The one thing I do not love is the gas mileage -- the 1997 Sentra I had before had much better mileage: this car usually gets 24-26 mpg, while my husband's Accord does between 28 and 31. What I love best about the car is its visibility and the way it handles -- it is very easy to drive, compact and you can pretty much fit it anywhere.Nov 12, 2013
by Francisco O
Aug 08, 2013
I love the gas mileage and sound system it comes with. I only used three tanks to for a 800 miles trip, not bad at all. I wish it was a bit better looking, but it does the job for the price!Aug 08, 2013
by Joshua L
Jul 08, 2013
I really enjoy driving this car! Its quick and light hugs the road around corners and has great top end power. There is no cargo space and cup holders are terrible!!!! Its still kind of worth it. A room top box for traveling helps a lot!Jul 08, 2013
by Tasha T
Aug 15, 2012
it's in good shape & if U would need used parts there not easy to find least around here that is & I don't drive much & don't find driving fun never really ever did hence the low miles I just goto apt's & to store about it & my mom bought the same brand car & I didn't know mine was lil more fancy then hers & she liked it she does drive allot & traded hers in & got another one just newer & I just paid it off & ready for something different.. Aug 15, 2012
by Mia F
Jul 18, 2012
loved it the only problem we ever had out of this car was one wheel bearing went bad. The rest was smooth sailing. Did i forget to mention I tried jumping the car with the cables backwards. That was my fault not frankie'sJul 18, 2012
by Anonymous
Dec 05, 2011
This 2004 nissan sentra was a fun car for your daily commuter
its a great car as long as you have a stick shift....... I drove a friends 1.8 s with an automatic and it sucked was whimpy and had no go at least with the 5 speed you could get up and go!Dec 05, 2011
by Anonymous
Dec 05, 2011
This was one of my favorite cars i've had untill my current LSJ saturn Redline, was a great car Untill Nissan came and repossesed it. Did not have the time to do any mods would have been fun to mod out Great Family + fun carDec 05, 2011
by Tami G
Aug 22, 2011
Bought this car in 2010 with about 38,000 miles. We have put 26,000 miles on it. It does not have much "get up and go" but is wonderful on gas. The only problem we have had is that the car takes at least 2 turns of the key for it to start but it always starts. Aug 22, 2011
by Carlos A
Jun 24, 2011
Nissan sentra edicion especial con sunroof.... En proyecto tengo agregarle u lip delantero y los estribos, cambiar los rines por rin 17 negros con llanta serie 40, ademas agregarle una CD Player con DVD, un tubomofle, agragarle las luces de niebla, amarillos preferiblementeJun 24, 2011
by Anonymous
Apr 03, 2011
Great on gas,fun to drive and no mechanical problems what so ever.The SE package makes it a little sportier with the spoiler and 16 inch wheels with a nice stereo system it also has better safety features in the abs brakes and side airbags. Apr 03, 2011
by Isaak J
Feb 27, 2011
very fast, cold air intake, just lowered it, 200 HP 195 TQ, hood scoop, polished headlights, this car is meant for racing.black 6-spoke rims, very fun to drive on a highway, this car blew a grand am sport off the rode
0-60: 6.7
quarter mile: 14.8
no repairs needed at all!Feb 27, 2011
by Dustin M
Dec 07, 2010
Its a fun car to drive, not great though. It needs some more power for sure.
It is full of quirks and things that don't work. The fuel pumps don't hold pressure in the line, so it takes a while of priming to start. The window regulators are junk.
The brakes leave something to be desired, although it will stop quickly.
Gas mileage is a joke, 20mpg in town average from a 2.5 is horrible.
Oh, it's ugly too, but like a pug. It's so ugly that I like it.Dec 07, 2010
by Krzysiek S
Oct 07, 2010
Performance: everything is good
Build quality: pretty good until crashed
Appearance: it could use some work
Cost of ownership: about 25 a week for gasoline, 20 a month for oil change
Fun factor: Many people enjoy my car - almost has a legendary statusOct 07, 2010
by Eric S
May 18, 2010
Good performance in acceleration and decent handling. Wheel spin is an issue when getting on the gas from a stop. Mileage less than other small cars. Back seat small for 4 door. Can use regular grade gasoline. Six speed transmission and shifter assembly could better. Very fun car to drive.May 18, 2010
by David M
May 05, 2010
Build Quality- Car lost reverse gear out of nowhere also having problems w/torque converter, the two rear windows also just stopped working out the blue and the front passenger one is probably next
Appearance- The window trim is cracking off
May 05, 2010
by Eric S
Apr 30, 2010
Good acceleration with 180 lb of torque stock. Good handling but need a new tire. Front break rotor needs to be replaced, left channel audio needs to be fixed. Real fun to drive having an Apexi N1 exhaust, Megan racing header w/o cat, and an AEM cold air intake. Apr 30, 2010
by Anonymous
Mar 05, 2010
I love my baby! It definitely turn necks when I'm crusing. Fast acceleration, handling use to be better, steering squeeks, need to get it fix. Good gas mileage, fun to drive, 6-speed. Appearances are great!! especially with the sunroof on summer ;] But I deffinitely recommend a Spec V to anyone, just keep in mind its not the fastest ride on the road.. Mar 05, 2010
by Robert M
Jan 08, 2010
My Spec-V was the first car I found when looking for a car to replace my archaic '89 Taurus wagon, and I couldn't have been happier with it. It came with everyone I wanted and nothing I did not; the 2.5 liter engine provide ample power, it handled the corners with ease thanks to the slick tired, added limited slip differential and upgraded shocks/dampers- without compromising ride quality-, the interior was basic but functional and well-designed, the exterior was attractive without being too conspicuous, and it was overall a great car to own. It wasn't as economical as other small sedans, due to the larger engine, but the low-end torque helped it maintain decent fuel economy. Overall the Sentra SE-R Spec-V is a great car for anyone who wants a sporty economy sedan. Unfortunately, I got in a hit and run- a driver in a F-150 hit me and ran off-, which resulted in my car being totaled, so my time with this machine was cut short. Still, the passenger and I sustained no injuries despite the speed the F-150 hit us at- rear end collision-, which is a testament to the Sentra's build quality and safety.Jan 08, 2010
by Rich J
Dec 10, 2009
Like all my cars, I need one that can hug the corners.
This one has all the versatility of a small sedan, and
still rips into the twisties. Best design years were
2004-2006. New style is too heavy; Older styles didn't
have the best suspension, brakes or options packages.
These years also have Awesome visibility... a must
when racing random strangers on a busy highway.Dec 10, 2009
by Lil N
Nov 12, 2009
I bought this car because my older 94 Sentra blew up due to nitrous backfire. The car so far has been great. The car has loads of low-end torque which is good for burnouts and holeshots most of the time.Nov 12, 2009
by Dan T
Aug 16, 2009
best car i have had so far. miss it alot.... wish i still had it. was very quick and reliable. didn't cost to much to maintain. just an all around great car... why did i get rid of it? it looked great inside and especially outside. transmission was easy to shift with and just ann all out amazing car.Aug 16, 2009
by Sami Jo W
Aug 15, 2009
Acceleration, braking, and handling all good. Has great maneuverability. The only repairs it ever needed were from hail damage and being rear ended. No interior or exterior problems. Appearance similar to SpecV. Gas milage varies. Usually get 300 miles out of 11 gallon tank. Maintenance...just oil changes so far. And the check-ups with the manufacturer. This car is very fun to drive. Great for racing. Got alot of torque for a little car.Aug 15, 2009
by Andy G
Jun 09, 2009
Performance & Appearance:
20% Tints all around
RAYS Nismo Sentra 17" Wheels
Dunlop SP Sport Signature Tires
2003 Spec-V Seats
Custom SE-R Angel Gauges
JDM Nissan Fairlady Z High Frequency Horn
Nismo Carpets
Nismo Cold Air Intake
Vogtland Springs
EBC Slotted Brake Rotors
EBC Red Stuff Front Pads
EBC Ultimax Semi-Metallic Rear Pads
Audio/Video:
Pioneer P5700 DVD Head Unit
Kicker DS650 front speakers
Rockford Fosgate T162C rear speakers
Rockford Fosgate 1/2 Farat Capacitor
Alpine MRP-F300 4-channel Amp
Alpine 10" Type E Subwoofer (2)
Jun 09, 2009
by Anonymous
Jan 03, 2009
do not like having mechanical problems. driving along highway today 65 mph
all of a sudden power from gas down to maximum l0 mph - maybe l5 mph -very dangerous on a very speedy highway where some are driving 80 mph. check engine light came on. managed to drive a mile onto side road, let it sit. it started up ok. what is going on. cant have this happening over and over. its much too dangerousJan 03, 2009
by Tadd L
Oct 17, 2008
My Spec. V is my baby...I only wish I could afford to give it the care it deserves and needs. I love the 6 speed transmission, sometimes I swear the car just wants to go fast and doesn't give me a choice. The power steering has gone out and I need to get that fixed. Occasionally the steering wheel jerks when I am coming to a stop or if I accelerate during a turn. I'm not sure if this is torque steer or because of the power steering or possibly the alignment. Also, it doesn't look as sporty as it should. Oct 17, 2008
by Torrian F
Aug 25, 2008
the only thing i dont like about the car is that the gear ratio is so close together....i have already burned one transmission out....im on my second tranny now......The pros do include....the car can turn on a dime....and you really cant beat a nissan's acceleration.....not to mention it sounds pretty bad ass with a CAI and a catback exhaust.....the qg18de may not be the most powerful engine but it does have a bit of a kick not to mention its not the paid on the pocket as far as gas is concerned....i have big plans for my car....sr20det swap...body kit....the whole sha-bang-a-bang....love this car!Aug 25, 2008
by John-Paul M
Jul 05, 2008
Peformance for the dollar. Gas milleage is 34/gal. The very best a Sentra can be... yeah, eaxactly,"So what?"
But it's small, easy to park... has a good a/c... the front grill is cool... why does it havea rear spoiler???... the manual transmission clicks into 3rd gear... lots of drink holders... cool, sunglasses compartment by the rearview mirror...Jul 05, 2008
by Shellie Z
Jun 15, 2008
It's my baby...Jun 15, 2008
by Tyler H
Apr 14, 2008
Overall good car for the money only lacking in size and fuel economyApr 14, 2008
by Stephanie D
Apr 04, 2008
It's a simple classy car with just enough extras to make it special.Apr 04, 2008
by Drew A
Mar 11, 2008
Great car to drive everyday, not the fastest car on the road, but for a sentra it can scoot. You'll be able to surprise quite a few folks. Mar 11, 2008
by Tyler R
Mar 02, 2008
This car is slow, due to a 1.8 liter four cylnder engine, which gives good gas mileage ~30-33 mpg, but said engine can be unreliable. This car is super ugly in my opinion and it has uncomfortable back seats.Mar 02, 2008
by Anonymous
Nov 12, 2007
Honestly when I acheieved to buy my first Nissan was in 2004. And It was currently in the showroom for the year of 2005. So I wasn't really expecting the best of the best when I received it at first. I thought it would be a drag to have it. After I had some modifications to the car, I approved of everything. This car may not look the sportiest, but it sure makes an impression on other cars. The engine needs mods to improve the speed, but otherwise everything is awesome. I don't have any regrets on this car. Keep up the work Nissan. If you haven't visited their national website, you should. They are having the 2009 GTR coming to America. Check it out. Nov 12, 2007
by Anonymous
Aug 23, 2007
Well, I've had the Sentra for about a month now. The noise from the rear tires was driving me nuts so I went to NTB and got a couple of Yoko Avid TRZ tires in 205-55-16. They ran me about $103.00 each. Man, what a difference they make! The car is very quick and sure in handling, and the roaring tire noise is gone! If they last and wear well then I will never buy anything else.
The car has power locks but came without remote locks or an alarm. I found a $19.00 basic alarm/remote lock kit on e-Bay and added a $20.00 shock sensor from a flea-market. It all fit in the inside of the console and works great! The instructions left a lot to be desired, but I bought some on-line tech info on the car's wiring and everything worked as promised.
I also found a performance "chip" on e-Bay for about 8 bucks. I bought it and installed it this afternoon. It is supposed to give you an extra 35hp. It is really only a rigged inlet air temp sensor replacement, but it seems to work. I had no problems with the engine service light coming on. The car runs very smoothly and revs strongly through the gears, shifting at 6400 rpm at full throttle. I drove it in mixed city/highway for about 50 miles and averaged a little over 30 mpg despite running it hard for several minutes to see how it ran. I can not vouch for 35 hp, but it does seem to run smoother and I think it is quicker.
I also bought a set of wheel lug-nut locks at PEP Boys for about $14.00 They might deter an honest thief looking to make a quick buck selling my wheels and tires.
My next project will be to have the hood repainted. The paint pen I got from a Nissan dealer only made the key scratch on the hood look worse.Aug 23, 2007
MY car started jerking when i started it and while i was driving it when i push the gas it would not jerk as bad but it seemed like it did not want to pick up speed and when i stop it acts like it wants to die. HELP!! I have already had the timimg belt changed
My Sentra gives a jerk at about 20-25 mph initially when I start driving. But once I drive about 2-3 miles, it gets back to normal and no more jerks. Any idea what could be the problem?
So kicking myself in the rear here, because i let my friends dad change my brakes for me instead of being charged over 400 for it to be done at a local shop. When brakes were done he let down the car and forgot to remove a stand and it cracked a radiator hose. So he replaced the radiator completely, car runs fine.(sort of). I noticed when leaving that when the car is in drive or reverse it just doesnt move, and it always did before. I also noticed when letting off the brakes the car wont creep forward like it use to. Aswell as when I let go of the gas the rpms drop fast and the car slows down a lot slower then it use to without even braking. ( At the time of this question i didnt think to look to see if the EBrake was pulled, and its freezing right now to go back outside to check.) Been doing some research and some similiar problems could be just not enough trans fluid (Which i hope), while some others sound bad.