Nissan Altima hybrid problems
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.
Social links
Nissan Altima hybrid model years
Common Nissan Altima hybrid problems
The Nissan Altima Hybrid is a popular car model known for its fuel efficiency and comfortable driving experience. However, some owners have reported common problems with this vehicle, particularly with the 2008-2011 models. Here are some of the issues that have been reported:
- Steering lock assembly failure: Another issue that has been reported is the failure of the steering lock assembly. This can cause the car to become difficult to steer, making it unsafe to drive. This issue has been reported in the 2009 Altima Hybrid, with 7 complaints.
- Electronic steering column lock (ESCL) stopped working: The electronic steering column lock is an important safety feature that prevents the car from being driven without the key. However, some Altima Hybrid owners have reported that the ESCL has stopped working, making it difficult to start the car. This issue has been reported in the 2009 Altima Hybrid, with 3 complaints.
- Misfire: Some Altima Hybrid owners have reported misfiring issues, which can cause the car to run poorly and reduce its fuel efficiency. This issue has been reported in the 2010 Altima Hybrid, with 1 complaint.
- Electrical problems: Electrical issues are a common problem reported by Altima Hybrid owners. These issues can include problems with the battery, charging system, and other electrical components. This issue has been reported in the 2008-2011 Altima Hybrid models, with a total of 14 complaints.
- Steering problems: Some Altima Hybrid owners have reported steering problems, which can make the car difficult to handle and reduce its safety. This issue has been reported in the 2008-2011 Altima Hybrid models, with a total of 11 complaints.
- Engine problems: Engine problems are another common issue reported by Altima Hybrid owners. These issues can include problems with the engine's performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. This issue has been reported in the 2008-2011 Altima Hybrid models, with a total of 4 complaints.
- Transmission problems: Some Altima Hybrid owners have reported transmission problems, which can cause the car to shift poorly and reduce its performance. This issue has been reported in the 2008-2011 Altima Hybrid models, with a total of 2 complaints.
- Exhaust system problems: Some Altima Hybrid owners have reported exhaust system problems, which can cause the car to emit excessive noise and emissions. This issue has been reported in the 2008-2011 Altima Hybrid models, with a total of 1 complaint.
It is important to note that these issues may not affect all Altima Hybrid models, and that some owners have reported very little problems with their vehicles. However, these issues are worth considering when purchasing a Nissan Altima Hybrid, particularly the 2008-2011 models. It is also recommended to regularly maintain the car and address any issues promptly to ensure its safety and longevity.
How long do Nissan Altima hybrids last?
In terms of mileage and overall lifespan, you can expect somewhere between 250,000 and 300,000 miles of use from your Nissan Altima assuming that it is well-maintained and kept in adequate shape.
Why was Nissan Altima hybrid discontinued?
Its fuel efficiency was 6.7 L/100 km (42 mpg‑imp; 35 mpg‑US) city and 7.1 L/100 km (40 mpg‑imp; 33 mpg‑US) highway, based on revised EPA measures for fuel economy ratings. After the 2011 model year Nissan discontinued the Altima Hybrid due to poor sales.
What is the biggest problem with Nissan Altima?
Engine Problems
The biggest problem with engine failures in this model were with the 2002 year. In fact, Car Complaints put this vehicle on its “Avoid Like the Plague” list. Known complaints about engine problems included excessive oil consumption, catalytic converter failure and exhaust system failures.
What are the bad years for Nissan Altima to avoid?
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.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Altima hybrid years
We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Altima hybrid cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Altima hybrid model years:
- Nissan Altima hybrid 2009
- Nissan Altima hybrid 2008
- Nissan Altima hybrid 2010
- Nissan Altima hybrid 2007
- Nissan Altima hybrid 2011
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Altima hybrid model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Altima hybrid years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Nissan Altima hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Altima hybrid , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Altima hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Altima hybrid model years
A total of 120 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 hybrid model years
There were a total of 32 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 hybrid model years
There were a total of 91 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 hybrid model years
There were a total of 4 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 3013 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Altima hybrid . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Altima hybrid vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Nissan Altima hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4AL21E18N
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owned a 2008 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at approximately 80 MPH, the steering wheel became stiff, and the contact lost control of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. As a result, the contact crashed into a concrete barrier. The front of the vehicle was severely damaged including the front driver and front passenger side doors. The air bags were deployed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard where it was deemed destroyed and discarded. A dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed for the failure. A police report was filed. The contact sustained a concussion, whiplash on her neck, and bruising on her nose that required medical attention. The contact currently was still recovering from her brain injury and receiving treatment from a neurologist. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V363000 (Suspension) as possibly being related to the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1N4AL21EX9N
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, there was an abnormal clanking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was driving rough. The contact stated that the ABS, brake, check engine, and TPMS warning lights were illuminated. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that there were no recalls for the failure on the VIN. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the strut housings had failed. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 184,000.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 1N4AL21E98N
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Dashboard material defective melted sticky and very reflective. No idea how toxic could be.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 1N4AL21E98N
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Leaking power stearing fluid. The seems to be an issue with fuel system. No light just does not seem to accelerate properly.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-01
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP6AN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Batteries continue to go dead, have had at least 8 batteries since 2012. Nissan started charging me for batteries got too be expensive & told them this is a huge concern because I travel alone & if I get stranded this is unsafe for me. Gave me all kinds of excuses as to why batteries are going dead. Again, my car is in the driveway with a dead battery. Thank goodness I wasn't travelling, stopped at a rest area & came out to a dead battery. I have to pull my backup for the mileage reference first time I had a dead battery. I can't upload any information because of not enough memory, but I do have all backup.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-11
- VIN: 1N4AL21E18N
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: My 2008 Nissan Altima's dash is degrading and has caused a sticky residue to form on it. This stickiness is very shiny and causes a glare to occur on the windshield. I live in Kentucky and when the sun is shining, and actually basically anytime driving, the glare makes it nearly impossible to see. I almost hit another vehicle because I could not see but instead went off the road to avoid a collision. This is very unsafe.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-10
- VIN: 1N4AL21E99C
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: There is Transmission problems with the 2009 Nissan. The car shakes/ Vibrates when idle, when sitting to long at a light the idle engine delays the gas pedal from going forward, having to accelerate the gas pedal till it jumps to proceed to move forward, The liquid is up to date however the car can’t move backwards in reverse but can move forward.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP6AN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Since 2011/2012 at times Altima won't start. Stopped going to dealer because of excuses & expense after warranty expired. Have been calling AAA. Have had at least 8 batteries replaced. This is a safety issue for me when I travel alone. When I turn the car off I pray evertime that the car starts. I have to pull my paperwork for exact date this started. I only have 92,000 miles on my Altima. So far so good with the latest battery, fingers crossed. Start date below is approximate, have to pull my paperwork.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4AL21E69N
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I purchased this car and the dashboard is melting and sticky. It’s affecting visibility to the point where I found myself trying to lift up to look overtop of the blinding glare on my windshield due to my melting dashboard and got into an minor accident Like was reflecting off the dashboard onto the windshield obstructing my view and resulted in me rear bumping into the rear of another car that was towing a very small trailer that I couldn’t see through the reflection on the windshield. Since then im noticing almost every dashboard on a Nissan Altima look the same if not worse and absolutely has to and needs to be acknowledged by Nissan for Nissan Altimas everywhere, not just in Florida. A recall NEEDS to be issued to resolve this very serious safety hazard. I’m lucky no one was injured. PLEASE address this issue so people can get the dashboard repaired without costing them even more money than they already paid for your defective product.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-07
- VIN: 1N4AL21E09C
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The component that failed was the steering lock control, and yes it's available upon request with a tow. I was stranded with no way of getting home. Problem has been confirmed by dealer. The vehicle has been inspected by the manufacturer. No there was no symptoms prior to the failure. 06
Nissan Altima hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP2AN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Yes, while driving down Atlanta Highway I was going around 55 mph then all of a sudden saw smoke was coming from the front passenger side of the vehicle. When I pulled over Flames was coming from the front right side and spread it to the center of the front hood, then spread it to the front seat and passenger side seat of the vehicle. I didn’t call 911 and fire services responded and put the fire out. According to the Montgomery Police Department, Delano police support Center vehicle was not involved in any type of car accident.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-03
- VIN: 1N4BL21E08N
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The dash is melting from the heat and is very sticky. It’s really unsafe due to the glare that affects the driver vision. It has already caused me to have one near miss when a tractor pulled into road and I was unable to see him until the last second. Then I jerked the steering missing the tractor.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-23
- VIN: 1N4BL21E28N
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The drive train I believe it’s called Or transmission is malfunctioning and yes it is available for inspection upon request Our safety was put in risk when the vehicle started driving at a low speed and would not accelerate eventually stopping completely The problem hasn’t been inspected or confirmed by a dealer or service center There was no warning lamps or messages prior to the failure
Nissan Altima hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-10
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP3AN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THIS CAR DASHBOARD IS COMPLETELY MELTING AND THE CHEMICALS THATS BEING RELEASED ARE VERY SMELLY AND EYE BURNING. FROM THE VENTS DOWN TO RIGHT BEFORE THE GEAR SHIFT HAS PIECES MISSING CONTROL UNITS DONT EVEN SIT IN ORIGINAL PLACE BECAUSE THE ENTIRE DASH IS MELTING AND WONT HOLD TOGETHER AND CHEMICALS ARE RELEASED ONTO THE WINDSHIELD MAKING IT ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT. TURN THE AC DEBRIS COMES OUT AND EYES BURN TO THE POINT EVERY ONE HAS TO GET OUT OF VEHICLE. EYES BURN REGUARDLESS OF AC BUT WHEN ITS ON ITS 10X WORSE. IVE OWNED THIS CAR 2 YEARS AND ITS BEEN AN ISSUE SINCE I GOT IT.
Nissan Altima hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-10
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP3AN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE A CVT TRANSMISSION IS MY CAR, AND ITS TERRIBLY SCARY. IT SHIFTS IF IT WANT TOO I TRY TO SLOW DOWN ON THE HIGHWAY HOPING TO HELP IT SHIFT IT STILL DONT I HAVE TO COME ALMOST TO A COMPLETE STOP. I GET OFF THE GAS CAR LURCHES FORWARD AND OR STALLS AND SHAKES AND THEN TAKES OFF. TRY TO ACCELERATE AND THE CAR LITERALLY GOES NO WHERE THAN MINS LATER IT JUST TAKES OFF WITHOUT FOOT BEING ON GAS PEDAL. LOTS OF HESISTATION SHUDDERING LURCHING STALLING ITS REALLY SCARY TO DRIVE AT NIGHT TIME AND THROUGH BUSY PLACES. YOU PUT IT GEARS AND IT EVEN JUMPS AND OR ROCKS BACK AND FORTH
Recalls Nissan Altima hybrid
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Nissan Altima hybrid.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Nissan Altima hybrid 2007
- Report Received Date: 2008-10-07
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING 204,361 MY 2007-2008 ALTIMA, ALTIMA HYBRID, 350Z, 350Z ROADSTER, MY 2008 ALTIMA COUPE, ROGUE, MY 2009 MURANO, AND INFINITI MY 2007-2008 G35 SEDAN, MY 2008 G37 COUPE AND EX35 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS' OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) CONTROL UNITS. A VARISTOR IN THE OCS CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU).
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG BEING SUPPRESSED WHICH COULD FAIL TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL TEST THE SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND ACU SYSTEMS USING A SPECIAL TOOL TO CHECK THAT IT IS FUNCTIONING AS DESIGNED. IF NECESSARY, THE SEAT CUSHION (CONTAINING OCS HARDWARE) WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
- Model: Nissan Altima hybrid 2008
- Report Received Date: 2008-10-07
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING 204,361 MY 2007-2008 ALTIMA, ALTIMA HYBRID, 350Z, 350Z ROADSTER, MY 2008 ALTIMA COUPE, ROGUE, MY 2009 MURANO, AND INFINITI MY 2007-2008 G35 SEDAN, MY 2008 G37 COUPE AND EX35 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS' OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) CONTROL UNITS. A VARISTOR IN THE OCS CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU).
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG BEING SUPPRESSED WHICH COULD FAIL TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL TEST THE SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND ACU SYSTEMS USING A SPECIAL TOOL TO CHECK THAT IT IS FUNCTIONING AS DESIGNED. IF NECESSARY, THE SEAT CUSHION (CONTAINING OCS HARDWARE) WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
Latest negative Nissan Altima hybrid car reviews
Latest positive Nissan Altima hybrid car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 2009
Hey there! I just wanted to let you know that I was in a car accident recently. Luckily, the car took most of the impact and I wasn't hurt too badly. I just wanted to say that the car never gave me any problems before the accident. Take care!
-
Vehicle year: 2007
I love this car! It's so great to get about 35 mpg and still have room to seat 5 adults. The interior fit and finish is really nice (better than the Camry and Accord in my opinion). The car is really easy to drive and very responsive. It does take a few sessions to get used to the hybrid system, but once you do, you wonder why all cars aren't electric!
-
Vehicle year: 2010
As a new owner, I am thrilled with my first month of driving the Altima Hybrid. Being 6'5
-
Vehicle year: 2009
The Altima is honestly one of the best eco-friendly cars we looked at. We considered a Prius and a Jetta TDI, but ultimately went with the Altima and we couldn't be happier. While the Prius may have had better fuel economy, it lacked the comfort and size that the Altima offers. The BOSE audio system is fantastic and outperforms all the others we looked at. Additionally, the Altima handles and drives better than any other hybrid we considered. Overall, we are extremely satisfied with the Altima due to its exceptional performance and enjoyable driving experience!
-
Vehicle year: 2008
I recently purchased this car for my daily commute to work. While I haven't had the chance to use it extensively, I'm generally pleased with its performance. The ride is smooth and comfortable. I opted for the tech package, but I'm not sure if it's worth the extra money since the navigation system isn't as user-friendly as some aftermarket options. The rear camera is a nice feature, but I don't use it much due to my parking habits. My only major complaint is the noticeable vibrations when the system switches from EV to gas mode and back. If you're considering buying this car, I highly recommend taking it for a test drive. I've also noticed some kick-back from the brakes at times, but I'm not sure if this is due to the car being new or the VDC system kicking in.
Are you having problems with your Nissan Altima hybrid?
Harold Langosh 2024-09-16
Vehicle year: 2011
Purchased with only 80k miles, the car unfortunately experienced a complete failure after 8 months of use. Despite having the ECU replaced by the dealership, the engine began to knock loudly. As a result, the car is no longer operational.
Cecil Heller 2024-05-03
Vehicle year: 2009
Although I am disappointed with my Nissan experience, I am confident in my decision to move on from this vehicle. Despite attempts to fix the issue, the car continues to shake violently when going into EV mode and will not drive in EV mode. I have visited two separate dealerships, both of which have provided explanations for the issue, but neither have been able to resolve it. With only 6,000 miles on the car, I have decided to sell it. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Columbus Lang 2024-04-21
Vehicle year: 2010
Purchased with only 80k miles, the car unfortunately experienced a complete failure after 8 months of use. Despite having the ECU replaced by the dealership, the engine began to knock loudly. As a result, the car is no longer operational.
Alec Lockman 2024-04-16
Vehicle year: 2010
I'm 6'5
Milan Wilkinson 2024-01-13
Vehicle year: 2008
I really like my car, but I am a bit disappointed with the gas mileage. It's currently at 26 mpg in the city. During my six month oil change, the service tech mentioned that if the mileage didn't improve by the next change, they would look into it. Today, another service tech informed me that the estimated gas mileage ranges from 29 to 41 mpg. Although I'm averaging more than 10% less than the low end of the estimate, I still appreciate my car.