1998 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 1998 Nissan Altima problems
The 1998 Nissan Altima has several common problems reported by its owners. These issues are related to the engine, interior, electrical system, and fuel system.
- Engine Problems: Engine problems are the most common issue reported by Nissan Altima owners, and they are ranked as the worst problem category for the Altima.
- Interior Problems: The 1998 Nissan Altima has 23 interior complaints, which can cause issues with the car's interior components, such as the dashboard.
- Electrical Problems: The 1998 Nissan Altima has 15 electrical complaints, which can cause issues with the car's electrical system, such as the dashboard indicators quitting while driving.
- Windows Problems: The 1998 Nissan Altima has 13 window complaints, which can cause issues with the car's windows, such as not working properly.
- Fuel System Problems: The 1998 Nissan Altima has 12 fuel system complaints, which can cause issues with the car's fuel system, such as leaks and other problems.
In summary, the 1998 Nissan Altima has several common problems reported by its owners. These issues are related to the engine, interior, electrical system, and fuel system. The most common problem is the intake manifold gasket leak, which can cause the car to shake when idling. Engine problems are the most common issue reported by Nissan Altima owners, and they can cause a rough idle, check engine light, and other issues. The average cost to fix engine problems in the 1998 Altima is around $500, and they typically occur at an average mileage of 75,000 miles.
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.
What year did Nissan Altima have bad transmission?
2013 Nissan Altima
This model was also part of a class-action lawsuit including the 2013-2016 Altimas over these faulty CVTs. The climate system may have issues in some of these models and others report the compressor rubbing against the frame, which accelerates wear and tear.
What years to avoid on a Nissan Altima?
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.
At what mileage do Nissan Altimas have problems?
between 250,000 and 300,000 miles
Data from owners shows that Altimas can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles, amounting to about 15-20 years, with average driver mileage in mind. It's not uncommon for this model to work well beyond 300,000 miles, but this requires due diligence on the driver's side.
1998 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:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Nissan Altima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Nissan Altima
The NHTSA has received 128 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Nissan Altima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Nissan Altima vehicles.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-09
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4DL01D0WG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN ALTIMA. UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE AND SHIFTING FROM PARK TO DRIVE, THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT FAILED TO ENGAGE AS IT TRAVELED TO THE FLOOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STOPPED ONCE IT CRASHED INTO THE NEIGHBOR'S PARKED VEHICLE. BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A CUT TO THE LEFT HAND THAT WAS BLEEDING, BUT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO PINE BELT NISSAN OF TOMS RIVER (229-245 NJ-37, TOMS RIVER, NJ 08753 (732) 349-3030) FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WOULD SEND A FIELD INSPECTOR TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 180,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-15
- VIN: IN4DLOID5WC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE IN THE MAIL
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-15
- VIN: 1N4DL01D3WC
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: DRIVING IN SEMI HEAVY RAIN. VEHICLE IN MOTION WHILE TURNING ONTO A STREET, WIPERS WERE AT MEDIUM TO HIGH SPEED. DRIVERS WIPER STOPPED IN MID-STROKE; PASSENGER WIPER RAN OVER DRIVER WIPER. HAVE TAKEN TO SEE PROBLEM: NEEDING COMPLETE WIPER LINKAGE & SET UP.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-30
- VIN: 1N4DL01D3WC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: IT HAPPENED AGAIN ON MY DRIVE TO COOPER HOSPITAL, THE CAR VEERS ALL OVER THE ROAD, IT IS NOT A STEERING PROBLEM, IT IS UNDERNEATH THE CAR.....PLEASE HELP ME, I WILL GET KILLED IN THIS CAR......IT SEEMS TO WANT TO JUMP TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT WHEN EVER IT FEELS LIKE IT, NO MATTER THE SPEED. OF COURSE IT IS MORE DISTURBING WHEN ONE IS DRIVING ON A MAJOR ROAD LIKE 676.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-26
- VIN: 1N4DL013DWC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MY CAR WAS ALL OVER THE ROAD WHILE DRIVING AT 55, 60 MPH. IT DOES IT AT SLOWER SPEEDS TOO BUT WE WERE ALMOST KILLED THIS TIME. IT SEEMS TO WANT TO GO TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT WHEN EVER IT FEELS LIKE IT. I JUST BOUGHT IT FROM A PRIVATE PERSON NOT TOO LONG AGO.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-07
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY 98 NISSAN ALTIMA THROUGH A RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD WHEN THE SIDE WALL OF MY DOUGLAS PERFORMANCE TIRE BLEW OUT DOT #PJAE1YLR0712. I PUT THE DONUT ON MY CAR AND TOOK THE TIRE BACK TO WALMART. IN SPEAKING TO THE SALES PERSON HE SAID THAT THE TIRES WERE NOT WORN DOWN ENOUGH TO BE CONSIDERED A MANUFACTURES DEFECT. SO THE HAD NO WARRANTY, THESE TIRES WILL ONLY BE 7 MONTHS OLD ON MAY,9,2013. THEY REFUSED TO HONOR THEIR WARRANTY BECAUSE I DIDN'T BUY THEIR ROAD HAZARD WARRANTY AT AN ADDITIONAL $10 PER TIRE. THESE TIRES WERE PURCHASED ON 9/9/12 I STILL HAVE THE ORIGINAL RECEIPT THEY ARE 95/65R15. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-07
- VIN: 1N4DL01D1WC
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TRIED TO FILL GAS TANK, ONLY ACCEPT SMALL AMOUNT BEFORE SPILLING ON GROUND. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. *TR
POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-19
- VIN: 1N4DL01D1WC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: GAS GOES IN VERY SLOWLY WHEN ADDED TO VEHICLE, THEN THERE IS AN OVERFLOW FROM BACK OF PUMP BEFORE THE TANK IS FILLED. I WAS TOLD I HAVE PROBLEM WITH EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM VENT CONTROL CIRCUIT. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-01
- VIN: 1N4DL01D4WC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN ALTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED AN UNUSUAL GRINDING NOISE AS THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY VEERED TO THE RIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, WHO ADVISED THAT THE STRUT WELD BECAME DISLODGED FROM THE MOUNTING. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE SWAY BAR, BUSHINGS, MOUNTS AND THE STRUT ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 10E002000 (SUSPENSION). THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 168,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 169,500.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-14
- VIN: 1N4DL01D5WC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN ALTIMA. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE SUN VISOR HAD FALLEN DOWN AND BLOCKED THE CONTACTS VIEW. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SUN VISOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 147000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-14
- VIN: 1N4DL01D4WC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: VERY HARD TO PUT GASOLINE IN CAR. IT SPITS BACK OUT AT YOU. YOU HAVE TO PUMP THE GAS IN VERY SLOW. I'VE NOTICE 2 DIFFERENT PLACES WHERE IT MENTIONS, TROUBLE PUTTING GAS IN THESE CARS. BULLETIN DATE: FEB 1998 DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE FOR SLOW FUEL FILL. BULLETIN DATE: MAR 2000 INFORMATION ON DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE FOR SLOW FUEL FILL. [XXX] INFO REMOVED FROM MY INSURANCE CO. PROGRESSIVE WEBSITE[XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-08
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4DL01D7WC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
- Summary: IT WAS A RAINY DAY AND I WAS FOLLOWING TRAFFIC, I WAS GOING ABOUT 30MPH WHEN I HAD TO TAKE A CURVE. I 'GENTLY' HIT BRAKES TO SLOW FOR THE CURVE WHEN MY BRAKES LOCKED UP SENDING ME STRAIGHT INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC WHERE I HIT A HUMMER H3. LUCKILY NEITHER OF US WERE GOING THAT FAST THROUGH THE CURVE SO LITTLE DAMAGE WAS DONE. BUT THIS WASN'T THE FIRST TIME THE BREAKS HAD LOCKED UP ON A SLIPPERY SURFACE, YET IT DOESN'T OCCUR VERY OFTEN, INFACT THE ABS HAD CHECK OUT OK A MONTH PRIOR. BUT STILL I THOUGHT ABS WAS INVENTED TO STOP THAT FROM HAPPENING AND YET I KNOW THE BREAKS LOCK UP WHEN THEY SHOULDN'T HAVE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-04
- VIN: 1N4DL01DXWC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 1. WAS DRIVING SOUTH ON HWY 101 IN CALIFORNIA AT 60 MPH. 2. BRAKES FAILED TO SLOW CAR DOWN, ONLY RELEASED AN ODOR AS THE PADS APPEARED TO BE SMOLDERING. ACCELERATOR APPEARED TO BE FROZEN AND FOR A COUPLE MINUTES ACTUALLY ACCELERATED. 3. APPLIED BRAKES REPEATEDLY, PULLED ON HAND BRAKE, PRESSED ON CRUISE CONTROL ON OFF SWITCH, PRESSED ON CRUISE CONTROL CANCEL AND SET SWITCHES. UP UNTIL THEN THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS NOT WORKING AT ALL ANYWAY. BUT, IT APPEARED THAT CRUISE CONTROL WAS ON AND NON-RESPONDING TO THE BRAKES. WENT PAST EXIT AND CONTINUED DOWN HIGHWAY TOWARD GILROY, CA WITH NO ABILITY TO STOP VEHICLE. AFTER APPROXIMATELY 10 MILES, CAR BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN BY ITSELF AND I EXITED. WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET, ON THE SAME DAY, THE INCIDENT OCCURRED AGAIN WHILE TRAVELING 30 MPH. I WAS ABLE TO FORCE THE TRANSMISSION INTO NEUTRAL AND STOP IN THE RIGHT LANE OF TRAFFIC BY PULLING FORCEFULLY ON THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. AT THE AUTO SHOP, I WAS SHOWN COMPLETELY DISINTEGRATED BRAKEPAD ON THE LEFT AND A PAPER THIN BRAKEPAD ON THE RIGHT. BOTH ROTORS WERE 80% COVERED WITH LARGE BLACK BLOTCHES. BRAKES AND ROTORS WERE REPLACED ONE WEEK LATER. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-15
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: EXTENSIVE RUST THROUGH OF LOWER RADIATOR SUPPORT BRACKET CAUSED THE RADIATOR TO DROP DOWN, DAMAGING COOLANT AND A/C LINES. REQUIRED REPLACEMENT OF SUPPORT, RELATED SUPPORT BRACKETS, AND REPAIR TO A/C SYSTEM. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-22
- VIN: 1N4DL01D1WC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GAS SPILLS BACK OUT OF TANK WHEN PUTTING GAS IN TANK. HAVE TO FILL TANK VERY SLOWLY. WAS TOLD THAT THE EVAPORATOR CONTROL VALVE IS PROBLEMATIC IN ALTIMA FROM 1997. THIS HAS RESULTED IN THE ENGINE LIGHT COMING ON. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-10
- VIN: 1N4DL01DXWC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DURING CROSS-COUNTRY TRIP, VEHICLE BEGAN EMITTING METALLIC WHINING NOISE AND CLICKING IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT, NOT AUDIBLE FROM PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. WHEN I RETURNED HOME, I PERFORMED REGULAR TUNE-UP MAINTENANCE, CHECKED MY VALVE CLEARANCES AND TIMING ADJUSTMENTS. SHORTLY AFTER I STARTED MY VEHICLE AGAIN, MY LOWER TIMING CHAIN SNAPPED. AFTER A LENGTHY DISASSEMBLY, I DISCOVERED THAT A PIECE OF BLACK PLASTIC FROM A CHAIN GUIDE HAD BROKEN AWAY AND FUSED WITH THE CHAIN, CAUSING IT TO SEIZE AND BREAK. ALSO, THE LOWER CHAIN TENSIONER HAD BEEN COMPLETELY EATEN THROUGH BY THE CHAIN (NOT AS A RESULT OF POOR SERVICING; I CHANGED MY OIL EVERY 3000 MILES AND CHECKED/TOPPED IT OFF EVERY 2 WEEKS) THE INCIDENT CAUSED $600 IN PARTS DAMAGE, AND COULD EASILY HAVE COST $1500 IN LABOR AT A MECHANIC OR DEALERSHIP. THE CHAIN BREAKAGE DESTROYED MY OIL PUMP, CRANKSHAFT SPROCKET, LOWER CHAIN COVER, LOWER CHAIN TENSIONER, GUIDE (BEYOND ORIGINAL BREAKAGE) AND OIL PAN BAFFLE / SUMP TUBE. SINCE NISSAN HAD INITIATED A "TSB" BEFORE I EVER PURCHASED MY ALTIMA, NO COMPENSATION WAS EVEN CONSIDERED. OBVIOUSLY THE TSB PROCESS DOES NOT INCLUDE CHECKING VEHICLES AS THEY ARE BROUGHT IN FOR MAINTENANCE, AS I HAD REGULARLY HAD MY CAR SERVICED BY THE DEALERSHIP FOR A FULL YEAR POST-PURCHASE. I REPLACED THE DEFECTIVE CHAIN GUIDE WITH THE UPGRADED NISSAN COMPONENT, A METAL-BACKED GUIDE TRACK, AND SHALL SOON INSPECT MY TIMING AGAIN TO ENSURE THAT THE REPAIRS PERFORMED INDEED CORRECTED THE PROBLEM. TWO RECOMMENDATIONS: FIRST, THE TSB PROCESS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED, AS IT OBVIOUSLY DOES NOT EFFECTIVELY SAFEGUARD CONSUMERS AGAINST ENGINEERING BLUNDERS SUCH AS THIS; SECOND, AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURERS SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR QUALITY OF PRODUCT IN TERMS OF MECHANICAL SOUNDNESS AS WELL AS SAFETY. IF STATE CORPORATION COMMISSIONS CAN REGULATE SERVICE QUALITY AND PRICING FOR EVERY SERVICE AGENCY IN THEIR SPHERE, I THINK THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHOULD HAVE THE SAME LEVERAGE OVER AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURERS. *JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-20
- VIN: 1N4DL01D3WC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THIS IS A CONCERN ISSUE...THE ADJUSTABLE SHOULDER BELT ANCHOR PROTRUDES FROM SIDE POST 1" AT MY HEIGHT SEAT ADJUSTMENT IT PLACES MY HEAD ALONGSIDE THIS ANCHOR POST. ON A SIDE IMPACT (WITH NO SIDE BAGS AVAILABLE ON THIS MODEL YEAR) COULDN'T THIS CAUSE SEVERE (UNNECESSARILY) HEAD INJURY ?*JB
CHILD SEAT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-02
- VIN: 1N4DL01D4WC
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE CHILD SAFETY SEAT WAS SECURED IN THE VEHICLE, THERE WERE TWO SCREWS THAT FELL OUT OF THE HANDLE INTO THE SEAT. THE SCREWS WERE FROM THE CHILD SAFETY SEAT HANDLE. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO REINSERT THE SCREWS BACK INTO THE HANDLE HOWEVER THE SCREW HOLES WERE STRIPPED OUT. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN ALERTED. THE CHILD SEAT IS A DORAL JUVENILE GROUP, EDDIE BAUER, MODEL NUMBER 22-630-BAL AND THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE IS 09/13/05. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-01
- VIN: 1N4DL01D1WC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 1998 NISSAN ALTIMA DEVELOPED PROBLEMS WITH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED, PROBLEMS WITH THE GAS TANK, AND THE OXYGEN SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.*MR WHEN THE CONSUMER ATTEMPTED TO FILL THE TANK, GAS WOULD SPILL OUT. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1N4DL01D9WC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER ARRIVING HOME SAFELY FROM A LONG HIGHWAY DRIVE (7 HRS), OUR CAR SAT FOR ABOUT 5 HOURS. WHEN I STARTED THE CAR, I SMELLED SMOKE AND HEARD A UNUSUAL RUBBING NOISE UNDER THE HOOD. AFTER POPPING THE HOOD, I SAW SMOKE POURING OUT OF THE ALTERNATOR. I TURNED OFF THE ENGINE, WENT INSIDE TO GET A FIRE EXTINGUISHER. THE FIRE WAS STILL BURNING, BUT SEEMED TO BE INSIDE THE ALTERNATOR. I EXTINGUISHED IT AND HOPEFULLY SAVED SERIOUS ENGINE DAMAGE. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, AND IS AWAITING SERVICE NOW.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-11
- VIN: JN1CA21D1WM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: IN FALL OF 2002 MY CAR BEGAN HAVING PROBLEMS, GETTING WORSE UNTIL AN OVERHAUL OF TRANSMISSION WAS REQUIRED FOR $1,269 DUE TO COMPLETE FAILURE.*AK THE CAR JERKED, THE DRIVETRAIN SEMED TO SLIP @ CY AND HWY USE, AND THE REAR GEARFAILED TO WORK AT ALL FINALLY. THE REPAIR SHOP GUESSED MY PROBLEM BEFORE EXAMINING THE CAR, STATING HE SAW IT ALL THE TIME. HE SHOWED ME A PACKAGE OF SMALL PARTS FROM NISSAN CORP.WHICH HE SAID THEY SENT OUT TO DEAL WITH THE PROBLEM. HE EXPLAINED NISSAN CHANGED THE TRANSMISSION STYLE FOR APPROX. A 3 YEAR PERIOD (96-98?), USING A SOLENOID (I BELIEVE) THAT HE SAID "FAILED IN ALL CARS MADE WHEN THE CARS REACHED 80,000 MILES." HE SAID THE CARS MADE BEFORE AND AFTER THE 3 YEARS DIDN'T HAVE THIS PROBLEM. MY CAR WAS 3 1/2 YEARS OLD AND HAD 67,525 MILES. THE DRIVETRAIN WARRANTYDIDN'T COVER THE CARSINCE IT WAS MORE THAN 3 YRS OLD AND HAD MORE THAN 60K MILES. PARTS REPLACED WERE TORQUE CONVERTER, BANNER KIT (NISSAN'S KIT), BAND, DRUM GEAR, SUN GEAR FRONT, PLANETARY GEAR SET FRONT AND REAR, AND 10 QRTS OF TRANS. OIL. PARTS COST $909, LABOR $360. DUE TO THE REPAIR SHOP'S KNOWLEDGE OF THE PROBLEM WITHOUT ANY INSPECTION, THEIR POSSESSION OF 'NISSAN FIXER KIT', AND PROBABLE LRG % OF CARS WITH SAME PROBLEM, I THINK NISSAN BUILT A FAULTY CAR COMPONENT, KNEW ABOUT IT,AND EVEN DESIGNED THE TRANNY THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN PUT IN THE CAR ORIGINALLY. I EXPERIENCED NO ACCIDENT OR INJURY, BUT IF THE PARTS CAME LOOSE WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY IT COULD CAUSE VERY QUICK 'SEIZING' STOPS WITH NO WARNING (BRAKE LIGHTS), AND POSSIBLE PROJECTILE LIKE BEHAVIOR OF THE PARTS. I BELIEVE NISSAN IS AT LEAST PARTIALLY LIABLE FOR THIS PROBLEM IF ALL THE INFORMATION I RECEIVED IS CORRECT.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-07
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE AFTER IT HAD BEEN PARKED FOR MORE THAN 8 HOURS. OWNER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND NOTHING WAS DONE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-05
- VIN: 1N4DL01D2WC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR WAS IDLE AT A RED LIGHT WHEN IT SHUT DOWN COMPLETELY (ENGINE, RADIO, LIGHTS, ETC). IT WOULD NOT START AGAIN. I GOT A JUMP AND IT STARTED. THE NEXT DAY IT STARTED FINE. I LET IT IDLE FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES AND IT WAS OKAY. I DROVE IT FOR A FEW MINUTES AND IT DIED AGAIN. I HAD IT TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP. NONE OF THE DIAGNOSTIC TESTS SHOWED ANYTHING WRONG (BATTERY, ALTERNATOR, ETC. WERE OKAY). THEY DROVE IT AND IT DID NOT DIE AGAIN. I TOOK IT TO A NISSAN DEALER AND THEY CANNOT FIND ANY PROBLEMS EITHER. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-05
- VIN: 1N4DL01D1WC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE APPLYING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND PULLED OVER. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT COMPUTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-27
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CONSUMER SMELLED FUEL WHILE DRIVING. HE EXAMINED FUEL SYSTEM UNDERNEATH AND THE FUEL TANK, AND NOTICED THE ENTRY POINT WHERE THE GAS WENT INTO THE VEHICLE BROKE. *AK
1998 Nissan Altima recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1998 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: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- 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.
Negative 1998 Nissan Altima car reviews
Positive 1998 Nissan Altima car reviews
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This car is great! It's surprisingly peppy for a 4-cylinder sedan. If you're interested in car performance, it has a lot of potential. I'm currently pushing 220 hp at the wheels in my '98 Altima GLE.
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I got mine for 3,200 from a private seller who had taken good care of it since the day it was bought. The inside of this car is beautiful. I felt like I was driving something I paid $20,000 for. It's a great combination of power and mileage. I even got 33mpg once on a long trip. I absolutely love this car!
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Hey there! I just wanted to say that this car is really great! The price tag is very reasonable and the body style is fantastic. If I had the chance, I would definitely buy another one.
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I bought the car used with around 50K miles and have been driving it hard ever since. It takes it all and keeps moving. As a salesman, I spend hours in my car, and this Altima is a lot of fun and very comfortable to be in. I love the sunroof, and the leather seats are always appreciated. I haven't had any work done to the car yet except for new tires and oil changes. The sound system is great for factory, and the visual view through the windshield is second to none. I have no complaints with this car except for the rear end, which is kinda boring. Oh, and as with any car, more horsepower is always great.
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After 5 years of owning my 98 Altima SE, I finally took it to the shop when the check engine light came on. It turns out that I needed a new evap emission control valve for $166, including parts and labor. Since this is the first problem I've had with the car in 5 years, I thought it was the perfect time to write a review. I must say, this car has been the most reliable car I have ever owned. The only other thing I have replaced on this car are the tires, at around 40k miles. I put 4 Goodyear Acqutread 3 tires on it and the handling continues to be excellent.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Nissan Altima problems:
1998 Nissan Altima Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Top 1998 Nissan Altima Problems · Nissan Crankshaft and Camshaft Sensor Recall · Engine Cranks and Doesn't Start or Runs Rough · Failed External Seal on Engine ...
Common 1998 Nissan Altima Problems - Q&A for Used Altima GXE ...
Jun 1, 2010 ... Pull the distributor cap and rotor. Under the rotor you will see a plastic cover,remove the cover and check to see if there is oil under it.IF ...
1998 Nissan Altima Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Most Common 1998 Nissan Altima Problems ... The engine may stall when the engine is warmed up. this can be caused by a failed crankshaft position sensor and/or...
Q&A: 1998 Nissan Altima GXE - Common Issues & Solutions
May 22, 2011 ... Other wise I would check the MAF sensor as well. But that normally won't make the car just shut off. That will make if bog until it stalls. If ...
1998 Nissan Altima Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Mar 8, 2012 ... Most reliable car ever. Very little maintenance. Engine wise, I think I could drive this car forever. Everything else is starting to get old on ...
Other years of Nissan Altima
Are you having problems with your 1998 Nissan Altima?
Elijah Rutherford 2024-06-22
Congratulations on selling your 98 Altima SE after driving it for 65,000 miles with ZERO mechanical problems! It's great to hear that the car was economical, peppy, and most importantly, reliable. I would highly recommend it to any student or first-time car buyer looking for value. Although there were some minor build quality issues in the cabin and wind noise, it's still a great choice for those who prioritize reliability over flashiness. Thank you for sharing your positive experience!
Rudy Keeling 2024-04-14
This car has been reliable in getting me from point A to point B with no major issues, just routine maintenance. However, I have noticed some discomfort during long trips due to interior road noise and a shimmy at 70mph that persists despite new tires, 4-wheel alignments, and computer balancing. Additionally, the hood shakes quite a bit at highway speeds, which can be nerve-wracking. Although this car has never been in a collision, some of its parts seem to fit together poorly. While I appreciate its reliability, I am considering trading it in for a Monte Carlo or Impala once the loan is paid down. I have decided to avoid imports in the future.