Here Are The Nissan Altima Years To Avoid
We've identified five Nissan Altima years to avoid. See which years (and why) so you can choose a dependable used vehicle.
Are you looking to purchase a used mid-size Nissan Altima sedan but wondering which model years to avoid? You’re on the right page.
The Altima is one of the oldest and most popular from Japanese automaker Nissan, and they have a fairly good track record in terms of reliability. However, not all Nissan Altima models are created equal, and some are simply more reliable than others.
For today’s post, we’ll take a look at which Nissan Altima years to avoid and which ones are worth buying used.
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Which Nissan Altima Years to Avoid?
There’s a reason why Altima is such a popular mid-size sedan. If you’re looking to buy a used Nissan Altima, it’s hard to go wrong with the majority of its models. However, there are a few Nissan Altima years that are reported to have some significant issues that buyers, such as you, will want to avoid.
These are the Nissan Altima years to avoid buying used:
- 2002 Nissan Altima
- 2005 Nissan Altima
- 2009 Nissan Altima
- 2013 Nissan Altima
- 2016 Nissan Altima
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE NISSAN ALTIMA
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.
2002 Nissan Altima
With more than 1k+ complaints and over 12 recalls according to CarComplaints.com, the customers’ reports about the 2002 Altima don’t inspire much confidence for potential buyers. Some of the worst problems about the 2002 Altima are excessive oil consumption, catalytic converter failure, and exhaust system problems.
Many owners have claimed that their Altima consumed oil like crazy and started blowing smoke. For this particular oil consumption issue, expect to spend about $3,300+ to get it fixed, which is nothing short of ridiculous. At this point, buying a 2002 Altima is a huge gamble since it’s simply way too old now.
The defects of the 2002 Altima are so severe that it earned the “Avoid Like the Plague” seal by Car Complaints.
2005 Nissan Altima
The 2005 Nissan Altima is yet another model that accumulated over a thousand complaints, as per CarComplaints.com. The three areas that had the most complaints are engine problems, body/paint issues, and transmission problems.
One of the major issues with the 2005 Altima is the rusted floor pan. At some point, the floor pan got so rusted that it developed a basketball-size hole under the floor mat. The average repair cost for this problem is about a grand. At around 100k mileage, the 2005 Altima also suffers from excessive oil consumption, which can cost owners up to $2,000 for repairs.
Lastly, the climate system tends to go out at around 100k+ miles, and a replacement can cost up to $1,400.
2009 Nissan Altima
With over 2k complaints, the 2009 version is one of the worst Nissan Altima years to avoid. Just a quick look at the defect categories, the 2009 Altima seems to have a major problem with its steering.
To be specific, many Altima owners have experienced the dreaded steering wheel lock, which prevented drivers from properly controlling the vehicle. Of course, this is a massive safety risk, and the typical repair cost is $960.
Additionally, many customers have experienced a whining noise that becomes louder as the vehicle accelerates. Apparently, this was a transmission-related issue and tends to rear its ugly head at around 100k miles. The typical repair cost for this issue is around $5,700 but is usually covered by the warranty.
2013 Nissan Altima
If we’re purely going with the number of complaints, according to Car Complaints, the 2013 Nissan Altima is the absolute worst model year to avoid. With a whopping 3k+ complaints and an “Avoid Like the Plague” seal of disapproval, the 2013 Altima should be one of the worst Nissan Altima years to avoid.
The bulk of the complaints stem from the 2013 Altima’s faulty CVT transmission system. Many customers have reported that the transmission gets stuck while driving, and they have to pull over and restart the vehicle. With the model now out of warranty, it can cost you up to $3,000+ to repair.
Another area that’s most problematic with the 2013 Altima is its climate system. Many reports claim that the compressor rubs against the car’s frame, which accelerates wear and tear. This problem will normally cost you around $1,200 to repair.
2016 Nissan Altima
The 2016 Altima isn’t the most unreliable model on this list, but it does have a few problems that you may not want to deal with. According to Consumer Reports, the 2016 Nissan Altima has an overall Reliability Rating of 1 out of 5.
Again, the 2016 Altima suffers from problems with its transmission system. Many owners have reported that their vehicle would simply stop accelerating in traffic, or the transmission would slip mostly while turning. To replace the transmission, expect to pay around $4,260 for a replacement.
Which Nissan Altima Models are Safe to Buy Used?
For the most part, buying a used Nissan Altima is a safe bet. However, if you want to buy one with the fewest reliability issues, these are your best options:
2011 Nissan Altima
If you are looking to buy a sporty coupe with an understated aesthetic, the 2011 Altima is an excellent model to buy as used. The 2011 Altima offers everything you want from an Altima but with a more personalized approach. Despite its bland profile, the 2011 Altima features a lower-cost 4-cylinder entry model and several interior features on the higher trims.
Over at Car Complaints, the 2011 Altima only has 78 complaints, and those are mostly about its transmission system and body/paint. The average retail price for a used 2011 is $6,125 - $8,475.
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2020 Nissan Altima
Customers who prefer a newer Altima will love the 2020 model. With a 5 out of 5 reliability rating from Consumer Reports, the 2020 Altima has beaten some of the top-rated 2020 models, including the BMW 5 Series, Honda Accord, and the Toyota Camry.
Although it’s a bit less sporty than its competitors, the 2020 Altima boasts highly comfortable seats, excellent fuel economy, and a smooth and gentle ride, even on rough surfaces. Several customers and reviewers also praised the 2020 Altima for its body integrity as they noticed the lack of squeaks and rattles while on the road.
The 2020 Altima delivers on all fronts, including aesthetics, performance, comfort, and reliability.
FAQ: Nissan Altima Years To Avoid
Q: Which Nissan Altima years should you avoid?
A: When considering a used Nissan Altima, especially if you’re looking for a reliable midsize sedan, avoid the 2002, 2005, 2009, 2013, and 2016 model years. These specific years have been identified with more frequent issues and complaints, which can impact their overall reliability.
Q: What were the major issues with the 2002 Nissan Altima?
A: The 2002 Nissan Altima had significant problems, such as excessive oil consumption and catalytic converter failure. These issues were prevalent and costly to repair, making this older model one of the less reliable Nissan Altimas.
Q: Are there any reliable older models of Nissan Altimas?
A: While certain older model years are best avoided, others, like the early 2000s and late 2010s models, excluding the specific years mentioned, tend to be more reliable. Researching and selecting the right year is crucial when considering an older model Nissan Altima for better reliability.
Q: What makes the Nissan Altima a popular midsize sedan?
A: Outside the problematic years, the Nissan Altima remains a popular choice in the midsize sedan category due to its comfortable interior, good fuel efficiency, and engaging driving dynamics. When free from the issues associated with less reliable years, Altimas are solid midsize sedans.
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