2013-2019 Nissan Sentra Grille Guide: Navigating Facelifts and Trim Packages

Understanding the 2013-2019 Sentra Grille Variations

Replacing the grille on a Nissan Sentra from this generation can be confusing. The most significant change occurred in 2016 when the Sentra received a major facelift, altering the front-end design, including the grille. Additionally, different trim levels like S, SV, SR, and Nismo have unique grille designs. The assembly often consists of an upper grille and multiple lower bumper grille pieces, which are not always interchangeable.

Key Compatibility Factors: Pre-Facelift (2013-2015) vs. Facelift (2016-2019)

It is essential to correctly identify your vehicle's model year before purchasing a grille.

• 2013-2015 (Pre-Facelift): These models feature a more traditional chrome-trimmed trapezoidal grille. The SR trim has a unique honeycomb or mesh pattern compared to the horizontal slats on S and SV models.
🎬 See how to remove the 2013-2015 bumper and grille.
• 2016-2019 (Facelift): These models adopted Nissan's "V-Motion" grille, which is a much more prominent and aggressive design with a large chrome 'V'. The inner patterns and lower bumper grilles vary significantly based on trim (S, SV, SR, Nismo) and options.

Trim and Option Specific Grilles (2016-2019)

For the facelifted models, compatibility becomes even more complex:

• Trim Level: Base S and SV models have a different grille pattern than the sportier SR and Nismo trims. The SR often features a gloss black finish with a different mesh design.
• Lower Grilles: The lower bumper area can have up to three separate grille pieces. Their design depends on whether the car is equipped with fog lamps.
• Chrome Accents: Some 2018-2019 models came with chrome accents on the lower grilles. While these may physically fit earlier 2016-2017 models, they will not be a cosmetic match to the original parts.
• Special Editions: The "Midnight Edition" for 2016-2019 models has its own specific blacked-out grille.

Symptoms of a Damaged Grille

Grille failure is almost always due to physical damage from road debris or a front-end impact. Symptoms are typically visual:

• Cracks and Breaks: Visible cracks, fractures, or holes in the plastic. Plastic can become brittle in cold weather, making it more susceptible to damage.
• Missing Pieces: Sections of the grille may break off entirely, leaving the radiator or condenser exposed.
• Loose Fitment: Broken mounting tabs will cause the grille to be loose, rattle while driving, or sit unevenly in the bumper opening.
• Peeling Finish: The chrome or painted finish can peel, bubble, or fade due to sun exposure and debris.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins

As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Nissan or the NHTSA that directly address the grilles on the 2013-2019 Sentra. Most issues are related to cosmetic damage or breakage from impacts. However, it's worth noting that this generation of Sentra had several recalls related to front-end sensors, such as the Occupant Classification System (OCS) for the passenger airbag. While these recalls don't involve the grille itself, any service in that area could potentially lead to improper reinstallation of the bumper or grille, causing loose fitment.

Buyer's Guide: What to Check When Buying a Used Sentra Grille

A used OEM grille can be a great value, offering better fit and quality than cheap aftermarket alternatives. Here’s what to inspect:

Step 1: Verify Your Exact Part Number

Due to the many variations, the best way to ensure compatibility is to match the OEM part number. If you can't find the number on your old part, provide the seller with your car's 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A reputable seller can use the VIN to look up the exact grille your car was built with.

Step 2: Critical Physical Inspection

• All Mounting Tabs Intact: This is the most important check. Carefully examine the back of the grille. All plastic tabs, clips, and screw holes must be present and free of cracks. A single broken tab can cause a poor fit, gaps, and rattling.
• No Hidden Cracks: Inspect the entire piece for hairline cracks, especially around the edges and mounting points. What looks like a small stress mark can quickly worsen with vibration and temperature changes.
• Examine the Finish: Look for deep scratches, rock chips, and peeling chrome. Minor scuffs from normal driving are expected on a used part, but significant cosmetic damage may not be worth the savings.

Why Choose a Used OEM Grille Over New Aftermarket?

While inexpensive aftermarket grilles are available, they often come with trade-offs. Used OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are often a better choice because:

• Guaranteed Fit: An OEM part is guaranteed to align perfectly with the bumper cover and mounting points, just like the original. Aftermarket parts are notorious for having slight dimensional differences that result in gaps or difficult installation.
• Superior Material Quality: Factory grilles are made from durable, UV-resistant ABS plastic with high-quality chrome plating. Many cheaper aftermarket grilles use brittle plastic that cracks easily and chrome that can peel or pit after a short time.

Cost Comparison for 2013-2019 Sentra Grilles

Prices vary based on the specific grille (upper/lower, trim level) and condition. The following is an estimated range for the main upper grille.

Grille Replacement Overview

The difficulty of replacing the grille depends on the model year and whether you are replacing the upper or lower sections.

• 2016-2019 Upper Grille: On many facelift models, the upper grille can be replaced without removing the entire front bumper. The process involves removing the upper radiator cover under the hood to access the clips holding the grille.
🎬 Watch: 2016-2019 upper grille and emblem replacement guide.
• 2013-2015 Grilles & All Lower Grilles: For pre-facelift models and for replacing any of the lower grille pieces on all years, the front bumper cover must be removed. This involves removing numerous clips and screws in the wheel wells, under the front edge, and on top by the radiator support.
🎬 Watch this walkthrough for removing the entire front bumper.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)