Four problems related to engine burning oil have been reported for the 2002 Nissan Sentra. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Nissan Sentra based on all problems reported for the 2002 Sentra.
The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Sentra. When the contact purchased the vehicle, he had the oil consumption of the fuel system inspected. The mechanic informed him that the vehicle was burning large amounts of oil, causing the piston rings to wear down. He was also informed of a recall with this identical failure, which stated that they were supposed to replace the parts as well as install a catalyst. The contact called the dealer to see if he could have this repaired under the recall, but they stated that his VIN was excluded from the recall. The failure mileage was 131,000. Updated 5/20/08 updated 05/20/08.
The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Sentra se-r. The contact stated that her vehicle is experiencing pre-catalytic failure. One of the converters separated and went into the motor, causing high oil consumption and engine viruses. The current mileage is 102,000 and failure mileage was 99,000. Updated 02/01/08.
Severe engine failure. I bought my 2002 Nissan Sentra spec-v with only 7,000 miles on it and thought I had a great car. Thank goodness I opted for the extra 100,000 extended warranty. My car's engine experienced massive oil consumption around 60,000 and I noticed the whole time I owned the car that the oil was always low each time I changed it. I used only mobil 1 full syn every 5,000 miles. The engine failed 3,000 over the standard 60k powertrain warranty. I fought with Nissan for 1 month while they kept my car until I provided oil change receipts. Once I provided them they changed the complete engine which totaled $8,500 and more than the car was worth anymore. Further for about 70,000 the car had extended crank problems and were severe in hot or extreme cold weather. The car would take 20 seconds or longer to crank over while pumping the gas. After my 3rd complaint at my 3rd Nissan dealer they finally fixed the problem and put in a new fuel pump and sensor. The car has 98,000 and 36,000 miles after the new engine. I am thinking of getting rid of it before more trouble happens beyond my 100k warranty.
Now at 20,800 miles I think my car may be burning oil. Lost 2 quarts in 3000 miles. Dip stick actually came up dry but no oil light. Im taking it in tomorrow to have the tranny replaced along with some O2 sensors that went bad. Also im having it checked because the trunk and drivers/front passenger door leaks. Also the e brake is failing again, there is rattling coming from the drivers door and a sqeauking noise when I release the clutch. Plus my side skirts are still warped, ill have to remind them of that. Just wanted to add this one even though I havent gotten my car to the dealer yet. Also just want to say I officially hate Nissan and their extremely poor customer service. I will never buy another Nissan and am looking into a lawyer to file a lemon law case. Just because the Sentra is the low end model car doesnt mean you have to treat the owners with less respect than those with a 350z or a murano. Im buying a Subaru after I get rid of this pos !.