Which Years of Used Nissan Altimas Are Most Reliable?
We've rounded up 15 of the most reliable Nissan Altima years. See which ones (and which Altima years are considered least reliable) so you can make a smart car shopping decision.
The Nissan Altima is one of the most common and popular midsized cars, favored by commuters, small families, and everyone in between. Since it has been built since 1992, it can be tough to determine the most reliable Nissan Altima year if you are searching for a stellar, consistent used vehicle. Today, let’s take a look at the most reliable years of used Nissan Altima so you can begin your search smartly.
Most Reliable Years for the Nissan Altima
Fortunately, there are plenty of safe model years for the Nissan Altima, even if you are buying used. These model years include:
THE NISSAN ALTIMA YEARS TO AVOID
Not all Nissan Altima models are created equal, and some are simply more reliable than others. We’ll take a look at which Nissan Altima years to avoid and which ones are worth buying used.
- 2001 Nissan Altima
- 2003 Nissan Altima
- 2004 Nissan Altima
- 2006 Nissan Altima
- 2007 Nissan Altima
- 2008 Nissan Altima
- 2010 Nissan Altima
- 2011 Nissan Altima
- 2012 Nissan Altima
- 2015 Nissan Altima
- 2016 Nissan Altima
- 2017 Nissan Altima
- 2018 Nissan Altima
- 2019 Nissan Altima
- 2020 Nissan Altima
As you can see, both some of the more recent model years of the Nissan Altima and so the older model years can be relied on. It all just depends on the individual vehicle and its history of maintenance work.
Are Nissan Altimas Generally Reliable?
Before you buy one of the most reliable Nissan Altima years, you should ask yourself whether it’s actually a reliable car. For the most part, it is indeed a reliable vehicle. Copilotsearch.com indicates that buying a used Nissan Altima is a good idea thanks to the wide range of safe, reliable model years (so you aren’t limited to one or two years during your search).
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Motorbiscuit.com also indicates that a used Nissan Altima is a good purchase if you are looking for reliability. Like many vehicles, the latter half of this model’s manufacturing lifespan is better, as automakers have been able to work out many kinks and recall issues with the car. Ideally, you should look for a used Nissan Altima manufactured anywhere between 2007 and 2012 to get the most value for money.
Which Nissan Altimas Are the Least Reliable?
Of course, you should also stay away from some of the worst model years for the Nissan Altima. These years include:
- 2002 Nissan Altima
- 2005 Nissan Altima
- 2009 Nissan Altima
- 2013 Nissan Altima
- 2014 Nissan Altima
Out of all of these, the 2013 Nissan Altima could be the worst of the bunch. It had 12 recalls and over 2000 user complaints, primarily around things like engine and transmission issues alongside airbag malfunctions. Definitely avoid 2013 Nissan Altimas, and particularly used vehicles, as much as possible. Even if you get one for a deal, there’s a good likelihood it will give you trouble later down the road.
Are Nissan Altimas Expensive to Maintain?
Even though you can purchase a used Nissan Altima for a great price, you also have to take regular repair costs into account. Repairpal.com indicates that the annual maintenance cost for a Nissan Altima is approximately $483. That’s far from bank-breaking, and as long as you pick one of the most reliable Nissan Altima years, your maintenance requirements shouldn’t be exorbitant.
Some of the cheapest repairs and maintenance tune-ups include electrical system diagnoses, antilock braking system inspections, and transmission fluid changes. However, certain repairs can also cost you quite a bit of money, like catalytic converter replacements and engine front cover gasket replacements. Be sure to get your car looked at regularly, at least once per year, so big maintenance issues don’t pile up and lead to dangerous driving.
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Which Nissan Altima is Most Reliable?
Want to really hedge your bets? The most reliable Nissan Altima year is arguably the 2011 model according to vehiclehistory.com. That’s because it has a reliability rating of 80 out of 100, plus an overall score of 81 out of 100.
There’s a lot to like about the 2011 Nissan Altima, including its stylish aesthetic, contemporary interior, and excellent features. Most importantly, the 2011 Nissan Altima isn’t known for a variety of maintenance or electrical issues, reducing the likelihood of encountering a major problem while on the road or over the vehicle’s lifespan. Of course, you should still request a maintenance and vehicle history report for any used 2011 Nissan Altima to make sure you buy a good car.
What Are the Most Common Nissan Altima Problems?
While the most reliable Nissan Altima years should serve you well and help you save money, be on the lookout for some common issues that are known to crop up with this vehicle model. According to motorandwheels.com, the most common Nissan Altima problems include but are not limited to:
- Engine problems: Altima owners have encountered various engine-related issues, such as rough idling, deterioration of motor mounts, and excessive oil consumption. These problems can result in reduced engine performance and even engine failure. For example, high oil consumption can cause the engine to run low on oil, leading to increased friction and heat, which can cause significant damage. Rough idling and bad motor mounts can also result in a less smooth driving experience and increased wear on engine components.
- Steering wheel problems: Issues with the steering wheel, such as locking up or wandering, require constant correction by the driver, posing safety risks. A locked steering wheel can prevent the vehicle from being steered, significantly increasing the risk of accidents, especially at high speeds.
- Transmission issues: Notably prevalent in vehicles with over 60,000 miles, transmission problems in the Altima include gear slippage, getting stuck in park, and experiencing shuddering or vibration during operation. These transmission issues affect the car’s performance and can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
- Body and paint issues: Altimas have been reported to have problems with their body and paint, including peeling and chipping paint. This affects the vehicle’s aesthetic and can lead to rust and corrosion over time, compromising the car’s structural integrity.
Note that most of these issues were prevalent among 2002, 2003, and 2005 Nissan Altimas.
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Is the Nissan Altima Worth It?
All in all, the Nissan Altima is a fairly worthwhile vehicle, especially if you purchase it in used condition. Even though a handful of models have very questionable reliability, the Nissan Altima overall is dependable, consistent, affordable, and perfect if you are looking for a midsize sedan.
As with any used vehicle purchase, be sure to look at a maintenance or vehicle history report before signing on any dotted lines. That way, you can see if a given vehicle had troubles or major maintenance work in the past; such markers could be indicators that you should pass over the vehicle in question in favor of an alternative.
Final Thoughts
In the end, buying a used Nissan Altima could be a very wise idea, especially if you purchase one of the most reliable Nissan Altima years. Once you do that, you’ll have a steady, dependable midsize sedan you can take with you on road trips, to work every day, or to school to pick up your kid. Even better, you’ll save a lot of money thanks to very reasonable annual maintenance fees and low upfront purchase prices.
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