Two problems related to engine belts and pulleys have been reported for the 2003 Nissan Sentra. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Nissan Sentra based on all problems reported for the 2003 Sentra.
Check engine light came on after starting car after oil change at local shop. Mechanic checked code, problem with camshaft position sensor. Part replaced. Problem solved, check engine light stay off. After 1 week, check engine light came on and again, camshaft position sensor needs replaced. Car timing clearly off - when attempting to accelerate car jolts and shudders hard enough to slam driver into seatbelt. When vehicle warmed all the way up problem nonexistent. Camshaft position sensor changed again, problem reoocurs within a week or two. During fall/winter when cold weather occurs engine must be completely warm to avoid being shaken and jolted around while accelerating. Check engine light remains on. Dealer states "timing chain is out of time" and must be replaced. Nissan north America states car not on recall list, although recalls listed here seem to apply to my vehicle.
Vehicle loses power when going up an incline at 65 to 70 mph.