1997 Nissan Sentra Engine Problems
7 owner-reported engine complaints from NHTSA data
Data sourced from NHTSA public database. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified mechanic.
Owner Complaints (7)
Your engine's RPM increased on its own while you were braking at a stop sign, and later while parking, the engine stayed at a high RPM by itself even though the car was in Park. This suggests your engine may not be returning to its normal idle speed as it should.
Parts you may need:
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Your check engine light keeps turning on and off depending on outside temperature. The issue is likely a faulty EVAP vent control valve and O-ring that need replacement. While this won't affect how your car drives, your vehicle won't pass emissions inspections and fuel economy will suffer until these parts are replaced. The repair involves replacing the EVAP valve and O-ring, then having the diagnostic trouble code cleared at a dealership.
Parts you may need:
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I OWN A 1997 NISSAN SENTRA THE MAIN SEAL AROUND THE HEAD GASKET LEAKS CAUSING OIL TO LEAK. PREVIOUS TO THIS I OWNED A NISSAN ALTIMA I THINK THE YEAR WAS 1993 THAT HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. ALSO MY AIR BAG LIGHT CONSTANTLY BLINKS EVER SINCE I BOUGHT IT. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THEY COULDN'T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT
UPPER RADIATOR HOSE LEAKS AT EITHER CONNECTION. TRIED INSTALLING NEW RADIATOR HOSE AND BRAND NEW, HIGH QUALITY HOSE CLAMPS, BUT PROBLEM PERSISTED. COOLANT THEN DRIPS DOWN DIRECTLY INTO THE ALTERNATOR SHORTING THE ALTERNATOR OUT. SOLUTION: MAKE A COVER FOR ALTERNATOR OUT OF SHEET METAL, AND BOLT IT TO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD COVER. IF WATER DRIPS FROM THE ABOVE RADIATOR HOSE, THE COVER WILL PROTECT THE ALTERNATOR BY DIRECTING THE RUNOFF ELSEWHERE. *LA
UPPER RADIATOR HOSE LEAKS AT EITHER POINT OF CONNECTION. COOLANT DRIPS DOWN DIRECTLY INTO ALTERNATOR SHORTING THE ALTERNATOR OUT. TRIED REPLACING OLD HOSE AND HOSE CLAMPS WITH A NEW HOSE AND NEW, HIGH QUALITY HOSE CLAMPS, BUT PROBLEM PERSISTED. SOLUTION: MADE OWN COVER TO PROTECT ALTERNATOR FROM COOLANT DRIPPING FROM LEAKY UPPER RADIATOR HOSE OUT OF SHEET METAL. BOLTED SHEET METAL COVER TO EXHAUST MANIFOLD. NOW IF THE UPPER RADIATOR HOSE LEAKS, THE COOLANT DRIPS ON SHEET METAL COVER AND RUNOFF GOES ELSEWHERE SAFELY. HAVEN'T HAD A PROBLEM SINCE. *LA
POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE, CAUSED ENGINE LIGHT TO COME ON. *YC
VEHICLE FAILS TO START ON OCCASIONS.