2008 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.

2008 Nissan Altima

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Common 2008 Nissan Altima problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2008 Nissan Altima, several common problems have been reported:

  • Transmission Failures: Another frequent problem with the 2008 Altima is transmission failures, especially with the continuously variable transmission. When these transmissions fail, the only solution is to replace the entire assembly, costing approximately $3,800 depending on local labor rates.
  • Blown Head Gasket: Owners have also encountered blown head gaskets, which can potentially lead to engine damage. Replacing a head gasket costs around $2,400, while a complete engine replacement can exceed $4,000.
  • Recalls: The 2008 Nissan Altima has had 4 recalls, including issues with the body control module, transverse link bolt, occupant classification system control unit, and portable GPS overheating. Of these, transverse link bolt failures are particularly serious as they can lead to crashes.
  • Price and Depreciation: The 2008 Altima is noted to be more expensive than some competitors, with a price range of $5,552 to $7,788 depending on the model and mileage. However, depreciation is average for the class, continuing at about 15% per year as the car ages.
  • Technology & Safety Features: In terms of technology and safety features, the 2008 Altima offers basic amenities such as an AM/FM/CD stereo system with AUX playback and 6 speakers. Optional upgrades include a 9-speaker stereo system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system. Standard safety features include airbags and antilock brakes, with optional upgrades like stability and traction control on the 3.5 models.

These problems highlight some of the key issues faced by owners of the 2008 Nissan Altima, ranging from mechanical failures to safety concerns. Addressing these issues promptly and proactively can help owners maintain the performance and safety of their vehicles.

2008 Nissan Altima engine

Is 2008 Nissan Altima a good car?

2008 Nissan Altima Overview

However, for reliability, reviews report the 2008 sedan is a solid alternative to the class favorites. In fact, Consumer Reports' most-recent reliability ratings place the Nissan Altima ahead of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

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.

How many miles will 2008 Nissan Altima last?

between 250,000 and 300,000 miles

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.

Is Nissan Altima 2008 fuel efficient?

Based on data from 215 vehicles, 14,609 fuel-ups and 5,542,552 miles of driving, the 2008 Nissan Altima gets a combined Avg MPG of 24.67 with a 0.09 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 778 outliers (5.06%) removed.

2008 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:

  • Structure problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Visibility/wiper problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Nissan Altima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2008 Nissan Altima

The NHTSA has received 1019 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Nissan Altima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Nissan Altima vehicles.

2024-10-15

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-17
  • 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.
2024-09-16

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E98N
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Dashboard material defective melted sticky and very reflective. No idea how toxic could be.
2024-09-16

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
  • 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.
2024-08-11

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-08
  • 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.
2024-05-03

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-11
  • 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.
2024-04-23

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
  • 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
2024-02-26

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-17
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E38N
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Parked car due to electrical and transmission issues had left it for a couple hours to receive assistance and the car was gone it had no plates because I was attempting to register the car that same day
2024-02-09

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-08
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E38C
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: 215/60R16 This is the second tire that failed at the sidewall needing to be replaced. First failed after less than 4000 miles. And the second w sidewall failure at about 10,000 miles of use. i have photographed the second tire failure. Seems odd that out of five brand new tires have sidewall failures 2 (40%) have very low use failures.
2024-01-11

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E18N
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The dashboard is sticky and melted down. Also has cracks from the heat.
2023-12-19

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-19
  • VIN: 1N4AL24E48C
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Passenger airbag warning light is blinking Took to repair shop and tech said OCS is bad and needs replacing Code B1018 comes up I do not understand why there is not a recall because this is a safety Issue
2023-11-26

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E38C
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: The hood under car is messed up and makes noises while driving. I heard there was a recall on the hoods underneath. I need fixed as I live on disability. Tire light won't go off sensor is not working right.
2023-11-07

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-03
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1N4AL24E28C
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Was driving and heard a knocking sound similar to taps coming from the engine. Pulled over turned car off and turned it back on and knocking sound stopped. Drive about another mile and black smoke came out the vents. Pulled over and got out of vehicle. By the time I was out of the vehicle the car was on fire. By the time the fire department arrived car was completely engulfed. No check engine light was on and car gave no previous warning as to what could have happened.
2023-10-23

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-14
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E98N
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Glare off dash board is blinding on sunny days. Dashboard is melting, the melted dash reflection is distraciton/ binding on sunny days, and smell from dash is not pleasant. Not knowing actual product that is melting is concerning since melting plastics and vinyl can be toxic. Took car out for ride on sunny day had to pull over because of glare dashboard. Tried to contact Nissan about any products to resurface and contain the melted mess an smell. They offered no solutions besides take in to local dearliship. Not shelling out 500 dollars for nationally known defective material. You can contact any quality managment firm or producer that have working knowledge with plastics and vinyl to confirm that this is a major quality defect. I can not even find out what actual material was used to cover for soft dash.
2023-10-06

AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-28
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E88N
  • Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: While pulling into a parking spot and coming to a halt, I put the car into park mode. My foot was still on the brake. Instantly the engine went into "overdrive" and lurched forward over a parking curb and through heavy brush and finally came to a stop after hitting a pine tree. The engine was still screaming and the tires still spinning until I hit the off button. I had my foot on the brake the entire time to no avail. The heavy brush slowed the car somewhat. The airbags didn't deploy. I had several witnesses and they all stated they saw my brake lights on. I plowed approx. 50 feet through the brush before hitting the tree. I was the only one involved and was not hurt. This was Thurs. Sept. 28, 2023. It was in a state park and no police report made. Park Ranger took down info.
2023-08-18

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-07-01
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E18N
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: The dash as a sticky substance that causing a bad glare.Back rear window as a film on it blocking vision.And car as foul Oder when you get in it.
2023-05-13

STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-05-09
  • VIN: 1N4AL24EX8C
  • Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The dashboard of this vehicle has become sticky to the touch and excessively shiny, and appears to be melting in spots, causing glare on the windshield that obstructs vision while driving.
2023-03-28

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-03-28
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E48N
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The dashboard is melting. It's sticky and shinny. On sunny days it causes a glare on the windshield making it hard to see out of it.
2023-03-05

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-31
  • VIN: 1N4BL21EX8C
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The dashboard in my 2008 Nissan Altima has been melting, cracking and deteriorating. When it is warm outside, It’s sticky to the touch and becomes glossy causing a major glare on my windshield plus, if I graze a finger nail across it when wiping it for dust or cleaning the windshield it comes apart showing nicks and indentations. I looked this up on the web today and apparently there was a class action lawsuit filed against Nissan that was settled in 2017 for 2008 and 2009 models but on for those folks living in Florida. I live in North Carolina. I started to notice this in 2016 but didn’t give it much thought because the car is garage kept and I have a company car so I only drive this vehicle now sparingly (mainly on weekends). You can’t see how sticky it is by the photos so I took my car registration paper and stuck it to the dash. The dash when warm has a “sticky note” type feel to it. The hotter it gets the more glazed and sticky the dashboard becomes. Today it’s on 61 degrees: https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2021/nissan-melting-dashboard-lawsuit.shtml https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/melting-dashboards-consumers-demand-answers-recall-from-nissan/232577/
2022-11-17

AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-05-09
  • VIN: 1n4al21e18n
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
  • Summary: The passenger side air bag is faulty due to AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT. This has been verified by an independent service center and puts passengers at risk. The airbag will not work without the entire seat being replaced. The airbag light shows that the system is “OFF”. This make and model had a recall issued but my VIN was not included but should have been included.
2022-10-24

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-01
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E18N
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: 2008 Nissan Altima: Noticed this year a shiny gleam on the dashboard. This windshield gets hazy. The dashboard is melting, it is sticking and shiny. When a fingernail is pressed, it will actually sink into the dashboard and leave a mark. The dashboard cannot take any cleaning or friction. When the dashboard is touched it leaves fingers sticky. Became more of an issue this year now that I have a grandchild. MY other vehicle is a mini cooper 2 door which is not feasible to hold a car seat and baby. I now have the carseat in the Nissan and now it has become more of a problem because i cannot use the other car as alternative transportation when I have my grandchild. It is very difficult to drive with the glare it causes, and it is a safety issue not only for me but for others. When the sun is out and it is hot (this summer) it is worst and causes the windshield to get hazy. Not sure if it is leaking chemicals as the dashboard is now soft, shiny and cannot be removed by cleaning. The glare is very dangerous and difficult to drive under the conditions. Thank You, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2022-09-14

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-09-14
  • VIN: 1N4BL21E78C
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the dashboard had melted and was sticky. There were also cracks on the dashboard. The failure caused a glare on the front windshield, which obstructed her view of the roadway while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the dashboard needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
2022-08-29

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-29
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E08C
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The passenger air bag has failed. If my passenger has an accident, the air bag will fail to deploy and could be seriously injured. When I took the car in Nissan confirmed the bag was not operational. The insurance company was notified. I had the dealership check the warning message.
2022-07-21

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-14
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E88C
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: I purchased a crankshaft from CarID and had a friend replace it with the old one in my 2008 Nissan Altima. Immediately after the repair, I noticed my steering power was gone. I had them put in the old crankshaft and regained my steering. I told CarID that the part was either defective or the wrong part despite their website claiming otherwise. They told me it wasn't under warranty and refused to refund or exchange the crankshaft. Well, this isn't a warranty issue, this is a defective part issue. On their own website they list the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which my situation falls under. Their part (WVE 5S11487 - Crankshaft Position Sensor) led to the failure of my steering. I called WVE, who said they do not sell directly to CarID and the part was most likely bought from a third party, hence the lack of warranty. The last I heard from CarID on this issue, they told me they would assist within 24-72 hours. That was 7 days ago. I emailed them a follow-up email yesterday that has gone ignored as well. CarID has not only shown any interest in resolving this issue amicably but shown willful disregard for the danger that their defective parts pose to their customers.
2022-07-14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-17
  • VIN: 1N4BL21E28C
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I’m having to replace at least 2 sensors every 6 or 7 months.
2022-06-15

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-01
  • VIN: 1N4AL21E28N
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the “Passenger’s Side Air Bag OFF” message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, and the dealer informed the contact that he needed to pay out of pocket for the diagnostic test. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the front passenger's side air bag seat sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000.

2008 Nissan Altima recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2008 Nissan Altima.

2010-09-10
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES THAT WERE EQUIPPED WITH A GARMIN NUVI MODEL 750 NAVIGATION SYSTEM. THE BATTERIES CONTAINED IN THE AFFECTED GPS UNITS CAN OVERHEAT.
  • Consequence: OVERHEATED BATTERIES COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY GARMIN TECHNICIANS BY REPLACING THE BATTERY AND INSERTING A SPACER ON TOP OF THE BATTERY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 16, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GARMIN DIRECTLY AT 1-866-957-1981 OR NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
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.
2008-07-31
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING 1,018 MY 2008 ALTIMA VEHICLES. THE LEFT SIDE FRONT SUSPENSION TRANSVERSE LINK BOLT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATION. THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE BOLT TO BECOME LOOSE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN.
  • Consequence: IF THE BOLT WERE TO COME OUT, THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY CONTROLLING THE DIRECTION OF THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL TIGHTEN THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLT TO SPECIFICATION FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 11, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
2007-12-28
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
  • Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES THAT HAVE HAD THE BODY CONTROL MODULE (BCM) REPLACED DURING SERVICE AT A DEALERSHIP, THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) MAY HAVE BEEN INADVERTENTLY DEACTIVATED DUE TO AN ISSUE WITH THE DEALER SERVICE SOFTWARE. IF THE TPMS IS TURNED OFF, IT WOULD NOT ALERT THE DRIVER TO A DECREASE IN THE TIRE PRESSURE AS DESIGNED.
  • Consequence: DRIVING ON UNDER-INFLATED TIRES IS UNSAFE AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL CHECK THE TPMS FUNCTION AND REACTIVATE IT IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

Negative 2008 Nissan Altima car reviews

  1. Madyson Gaylord 2025-01-03

    I recently purchased a car from a dealer and unfortunately experienced some issues with it. After hearing a whining noise when accelerating, I took it back to the dealer and was informed that this is normal for Nissan cars. However, the issue persisted and less than 4,000 miles later, the CVT transmission needed to be replaced. As the 4th owners of the car, we were outside of the 120,000 mile warranty and had to replace it ourselves. As someone who lives paycheck to paycheck with a child in college, this was a difficult financial burden. My uncle suggested that I reach out to Nissan Corp, but unfortunately they were unable to discuss the issue with me until it was certified diagnosed by a dealership. After spending $100.00 to get the certified diagnosis, Nissan Corp informed me that we were outside of the 120,000 mile extended warranty. While I understand that this is the policy, it is disappointing that Nissan Corp did not take into account the numerous complaints about the CVT transmission and offer a solution. My son fell in love with this car and it was meant to be his graduation/college present. It is a shame that his dream car has been crushed. We are now considering selling it or using it as a crash derby car.

  2. Norwood Kuvalis 2024-10-11

    For those seeking a car with personality, the Civic Coupe is a great option. Not only is it cheaper, but it also boasts excellent gas mileage and a spacious trunk. The base model has a good sound system, and for a more engaging driving experience, I recommend the manual transmission. While the car I initially considered did not meet my expectations, I appreciate the smooth ride and comfortable interior. Perhaps a rear-wheel drive option would add to the excitement. Overall, the Civic Coupe is a confident choice for those seeking a fun and practical car.

  3. Brennan Jaskolski 2024-08-24

    My Altima has had an exhaust manifold crack, suspension issues, cracked axle, seized brake caliper, rusted exhaust covers, window switch go bad, key fob fail, cracked windshield, and intermittent starting issues that several mechanics have failed to figure out what the problem is. However, I have had much better experiences with my older American-made cars with higher mileage. It is clear that my Altima has been a disappointment in terms of reliability and cost-effectiveness.

  4. Johnathan Sanford 2024-07-20

    Despite Nissan's increased warranty to 10 years or 100,000 miles due to complaints about faulty transmissions, my 2008 Altima's transmission failed at 94,000 miles. Although I reported the issue to Nissan after having it fixed by a non-Nissan shop, they refused to log my complaint or offer any compensation. This experience has led me to reconsider purchasing a Nissan in the future.

  5. Felix Boyer 2024-07-10

    Rust is a known issue on Altimas newer than 2006, as I recently discovered a significant hole in my floorboard on the driver's side. Although I was under the impression that this issue only affected models from 2002-2006, it appears to be more widespread. While I am disappointed to encounter this problem, I am confident that Nissan will take appropriate action to address it. It is important for car manufacturers to stand behind their products and prioritize customer satisfaction. I look forward to seeing how Nissan will handle this situation and remain hopeful for a positive outcome.

Positive 2008 Nissan Altima car reviews

  1. Marques Bruen 2025-01-02

    I bought my Altima brand new for under 20K and have put 50K miles on it with only one issue. Unfortunately, the bolt holding the alternator broke, but the fix only cost me $75 due to stripped threads. I am still using the original tires, but I do need to replace the front ones soon. I calculate my gas mileage myself and average 28 mpg, even with mainly city driving. This means I can go about 560 miles between fill-ups, which is great! The car is quick enough and faster than the Accord or Camry (which I test drove). The CVT is smooth and has had zero problems. As someone who is 6'1, I have no issues with headroom or entering/exiting the vehicle. It's no surprise that this car is such a great seller, it's a mechanic's worst enemy...

  2. Josiah Maggio 2024-11-19

    I bought this car after doing tons of research for 3 months. I found a great deal and I have not been disappointed. This car is so fun to drive. The 6 spd manual is quick and sharp, and the power is endless. Mash the gas at 60 mph and watch the world turn blurry. The interior is spacious and comfortable, and the exterior styling turns heads, especially mine. I'm very happy with my purchase, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants the size of a sedan, the speed and handling of a sports car, and the technology of a BMW.

  3. Juston Hill 2024-10-25

    Hello! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I recently had a bit of a mid-life crisis and decided to trade in my Saturn VUE for something a bit more sporty. After seeing a few Altima Coupes on the road, I knew I had to drive one. I was lucky enough to find a fully loaded, V6, all black model with great acceleration and handling, and very good gas mileage. Although it may not be the ideal family vehicle, I can still fit all three of my kiddos in the backseat. Overall, I'm really happy with my purchase and I think it's a great car to drive. The only minor issue I've noticed is a bit of hesitation when going from reverse to drive, but it's not a big deal. Thanks for listening!

  4. Edmund Howell 2024-10-24

    I bought my 2008, 3.5 SE coupe new. It has great looks and A LOT of get up & go. I don't have 20,000 miles on it yet, but I'm planning on selling it to go with a bigger car. I will definitely miss it when it's gone...

  5. Estevan Simonis 2024-10-10

    This is a great car! Although there are a few cons, my overall experience has been fantastic. I did notice some blind spots when changing lanes, and the interior design could be improved, but I would still highly recommend this car to anyone. Thank you for considering it!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2008 Nissan Altima problems:

2008 Nissan Altima Problems and Complaints - 26 Issues
2008 Nissan Altima Problems and Complaints - 26 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2008-nissan-altima/problems

Top 2008 Nissan Altima Problems · Nissan Crankshaft and Camshaft Sensor Recall · Check Engine Light Due to Failure of Catalytic Converter Closest to Cylinder ...

2008 Nissan Altima Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
2008 Nissan Altima Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/nissan/altima/2008

Jan 21, 2022 ... 2008 Nissan Altima: Quick Overview · New features for the 2008 model year include a new coupe body style. · According to J.D. Power reliability ...

2008 Nissan Altima Reliability - Consumer Reports
2008 Nissan Altima Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/altima/2008/reliability/

Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Exhaust · In-car Electronics · Climate System · Steering And Suspension · Paint And Trim · Noises And Leaks · Brakes · Drive ...

Used 2008 Nissan Altima coupe. I'm looking at this car and the main ...
Used 2008 Nissan Altima coupe. I'm looking at this car and the main ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/AskMechanics/comments/10otwle/used_2008_nissan_altima_coupe_im_looking_at_this/

Jan 30, 2023 ... My boyfriend put like 40K on his 16 Corolla (bought at 40K so 80K total) and never had any issues. Meanwhile, I regularly see Nissan ...

2008 Nissan Altima issues | The Nissan Club
2008 Nissan Altima issues | The Nissan Club
https://www.nissanclub.com/threads/2008-nissan-altima-issues.306265/

Jun 23, 2010 ... Sounds to me like the car may have some electrical issues, or one of the sensors is not functioning properly. In other cars I've heard of failed ...

Other years of Nissan Altima

nissan altima 2009 photo
Altima 2009
Nissan

1540

4

21

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

372

3

28

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

236

1

26

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

416

4

29

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

2266

12

29

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

1058

8

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2008 Nissan Altima photo