Best and Worst Nissan Altima Years: What to Buy & Avoid

As you venture into the Nissan Altima‘s history, you’ll find a mix of reliable models and ones to avoid. With over two decades of production, it’s essential to know which years stand out for their durability and performance.

From advanced tech features to fewer recalls, some models shine brighter than others.

But which specific years should you consider, and which ones should you steer clear of? Let’s plunge into the data to uncover the best and worst years for the Nissan Altima.

Key Takeaways

• The 2011 Nissan Altima is a reliable choice, with an overall J.D. Power score of 81 and a quality and reliability rating of 82.
• The 2002, 2013, and 2014 model years are plagued with excessive oil consumption, engine failures, and transmission issues, making them worst years to avoid.
• The 2010-2012 models boast a trusty 2.5L QR25DE I4 engine and a brawny 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine, along with advanced tech features.
• The 2017 and 2019 model years stand out with innovative features, impressive performance, and advanced driver-assistance systems like Safety Shield 360.
• The 2021-2024 models offer a good balance of features, dependability, and overall value, with fewer recalls and happier owners.

Evolution of the Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima has undergone significant transformations since its introduction in 1992, with each new generation bringing notable improvements in technology, design, efficiency, and safety.

You’ve seen six distinct generations, each building upon the last.

The third generation model, produced from 2002 to 2006, grew in size and shared a platform with the Maxima and Murano.

The fourth generation, from 2007 to 2012, introduced advanced tech features like push-start ignition and a rear-view camera.

Later models continued this trend, with the sixth generation boasting a sleek, sporty design and two four-cylinder engine options.

Best Nissan Altima Model Years for Reliability

You’re likely looking for a used Nissan Altima that’s reliable and won’t break the bank.

If so, you’ll want to focus on the 2011, 2017, and 2019 model years, which stand out for their impressive reliability ratings and innovative features.

These model years offer a winning combination of dependability, advanced safety features, and impressive performance.

2011: Dependable and Feature-Rich

When shopping for a reliable ride, several Nissan Altima model years stand out for their impressive dependability and feature-rich designs.

You’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of the following best models for reliability:

1. 2011: With an overall J.D. Power score of 81 and a quality and reliability rating of 82, this model year is a reliable choice.
2. 2010-2012: These models boast a trusty 2.5L QR25DE I4 engine and a brawny 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine, along with advanced tech features like keyless entry and push-button start.
3. 2019: This model year stands out with innovative features, impressive performance, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
4. 2021-2024: These models offer a good balance of features, dependability, and overall value, with fewer recalls and happier owners.

2017: Advanced Safety Features

Seven Nissan Altima model years stand out for their advanced safety features, further solidifying their reliability.

You’ll find automatic emergency braking, intelligent cruise control, and rear cross-traffic alert in the 2017 model, making it a top pick.

The 2019 model boasts Safety Shield 360, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward-collision warning, and more.

The 2021 model earns a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety thanks to its ProPILOT Assist driver-assistance system.

These advanced safety features set these models apart as some of the best years for reliability.

2019: Innovative and Impressive

The 2011 Nissan Altima stands out as one of the most reliable model years, boasting an overall J.D. Power score of 81 and a quality and reliability rating of 82.

When looking for a reliable ride, you’ll want to ponder the following innovative and impressive models:

1. 2017 Nissan Altima: Updated styling, advanced safety features, and improved fuel efficiency make it a top choice.
2. 2019 Nissan Altima: Innovative features, impressive performance, and advanced driver-assistance systems guarantee a reliable ride.
3. 2011-2012 Nissan Altima: Fewer registered complaints and improved reliability make these models a solid choice.
4. 2007 Nissan Altima: A redesigned platform and improved fuel efficiency make it a reliable option.

The 2011 Nissan Altima: A Reliable Sedan

You’re likely considering the 2011 Nissan Altima as a reliable sedan option, and for good reason.

With an overall J.D. Power score of 81 and a quality and reliability rating of 82, this midsize sedan has proven its dependability.

The 2011 model year saw improvements in reliability, leading to fewer registered complaints, with only one minor recall.

The NHTSA gave it an overall safety rating of four stars out of five.

You’ll have a choice of two engines, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6, providing a range of performance options.

The 2017 Nissan Altima: A Safe and Efficient Choice

Building on the reliability established in the 2011 model, the 2017 Nissan Altima takes a significant leap forward in terms of safety and efficiency.

You’ll enjoy improved fuel economy, with up to 27 city / 38 highway mpg for the four-cylinder and 22 city / 32 highway mpg for the V6.

1. Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
2. Advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking and intelligent cruise control.
3. Impressive fuel economy, making it a great choice for commuters.
4. Reliability, with fewer recalls and complaints compared to other years.

The 2019 Nissan Altima: A Notable Model Year

Fresh from its redesign, the 2019 Nissan Altima bursts onto the scene with a slew of innovative features, impressive performance, and advanced driver-assistance systems that set it apart from its predecessors.

You’ll appreciate the two four-cylinder engine options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged variable compression unit producing 236 horsepower.

Every trim comes standard with Safety Shield 360, which bundles features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2019 Altima a “Top Safety Pick” rating, making it a solid choice for safety-conscious buyers.

Worst Nissan Altima Model Years to Avoid

You’ll want to steer clear of certain Nissan Altima model years due to costly repair issues and transmission troubles.

Specifically, problematic engine years like 2002 and 2013, which are plagued by excessive oil consumption, engine failures, and catalytic converter issues, should be avoided.

Problematic Engine Years

When shopping for a used Nissan Altima, it’s essential to be aware of the problematic engine years that are best avoided.

These models can lead to costly repairs and headaches down the road.

Avoid the following engine problem-prone years:

1. 2002: Excessive oil consumption, engine failures, and catalytic converter issues plagued this model year.
2. 2013: Engine problems, including airbag malfunctions and transmission concerns, make this year a red flag.
3. 2014: V6 engine issues, including faulty VCT transmissions, led to a class-action lawsuit.
4. 2013-2014: Both years have high instances of engine and transmission problems, making them a gamble you don’t want to take.

Costly Repair Issues

The Nissan Altima’s problematic history is a goldmine of costly repair issues, with several model years standing out as particularly troublesome.

You’ll want to steer clear of the 2002, 2005, 2009, 2013, and 2014 models, which are plagued by transmission issues, faulty CVT transmissions, and airbag malfunctions.

The 2014 model, in particular, has a class-action lawsuit against it due to faulty VCT transmissions.

These models have racked up thousands of NHTSA complaints, with issues ranging from excessive oil consumption to electrical problems.

Avoid these model years to save yourself from costly repairs down the road.

Transmission Troubles

Transmission issues are a significant contributor to the Nissan Altima’s problematic reputation, and certain model years stand out for their troublesome transmissions.

You’ll want to steer clear of these models, which have garnered thousands of complaints.

1. 2013: 2,000+ complaints, including transmission failures, making it one of the most problematic years for the Altima.
2. 2014: Part of a class-action lawsuit involving faulty VCT transmissions, which can cause sudden acceleration and loss of control.
3. 2015: Reports of CVT transmission issues, including slipping, stuttering, and complete failure.
4. 2013-2015: These years are plagued by Xtronic CVT transmission troubles, making them the worst years to avoid if you want to minimize transmission headaches.

The 2002 Nissan Altima: A Troubled Start

You likely remember the 2002 Nissan Altima as a model year plagued by issues, and for good reason.

With over 1,000 NHTSA complaints, it’s clear that this Altima generation was one of the worst.

The 2.5-liter QR25DE I4 engine was particularly problematic, prone to engine stalling, misfires, and excessive oil consumption.

Transmission issues, including slipping and hesitation, added to the model’s reliability woes.

To make matters worse, the electrical system was also faulty, with issues like malfunctioning sensors and engine control module problems.

The 2002 Nissan Altima’s numerous issues make it a model year to avoid.

The 2009 Nissan Altima: A Year of Recalls

You’ll likely recall the 2009 Nissan Altima for its slew of recalls, particularly those related to electronic steering issues, which caused unintended turns and even crashes.

Additionally, catalytic converter problems led to faulty emissions and engine stalling. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received numerous complaints regarding these issues, making the 2009 model year a troublesome one for Altima owners.

Electronic Steering Issues

The 2009 Nissan Altima’s reputation was marred by a pervasive problem: its electronic steering column had a tendency to lock unexpectedly, leaving drivers struggling to maintain control of their vehicles.

You might’ve experienced this issue firsthand, or you might’ve heard horror stories from fellow owners.

1. Over 1,500 complaints to the NHTSA, primarily focused on the electronic steering column locking unexpectedly.
2. A recall of over 140,000 vehicles, with owners reporting a sudden loss of power steering while driving.
3. The problem was often accompanied by a warning light on the dashboard, and in some cases, the steering wheel would lock in place, making it difficult to steer the vehicle.
4. Nissan extended the warranty on the electronic steering system to 10 years or 120,000 miles, but many owners still reported problems beyond that period.

Catalytic Converter Problems

One of the 2009 Nissan Altima’s most significant recall issues involves its catalytic converter, which has been known to fail prematurely, causing a range of problems for owners. You may experience decreased engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased emissions. If you’re considering buying a used Altima, it’s essential to be aware of these issues.

Years to avoid due to catalytic converter problems include 2009, which received a low reliability rating.

Multiple NHTSA Complaints

Multiple complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlight the 2009 Nissan Altima‘s troubled year, with numerous owners reporting a range of issues that led to several recalls.

You’re likely to experience frustration and concern if you own a 2009 Altima, given the number of problems reported.

Here are some of the most common issues:

1. CVT Transmission Failure: Owners reported sudden loss of power, slipping, and stalling, often resulting in costly repairs.
2. Engine Stalling: Idling issues, faulty oxygen sensors, and ignition problems led to stalling, leaving drivers stranded.
3. Faulty Airbag Sensors: Malfunctioning sensors failed to deploy airbags in crash scenarios, putting occupants at risk.
4. Faulty Brake Light Switch: Defective switches caused brake lights to malfunction, increasing the risk of accidents.

The 2013 Nissan Altima: A Model Year to Avoid

You’re likely to encounter a multitude of problems if you opt for the 2013 Nissan Altima, a model year plagued by a staggering number of recalls and complaints.

With 12 recalls and over 2,244 registered complaints, this model year is one to avoid.

Airbag problems, engine issues, suspension problems, and hood latch corrosion are just a few of the common complaints.

The NHTSA reports over 400 complaints regarding the electrical system and over 300 complaints about the engine, many of which involve engine stalling and failure.

It’s clear that the 2013 Nissan Altima is a model year to steer clear of when shopping for a used car.

Nissan Altima Generations Overview

The Nissan Altima’s six generations have each introduced significant advancements in technology, design, efficiency, and safety since its inception.

When researching Nissan Altima model years, it’s essential to understand the differences between each generation.

1. The 3rd generation (2002-2006) grew into a proper midsize car, introducing a new factory and the FF-L platform.
2. The 5th generation (2013-2018) brought significant improvements in design and efficiency.
3. The 6th generation (2019-present) features a sleek, sporty design and is fractionally larger than its predecessors.
4. Each generation has its unique features, engine options, and trim levels, making it vital to know the generations when making an informed purchasing decision, and pivotal to consider the differences between them.

Best and Worst Years for Nissan Altima 3rd Generation

What sets the 3rd generation of Nissan Altima apart from its predecessors is the varying degree of reliability and performance across its model years.

You’ll find the 2004 Altima to be the best year, offering a peppy 2.5L QR25DE I4 engine and a powerful 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine. It also boasts a luxurious trim level, the 3.5 SL, with amenities like a Bose sound system and a sunroof.

Additionally, it has a fuel efficiency of 20 city / 27 highway mpg for the four-cylinder and 18 city / 24 highway mpg for the V6.

Best and Worst Years for Nissan Altima 4th Generation

Moving on to the 4th generation, you’ll find that Nissan Altima’s model years vary in terms of reliability and performance.

The best years of the fourth-generation Altima are 2010-2012, offering a reliable 2.5L QR25DE I4 engine and a powerful 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine.

These models boast:

1. Impressive fuel efficiency: 23 city / 32 highway mpg for the four-cylinder and 20 city / 27 highway mpg for the V6.
2. Advanced tech features: keyless entry, push-button start, and Bluetooth.
3. Reliable performance: with fewer recalls and brake problems.
4. Better overall quality: with less rust and fewer mechanical issues.

In contrast, the 2008 and 2009 models are plagued by recalls, brake problems, and rust, making them the worst years of this generation.

Best and Worst Years for Nissan Altima 5th and 6th Generations

You’re likely to find that the 5th and 6th generations of the Nissan Altima offer a mixed bag of reliability and performance.

The best years, 2017-2024, boast fewer recalls and happier owners, thanks to their 2.5L and 3.5L engines paired with a smooth Xtronic CVT transmission. These models also feature excellent safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, and impressive fuel economy.

On the other hand, the worst years, 2013-2015 and 2019-2020, are plagued by CVT transmission issues, airbag system problems, and other reliability concerns.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Nissan Juke, Nissan Armada, Nissan Frontier and Nissan Leaf. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.