Nissan Altima problems

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The Nissan Altima is a mid-size car manufactured by Nissan since 1992. It is a continuation of the Nissan Bluebird line, which began in 1955.

The Altima has historically been larger, more powerful, and more luxurious than the Nissan Sentra but less so than the Nissan Maxima. The first through fourth-generation cars were manufactured exclusively in the United States and officially sold in North and South America, along with the Middle East and Australia. For other markets, Nissan sold a related mid-size sedan called the Nissan Teana which was between the Altima and Maxima in terms of size. In 2013, the Teana became a rebadged version of the fifth-generation Altima.

The name "Altima" was originally applied to a top trim line of the Nissan Leopard for the Japanese market in 1986, and then to the Nissan Laurel mid-size car sold in Central America and the Caribbean before 1992. In 1992, Nissan discontinued the Stanza which was a Nissan Bluebird clone, replacing it with the US-built Altima, while remaining a compact car. The first Altima was produced in June 1992, as a 1993 model. All Altima models for the North American market were built in Smyrna, Tennessee, until June 2004, when Nissan's Canton, Mississippi plant also began producing the model to meet high demand.

photo of Nissan Altima car production

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Nissan Altima model years

nissan altima 2024 photo
Altima 2024
Nissan

14

1

25

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2023 photo
Altima 2023
Nissan

9

0

21

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2022 photo
Altima 2022
Nissan

12

0

29

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2021 photo
Altima 2021
Nissan

30

2

23

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2020 photo
Altima 2020
Nissan

118

5

18

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2019 photo
Altima 2019
Nissan

159

6

32

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2018 photo
Altima 2018
Nissan

194

2

23

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2017 photo
Altima 2017
Nissan

331

3

33

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2016 photo
Altima 2016
Nissan

495

4

28

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2015 photo
Altima 2015
Nissan

876

10

29

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2014 photo
Altima 2014
Nissan

1058

8

32

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2013 photo
Altima 2013
Nissan

2266

12

32

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2012 photo
Altima 2012
Nissan

416

4

33

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2011 photo
Altima 2011
Nissan

236

1

32

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2010 photo
Altima 2010
Nissan

372

3

38

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2009 photo
Altima 2009
Nissan

1540

4

27

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2008 photo
Altima 2008
Nissan

1019

4

29

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2007 photo
Altima 2007
Nissan

495

3

38

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2006 photo
Altima 2006
Nissan

820

4

35

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2005 photo
Altima 2005
Nissan

1088

2

33

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2004 photo
Altima 2004
Nissan

276

5

32

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2003 photo
Altima 2003
Nissan

883

10

27

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2002 photo
Altima 2002
Nissan

1061

12

26

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2001 photo
Altima 2001
Nissan

174

2

39

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 2000 photo
Altima 2000
Nissan

181

2

31

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 1999 photo
Altima 1999
Nissan

100

4

32

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 1998 photo
Altima 1998
Nissan

128

4

31

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 1997 photo
Altima 1997
Nissan

117

3

28

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 1996 photo
Altima 1996
Nissan

109

2

21

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 1995 photo
Altima 1995
Nissan

193

5

38

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 1994 photo
Altima 1994
Nissan

120

4

28

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan altima 1993 photo
Altima 1993
Nissan

146

3

23

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Nissan Altima problems

The Nissan Altima, a popular midsize sedan, has faced numerous complaints from owners regarding various issues over the years. One of the most common problems reported is difficulty accelerating, which is often attributed to the Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) system.

Another problem area is the engine, with many complaints about engine failure, jerking, and loss of power.

The 2019 Nissan Altima, in particular, has been subject to a high volume of consumer complaints, with problems ranging from the Automatic Emergency Braking System (AEB) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to the Forward Collision Warning System (FCW).

In addition, the 2019 Nissan Altima has been reported to have problems with the windshield, with several accounts of the windshield cracking or shattering at the slightest pressure.

The electrical system, key fob, and doors have also been problematic in the 2019 Nissan Altima, with many owners reporting that their car's doors do not lock using the fob and that they must manually lock and unlock the doors.

The 2013 Nissan Altima has been rated as the worst model year, with the most overall complaints and a high number of engine problems.

The 2002, 2005, 2009, and 2013 Nissan Altima models have been identified as problematic years, with issues ranging from transmission problems to excessive oil consumption and catalytic converter failure.

In summary, the Nissan Altima has faced numerous complaints from owners over the years, with common problems including difficulty accelerating, engine failure, transmission issues, and problems with the windshield and electrical system. The 2013 and 2019 models, in particular, have been subject to a high volume of complaints, with issues ranging from the CVT system and brakes to the windshield and electrical system.

Nissan Altima

What is the main problem with Nissan Altima?

Failed Crankshaft Sensor

One of the most commonly reported Nissan Altima problems is related to the crankshaft or camshaft sensor. Drivers reported that the crankshaft or camshaft position sensor would fail, resulting in the engine stalling.

What years are bad for Nissan Altima?

Model years 2011 and 2012 are perhaps the best. Reliability is top-notch, and registered complaints are minimal. Nissan Altima's worst model years include 2002, 2003, 2009, and 2013-2015. From engine and powertrain failures to faulty electricals, these models are best avoided.

What year Nissan Altima has transmission problems?

A Little Background about the Nissan Altima Problems

CVTs are designed to provide smoother acceleration and better fuel economy than traditional automatic transmissions. However, early Nissan CVTs were prone to several issues. These problems were particularly common in Altima models from the 2007 to 2010 model years.

Is the Nissan Altima a reliable car?

For the most part, it is indeed a reliable vehicle. Copilotsearch.com indicates that buying a used Nissan Altima is a good idea thanks to the wide range of safe, reliable model years (so you aren't limited to one or two years during your search).

Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Altima years

We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Altima cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Altima model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Altima model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Altima years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Nissan Altima car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Altima , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Structure problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Altima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Altima model years

A total of 851 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Altima model years

There were a total of 210 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Altima model years

There were a total of 745 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Altima model years

There were a total of 16 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 15036 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Altima . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Altima vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Nissan Altima 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-11-04
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP1DN
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: The headlamps are so dim, you can't even see the road at night. This is a well known issue to Nissan that the headlamps for this make and model are defective. The headlamp assemblies need to be replaced and this should be a recall. There was a civil lawsuit and I, like many others, tried getting the headlamps replaced during the acceptable time period, but my Nissan dealership was not able to get the parts in time. Looking online, this happened to the majority of people and people weren't able to get the proper repairs needed at no fault of their own. This is a major problem that Nissan needs to address. NHTSA also has a responsibility to be pushing Nissan on this recall. My automotive repair company said they've never seen so many complaints with the NHTSA without there being a full recall. It is an extreme safety hazard to not have the road visible at night. I, along with others, have received warnings from the police as well for not having proper lighting. Please help fix this issue.
Nissan Altima 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-11-02
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP6DC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: The headlights are very dim and it's very hard to see when it's dark outside
Nissan Altima 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-11-01
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP1DC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: Delamination of headlight units has left low beam use unsafe. Seeing more than 20-25ft ahead of vehicle is impossible at night. There was a class action suit for this issue but I was not notified and now the window for replacement had passed. This seems like it should have been a safety recall. I attempted to get relief from Nissan but was stonewalled. Not even a discount on replacing the units.
Nissan Altima 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP7DC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: Unsafe to drive due to transmission not registering lower gears when at complete stop, takes full minute before gears accelerate. I have unexpectedly stalled in the middle of traffic and was almost rear ended. Going under the legal miles per hour on standard roads causing delays in traffic and potential Fire Risk due to overheating because of transmission issues. Potential harm to myself and others by causing collisions. Big O's in Boise Idaho (208) 996-1306 has confirmed it is unsafe to drive 10/29/2024. appointment with Nissan dealership 10/30/2024 Check engine light has failed to appear. The closure of a class action lawsuit over CVT transmission issues in vehicles like the 2013 Nissan Altima, without a recall, poses significant safety risks. Without a recall, critical transmission problems such as stalling, power loss, or erratic shifting remain unresolved for many drivers. Financial constraints may prevent owners from paying out-of-pocket for expensive repairs, leaving unsafe vehicles on the road. Unlike recalls, which require manufacturers to notify all affected owners and provide free repairs, lawsuits end without ongoing accountability, meaning these safety risks can persist indefinitely. Additionally, future owners, especially in the used car market, may be unaware of the defect, unknowingly operating cars with hidden risks. The lack of consistent resolution means thousands of vehicles with potentially faulty transmissions continue to pose dangers not only to their drivers but also to other road users. A recall would ensure that all affected vehicles are inspected and repaired, but without one, the burden unfairly shifts to owners, compromising road safety on a large scale.
Nissan Altima 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
  • VIN: 1N4BL4BW5LC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: Car phantom brakes. There are multiple cases of it online where people are complaining when the front emergency brake warning light comes up at times and the car brakes automatically in empty highways. This happens fairly often
Nissan Altima 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
  • VIN: 1N4AL3APXHC
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Hello, I have a 2017 Nissan Altima, VIN# 1N4AL3APXHC185845 and a few years ago there was a safety recall on the headlight system. The lights are very dim, they will not get bright after changing the bulbs multiple times and still not a fix. The lights are very dim at night and very hard to see. I tried scheduling an appointment and the Nissan dealership says this recall expired. My 21 year old daughter is driving the car and she keeps asking me that she cannot see with the lights on and working fine. Multiple times she has almost hit something close to the side of the road or another parked car because the lights are so dim but working fine. How can a safety recall expire, if an accident happens and Nissan refused to fix the safety issue and had a recall then Nissan Corporation may be liable for any injuries due to this accident. I just want to get the headlights fixed according to the safety recall but every time I call, it gets disconnected or I cannot get thru to anyone and they just keep me on hold.
Nissan Altima 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP5HC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The airbag light turns on whenever someone else drives the car and moves the driver seat. The light stays on until we clear the code and then starts over again when someone moves the seat. The airbag code said that there was a problem with the sensor in the driver seat and the airbag may not deploy. The dealer wants more than $3,000 to fix this problem but I believe it is a manufacturer defect that affects safety and there should be a recall. I have read that there are many other drivers of 2017 Altimas who are having the exact same problem as I am having.
Nissan Altima 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP8DC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: Power train gives out when car warms up. I’ve had fluids checked for the power train and Everything was fine. When on high way power train would either jerk tremendously or just give out. It almost caused me to wreck one day ass there was a truck behind me who nearly avoided rear ending me because the car completely slowed down.
Nissan Altima 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-06-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP0FN
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: I take my wife's Nissan Altima (2015) to dealer (Jackie Cooper, Tulsa) regularly and (in 2020) asked them why the headlights were so dim. Told me there was a class action suit ongoing and that we could fix it and wait for the settlement to submit receipts, or we could wait and that they would call when the suit was settled. Was never notified by dealership that we could bring it in to get replaced. Called again to check status (10/24) I found out that the deadline is now passed and we can not get it repaired unless we pay. No dealer notification and because Nissan did not ever inform us, we now need to do it on our own. Unsatisfactory (and expensive). It is a known defect and should have been repaired when we brought it in for regular service. This car is unsafe to drive at night, but not due to anything we have done and it should be fixed since we were not notified. 2015 Nissan Altima with 74478 miles and has always been well cared for. Because this is a know problem, mileage and length of time should not have anything to do with fixing it, ESPECIALLY since they neglected to call us. It is a safety problem. My wife (the driver) is [XXX] and needs headlights that work. I never drive the car but I did last night to get gas. The lights are terrible. Dim and yellowish. I spent 80.00 on a kit to buff out the clear lens but that did little to nothing. THIS IMPACTS SAFETY AND I WANT IT FIXED!!!! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Nissan Altima 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP9HN
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the air bag warning light remained illuminated. The contact stated that there not been an air bag deployment. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,150.
Nissan Altima 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP2FC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: My car has been to Nissan service 3 times for a faulty airbag light - it thinks the driver seat is unoccupied when it is not - that means the air bag may not activate. The dealer has been able to turn off the light but it eventually comes back on. It meets all the criteria below for the recall but the VIN is excluded. I have paid $562.02 in service fees and now they want $2,000 to replace the seat. I would like my VIN added to the recall. 2015 Nissan Altima Air Bag Recall Nissan has announced that 919 vehicles have been affected by a Air Bag recall. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Altima and Pathfinder vehicles, 2013-2014 Nissan Sentra vehicles, 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles, 2014-2015 Infiniti QX60 vehicles and 2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid vehicles. The affected vehicles received an incorrect occupant classification system (OCS) control unit during a repair. These OCS control units may incorrectly classify the front passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult. If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger air bag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.
Nissan Altima 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP7HC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the front passenger’s seat air bag warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the front passenger’s seat occupant sensor was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 65,000.
Nissan Altima 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
  • VIN: 1N4AL2AP3CC
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, there was an abnormal banging sound coming from the rear end of the vehicle, followed by a dragging sound. The contact also stated that the vehicle began to shake abnormally. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over and discovered that the rear driver side tire was hanging from the suspension. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it remained. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 236,000.
Nissan Altima 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
  • VIN: 1N4BL4BV7LC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: My issue began 1 month after buying the vehicle. Regardless if I'm on the highway or back road no transition from one lane to another needs to be initiated , my whole dash will light up red and the car will come to a complete stop , at this time I just hold on and brace myself .Im a RN w/2 kids I went back to the dealer they said they checked it out but on my own I found out the car was in 2 accidents those things were not revealed to me during the buying process. I didn't know how to report this Im pretty ignorant to this type of thing however I did complain to gm by way of phone few times I called early on. No one at the dealership will help. Im literally in fear of me and my children's life. I test my luck because I don't know what else to do and can't afford another vehicle. Please help this complete dead stop sometimes turns the back end of my vehicle if im going over 70 when it stops, for this reason I drive like 40mph. I hope knowing this issue you can help there is no reason I know of for this incident which is now happening approximately once a week. Again this happen almost immediately after buying ,I went to the Mngr no one will help but this is very scary for me and two children will it take a nurse dying in an accident before someone does something , I dont now what else to do Again out of nowhere no matter the speed the dash turns red all lights come on and vehicle comes to ABRUPT STOP.Thank you and its at this point once a week,by the way I only guessed the parts involved d/t effects of incident I do notknow which or what from the car would have these issues from because I absolutely bought it like this
Nissan Altima 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • VIN: 1N4AL3AP4HC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: After coming to a complete stop at a stop light, the car fails to accelerate into the intersection. Its hesitation leaves you vulnerable in the intersection and could cause a head on collision or even a T-Bone accident. I feel like driving this vehicle puts the lives of my family at risk. After reading all the very similar complaints I don't understand how Nissan hasn't issued a recall yet. Nissan is leaving themselves open to a wrongful death lawsuit. How can they let this issue continue unresolved?

Latest 5 recalls Nissan Altima

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 134 recalls for different components of the Nissan Altima.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Nissan Altima 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-21
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: STEERING:RACK AND PINION
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Altima vehicles. The bolts connecting the electronic power steering unit to the steering rack may loosen, resulting in a loss of steering control or steering lock-up.
  • Consequence: A loss of steering control or steering lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the steering gear assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 9, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PC997.
  • Model: Nissan Altima 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2023-09-08
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Altima and 2020-2021 Sentra vehicles. Damage to the camera harness can cause distortion or loss of the rearview camera display image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
  • Consequence: A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rearview camera and harness for damage and replace them as necessary. If no damage is found, the dealer will apply protective tape and reroute the rearview camera harness. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23C3.
  • Model: Nissan Altima 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2023-09-08
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Altima and 2020-2021 Sentra vehicles. Damage to the camera harness can cause distortion or loss of the rearview camera display image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
  • Consequence: A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rearview camera and harness for damage and replace them as necessary. If no damage is found, the dealer will apply protective tape and reroute the rearview camera harness. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23C3.
  • Model: Nissan Altima 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2023-09-08
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Altima and 2020-2021 Sentra vehicles. Damage to the camera harness can cause distortion or loss of the rearview camera display image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
  • Consequence: A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rearview camera and harness for damage and replace them as necessary. If no damage is found, the dealer will apply protective tape and reroute the rearview camera harness. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23C3.
  • Model: Nissan Altima 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2021-03-11
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Altima and 2018-2021 Titan vehicles equipped with Continental tires. On the affected vehicles, it is possible that one or more tires were cured for too long during tire production.
  • Consequence: Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall, resulting in sudden air loss or belt edge separation which could lead to tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 11, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PC798.

Latest negative Nissan Altima car reviews

  1. Keshaun Ankunding 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2006

    Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to let you know that I recently discovered that my 2006 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL may be part of a recall (NTB06-028) due to excessive oil consumption. Unfortunately, the car began exhibiting the symptoms of the recall at 120K miles in late June 2012. It started burning one quart of oil every 600 miles, and within two weeks, it was burning one quart every 300-350 miles. Throughout my ownership of the car, I always made sure to properly maintain it at my local Nissan dealer. At 138k miles, the vehicle began making a noise that sounded like a bag trapped underneath the car. Just after arriving home, the car exploded in thick, black smoke that billowed from under the hood and into the vehicle through the vents. I wanted to bring this to your attention and see if there's anything that can be done to address this issue. Thank you for your time and assistance!

  2. Enos Goldner 2025-03-26

    Vehicle year: 1996

    Hey there! I've had this car since '97 and for the first 3 years, it was smooth sailing. However, I did run into a few issues later on, such as the alternator going out twice, the battery dying twice, a radiator leak, the odometer stopping working, the horn stopping working, and the dash light not working. It's been a bit frustrating, and I've decided that it's time to try a different brand than Nissan.

  3. Mitchell Schaefer 2025-03-24

    Vehicle year: 2009

    Nissan's transmission recall policy is a concern that needs to be addressed. It is important for car manufacturers to ensure that their vehicles are reliable and safe for consumers. As a Nissan owner, I was disappointed to experience transmission issues at 129,000 miles, especially since I later discovered that there was a recall for this issue. While I have always held Nissan in high regard, this experience has caused me to question their commitment to quality. It is my recommendation that consumers consider other options when purchasing a vehicle, particularly those with a proven track record of reliability. It is important for car manufacturers to prioritize the safety and satisfaction of their customers, and I hope that Nissan will take steps to address these concerns and improve their products in the future.

  4. Willy Walker 2025-03-21

    Vehicle year: 2012

    I bought my Nissan Altima in 2012 and it has been a great car. Recently, I noticed two spots of rust on the trunk, which were not covered under warranty. Although I tried the touch-up paint from the dealer, it didn't match the brilliant silver color of my car. At around 72,000 miles, I had to replace the transmission, but thankfully, I had purchased the extended warranty, which covered the cost. Despite these issues, my 2012 Nissan Altima S is still running strong with over 143,000 miles on it and no other problems. I do have a long commute for work, so the miles added up quickly, but I always kept up with the oil changes. It would have been great if Nissan had taken responsibility for the transmission issues, especially since I found out that many other Altima and Rogue owners had similar problems. Overall, I'm still happy with my car and its performance.

  5. Chad Towne 2025-03-20

    Vehicle year: 2006

    I purchased my Nissan Altima 3.5 SE back in 2006 and have been extremely satisfied with it ever since. Fortunately, I have not had any warranty issues and have made sure to keep up with regular maintenance. This car has been an absolute joy to drive and I look forward to getting behind the wheel every day. Although I recently had to replace the timing chain, which was a costly and labor-intensive job, I have not experienced any other issues besides regular maintenance such as brakes and battery replacements. I plan on driving this reliable vehicle until it can no longer go on.

Latest positive Nissan Altima car reviews

  1. Gerson Wilkinson 2025-03-29

    Vehicle year: 2008

    The 2008 Altima SE V6 has some of the most uncomfortable seats I have ever experienced, despite having previously owned an Infiniti M35 with acceptable seats. While I had read about the issue on Edmunds prior to purchasing the Altima, I unfortunately did not take it seriously enough. Even after using padded lumbar cushions, I still experience discomfort after only 5 minutes of driving due to a lack of support, particularly on the left side. I have considered investing in custom seats, but I am unsure if it would make a significant difference. If not, I am willing to take a loss and explore other options in this class that offer superior comfort.

  2. Moshe Barrows 2025-03-29

    Vehicle year: 1999

    You've had this vehicle for 8 years and have never had to go back to the dealer for anything other than oil changes, tire replacement, fan belt and brake replacements. That's it! The fuel economy is 25+ on the road and about 20 in town. You're thinking of selling it, but you're afraid that what you get to replace it won't be as dependable. Overall, in your opinion, the Altima is the best value dollar for dollar among any car on the market today or ever.

  3. Ervin Kub 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 1996

    Great overall built car and very reliable!

  4. Lee West 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 2001

    Got it from my great aunt for $5 with 55,000 miles since it was an enterprise rental she bought years ago. It sat for 4 years, and even after that, all tires were still good, not rotting, the engine started up with no issues. When we got it, needed new brakes, exhaust, and taillight. Once I started driving it, replaced the EGR valve, thermostat, hoses, suspension components, all fluids, interior pieces, and gave it a new radio. I did all of this on my own labor, the parts were incredibly easy and cheap to find.She still runs amazing, although some suspension noise that's literally 20 years old. Never had power issues, or have her break down. I drove on a bad thermostat for about 300 miles and she still powered through. This engine is literally bullet-proof.She's very rusty, but I sealed her up with rust paint, and hopefully, I get another 4-5 years out of her.

  5. Remington Lubowitz 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 1994

    You've covered 145,000 miles and are still getting at least 28 mpg, with the best being 32 mpg. The brake rotors finally gave out at 143,500, but other than that, there have been no major problems or concerns. It still flies through emissions tests every year. You're not looking to get a new car yet, but you'll definitely go with Nissan again, and again...

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