Since 1992, Nissan’s Altima has been a highly enjoyable, practical, and fun-to-drive sedan. The Nissan Altima remains Nissan’s best-selling compact commuter car, despite being slightly more edgy and less expensive than Honda Accords and Toyota Camrys. With its all-wheel drive system in 2019, it can now compete with crossovers, which is praised by fans for its reliability, spacious interior, and fun handling.
However, along with these glowing reviews in Nissan chat rooms all over the internet, owners are complaining that the continuous variable transmission (CVT) is malfunctioning, recalls have been issued, steering columns have locked up, and rear doors and hoods are unintentionally popped open while driving. What is the group of the car in question? It is important to note that the model year is different. The right model year can make all the difference when choosing a Nissan Altima from the past two decades.
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The most common problems across these model years
There were a number of issues that typically appeared across multiple Nissan Altima models, regardless of which model year they were in:
- Issues with CVT transmissions:. Several generations of Altima have been affected by this problem. Repairs or complete replacements were frequently required for CVT transmissions due to their tendency to fail.
- A high oil consumption rate. There were some Altimas that consumed oil at an alarming rate, resulting in possible damage to the engine.
- Problems with electricity. There have been numerous reports of electrical problems across several model years, ranging from faulty power windows to faulty instrument clusters.
- Problems with the steering and suspension. A number of years had issues with steering wheel locks or suspension components that had a negative impact on the vehicle’s handling and safety.
- Failed hood latches. During early models, a faulty hood latch would frequently open the hood unexpectedly.
Developing Nissan Altimas
Altima’s rich history spans several generations and introduces new advancements and features at every turn. This new generation of Bluebird was introduced in 1992, making it a new generation of the original Bluebird. The Altima has been redesigned five times over six generations but still remains a highly regarded vehicle. This model was introduced in 1993-97 with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 150 horsepower.
A significant overhaul was performed on the Altima’s third generation, with an engine that reached 245 horsepower and a 3.5L V6. The midsize sedan also featured advanced safety features and enhanced engine capabilities in addition to its fuel economy improvements. Altima models today can be equipped with turbocharged engines with variable compression, advanced driver assistance, or even all-wheel drive.
| Generating Nissan Altimas | ||||||
| Generation | 1st Gen | 2nd Gen | 3rd Gen | 4th Gen | 5th Gen | 6th Gen |
| Production Years | 1992–1997 | 1997–2001 | 2001–2006 | 2006–2012 (sedan) | 2012–2018 | 2018 – present |
| Engines | 2.4L I4 | 2.4L I4 | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 | |||||
| 2.5L I4 hybrid | 3.5L V6 | 2.0L I4 Turbo | ||||
| Model Code | U13 | L30 | L31 | L32 | L33 | L34 |
Here are the top Nissan Altima model years
A number of consumer complaint and recall data sources, such as NHTSA and Car Complaints, were used to locate Nissan Altima model years with low consumer complaints and recalls. These Altima model years can be purchased for a low price if they have an extensive service history.
All-New Nissan Altima 2011
As Nissan’s fourth-generation sedan, the 2011 Altima is stylish, reliable, and reasonably modern. A J.D. Power rating shows that this vehicle achieved an 81 on the J.D. The vehicle also scored high on quality and reliability, earning an impressive 82. An example that has been well maintained usually costs under $10,000, though prices can vary slightly. An inspection is recommended due to engine and powertrain concerns with this particular model year. Despite its worthiness as a follow-up car, Nissan’s 2012 Altima has been criticized for airbag and CVT problems.
2017 Nissan Altima
It is the fifth-generation Nissan Altima that stands out among 2017 models. A midcycle refresh upgraded this Altima’s styling, advanced safety features, and fuel efficiency. 2017 Nissan Altimas are equipped with a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 179 horsepower, or a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower.
Besides boasting excellent safety ratings, the 2017 Altima is packed with tons of great features as well. In addition to receiving high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the vehicle was also highly rated by the Consumer Reports. Among the best Nissan Altima models is the 2017 version, which is reliable, safe, and full of features.
2019 Nissan Altima
Nissan Altima’s next generation is characterized by its innovative technology and outstanding performance. The engine for this model year includes two turbocharged four-cylinder engines: a 2.0L four-cylinder delivering 248 horsepower as an option, and a 2.5L four-cylinder producing 188 horsepower as standard. Additionally, the sedan comes with a four-wheel drive option, which makes it a better choice for drivers looking for more traction in wet conditions.
With the 2019 Nissan Altima, you can also drive semi-autonomously with advanced driver-assist features, such as ProPilot Assist. In the interior, there is plenty of room, comfort, and a modern infotainment system. The Nissan Altima for this year is equipped with a number of advanced features, including technology, performance, and safety.
Nissan Altima Years to Avoid
Although Nissan Altimas have been around for a long time and have had many successful model years, many of their models have experienced major reliability issues, safety concerns, and frequent recalls. For peace of mind, we recommend that you keep looking if you find these models for sale.
2002 Nissan Altima
Altima 2002 models have been recalled numerous times since their releases, so stay away from them. It was noted that the catalytic converter, excessive oil consumption, and engine failures were seen in this model year. Repairs and replacements are often required at relatively low mileage in most cases.
Apart from its engine problems, the 2002 Altima also had problems with its suspension. Rides have been rough and uncomfortable as a result of premature wear on suspension components. In 2002, engine and suspension problems combined to frustrate Altima owners.
2009 Nissan Altima
Despite the Nissan Altima’s fewer recalls, the NHTSA has received more than 1,500 complaints. Steering columns lock unexpectedly a lot, which is the most common complaint. Overheating transmissions and suspension issues have also been reported. Accordant to Cars Complaints, most Altima complaints concern the steering.
Nissan’s attempts to resolve these issues haven’t resulted in a positive response from 2009 Altima owners. The inconveniences or safety concerns may persist today, in some cases. Since such problems make the 2009 model a notoriously expensive and inconvenient Altima, it is arguably the worst year for the model.
2013 Nissan Altima
With Nissan’s launch of the fifth-generation Altima, there were a number of obstacles to overcome. In the 2013 model year, the NHTSA recorded 12 recalls and more than 2,000 complaints. Among the most common problems are problems related to airbags and engine and transmission malfunctions.
Airbag-related recalls have occurred four times, but powertrain-related problems may continue to linger and cause out-of-pocket expenses. At the moment, two investigations are underway regarding the 2013 model. Several lawsuits were filed against the manufacturer over the defective CVT transmission found on all 2013-16 models.
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Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q) about Nissan Altima Years to Avoid
Q1. How reliable are Nissan Altimas?
Despite the fact that many Nissan Altimas are unreliable, not all of them are. In spite of some model years having significant problems, others have proven to be quite reliable. Buying a used car means researching the model year and its known problems.
Q2. When it comes to Nissan Altimas, what is the most reliable year?
A Nissan Altima model from 2011 or 2012 is considered to be more reliable than those from previous years. The fourth generation included several improvements, which resulted in fewer complaints.
Q3. What are the typical transmission life expectancies for Nissan Altimas?
It has been estimated that Nissan Altima transmissions can last between 135,000 and 180,000 miles if they are well maintained. It is possible, however, that some of the problematic years we discussed may experience transmission problems much earlier than others.
Q4. Does it make sense to buy a used Nissan Altima?
Model year and condition are factors that determine whether it is possible. Before purchasing a used vehicle, make sure it’s been inspected by a trusted mechanic, especially those from reliable years like 2011 and 2012.
Q5. Can CVT transmissions fail in Nissan Altima?
The check engine light may come on or your vehicle might shake or jerk during acceleration, lose power unexpectedly, and make strange sounds in the transmission. The vehicle should be inspected immediately if you notice these symptoms.
Summary of Nissan Altima Years to Avoid
Even though it has lower sales than Honda and Toyota, the Altima is still a car worth considering even though it has lower sales. There are several models whose features, dependability, and overall value are all well balanced. Choosing a model that will provide reliable and enjoyable performance for years to come requires consideration of the best and worst Altima model years when making a purchase decision.
