general problems of the 2020 Nissan Sentra - part 1

38 problems related to electrical system have been reported for the 2020 Nissan Sentra. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2020 Nissan Sentra based on all problems reported for the 2020 Sentra.

1 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/11/2025

Driver side front and rear door locks will not respond to key fob. Rear door won’t lock and front door won’t unlock.

2 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/02/2025

I was trapped in my vehicle when my door would not open. I attempted to unlock the door with the key fab, manually, and from reaching through the window and trying from the outside. Despite the lock mechanism showing that the door was unlocked, the door would not open. I attempted to restart the vehicle, but that did not help. I tried several combinations of tactics with no success. I finally had to climb out of the passenger side. I took the car to the dealer where I was informed that the door actuators on both driver's side doors were faulty. All I can think of is what would have happened if the car was on fire or in rising water, and worse, if my children were in the back seat. Or what if I was disabled in some way or elderly? this situation could've been much, much worse. When I contacted Nissan consumer affairs, they refused to take any responsibility for this dangerous design flaw, and I was stuck with a $1500 repair. I hope they are urged to issue a recall.

3 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/16/2025

Vehicle had aeb system malfunctioning. The brakes did not work. The emergency brake barely worked. We were driving on fathers day to a family gathering and the system and brakes malfunctioned, yes we collided with the curb and debris on the side of the road cause curb rash to the rims. No major damage. This would be the 3rd this has happened to my vehicle in particular. Dealers say the manufacturer doesn’t cover brake line damage or issue even due to factory fault/ defect.

4 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/16/2025

I purchased m 2020 Nissan Sentra brand new off the showroom floor from modern Nissan of winston salem in April. On [xxx] (in examining the first invoice, the date is incorrect) with only 28, 778 miles my car would not start however, an engine malfunction light, abs indicator light, forward emergency braking system warning icon, rear automatic braking warning icon and a caution light showed up on and over the dash- board. I called my warranty dept. , Nissan, explained the situation as best I could and had the car towed. Upon getting transportation there was told problem was not factory warranty but was chewed by rodents or some small animal; not warranty covered since not Nissan's fault, paid $1194. However, not 24 hours later and after putting down rodent and small animal deterrent had to take car back. Was told they missed something which added to my cost totaling $630. Totally, keeping my car 6 days. Afterwards, getting my car back again on 06/16 the second time I have taken my car back twice. The same malfunction light has come back on with the same indicator icon as forward braking system and the seat belt indicator comes on and the buzzer goes on and off whether the seat belt is on and fastened or not. After researching problems with the 2020 Nissan Sentra, I do not believe any small animal or rodent has done any damage to the electrical system on my car as I have had cars in my driveway for over 25 years with no such damage ever before. I believe Nissan should be held accountable, or my bumper to bumper 110,000-mile 2029 warranty should take care of this, and I should be reimbursed! this type of existing problem can be life threatening to me, any passengers I may have and other drivers on the road! with today's economy, my being [xxx] I cannot continue to pay such huge amounts for a factory malfunction when I have a warranty in place or try to buy another car especially when this one is not paid for!!!! information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

5 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/02/2025

Back up camera not working.

6 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/21/2025

99% of the time neither of my back doors will lock or unlock when I either push the key fob or press the door unlock button inside the car. And for the past few days my front driver side door is doing the same thing. It’s a big safety hazard because I have a [xxx] daughter and if we get in an accident or stuck somewhere and I can’t open her door then what? I’ve had to go from the front door and reach to the back to unlock it manually and that’s not always possible to do. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

7 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/05/2025

The starter and electric problems. The vehicle has been serviced 5 or 6 times each with the problem the issues has not been resolved. Is there a recall in any of the said problems above. No, incident occurred, it is a repair failure. Problem has not been fixed and diver has been back and forth to the dealer over and over with same problem, the diver wants to know if there are recalls on ignition or starter problems and electrical problems. Said vehicle is not in running condition, it is at the dealers as now.

8 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/02/2025

The back up camera stops working for awhile. Sensors work but no rear camera pops up when in reverse.

9 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/23/2025

I was at a stop light in a busy area and I got a message saying critical engine malfunction warning, engine power reduced. I had to floor the car to get it to 5 mph, then when I got it in the only minimally safe area I could the emergency braking system was the only thing that stopped it. My brakes failed too. My car has only 71k miles and is not quite 5 years old. It's been meticulously maintained as well. This is not acceptable.

10 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/23/2024

I was driving in town, alternator decided to quit working, car went into limp mode on a busy street and I was nearly rear-ended.

11 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/18/2024

The door lock actuators on both of my rear doors suddenly no longer work. When I hit the button to lock all doors, only my 2 front doors lock. My cars 3 year warranty expired about 5 months ago and I have under 19,000 miles on the odometer. This is a safety issue. What if a carjacker walked up to my car while I’m in it, I lock the doors, and my back doors don’t lock. I could be killed. Not only that, but my car alarm does not even trigger when I open the back door after locking the car with my key fob!!! and, I cannot find any 3rd party manufacturers of the needed replacement parts for this issue!!! so Nissan makes additional money off customers who have no other option than to purchase their defective parts for replacement, and the owner remains stuck with the same defective oem parts after paying hundreds (thousands?) for the required repairs. So Nissan is incentivized to not fix this problem, as they instead make more money off of it. Do a quick google search and other 2020+ Sentra owners are experiencing the same issue. Unacceptable. Nissan needs to manufacture a replacement version of these door lock actuators that are not defective and issue a recall. Thank you for your time.

12 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/29/2024

I bought my car in june23 I’ve been having a lot of issue with the car dealership fail uphold there end of the contract.

13 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/04/2024

There has been numerous battery drains, can't charge phone without draining battery. I got and error code p062f internal control module eeprom. Error. And a battery power supply error code.

14 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/18/2024

Child lock windows seem to be activated, even though, button isn't pushed in. I cannot roll any window down except drivers window.

15 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/01/2024

I started hearing a swishing noise like water, I didn't think anything of it till I opened my back driver side door and heard the swishing again. My friend lifted the weather stripping on bottom of door and a-lot of water came gushing out. It had rained alot that year. This could cause electrical issues and body rot. Also my car wont start due to not recognizing the fob. I have to disconnect battery snd reconnect to start my car from time to time.

16 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/04/2024

Drivers lock on door does not open and close also window don’t go up and down . Car has only 18,000 miles. I see many complaints on this. There should be a recall and consumers should not pay for this. Will be going to Nissan to see what they can do for me.

17 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 10/02/2023

On a few occasions, while driving, the forward collision warning came on causing the car to automatically brake when there were no cars in front of or around the car. Brought the car to dealer and was quoted $2057. 50. After that, all 4 automatic door locks stopped working. Brought car to dealer again and was quoted $1375. 00 to replace the door actuators for a grand total of $3658. 78. Nissan consumer affairs was called and they said they would only cover 50% of the repairs. These items are huge safety issues and Nissan should cover the entire bill.

18 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/28/2023

I got this vehicle pre owned by carvana. My rear and head lights flicker off and on with any one touching them. My power inside the car like for the radio, heating and cooling will stop working for a few days and randomly come on when it wants. Then local Nissan broke my plastic undercarriage during my recall they didn’t complete and now it’s dragging across the ground.

19 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/25/2023

I am writing to bring to your attention a critical issue regarding the recent malfunction of the actuator system in my 2020 Nissan Sentra. As a concerned consumer, I am compelled to report the circumstances that have led to significant safety concerns and financial burden. The details of this case are as follows: vehicle information: 2020 Nissan Sentra with approximately 43,000 miles. Initial observation: it was discovered post-warranty that the car's locking mechanism was not functioning correctly. While I had assumed that the vehicle was locking upon using the key fob, it was only recently brought to my attention that this was not the case. Diagnostic evaluation: upon consulting a Nissan dealership, it was determined that the actuator of the driver's door was defective and required immediate replacement. I consented to the suggested repair, which incurred an unexpected cost of $750. Unforeseen complications: following the initial repair, I was informed that the remaining actuators would also require replacement, posing an exorbitant additional financial burden. This development led to a grave concern as the sudden failure of all four actuators within a short span indicates a potential systemic issue rather than an isolated incident. Communication with Nissan: a formal request was made to Nissan for a thorough review of my case, under the reference number #49629281. However, despite the seriousness of the matter, I have yet to receive any substantial response or acknowledgement from Nissan, even after a waiting period of nearly two months. Considering the potential safety hazards and the unjustifiable financial strain imposed on me as a consumer, it is imperative that this matter is investigated further. The concurrent failure of all four actuators in a relatively new vehicle strongly suggests the possibility of an underlying electrical fault or a systemic defect in the manufacturing process.

20 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/04/2023

The door locks simultaneously stopped working on the vehicle at the same time. The key fob chimes and the lights flash on the car but nothing happens with the door locks. The fuses all check out and you hear a sound when pushing the lock and unlock button but nothing happens. Faulty actuators seem to be a recurring problem with Nissan that I am hearing from other Sentra owners. This definitely presents a safety hazard because I have to manually lock all doors when I get out of the car. Also, in the event of an emergency I can not enter the car unless I undo the key fob and use the key to unlock it manually. I would hate for something to happen to me or my family while waiting to get in the car with how high crime has gotten with car thefts, car vandalism, and carjackings. Something needs to be done to remedy this problem for all Nissan owners to ensure our safety.

21 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/23/2023

On may 23, 2023, I have parked to pick up a grocery order. I did not shut the engine off. Once the order was loaded, I put my car in reverse. The car started to back up, and then completely shut off. An error message related to the key fob came on. I was able to successfully start the car again. I currently have the car at hyman brothers Nissan. Their diagnostics indicate a failure, however, they are unable to determine the source of the failure at this time. My main concern is having this happen again while driving with my 2 year old in his car seat. I previously reported an issue with my back up camera going blue. They have also received a code for that, but again, are unable to determine the source. The dealership's number is 804-378-0266, and jimi is the service advisor. Since the vehicle is in their possession, I do not have documentation at this time.

22 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/10/2023

Car died wont start until jumped has done it 3 times.

23 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/13/2023

My push button start is malfunctioning. When I push the button, while my foot is on the brake, all the dash lights come on but car doesn't start. I have to push the start button again to get the car to start. A couple of times last week the car turned over once but didn't start. Sometimes the car starts right up the first time I push the start button, but most of the time I have to push it twice. Basically, it is an intermittent problem. I have researched this problem online and it appears to be a common problem. It seems to me that there should be some type of recall. This problem began shortly after I purchased my car in March or April.

24 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/05/2023

I purchased this vehicle new (172 miles) from a dealership that also sells used cars. The vehicle was driven from a dealership about 75 miles away from where I purchased the car. I was told the other miles were from test drives. I think the car salesman switched cars after the test-drive, while I was calling my insurance company (can't prove it). I never returned to that dealership. I took my car to a dealership closer to my home for service several times. The automatic braking system, forward collision warning, the adaptive cruise control all malfunction on a regular basis. The service person told me that Nissan couldn't service these issues without the manufacture of the braking systems approval. The dealership gave me paperwork on my first complaint- no repairs were made. The dealership gave me paperwork on my second visit stating intermittent electrical issues- no repairs were made. I did not receive paperwork on my 3rd visit. My 3year/36,000 miles bumper to bumper warranty (that never got used) has expired. I decided to live with these issues because the car runs well- getting a lawyer seems pointless. I took my car to a different dealership (over 45 miles away) because of the steering. I was told that it would cost me $170 for diagnosis. I agreed to the charge. The service person then had me call Nissan to get a work order number ( I found that very odd) why didn't the service person call Nissan? a mechanic looked at the car and told me that I need a new power steering rack and that it isn't covered under warranty. I asked about the recall on the tie rod ends. I was told the tie rod ends have no bearing (ha,ha) on the power steering rack. I was told the power steering rack would cost $2,800 to have installed. The mechanic said he wouldn't drive the car because a wheel might come off while driving. I wasn't charge for my visit and didn't receive any paperwork. My car is parked in my garage with 47,xxx miles on it and is unsafe to drive.

25 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/02/2023

My backup camera constantly defaults to a blue screen. I have nearly backed into other cars as a result of this malfunction. I also have a toddler at home. While I do normal safety checks around my vehicle prior to leaving my driveway, there is still a possibility that he could dart out of the home and stand behind my car without my knowledge. I have asked hyman brothers Nissan on midlothian turnpike in midlothian, virginia to look at this. The service advisor told me that it was "probably due the multiple cell phones trying to connect to my vehicle". All cell phones associated with my vehicle have been removed as well as all charging cables. I still have this issue. My vehicle is not safe at this time. While I do drive it, I am forced to call my house before leaving in the morning to ensure my toddler is being adequately supervised before I put my car in reverse to leave. When parking, I make every attempt to pull through so I do not have to put my car in reverse. Due to the malfunctioning equipment, my vehicle may be breaking the law that states vehicles manufactured after 2018 need to have backup cameras installed. While the law doesn't specify that the backup camera needs to work, it should be assumed.

26 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/04/2023

I purchased the vehicle there was a popping sound when you turn the steering wheel either to the left or right I told the dealer and they said they could not hear it. They took it to the service dept and the car was checked out I was told that there was no issue with the steering wheel today the car continues to make the noise somedays it louder than others I took it again to nissa and they still say there is nothing wrong with the car I am concerned and disappointed with the service at Nissan something is for sure wrong with the car.

27 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 12/21/2022

The back door lock actuators does not lock automatic or not work at all with fob you have to manual lock the door from the inside button it does not lock when the car reach a certain speed my child open the door going down road and I just happen to see it when he did these need to be looked at before someone child gets hurt the doors does not work at all remotely or when it going certain speed.

28 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/19/2022

I have documented over 2 years of my aeb failing by photograph and video time stamping the continual occurances of this system failing on my vehicle while driving. The vehicle has self engaged the braking in the middle of driving, thankfully I was draveling on a residential road at aprox 30 mph. It was quite scary to experience. I also now have no back up camera, the screen is completely black when vehicle is in reverse, drive as well as park. I have restarted the vehicle hoping it was just a glitch in the system. I feel like this vehicle has been and continuing to be more insane to operate and I have literally only had it for 2 years, brand new off the lot July 2020.

29 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/13/2022

Was driving down the highway nothing in front of me my car hit the brakes and flashed warning on the dash and made me come to a stop after this happened my fuel economy decreased over 100 miles per tank other times it just activates and taps the brakes for no reason also every window except the driver window gets stuck several times a week another thing some how one of my rims cracked.

30 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/27/2022

The radio will turn it volume up own its own and the doors will lock you in the car and sometimes will not let you unlock the doors from inside or outside.

31 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/12/2022

Locks on doors would not work with remote, and to get out keys to get fixed. When to Nissan 2 times for them to fix. Dark at night could not get in car safely. No warning signs windows would not go up or down, had to get windows fixed, due to rain can hinder my vison while driving. No warnings, Nissan fixed after going back two times back up camera had to be replaced or fixed. Car would not start. Said it was a break lamp sensor, which was recalled on 2019 and prior Nissan Sentra's. I have a 2020 no recall yet no incident has happened yet, but could cause grave danger if not fixed! this whole car needs to be recalled!.

32 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/19/2022

The electrical system is a nightmare in this vehicle. My automatic emergency braking system was activating while I was going 60mph on the highway with no vehicles or reasons to have this feature activate. It happened on numerous occasions. I had passengers in the car and they witnessed it. It was very alarming to be cruising along at 50+ mph and the braking system jolted the car to a stop. I also had to replace the battery twice. Had to purchase a portable jump starter. Had to replace alternator. None of these things should be an issue with a 36 mo lease I complained numerous times how I felt the car was a death trap. I asked for a loaner if I left car since it’s a safety hazard and I’m sickly and must get to my dr appts. I was told by dealer that’s not their problem. I broke down at night alone at least 5 times. My gas said a quarter tank yet I broke down for no gas. The radio volume knob never worked. The driver rear door never locked. System malfunction wld constantly flash on my screen. The car made a ticking noise inside when shut down. My heater didn’t work. I opened 2 consumer affairs claims. They put me off everyday. The girl tyler did nothing. This car is a death trap. I think the dealer knew it had electrical problems. I kept car past end of lease for legal proof. I continued to pay. Finally I gave up. 5 hrs b4 inspection they sent a tow truck to take vehicle. I lost all belongings in trunk. They were still using my registration and never contacted me or returned calls or sent any letter to get my belongings. They kept new battery and battery jumper. Plz I need help. Nissan has been nasty to me and my [xxx] mom and instead of offering some money back they want to put me in collections for $1500 for mileage. Which I kept paying lease plz help us. Nissan resold vehicle. Someone is going to die in that car information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

33 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/14/2021

While driving my 2020 Nissan Sentra, my car proceeded to brake on its own while I was depressing the accelerator. A red warning light flashed across the dash that looked like 2 cars colliding. I was able to maintain control of the vehicle, even though it was acting erratically. The braking occurred abruptly startling me and the drivers around me. Thankfully, the car did not cause a collision. The incidence scared me immensely causing my heart to palpitate and raising my blood pressure. I looked for the indicator light in my manual after I had come to a complete stop and was able to calm down after the scare. The warning was the automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection system warning light. The thing was, there were no pedestrians anywhere near my vehicle, nor were there any other vehicles or objects that could've possibly set the system off. It was clear that this system in my car was malfunction. I'm truly scared to drive my car now. I took the car to the dealer to have it looked at and fixed, however, a couple of weeks later, the same incidence occurred. This time I had my elderly mother in the car with me. She was able to witness what I had previously experienced. It scared her as well. This malfunction is going to cause unnecessary collisions that will result in harm to someone. This malfunction could easily induce an accident. It is also causing unnecessary wear and tear on vehicle due to the forceful nature of the abrupt braking. I will likely be trading this car in because the dealership cannot seem to remedy the problem. I spend a great deal of time in my car, and I cannot take the risk that this car imposes.

34 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/04/2021

Vehicle delivered with 220 miles from dealer at 5:30pm. Awoke following morning and it registered 221 miles. Vehicle was kept in locked garage overnight and never driven.

35 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/26/2020

System malfunction detection activated while driving. Icon advising aeb brake failure detected light engaged and stays on.


Other Electrical System related problems of the 2020 Nissan Sentra

Electrical System problems
38
Adas Autonomous/self Driving problems
1

Sentra Service Bulletins
Sentra Safety Recalls
Sentra Defect Investigations