The Nissan Note is a subcompact hatchback and it has been in production since 2004. The Note, often referred to as the Versa in certain regions, is a five-door minivan. Since there are seven generations in the Note, it can be not easy to know which year to avoid with so many models and variations available.
The worst years to avoid the Nissan Note are 2007, 2008, 2009, 2014, and 2015. The best years to buy the Nissan Note are 2016-2024. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmunds, Repairpal, and Kelley Blue Book.
Worst Nissan Note Years to Avoid
While looking for one of these cars in used condition, you should avoid certain less trustworthy years. Among these years are:
- 2007 Nissan Versa Note
- 2008 Nissan Versa Note
- 2009 Nissan Versa Note
- 2014 Nissan Versa Note
- 2015 Nissan Versa Note
3. 2007, 2008, 2009 Nissan Versa Note (3.0 Rating)
Prospective purchasers need to be informed of certain dependability and safety risks with the Nissan Note model years 2007–2009. Regarding these vehicles, the biggest problems were with the transmissions and electrical system.
Poor acceleration, stalling, and even gearbox failure were among the issues that many Nissan Note owners noticed with the Continuously Variable gearbox (CVT).
Because of worries about the CVT, Nissan also issued a safety recall for the Note in 2008. The purpose of the recall, which impacted more than 73,000 Nissan Note cars in Japan, was to address a gearbox issue that might have led to the vehicle overheating and failing.
A few owners have claimed malfunctions with the dashboard display, encompassing troubles with the odometer and further gauges. Additionally, concerns about malfunctioning alternators that might deplete the battery and make it difficult to start the car have surfaced.
2. 2015 Nissan Versa Note (3.38 Rating)
While owners and industry experts have mostly praised the 2015 Nissan Note for its dependability, there are a few concerns that owners should be aware of.
Potential problems with the airbags in the 2015 Nissan Note models were one of the main worries. And that raises a serious question about safety. Once more, several owners complained about CVT issues, and occasionally the transmission would completely fail, necessitating a costly repair.
Before making a purchase choice, it’s crucial to carry out extensive research, go over maintenance records, and have the car examined by a reputable technician if you’re thinking about buying a secondhand Note from these years.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 237 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.7/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 75/100 consumer rating.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.
1. 2014 Nissan Versa Note (2.77 Rating)
Before buying a used car, you should be cautious about the 2014 model as it has the highest number of complaints. The CVT gearbox is one of the most commonly reported problems. It produces stalling and shaking when driving, which makes the ride jerky and reduces acceleration.
Furthermore, a few users have mentioned encountering issues with the steering system, such as losing power steering while operating a vehicle. This has been linked to a malfunctioning power steering pump that could need to be replaced.
The 2014 Nissan Note has also been subject to safety recalls, including the passenger airbag sensor that prevents it from detecting a passenger’s presence and deploying in the case of an accident. It is better to avoid this model year.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 4 recalls and 324 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.3/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 73/100 consumer rating.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9/5.0 consumer and 3.8 expert ratings.
Best Nissan Note Years to Buy Used
The Nissan Versa Note models manufactured in the latter part of its production cycle are often the most dependable. Among them are:
- 2016 Nissan Versa Note
- 2017 Nissan Versa Note
- 2018 Nissan Versa Note
- 2019 Nissan Versa Note
- 2020 Nissan Versa Note
- 2021 Nissan Versa Note
- 2022 Nissan Versa Note
- 2023 Nissan Versa Note
- 2024 Nissan Versa Note
9. 2017 Nissan Versa Note (3.69 Rating)
Positive reviews from both industry insiders and owners place the 2017 Nissan Note in the category of dependable vehicles. The 2017 Nissan Note received a good dependability rating from Consumer Reports as well, with no significant difficulties or complaints being recorded.
The 2017 Nissan Note has also been well-received by owners, who have praised its fuel efficiency, roomy interior, and ease of handling. Although there have been a few minor complaints, including sporadic faults with the infotainment system, the 2017 Note is generally regarded as reliable.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 62 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.9/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 75/100 consumer rating.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9/5.0 consumer and 4.4 expert ratings.
8. 2018 Nissan Versa Note (3.78 Rating)
For buyers on a low budget or for young drivers, the 2018 Versa Note may be a good hatchback option. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine of the Versa Note is mated to a continuously variable automatic gearbox.
Features from the S Plus trim are added to the Base S model, while the SL and S Plus trims are discontinued. Additionally, the SV trim’s New Special Edition package is unveiled. Rearview cameras and a 7-inch touchscreen are standard with versions 5 and 6.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 3 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.8/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9/5.0 consumer and 4.3 expert ratings.
7. 2016 Nissan Versa Note (4.00 Rating)
Regarding performance and refinement, the 2016 Nissan Versa Note lags below its competitors. However, for consumers who value affordability, spaciousness, and good fuel efficiency, it could be worth a look.
A 5.0-inch touchscreen infotainment package with Bluetooth audio, mobile app integration, satellite radio readiness, a rearview camera, and an adjustable back luggage system is now standard on the midgrade SV variant for 2016.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 91 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.8/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 76/100 consumer rating.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9/5.0 consumer and 4.4 expert ratings.
6. 2021 Nissan Versa Note (4.13 Rating)
Among the many new automobiles available today, the subcompact sedan 2021 Nissan Versa stands out for its low price tag. The Versa may be small, but it packs a surprising amount of storage space, so it’s more practical than you think.
Additionally, it comes equipped with many safety measures, and the cabin exudes an air of luxurious craftsmanship. The Nissan Versa enters 2021 with little to no change from its complete facelift for 2020.
According to the EPA, the Versa with the automatic transmission gets 35 mpg combined (32 in the city and 40 on the highway). That is absolutely first-rate.
There are three trim levels for the 2021 Nissan Versa, a subcompact sedan: S, SV, and SR. The front wheels of the Versa get their propulsion from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 16 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.2/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 79/100 consumer rating.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
5. 2020 Nissan Versa Note (4.15 Rating)
For more than ten years, the Nissan Versa has been crowned the “least expensive car in America” crown. The Versa, however, has renewed its brand new third generation and is an improved vehicle as a result.
The base price of the 2020 Nissan Versa is around $2,000 greater than that of its predecessor. However, the new Versa is more stylish, handles better, and comes equipped with more amenities than the old one. Additionally, it was named the third-best subcompact car in 2020 by US News & World Report.
There is a 13-horsepower and 5-pound-foot-torque improvement over the previous model with the new non-turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. Additionally, it comes with a brand-new CVT transmission.
The Versa may still be somewhat slow, but at least the increased power doesn’t hurt gas mileage. The Versa’s automatic transmission achieves an impressive 35 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is commendable for a compact sedan.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 30 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.2/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 79/100 consumer rating.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
4. 2019 Nissan Versa Note (4.17 Rating)
Since 2019 is the last model year for the Versa Note, the affordable and capable hatchback version of the Versa sedan attempts a farewell appearance. With its 1.6-liter engine, which still produces 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, the Note continues to provide affordable pricing.
However, it does have a more attractive exterior, and the hatchback is a good daily driver for people who prioritize cost thanks to its roomy cabin and outstanding storage capacity. But even on the highest trim, there aren’t many amenities, and comfort is really an afterthought.
The 2019 Nissan Versa Note is somewhat more enticing than prior models because of one modification. Every model comes with a new 7-inch touchscreen as standard, and some grades even include a connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 1 complaint.
- Edmunds: 4.1/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9/5.0 consumer and 4.3 expert ratings.
3. 2022 Nissan Versa Note (4.20 Rating)
One of the more appealing subcompact vehicles available is the 2022 Nissan Versa, which underwent a complete redesign in 2020. The Versa seems like an even better deal with the included advanced driver aids, thanks to its roomy interior and luxurious ride quality that make it seem like a more costly vehicle.
According to the EPA, the Versa with the automatic transmission gets 35 mpg combined (32 in the city and 40 on the highway). There it is, at the very pinnacle of the class. All 2022 Versas come standard with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 122 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels.
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced car, we recommend the 2022 Nissan Versa. It’s not flashy, but it has all the modern conveniences you might want and will take you where you need to go.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 4 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.1/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 78/100 consumer rating.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
2. 2023 Nissan Versa Note (4.24 Rating)
Subcompact cars don’t get much better than the 2023 Nissan Versa when it comes to amenities, comfort, and technology. It is also relatively new, thus it incorporates Nissan’s most recent design cues; among the more aesthetically appealing compact sedans, it features numerous sharp creases and textures.
The inside of the 2023 Versa is first-rate. A responsive touchscreen is available. The controls on the steering wheel and center stack are simple. For a vehicle in its class, the Versa’s trunk is spacious.
The trunk is deep enough to fit heavier objects, and the cargo capacity can reach 15 cubic feet, which is greater than most competitors. According to the EPA, the Versa with the automatic transmission gets 35 mpg combined (32 in the city and 40 on the highway).
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 15 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.0/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
1. 2024 Nissan Versa Note (4.27 Rating)
The 2024 Versa makes the most of its value among subcompacts, and its siblings too, resulting in a top Versa Note year. It shames rivals with its inventory of standard and optional features.
After getting a facelift for its exterior a year ago, the 2024 Nissan Versa remains unchanged for the new year. With its affordable price tag, an extensive list of features, and outstanding gas mileage, the Versa is a great choice among new automobiles.
According to the EPA, the Versa with the automatic transmission gets 35 mpg combined (32 in the city and 40 on the highway). With the Versa, you can get by on a budget without slacking off.
The construction is sturdy, the materials are better than average for the class, and it has more style than the average economy sedan. If your budget is less than $20,000, this is the greatest new car you can acquire.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 12 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.1/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
Common Nissan Note Problems
Buying a used Nissan Versa Note from a less-than-ideal year might result in several possible issues. The following are the most frequent difficulties Versa Note customers have:
- Failures of transmissions
- CVT malfunction
- Windshield cracks
- HVAC problems
- Wheels that slide
- Brake issues
Before buying a used Nissan Versa Note, you should always ask the existing owner for a vehicle maintenance record and accident history report, as some of these are definitely more concerning than others. That’s the only method to guarantee you don’t purchase a defective vehicle with several issues concealed beneath the surface.
FAQs
Is Nissan Versa Notes a reliable car?
In the majority of situations, the answer is yes as it is one of the most reliable cars. The Nissan Note’s greatest selling feature is its practicality. For instance, according to carparts.com, the Nissan Versa Note often receives a respectable dependability rating of 4 out of 5. In comparison to other small SUV/sedan crossovers, this is therefore either about average or more dependable.
How long does the Nissan Versa Note last?
A well-maintained Nissan Versa Note should last for about 200,000 miles (321868.8 km) on average. The annual average is around 15,000 miles (24140.16 km). You will get excellent mileage out of it for the duration of its life as long as you schedule routine maintenance.
Is the Nissan Note expensive to maintain?
According to repairpal.com, a Nissan Versa Note typically requires $445 in repairs every year. That is reasonably priced, especially when compared to other automobiles of a comparable caliber (the average price of most other subcompact cars is $456).
Conclusion: Which Nissan Note Year is Best?
Ultimately, the Nissan Versa Note is a dependable car. Just make sure you get a used Nissan Versa Note from a better year, not one that was produced earlier in the model’s history. If you buy and drive a Nissan Versa Note from the later part of its lifecycle, that is, from 2016 onward, you will find that it is a usually dependable car.
