1997 Nissan Altima 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.
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Common 1997 Nissan Altima problems
The Nissan Altima is a popular vehicle, but like any car, it can have its share of problems. Here are some common issues with the 1997 Nissan Altima based on complaints from owners:
- Suspension Problems: The Nissan Altima uses a front and rear independent suspension system. This system is designed to provide a smooth ride and excellent handling, but it can exhibit signs of wear over time. Common suspension problems in the Nissan Altima include creaking or knocking sounds from the suspension components, front suspension control arm problems, sway bar problems, and excessive noise or vibrations. Regular inspection of suspension components is necessary to identify and fix these issues.
- Engine Problems: The 1997 Nissan Altima has had complaints about various engine problems, including the rusted floor pan. At some point, the floor pan got so rusted that it developed a hole, which can be dangerous and require expensive repairs.
- Transmission Problems: Transmission problems are common in the Nissan Altima, with many owners reporting that their vehicle would simply stop accelerating in traffic, or the transmission would slip mostly while turning. To replace the transmission, expect to pay around $4,260 for a replacement.
- Steering Wheel Lock Failure: The 2009 Nissan Altima has had complaints about steering wheel lock failure. This issue can be frustrating and potentially dangerous, especially if it occurs while driving.
It's important to note that while these issues are common, not all 1997 Nissan Altimas will experience these problems. Regular vehicle service and maintenance can help prevent many of these issues, and it's always a good idea to consult a professional mechanic if you suspect any problems with your vehicle.
Is a 1997 Nissan Altima a good car?
Reliable and Dependable
It extremely reliable. My family has brought cars more up to date than mine and their cars are DEAD, BUT my Altima is still goind and in great shape as long as I keep up the minor maintanence. My car currently has 209,954 miles and still going strong.
What is the biggest problem with Nissan Altima?
Most Common Nissan Altima Problems
- Failed Crankshaft Sensor. One of the most commonly reported Nissan Altima problems is related to the crankshaft or camshaft sensor. ...
- Transmission Issues. ...
- Acceleration Problems. ...
- Catalytic Converter. ...
- Engine Start.
Is older Nissan Altima a good car?
A: When considering a used Nissan Altima, especially if you're looking for a reliable midsize sedan, avoid the 2002, 2005, 2009, 2013, and 2016 model years. These specific years have been identified with more frequent issues and complaints, which can impact their overall reliability.
Is Nissan Altima engine reliable?
Summary. Nissan Altima is a solid choice if you're looking for a durable and reliable vehicle. It will last you anywhere from 250,000 to 300,000 miles and cost you $471 to maintain in proper condition. Even though there were issues with earlier models, newer ones have fewer recalls and a negligible amount of complaints ...
1997 Nissan Altima car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Altima problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Nissan Altima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Nissan Altima
The NHTSA has received 117 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Nissan Altima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Nissan Altima vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4BU31D4VC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS HIT, REAR-ENDED, VERY HARD AND THE AIRBAG DEFINITELY SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. I WAS MAKING A LEFT TURN, STOPPED FOR AT LEAST 10 SECONDS WAITING FOR TRAFFIC TO CLEAR AND A CAR SLAMMED INTO THE BACK OF ME WITH NO ATTEMPT TO HIT THEIR BRAKES
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-01
- VIN: 1N4BU31D4VC
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DUE TO CORROSION, BOTH REAR SUB MEMBER AND FRONT CRADLE ARE ROTTING OUT AND MUST BE REPLACED. VEHICLE IS UNSAFE. ONCE REPLACED, OTHER WORK MAY BE NEEDED
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-10
- VIN: 1N4BU31D6VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: VEHICLE I MISSING AND I HAD TO FILE A POLICE REPORT FOR A STOLEN VEHICLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-02
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE CAR DON'T START. MY SEATBELT SHREDDING AND I WORRY THAT MY AIR BAG WON'T WORK IF MY CHILDREN AND I GOT INTO AN ACCIDENT
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4BU31D1VC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE SLOWING DOWN & APPLIED BRAKES AT A STOP SIGN, THE CAR INSTEAD SUDDENLY ACCELERATED CROSSING FOUR LANES OF TRAFFIC AND ULTIMATELY SLAMMING INTO A TREE.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-03
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: THIS CAR HAD BEEN REPAIRED ALMOST EVERY YEAR SINCE I OWNED THIS CAR IN SEPTEMBER 2004. HAD A SUDDEN OVERHEAT PROBLEM RECENTLY. MY MECHANIC TOLD ME ENGINE HEAD GASKET WAS DAMAGED OR WORE OUT. DID NOT REPAIR THE CAR. THE CAR HAS 131,000 MILES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-02
- VIN: 1N4BU31D7VC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE GAS PEDAL STIFF AND NEED TO BE PRESSED HARD WHEN STARTING THE CAR AND BEFORE 200 YARDS OF DRIVING. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-18
- VIN: 1N4BU31D2VC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: SUN VISOR - IT KEEPS FALLING DOWN IN MY LINE OF VISION. (WON'T STAY UP AT ALL). ON DRIVERS SIDE. NUMEROUS OTHERS HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM AND IT COSTS ABOUT $400 TO REPLACE! I THINK IT'S A MANUFACTURERS PROBLEM. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-16
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I OWN A 1997 NISSAN ALTIMA. I HAVE PUT IN NEW HEADLIGHTS BUT THEY ARE STILL VERY VERY DIM.. I HAD MY LENS CLEANED PROFESSIONALLY AND STILL THEY ARE DIM. I SEE THERE IS A ISSUE WITH THE AMBER THING IN THE HEADLIGHTS. IS THIS A FACTORY RECALL? I AM UNEMPLOYED AND ON DISABILITY, SO MY INCOME IS VERY VERY LOW. THIS IS EXTREMELY! *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4BU31D9VC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 NISSAN ALTIMA. WHILE AT A RED LIGHT ON NOVEMBER 5, 2008, THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS STRUCK BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE TRAVELED DOWN AN EMBANKMENT AND ROLLED OVER. SHE SUSTAINED INJURIES AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE NISSAN MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT THEY HAVE NOT RESPONDED IN OVER FOUR MONTHS. THE CONTACT WAS THE ONLY OCCUPANT IN THE VEHICLE AND SHE WAS WEARING HER SEAT BELT AT THE TIME OF THE CRASH. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000. UPDATED 05/20/09.*JB
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4BU31D0VC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 NISSAN ALTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS VEHICLE IS DEFECTIVE AND HAS CAUSED HEAD ON AND SIDE CRASHES. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHES INTO OTHER VEHICLES HEAD ON. THE CAUSE OF THE CRASHES WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 106,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-01
- VIN: JN8AR05Y5XW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GASOLINE LEAKING FROM VEHICLE AT FILLER PILE WHEN TANK WAS > 75% FULL. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-01
- VIN: JN8AR05Y6VW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER SE REAR SUSPENSION CONTROL ARMS NEEDED TO BE A RECALL ISSUED AS THIS WAS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE. NEAR FATAL SCARE WHILE ON THE FREEWAY RECENTLY @ HIGH RATE OF SPEED 65 MPH WHEN THE CAR BEGAN TO SWAY VIOLENTLY LEFT TO RIGHT. I ALMOST LOST CONTROL, BUT MANAGED TO GRIP STEERING WHEEL AND SOFTLY PULL VEHICLE OVER AWAY FROM SPEEDING TRAFFIC. THE VEHICLE IS NOW GARAGED UNTIL MECHANIC CAN REPLACE UPPER AND LOWER CONTROL SUSPENSION ARMS. I HAVE GOTTEN 2 MECHANICAL ESTIMATES BOTH TOTALING OVER $800.00. THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED AND COULD HAVE CAUSED A TERRIBLE ACCIDENT INCLUDING PERSONAL BODILY INJURY OR EVEN DEATH!!*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-01
- VIN: JN8AR05YXVW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*- IN MAY 2004 THE CONTACT RECEIVED A 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER AS A GIFT, IT HAD AN ODOMETER READING OF 90000 AT THE TIME. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO WOBBLE WHILE TRAVELING AT 65 TO 70 MPH SOON AFTER IT WAS PURCHASED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A NISSAN DEALERSHIP, WHERE ALL OF THE STRUTS WERE REPLACED, BUT THIS DID NOT RESOLVE THE ISSUE. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO WOBBLE ANY TIME THERE WAS A SMALL OBSTRUCTION ON THE ROAD. THE CONTACT CONTINUED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE WITH THIS PROBLEM WITHOUT TAKING IT TO ANY OTHER DEALERS SINCE THE PROBLEM WAS NOT RESOLVED WITH THE FIRST VISIT. THE CONTACT DROVE LONG DISTANCES FROM TIME TO TIME AND THE WOBBLE ON THE VEHICLE CONTINUED. IN MARCH 2007 THE CONTACT CALLED NISSAN, AND WAS TOLD TO TAKE IT TO A DEALER TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. NISSAN EXPLAINED THAT THE CONTACT WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR CHARGES. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 106971.*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-05
- VIN: 1N4BU31D1VC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY, THE RIGHT FRONT COIL SPRING FRACTURED AND PENETRATED THE INNER SIDEWALL OF THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHO DETERMINED BOTH FRONT COIL SPRINGS WERE EXTREMELY CORRODED. THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS WERE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS EXPOSED TO EXCESSIVE ROAD SALTS AND EXTREME WINTER WEATHER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-10
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE HAD A TIRE ROTATION PERFORMED, THE TIRE SERVICE DEALER DETERMINED THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE AXLE SPINDLE HAD DETERIORATED. THE VEHICLE WAS SEEN BY AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO CONFIRMED THE PROBLEM. THE DEALER REPLACED THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE AXLE SPINDLE AND ATTRIBUTED THE DETERIORATION TO THE HEAT AND HUMIDITY.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-15
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVING SLOWLY IN PATHFINDER 4X4 '97 HIT POT HOLE. SPOT WELDS ON FRAME TO INNER FENDER BROKE LOOSE. ONE FOOT LONG SEAM SPLIT 3 INCHES WIDE VIEWED FROM THE LEFT FRONT STRUT. COST $1,500 TO WELD AND BRACE. PROFESSIONAL SAID PATHFINDERS NOTORIOUS FOR THIS WEAKNESS. STEERING COLUMN JAMMED FROM FAILURE WHICH COULD HAVE CAUSED HEAD-ON FATALITY INTO ONCOMING VEHICLE. SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN FOR A M/V PURPORTED TO BE AN ATV! MY EXPERIENCE IN ACCIDENTS STEMS FROM BOSTON POLICE OFFICER'S ACCIDENT REPORTS FOR OVER A DECADE. INSURANCE AMICA CALLED IT A COLLISION AND INTENDS TO INCREASE MY RATE $600 PER YEAR AND RANK FROM PERFECT DRIVER 9 LEVEL INTO A 13 LEVEL FOR SIX YEARS. BELIEVE THERE IS A TORT JUSTIFICATION. OTHER OWNER MUST BE NOTIFIED. THIN WALLED STRUCTURAL METALS TO BLAME. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-30
- VIN: JN8AR05Y6VW
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BOUGHT A 97 NISSAN PATHFINDER IN SEPT. 03...SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THE ENGINE LIGHT HAS SINCE HAD A MIND OF ITS OWN, TURNING ON AND OFF DEPENDING ON THE CLIMATE OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. I RECENTLY LEARNED THAT IT IS THE EVAP VENT CONTROL VALVE AND O RING WHICH NEED TO BE REPLACED. I HAD TAKEN THE CAR INTO 3 DEALERSHIPS ON THE EAST COAST WHERE I WAS TOLD NUMEROUS OTHER ISSUES WERE CAUSING THE LIGHT. I HAVE PUT $4500 WORTH OF WORK INTO THE VEHICLE ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT IT WAS A $122 PART THAT SUPPOSEDLY NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I HAVE SPOKEN TO OTHER NISSAN OWNERS (MANY WITH OTHER NISSAN VEHICLES-NOT PATHFINDERS) AND THEY TOO HAVE HAD THIS SAME EXPERIENCE WITH THEIR VEHICLE. THE PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE THROUGH ANYBODY EXCEPT THE NISSAN DEALERSHIPS WHICH MEANS THERE IS NO WAY TO GET A COMPETATIVE PRICE. IN ORDER TO GET THE LIGHT TO SHUT OFF ONCE MY MECHANIC HAS REPLACED THE PARTS I WILL THEN BE FORCED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP TO PAY THEM TO SHUT IT OFF. I WAS INFORMED BY THE MECHANIC AT THE DEALERSHIP THAT THIS PROBLEM WOULD NOT EFFECT THE DRIVABILITY OF THE VEHICLE THAT IT WAS AN EMISSIONS SITUATION. ULTIMATELY, THE VEHICLE WILL NOT PASS EMISSIONS INSPECTIONS NOR WILL IT GET DECENT GAS MILEAGE UNTIL THIS PART IS REPLACED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-15
- VIN: 1N4BU31D3VC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: COMPLAINT REGARDING THE REPAIRS OF THE AIR BAG SYSTEM ON THE 1997 NISSAN ALTIMA.*MR THE AIR BAG LIGHT FLASHED ON THE DASH. WHILE DOING INTERNET RESEARCH THE CONSUMER CAME ACROSS TWO SERVICE BULLETINS FOR AIR BAGS. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED SOMEONE ABOUT THESE SERVICE BULLETINS AND WAS TOLD THAT THE WORK COULD BE DONE ON THE VEHICLE UNTIL 12/31/04. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER PRIOR TO THIS DATE BUT THEY REFUSED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE FREE OF CHARGE. *NM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-09
- VIN: 1N4BU31DXVC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: MICHELIN HYDOEDGE P215/60R15 TIRE HAD A BLOWOUT WHILE DRIVING ON I75 NEAAR FORT MYERS. INSIDE SIDEWALL BLEW ON REAR DRIVER'S SIDE.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-02
- VIN: 1N4BU31D1VC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT CONTINUOUSLY BLINKS WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. DEALER REPLACED THE COMPLETE AIR BAG SYSTEM ON DRIVER SIDE. *AK THE PANEL WAS REPLACED AS WELL. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-25
- VIN: JN8AR05Y6VW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: SUSPENSION CAUSING VEHICLE TO SWAY VIOLENTLY WHEN GOING 50MPH. I TOOK MY SUV INTO THE SHOP AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH MY VEHICLE. THEN I TOOK MY VEHICLE INTO ANOTHER SHOP AND THEY FOUND THE PROBLEM. THEN THEY CALLED NISSAN AND WAS TOLD THAT I HAD TO REPLACE THE LONG AND SHORT ROCKER ARMS FOR MY REAR SUSPENSION AND THAT WOULD FIX THE PROBLEM. I BELIEVE THAT THIS PROBLEM IS PRETTY DRASTIC CONSIDERING I HAVE ALMOST LOST CONTROL OF MY TRUCK ON HIGHWAY ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. I CHECKED FOR A RECALL MY MY VEHICLE AND DIDN'T HAVE ANY LUCK. BUT DID FIND A REPORT OF THE SAME INCIDENT. APPLICATION EQ-8007455-YN.PDF. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-01
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIR BAG LIGHT ALL OF A SUDDEN STARTED BLINKING WHILE THE IGNITION IS ON. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAID NEEDED NEW AIR BAG CONTROLLER. WHEN I GOT IN THE CAR THE LIGHT STOPPED FLASHING, I SPOKE WITH SERVICE REP AND HE SAID THAT THE LIGHT WILL COME ON AGAIN AND THEY HAVE A REPORT DETAILING THE CODE FROM THE COMPUTER. *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1N4AB41D8VC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY 1997 NISSIAN SENTRA TO WORK IN THE MORNING AND WAS APPOARCHING THE GUARD GATE. PUSHED THE SWITCH TO ROLLED DOWN THE PASSENGER AND DRIVE SIDE AUTOMATIC WINDOWS. SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT OF THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY. PULL OVER ON THE SIDE THE ROAD AND TURNED OFF THE CAR. RAN UP TO THE GUARD GATE AND OBTAINED A FIRE EXTERISHER. TURNED TO THE CAR AND SAW A TWO TO FOUR INCH FLAME COMING OUT OF THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY. I PUT OUT THE FIRE. CHECKED THE FUSE BLOCK FOR A BLOWN FUSE AND THERE WAS NONE. THE FUSE DID NOT BLOW FOR THE AUTOMATIC WINDOW CIRCUIT. PULLED SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND DISCONNECTED THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR. PLANNING ON REPLACING THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND SIDE PANEL.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-12
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4BU31D4VC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ON 10-12-04 MY DAUGHTER WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT, WHERE SHE HAD FAILED TO STOP QUICK ENOUGH AT A RED LIGHT. THERE WHERE THREE CARS AHEAD OF HER AT THE RED LIGHT. SHE WAS GOING APPROX. 10 MILES PER HOUR AND HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF HER WHICH LEAD A CHAIN REACTION INVOLVING THE OTHER TWO CARS. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND SHE LOST CONTROL OF THE CAR. SHE WAS RUSHED TO THE HOSPITAL VIA AMBULANCE. SHE WAS TREATED AND RELEASED. THERE WAS NOT DAMAGE TO HER CAR AND LITTLE DAMAGE TO THE THE OTHERS CARS. THE POLICE AT THE SCENE QUESTIONED WHY THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AT SUCH A LOW SPEED. MY CONCERN AND QUESTION ARE THE SAME. WHY WOULD THE AIR BAGS DEPLOY AT SUCH A LOW SPEED AND PERHAPS CAUSE MORE TRAUMA AND INJURY. THE INSURANCE COMPANIES WILL BE INVESTIGATING THIS AS WELL.*AK
1997 Nissan Altima recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1997 Nissan Altima.
- Manufacturer: RIDE CONTROL, LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
- Consequence: THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: CERTAIN BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES WERE PRODUCED WITH A "BUCKLE BASE" THAT WAS IMPROPERLY HEAT TREATED. THIS CAN CAUSE THE "BUCKLE BASE" TO BE BRITTLE FAILING TO COMPLY TO FMVSS NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES."
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION, THESE SEAT BELTS MAY NOT RESTRAIN AN OCCUPANT INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES AND REPLACE THEM IF NECESSARY.
Negative 1997 Nissan Altima car reviews
Positive 1997 Nissan Altima car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you're okay after your recent accident! It sounds like your Altima really held up well in the crash. Despite some negative things you may have heard about its crash test ratings, it seems like it performed admirably in your experience. It's great to hear that you enjoyed driving it, too - with its quick acceleration, smooth ride, good handling, and spacious, comfortable interior, it sounds like it was a great buy overall. While it's unfortunate that you did have to get some repairs done, it's good to know that they didn't start until around 70,000 miles. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Altima!
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I purchased this Altima after experiencing some issues with my previous Pontiac, and overall, I have been quite satisfied with this car. While there have been a few minor problems over the years, such as needing to replace the emergency brake cables, back light socket, and transmission gasket, these have been relatively inexpensive fixes. The battery replacement was to be expected. Overall, this car has proven to be reliable and much better than the American cars I have owned in the past. However, I have been disappointed with the transmission, particularly when shifting into 1st gear. Additionally, I have noticed some water accumulating in the trunk, and I am unsure of the source. I plan to investigate this further.
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I recently purchased a Nissan Altima after experiencing some frustration with a Honda dealer. Although I had never driven a Nissan before, I felt that the Altima was a significant upgrade from my previous Civic EX. The manufacturer's offer to pay the Mass excise tax for the life of the lease was a major factor in my decision. While the car is comfortable, I found that it wasn't as enjoyable to drive as I had hoped, and the fuel economy was disappointing. Additionally, the engine seemed too small for the car's weight. I was disappointed to find that the car I received was not as well-equipped as the one advertised in the dealer brochure, lacking features such as automatic climate control and a CD player.
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That's a great car! It's reliable, although it can be a bit tricky to find after-market parts. The only downside is that the front door can be a bit stubborn and may require some extra effort to open.
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This car is very reliable. I have over 104,000 miles on her and she's still running strong! My only complaint is that when you open the glovebox, everything falls out.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Nissan Altima problems:
1997 Nissan Altima Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top 1997 Nissan Altima Problems · Nissan Crankshaft and Camshaft Sensor Recall · Engine Cranks and Doesn't Start or Runs Rough · Engine Turns Over But Doesn't ...
Altima reliability and common problems to expect? | The Nissan Club
May 9, 2007 ... My Alty is at 138k miles now! The oil distributor thing happened around 133k. 1997 Nissan Altima | Black | All Stock | Tinted Windows ...
1997 Altima Stalling Problem | Nissan Forum
Apr 5, 2004 ... I have a 1997 Nissan Altima GXE with 97,000 miles. It recently started stalling after running and getting warm.
1997 Nissan altima: rpm..but the problem doesnt all the time.
Jun 24, 2012 ... Ok, thanks for info. One thing I see you missed which is VERY common problem is checking the intake gasket for leaks.
any common issues with 98-01 Altimas? | The Nissan Club
Jul 15, 2006 ... Im guessing the previous owner of your Alty neglected it as well as drove it hard. RIP Altima 97 Altima GXE-
Other years of Nissan Altima
Are you having problems with your 1997 Nissan Altima?
Ari DuBuque 2024-04-16
I purchased my car a year ago and have not experienced any issues with it. The car performs well and can easily handle both highway and off-road driving. The build quality of the 97 model is greatly improved compared to the 95 model, although it may not be visible to the naked eye. With good gas mileage of around 30 MPG on the highway (5 Spd), I would highly recommend the Altima to anyone. Despite reviews suggesting that the car needs a V6, I can confidently say that the 2.4 L 5 spd. Altima can outperform an Auto Maxima any day of the week (based on personal experience). It is also a great car for modifications such as turbo and engine upgrades. Overall, the 2.4L 16V Altima is a fantastic all-around car.
Stanford Altenwerth 2024-02-26
I agree that the mileage is poor with this vehicle. However, what really bothers me is that I need to put in a new transmission at only 56,000 miles. Additionally, there are two recalls on this vehicle: 1) transmission part and 2) seatbelt. I will not be purchasing another one and will instead go back to a Honda Accord.
Wyman Anderson 2024-02-22
Your car has over 100,000 miles on it and you haven't had to replace anything except for a driveshaft that just recently messed up! That's amazing! It's great to hear that your car starts up every day and drives well.