Nissan Sentra

Test details:

The Nissan Sentra was redesigned for the 2007 model year.

Two side crash tests of the Sentra were conducted. In the first test, the side curtain airbag of a 2008 model provided only acceptable head protection for the rear occupant when it was caught by the B-pillar trim during deployment. Although the overall side crash protection still would have been rated good, with low risk of injuries to both driver and rear passenger dummies, Nissan engineers were concerned about the interference with the deployment of the side curtain airbag. In response, Nissan changed its factory assembly process to better assure proper positioning of the airbag and trim parts for all Sentras produced after January 2009. Also, Nissan has initiated a service campaign to inspect and modify the assembly of the side curtain airbags and trim at its cost for cars produced earlier. In a second test of a 2009 model with new assembly procedures in place, the side curtain airbag deployed fully, and the head protection for both dummies was rated Good.

Ratings of the Sentra are based on the results of the second test, except that the structural rating is based on both tests.

Injury measures:

Driver — Measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity.

Rear passenger — Measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity.

Head protection:

Driver — The dummy's head was protected from being hit by any hard structures, including the intruding barrier, by a side curtain airbag that deployed from the roof.

Rear passenger — The dummy's head was protected from being hit by any hard structures, including the intruding barrier, by a side curtain airbag that deployed from the roof.