Knowing what is wrong with your 2008 Nissan Sentra--and how to fix it--can save you time and money. Even if not mechanically inclined, being able to troubleshoot what the problem with the vehicle is can speed along the repair process. It also can signal whether it is basic enough to fix yourself or if the vehicle should be taken to a mechanic. By paying attention to your vehicle, you might be able to head off a problem before it turns into a major repair.
Paying attention: Noticing new or different sounds with your car can help pinpoint problems before they manifest into more costly repairs. Also monitoring oil use and the need for other fluids for the vehicle can uncover problems as well. For example, if you need oil less than a thousand miles after an oil change or after adding oil, there is a leak in the engine and repairs are needed.
Shakes and vibrations also signal trouble and should be attended to as soon as possible. Clicking noises can mean problems with your alternator or battery wiring.
Engine issues: When starting the car, if a battery warning light blinks in green, it means the battery charge is low. Replace the battery.
If the Intelligent Key system warning light is in red, the battery is depleted and needs to be replaced.
Ignition issues: A continual beep when closing the driver's side door means that the ignition is not in the "Lock" position. Reinsert the key and move the ignition knob to "Lock."
If the Intelligent Key light comes on when turning the ignition switch, it means the Intelligent Key is not in the vehicle. Retrieve the Intelligent Key before continuing.
Other warnings: If the front door chime goes off and the doors all unlock, the Intelligent Key is still in the vehicle. Take out the key and close the doors.
If stopped and the "P" (Park) light comes on, the vehicle's gear shift lever is not in "Park." Move the level to "Park" and turn the ignition switch to "Lock."
Stereo system: If unable to play a CD, check that the disc was inserted correctly, that it is not scratched, dirty or damaged. If there is condensation in the unit, wait one hour and then try to play your CD again.
Temperature increases will cause the CD player to stop working. When the unit returns to normal temperature, the CD should play again.
If there is poor sound quality when playing a CD, check if the disc is damaged or dirty
Voice commands: If your Sentra is equipped with a voice-command phone system and the programmed commands are not being executed:
If voice-command problems continue, the voice-training procedure should be repeated.
