The Nissan Versa has existed for three generations and is currently in its third. Overall, the Versa isn’t known for having a lot of issues, but every model has its typical problems. This post and video reviews the most common problems with the 2007 to 2012 Nissan Versa, which is the first generation of these models.
Top 5 Nissan Versa Problems: (2007 to 2012) 1st Generation
1. Engine Mounts
Symptoms of Bad Engine Mounts
- Steering wheel shaking or feeling vibrations when at a stop
Causes of Worn Engine Mounts
The bushings on the engine mounts can wear out and cause a vibration from the front.
How to Fix Problems with Engine Mounts on the 1st gen Nissan Versa
If the engine mount is damaged or worn, it will need to be replaced.
2. Ignition Coils
Symptoms of Bad Ignition Coils
- Rough running engine
- Check engine light for a P0300 code
- Engine misfires
Causes of Bad Ignition Coils
There are four ignition coils on the 2007 to 2012 Nissan Versa. The computer sends a signal to the ignition coil that sends a signal to the spark plug in order to ignite the fuel. The ignition coil can wear out and cause a rough running engine and misfires.
How to Fix Problems with Ignition Coils on the 2007 to 2012 Nissan Versa
The intake needs to be removed to access all four coils. To remove the ignition coil, remove the bolt, disconnect the electrical connector, and remove the ignition coil.
3. Front Coil Springs
Symptoms of Bad Front Coil Springs
- Vehicle sags more on one side than the other
- Crunching noise from the front when turning or driving over bumps
Causes of Bad Front Coil Springs
The front coil springs can crack. The protective coating on the spring may wear off, and once that happens, rust can build up and crack the spring.
How to Fix the Front Coil Springs
Replace the coil spring assembly if you see signs of cracking. It’s easier to replace the entire assembly than to compress and replace the spring separately.
Front Wheel Bearings
Symptoms of Bad Front Wheel Bearings
- Whirring noise from the front
- Whirring noise that amplifies or quiets when turning
Causes of Faulty Front Wheel Bearings
The bearings wear out over time from use and create a grinding or whirring noise.
How to Fix the Front Wheel Bearings
Raise the vehicle with a jack and jack stands. Grab the tire from the 12 and 6 o’clock position, press in and out, and feel for looseness, which is a sign there is a problem with the wheel bearing.
Steps to replace the wheel bearing include removing the tire, brakes, and bolts from the wheel bearing. Then replace the wheel bearing assembly with a new one.
More on diagnosing a bad wheel bearing
5. Lower Control Arms
Symptoms of Faulty Lower Control Arms
- Hearing noises when driving over bumps
Causes of Bad Lower Control Arms
The ball joint on the lower control arm could be loosening and making noise. The bushings on the control arm can also wear out and create noise.
How to Fix Lower Control Arms
Pry the ball joint from the control arm with a pry bar and feel for any play or looseness. Also pry the control arm near the bushings and see if they are loose. If the bushing is separated, it can give a clunking sensation.
Replace the entire control arm if you find signs of damage or significant wear. You’ll need an alignment after completing this repair.
1st Generation Nissan Versa Hatchback Model Years
- 2007 Nissan Versa
- 2008 Nissan Versa
- 2009 Nissan Versa
- 2010 Nissan Versa
- 2011 Nissan Versa
- 2012 Nissan Versa
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