Are Nissan Altimas good cars? That’s a question that echoes in the minds of car shoppers who want a reliable and well-rounded sedan. With its blend of style, performance, and affordability, the Nissan Altima has long been a popular choice in the midsize sedan market. But does it live up to the hype?

Nissan Altimas are good cars that balance performance with comfort. They are regarded as reliable and efficient vehicles, scoring 80 out of 100 on the J.D. Power reliability scale, which is fair but below average. 

Although the Nissan Altima scores well in reliability ratings, its overall reliability depends on the model year, driving conditions, and other factors. So, if you are looking to purchase a Nissan Altima, you should know all about its reliability and roadworthiness. 

Are Nissan Altimas Good Cars?

Nissan Altimas are good cars with a reputation as dependable, efficient, and stylish vehicles in the midsize sedan segment. Their engines vary from efficient 2.5-liter four-cylinder options to more robust 3.5-liter V6 engines in specific models, providing a good blend of fuel economy and performance. 

The Altima’s specifications include its spacious interior, a huge trunk space, and a host of standard features, including advanced infotainment systems and comfortable seating. These features make it a competitive option in the midsize sedan segment.

Newer Altimas, particularly those from the 2019 redesign, boast improved handling, enhanced safety features, and innovative technologies like the ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system. 

However, the earlier models have faced criticism. Some past Altimas experienced issues with their continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), which led to reliability concerns. Despite this, Nissan has made efforts to address these problems and improve the overall reliability of its vehicles. 

What Is The Most Reliable Nissan Altima Car?

The 2011 and 2012 Nissan Altima models are the most reliable. This reliability is shown in its J.D. power reliability rating of 80 out of 100 and overall score of 81 out of 100. These years fall within the Altima’s fourth generation, which is noted for its robust performance, minimal issues, and overall durability. 

The 2011 and 2012 Altimas come with either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency or a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 for those seeking additional performance. 

These models are praised for their reliability, comfortable interiors, and responsive driving dynamics. They also offer some advanced features, such as push-button start, Bluetooth connectivity, and a user-friendly navigation system.

The 2011 and 2012 models also have fewer reported problems related to the continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a lower chance of major mechanical issues. They are the safer bets in the Nissan Altima used car market, offering a solid blend of efficiency, reliability, comfort, and durability.

What Is Nissan Altima Maintenance Cost?

The annual maintenance cost for Nissan Altimas is $483. However, this amount varies by year, model, mileage, and general condition of the vehicle. Nissan Altimas are considered low-maintenance cars in comparison to other cars in their class. 

A typical Nissan Altima will cost between $150 and $500 for basic servicing and upkeep. These include the routine procedures necessary for the car’s smooth running, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. For a vehicle known for its reliability and durability, its maintenance costs are manageable. 

However, costs may be higher for older models or those that require more significant repairs, especially related to the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which has been a common issue in some model years. 

Following the Nissan’s recommended maintenance schedule and addressing any issues early will spare you more expensive repairs later.

What Is The Lifespan Of Nissan Altima Cars?

Nissan Altimas have a lifespan of 200,000 to 300,000 miles. This lifespan range varies depending on the model year, driving habits, and maintenance practices. Models from the mid-2000s to early 2010 are robust and genuinely road-worthy, especially when routine service checks and repairs are consistently addressed. 

Factors like timely oil changes, brake inspections, and service intervals affect the car’s lifespan. Driving conditions and habits, like urban vs. rural roads and climate, also impact it. However, with proper care, the Nissan Altima is capable of delivering reliable performance way beyond the 200,000-mile mark. 

What Are Common Nissan Altima Car Problems?

Just like every other vehicle, the Nissan Altima has its problems. The following are some common problems associated with the Nissan Altima:

• CVT Transmission Problems: Various Nissan Altima model years experience issues with their continuously variable transmission CVT. This problem shows itself with symptoms such as stuttering, shaking, and unexpected failure. Nissan model years notable for CVT transmission problems are those from the late 2000s to early 2010s. 
• Excessive Oil Consumption: Older Nissan Altima owners have reported issues with excessive oil consumption. The vehicle consumes oil faster than expected, leading to engine performance issues and increased maintenance costs. This problem was prevalent in the 2002 to 2006 model years. 
• Catalytic Converter Failure: It is common for Nissan Altima’s catalytic converter to fail prematurely. The catalytic converter helps reduce exhaust emissions, and its failure leads to reduced engine performance. Worse, it is pretty expensive to replace. 
• Steering Wheel Lock Failure: Some Altimas, especially in the 2009 model year, have issues with the electronic steering column lock. This issue prevented the car from starting and was significant enough that Nissan addressed it with an extended warranty for affected vehicles. 
• Suspension Problems: Nissan Altima’s car owners have reported suspension problems. Wear and tear on suspension parts like the strouts and control arms affects the car’s handling and ride comfort. This issue is seen more in Altima cars with high mileage. 
• Faulty Intake Manifold Gasket: Altima cars from the early 2000s have experienced issues with the intake manifold gasket. The gasket deteriorates, leading to engine overheating and reduced efficiency. 
• Rust Issues: In areas with harsh winters and heavy road salt use, some Altima models, especially those from the 2000s, tend to develop rust on the body and frame more quickly than expected.

Are There Recalls On Nissan Altima Cars?

Nissan Altima has had 55 recalls, especially for the 2002 model year, but none of them has been for safety reasons. These recalls address concerns ranging from minor components to critical safety issues. Here are some reasons for Nissan Altima recalls;

• Faulty hood latches
• Airbag sensors
• Inflators
• Continuously variable transmission CVT

Altima owners should check their vehicle’s recall status using their VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on Nissan’s website or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. Then, contact your dealership to have the recall problem fixed at no cost.

Do Nissan Altima Cars Have Value Retention?

Like many midsize sedans, Nissan Altimas tend to experience average value retention compared to the broader automotive market. While they are known for their reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency, Altimas do not hold their value as well as some competitors in the same segment. 

Depreciation for a Nissan Altima is pretty typical for its class. New models potentially lose about 50% of their value within the first five years of ownership. This rate of depreciation is influenced by factors such as the car’s condition, mileage, and specific model year. 

However, due to their popularity, there is a consistent demand for used Altimas, especially for those well-maintained and equipped with desirable features. This demand can help reduce some depreciation concerns.  

The Altima is a reasonable choice for buyers prioritizing initial cost and overall value over long-term investment retention.

What Are Nissan Altima Car Best Years?

The best years for a Nissan Altima feature a combination of reliability, features, and overall value. Here are some of the Nissan Altima’s best years:

• 2012 Nissan Altima: This year, the Nissan Altima was praised for its reliability. It is the tail end of the fourth generation and is known for its solid performance. Even though some of the 2012 models report few CVT issues. It offers a good balance of comfort and efficiency.
• 2015 Nissan Altima: This year marks an improvement in technology and interior comfort. It has enhanced safety features and better fuel economy and is a popular choice among used car buyers.
• 2018 Nissan Altima: This model year is valued for its standard inclusion of advanced safety features like the forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. It also has improved driving dynamics and comfort.
• 2019 Nissan Altima: The 2019 Altima received a complete redesign, an option for all-wheel drive, a VC-Turbo engine for higher trims, and a technology upgrade like the ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system.
• 2020 Nissan Altima: Building on the strengths of the 2019 redesign, the 2020 model solidifies its position with further refinements. It has strong safety scores, comfort, and more features across its trim levels.

These model years stand out for their mix of reliability, modern features, and overall driver satisfaction.

How Reliable Are Nissan Altimas?

Nissan Altimas are reliable cars, and they are known for fewer issues, especially in the 2012 and 2015 models. They offer a balance of comfort, performance, and efficiency.

What Is The Fuel Efficiency Of Nissan Altimas?

Altimas with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine have excellent fuel economy, with newer models reaching up to 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The 3.5-liter V6 models offer more power but lower fuel efficiency.

How does the Nissan Altima compare to the Nissan Murano in terms of driving experience?

While both the Nissan Altima and the Nissan Murano come from the same manufacturer, they offer different driving experiences due to their distinct class categories. The Altima, being a sedan, offers a sportier and more fuel-efficient drive, whereas the Murano, as an SUV, provides higher seating positions and more cargo space, ideal for those who prioritize utility over performance.

What makes the Nissan Altima a more affordable option compared to Acura models?

The Nissan Altima presents a more budget-friendly alternative to higher-end Acura models, offering substantial value through its competitive pricing, comprehensive feature set, and lower cost of ownership. This affordability does not come at the expense of quality or technology, making the Altima a wise choice for buyers seeking value without compromise.

What Are The Problems With Nissan Altimas?

Common problems with the Nissan Altima include issues with the CVT transmission, such as shuddering and unexpected failure, excessive oil consumption, steering wheel lock failures, and airbag sensors. 

Do Nissan Altimas Have Good Resale Value?

Nissan Altimas experience average resale value compared to other vehicles in their class. Like many midsize sedans, they depreciate approximately 50% within the first five years. 

Are Nissan Altimas Expensive To Maintain?

Nissan Altimas maintenance costs are low compared to other cars in the same category. Basic upkeep costs an average of $150 to $400 annually, depending on the vehicle’s condition and model year.