2011 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 2011 Nissan Altima problems
The 2011 Nissan Altima has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to the powertrain and engine.
- Powertrain Problems: Many owners of the 2011 Nissan Altima have reported issues with the powertrain. Out of 211 complaints logged at the NHTSA, nearly 30% of them refer to the aging powertrain with a struggling continuously-variable transmission. The cost for a rebuilt transmission can run up to $4,000, representing about half the average market price for the vehicle.
- Exhaust Manifold Cracks: The exhaust manifold in some 2007-2012 Nissan Altimas equipped with four-cylinder engines is prone to crack in some of the welded areas. This issue causes exhaust leaks and makes the vehicle sound like an old farm tractor .
- Oil Cooler Gasket Leaks: The oil cooler gasket in vehicles equipped with four-cylinder engines is prone to harden over time, causing oil leaks. It needs to be replaced to prevent further damage .
- Dashboard Melting: In some 2011 Nissan Altimas driven in hot climates, the dashboard is prone to become sticky and melt. This issue causes a pronounced glare over the windshield that restricts the vision and poses a safety hazard. The company Sticky Dash Fix makes a kit that allows the melted dashboard to be restored and eliminate the dangerous glare while restoring the original look of the dashboard when the vehicle was new .
- AC Clutch Failure: The AC clutch in some 2011 Nissan Altimas is prone to experience premature failure, causing the AC system not to emit cold air. It needs to be replaced to restore the proper functioning of the AC system .
- Mass Airflow Sensor Malfunction: The mass airflow sensor in some 2011 Nissan Altimas is prone to malfunction, causing the engine to experience hard starting conditions, rough idle, and hesitation under acceleration. It is recommended to clean the MAF sensor with approved MAF sensor cleaner before replacing it to ensure that the issue is not being caused by a dirty sensing element .
- Electronic Steering Column Lock Malfunction: The electronic steering column lock, also known as the electronic steering column lock (ECSCL), is prone to malfunction in some 2011 Nissan Altimas. When this part malfunctions, the engine doesn't start when pushing the start button .
These are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the 2011 Nissan Altima. It is essential to be aware of these issues and address them promptly to ensure the safety and longevity of the vehicle.
Is 2011 a good year for Nissan Altima?
The 2011 Nissan Altima is a solid pick for a midsize sedan or coupe, particularly if you're looking for something with some sporting flair.
What is the most common 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.
Did 2011 Nissan Altima have transmission problems?
Owners that just bought a used 2011 Nissan Altima or have driven one for years are reporting a failing CVT. In some instances, the engine light and traction control light come on resulting in a loss of power. Others listen to the transmission struggle to shift. The diagnosis is often a dead transmission.
How long does a 2011 Nissan Altima transmission last?
A properly cared for 2011 Nissan Altima should last over 200,000 miles, which is average for its class. Potential buyers should be prepared for a costly transmission replacement around 100,000 miles though.
2011 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:
- Power train problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Nissan Altima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2011 Nissan Altima
The NHTSA has received 236 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Nissan Altima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2011 Nissan Altima vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-14
- VIN: 1N4AL2EP6BC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have complained to Nissan that the dash in the car is literally melting. It started around 2014 when I noticed it was having a sticky texture and because of this it creates a glare in the windshield that makes it hard to see. Over the years it has only gotten worse and the dash is literally crumbling. I read online where they have had this issue before. I have tried to get help locally but I am lost no one will help me. This is a really bad safety issue!
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP3BN
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I brought my car to Florida 2 years ago and notices my dashboard getting very shiny and sticky. Now the dash is cracking in many areas. The glare off the dash board shining on the windshield makes it a dangerous situation. I called Nissan and they said it is a common problem in years 2005-2012 and there is nothing they can do. I googled it and there are many complaints online regarding this problem. A 13 y/o car that was garaged for 11 years in the NE and now parked underneath a parking garage should not have this problem. It is definitely a defect in manufacturing that is causing a safety issue and a diminished value issue.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-19
- VIN: 1N4AL2APXBN
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: While driving it's difficult for the car to shift gears, also a burning smell comes from the engine after driving long distance.
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-10
- VIN: 1N4AL2APXBN
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Unknown. My car is making a whining noise & no matter how much i push the gas pedal it won’t accelerate. Sometimes it works but mostly it won’t.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-15
- VIN: 1N4AL2EP1BC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag sensor flashing. Seems to be a very common issue and no recall. Found tons of articles and YouTube videos.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-11
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP6BN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: It started about 2 months ago that the RPM was revving when it came to the gears shifting. I would accelerate and the car would barely move and the transmission was making a whirring sound. The Service Engine Soon light came on so I took my car to O Reilys and the code for the stepper motor came back. I had the stepper motor replaced in my transmission but I am having the same issue. My Mechanic told me that my Transmission is failing and I would need a brand new one.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-04
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP7BN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: REAR SUB FRAME IS RUSTED OUT AND WILL NOT PASS STATE INSPECTION. YES IT IS AVAILABE FOR INSPECTION. FRAME COULD BREAK AT ANY TIME AND CAUSE A ACCIDENT .
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-12
- VIN: 1N4AL2EP7BC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I was on my way to work driving on the freeway and suddenly I felt a sort of shaking from the car. I then exited the freeway and approached a red light. When the light turned green, my car moved some but then was stalled so I was stuck in the middle of an intersection. Luckily, I wasn’t too far from my job and I was able to eventually ease my way the next few miles. I was later told by a mechanic that it was my transmission that needed to be replaced .
SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-12
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP0BC
- Components: SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that water was leaking from the bottom of the front driver’s and passenger side doors. Additionally, the seat belt warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not under warranty. No further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-14
- VIN: 1N4BL2AP0BC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Dash is melting- it is causes an extreme shine reflecting on the windshield and extremely sticky. In the sun, full sun or a cloudy day, it causes a large glare in the direct line of sight. It is very unsafe to drive. It spans the entire dash. There is no escaping the glare during the day.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-01
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP6BC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was jerking with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact disconnected and reconnected the battery and the mass air flow sensor to correct the failure. The dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The contact related the failure to Emissions Recall Campaign Number: R1720 (Non-Methane Organic Gases (NMOG) Engine Control Module (ECM) Reprogram) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP4BN
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Loud noise from driver-side rear while driving. I discovered the rear crossmember (aka subframe) is badly corroded and there is a complete break/failure of the unit. This is unsafe. I have worked on cars for over 40 years and I have never seen such an inexcusable failure.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-13
- VIN: 1N4AL2EPXBC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Hi my Nissan has 120k miles son it and the transmission is completely wrong don’t go more than 30 mph I take it to the shop to inspect and they told me that it need to be replace. It has code p1778 and code p0868 they told me that the transmission has no oil presure that it was a mechanical problem inside the transmission and that it was really common on that car becouse the cvt transmission
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-21
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP8BC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While driving on the highway the steering wheel locked keeping me from maneuvering the steering wheel. Independent service center diagnostics confirmed it was the power steering pump and sensor. Let the vehicle run into the curb. Then power steering fluid is still leaking out. When taken to the dealership they said to take it back to the independent service to have them find out where the leak is coming from. The dealership said it could be the copper screw or another part of the power steering.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-10
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP9BN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I am sending this email concerning a recall that is affecting my vehicle. I dropped the car off as scheduled on 10-10-22. The initial adviser I spoke with in scheduling the appointment at the Darcars Nissan dealership on Indianola drive in Rockville confirmed the recall repair would be done in a day. However, after dropping the vehicle off, I was informed the repairs would be done in more than a day. Even though they intend to provide the loaner vehicle for a day. Since the repairs will be more than a day, I, as the victim/customer, will be responsible for paying for any extra day of rental for the vehicle while the vehicle is being on recall repaired. I then rejected the assumptive proposal of being responsible for paying for rentals if the repairs take more than a day, which was different from what I was initially told. I drove my vehicle to Nissan to have the repairs done, and the initial discussion upon arrival was a request for me to pay for the diagnosis; I inquired why will I be paying for the diagnosis when my recall was determined to be an electronic issue. However, I told them okay, I will pay for the diagnosis if your diagnosis results indicate the keys are not reading the car system or, as you claim, are not related to the recall. Unfortunately, Darcars could not provide an accurate diagnosis report; instead, they wrote a summary of what they claimed to have done with the vehicle repair process. They also claimed the car could not start, and the repair was done in auto mode. After approximately a week that I had driven my vehicle to Nissan for a recall, I got a call from Nissan, saying the car could not start, and we needed you to authorize us to change the battery. You must also pay for the diagnosis, parts, labor, and key programming. These are the charges; Labor----------------------------------- 149.99 Shop supplies --------------------------- 26.25 DRC document retention charge--------- 1.99 EPA Compliance charge -------------------- 32.
FIRERELATED PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP6BN
- Components: FIRERELATED
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at normal speed, he noticed that smoke started to spread throughout the vehicle when the vehicle inadvertently caught fire. The check engine warning light illuminated. The air bags failed to deploy. No injuries were sustained. No medical attention was required. The fire department was notified and extinguished the fire. The contact was unaware if a police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-01
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP4BN
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she and her passengers experienced nausea and dizziness symptoms. The car-sick symptoms went away after turning off the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 179,780.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-09
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP3BC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the vehicle inadvertently decelerated. The contact stated that the vehicle performed as if the gear shifter was in neutral(N). The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacture was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP7BN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Vehicle hydroplaned from heavy rain and wet road into a ditch alongside of the main highway & the airbags did NOT deploy. This IS a safety malfunction in the airbag system on a 2011 Nissan Altima.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-01
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP6BN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My car is a 2011 Nissan Altima 2.5 s model. In the last couple of years, my dash board has cracks all over it. My research found out that is an issue also with Lexus and Toyota. There has been a number of cases with Nissans and there were 2 separate class action law suite on this issue: https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/closed-settlements/florida-nissan-altima-dashboard-defect-class-action-settlement/ and https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2021/nissan-melting-dashboard-lawsuit.shtml I called Nissan and spoke with a Lydia who asked me to take my car to a dealer to document the issue and they did. I called back Nissan and was told by a supervisor that they will not be helping me with this. Thus the cause of this complaint.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-09
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP4BC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Car all of a sudden started shuttering, hesitation in accelerator and then sudden acceleration. It could have killed us,
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
- VIN: 1n4al2ap7bn
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Hood latch is not working appropriately. Loose, rattling and lifting over 35 mph.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-05
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP8BC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The dashboard airbag icon has flashed continuously while the car was being driven on two different days, first with the driver as the occupant and again with the driver and a passenger. Both times, a mechanic's diagnostic device found that the passenger airbag sensor malfunctioned. Both times, he did a reset. Nissan recalled 2012 Altimas for airbag problems in vehicles manufactured in June 2011.The car with VIN [XXX] that I write about is a 2011 used Altima that had to be manufactured near that date and was bought on 10/14/12. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-20
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP8BC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Going down interstate, when you press the gas, vehicle hesitates if you are going faster than 40 miles an hour, motor didn't die but you are unable to go faster for a few seconds, this is very dangerous situation on our interstates. And this is happening on every trip that I am afraid to drive this car, its not trustworthy and I can't afford a new car in today's economy.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-02
- VIN: 1N4AL2AP0BC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the dashboard was sticky to the touch, causing a glare in the windshield. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the dashboard replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and suggested that the vehicle be taken to an authorized dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.
2011 Nissan Altima recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2011 Nissan Altima.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN ALTIMA SEDAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 25, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 10, 2011 AT THE CANTON, MISSISSIPPI PLANT. THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TORQUED TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION. THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE BOLT TO BECOME LOOSE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, CREATING A RATTLING NOISE AND VIBRATION.
- Consequence: IF THE BOLT COMES OUT COMPLETELY, THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY CONTROLLING THE DIRECTION OF THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: NISSAN WILL REPLACE THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLTS AND NUTS AND TIGHTEN THEM TO THE PROPER TORQUE SPECIFICATION FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 8, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Negative 2011 Nissan Altima car reviews
Positive 2011 Nissan Altima car reviews
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Great value!
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Great to hear from you! It sounds like you have a fantastic coupe. Being the second owner for 5 1/2 years is impressive. I'm glad to hear that you've taken good care of it with timely oil changes and a new battery. It's always great to have a low maintenance car. Thanks for the recommendation, especially for those who don't need to use the back seat often.
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This is my 4th Altima since 2005. I absolutely love these cars! I actually stumbled upon the Altima by chance when my 2002 Maxima GLE was being serviced. The dealer let me drive one and I was hooked. Since then, I've only bought the top of the line V-6 models and have always found them to be just as luxurious as the Maxima, but with better fuel economy. I constantly receive compliments on how nice the car looks and I love the performance. Even people in Mustangs and Camaros are surprised when all they can see is the back of my car!!!
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The car itself is amazing! It's spacious and has great acceleration. Just a friendly heads up, be careful of shady dealerships.
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Hey there! I just wanted to let you know that technology has improved since the model you have. :)
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2011 Nissan Altima problems:
Was the 2011 Nissan Altima 2.5 S reliable? I just need something ...
Apr 16, 2022 ... Rotted floorboards and subframes, weak suspensions, bad transmissions, catalytic converters coming apart causing scoring on cylinder walls and ...
2011 Nissan Altima Problems and Complaints - 15 Issues
Problem with your 2011 Nissan Altima? Our list of 15 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2011 Nissan Altima.
2011 Nissan Altima Comes with Few Problems, Including a ...
Nov 24, 2021 ... The 2011 Nissan Altima only recorded a single recall in its 10-year history, and that was a minor issue affecting a limited number of cars. · Out ...
2011 Nissan Altima Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Steering And Suspension · Electrical Accessories · Noises And Leaks · Climate System · Transmission Major · Transmission Minor.
2011 Nissan Altima Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2011 Nissan Altima? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Nissan Altima
Are you having problems with your 2011 Nissan Altima?
Duncan Okuneva 2024-10-06
Since purchasing this car new, I have experienced several issues. However, I am confident in stating that the AC and cabin climate control are great. The moon roof hose was kinked, which caused water damage to the carpets. Although Nissan repaired the hose, they refused to cover the cost of cleaning the carpets. The acceleration has become sluggish even on premium gasoline, and the navigation system has some towns listed in two different ways. For any given address searched, one will work, one will result in a 'no information available'. Additionally, the navigation does not assume you want a point of interest near you, and it will list all, even those that are more than 80 miles away. The heated seats take greater than 10 minutes to warm up. Overall, I am confident in my assessment of the car's performance and features.
Humberto Spinka 2024-08-29
I have found that my last three brand new Nissan cars have had progressively worse maintenance, with a poor trade-in value and high price point.
Jaycee Herzog 2024-07-07
Hi there! I noticed that your CVT transmission isn't performing as well as it should be. Specifically, it seems to be acting up around the 100,000 mile mark. Let's take a closer look and see what we can do to get it running smoothly again.
Clinton Labadie 2024-01-08
The car has average acceleration, braking, handling, and steering. While the 4 cylinder engine may not be a favorite, the fuel economy is okay. The car has a plastic-like feel inside and out, but the quality of materials and interior design is not bad. The front seats are comfortable, and the rear seats are okay, but the car could be wider inside. Unfortunately, the car lacks modern features such as Bluetooth. Although it is a fine middle-of-the-road car for most people, it does not fit my needs as much as other cars/trucks. I usually drive my other vehicles and leave this one as a third car.