A staple of consistency, the Nissan Altima has long been a popular midsize sedan for drivers far and wide, primarily for its blend of style, comfort, and efficient performance. It’s positioned as a competitor to well-established sedan rivals, primarily the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, two of the most popular sedans in America. Over the years, the Altima has evolved through various generations, each bringing new features and improvements. However, not all Altima models have been created equal. Let’s take a look at the best (and worst) Altima years for reliability, going all the way back to 1992, to help you make an informed decision as you search for the right used Altima for sale.
Evolution Of The Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima has a rich history that spans over several generations, each bringing new advancements and updates. Although it was first introduced in 1992, the Altima was the successor to the decades-old Bluebird, which first debuted in 1955. Nevertheless, the Altima has seen five major redesigns over six generations. Its debut generation (1993-1997 model years) was powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 150 horsepower; the same engine was retained for the second-generation model.
Starting with the third-gen model, the Altima would undergo a significant upgrade which included more powertrain options like a 3.5L V6 engine producing up to 245 hp. Fuel efficiency was further enhanced as well as the midsize sedan entered into the 2010s, increasing the engine’s capabilities and adding a slew of advanced safety features. Today, the Altima has introduced a turbocharged engine featuring variable compression, more advanced driver-assistance systems, and even all-wheel drive.
Nissan Altima Generations
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
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The Best Nissan Altima Model Years
Consulting sources like Car Complaints, J.D. Power, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, we found the three Nissan Altima model years that generally had a low number of consumer complaints and recalls. Combined with a comprehensive service history, these Altima model years should make for safe used buys if you want a reliable and affordable sedan.
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2011 Nissan Altima
Nissan
The 2011 Altima – part of the fourth generation – stands out as a stylish and fairly modern choice, holding its own among the most dependable models. With an overall J.D. Power score of 81 and a respectable quality and reliability rating of 82, a low-mileage example should still last for many years. While pre-owned prices may be slightly elevated, well-maintained examples are generally at under $10,000. However, we recommend conducting a comprehensive inspection, as certain engine and powertrain concerns have been reported for this specific model year. It’s worth nothing that the 2012 Altima is a worthy follow-up model, but is dinged for its reported issues of airbag malfunctions and CVT issues.
2017 Nissan Altima
Nissan
The 2017 Nissan Altima is another standout model year and forms part of the fifth generation. This Altima benefits from a mid-cycle refresh that brought updated styling, advanced safety features, and improved fuel efficiency. The 2017 Altima is equipped with a 2.5L four-cylinder engine producing 179 hp, or an optional 3.5L V6 engine with 270 horsepower, both paired with a CVT. One of the key highlights of the 2017 Altima is its excellent safety ratings. It received high marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it a great choice for families and safety-conscious buyers. The combination of reliability, safety, and modern features makes the 2017 version one of the best Nissan Altima model years.
2019 Nissan Altima
CarBuzz/Valnet
The 2019 Nissan Altima marked the beginning of the current generation and is notable for its innovative features and impressive performance. This model year introduced a new turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine option, producing 248 hp, alongside the standard 2.5L four-cylinder engine with 188 hp. Another significant addition was the availability of all-wheel drive, making it an even more enticing option for drivers who may prefer a sedan with more traction in wet climates or uneven terrains. The 2019 Altima is lauded for its advanced driver-assistance systems, including ProPilot Assist, which offers semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Its spacious interior, comfortable seating, and updated infotainment system further enhance its appeal. In all, the 2019 Altima stands out as one of the best years for the Nissan Altima due to its combination of modern technology, performance, and safety features.
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The Worst Nissan Altima Model Years
While the Altima has many strong model years, there are still several Nissan Altima model years to avoid due to significant reliability issues, safety concerns, and frequent recalls. If you come across these models for sale, we recommend you keep searching to avoid frustration down the line.
2002 Nissan Altima
Wikimedia Commons
Unfortunately, the 2002 Altima is worth avoiding due to numerous reported problems since its release. This model year was plagued by issues such as excessive oil consumption, engine failures, and problems with the catalytic converter. Many owners reported that these issues often occurred at relatively low mileage, leading to costly repairs and replacements. In addition to the engine problems, the 2002 Altima also faced issues with its suspension system. Drivers have routinely reported premature wear on the suspension components, leading to a rough and uncomfortable ride. The combination of engine and suspension problems made the 2002 Altima a frequent visitor to repair shops, which frustrated many owners.
2009 Nissan Altima
Nissan
While the 2009 Altima boasts a lower number of recalls compared to previous years, the NHTSA has received over 1,500 complaints for it. These complaints primarily focus on the electronic steering column occasionally locking unexpectedly. Suspension concerns and instances of transmission overheating have also been reported. Cars Complaints lists the steering as the single most-reported problem for any Altima. Although Nissan has since addressed these issues, it’s caused distrust among 2009 Altima owners. This continues today, with some owners still experiencing prolonged inconvenience or lingering safety concerns. These reliability issues make the 2009 model one of the worst Altima years to date, as it has garnered a reputation for being prone to costly and inconvenient problems.
2013 Nissan Altima
Nissan
The launch of the fifth-generation Altima presented some initial hurdles – and major ones at that. The 2013 model year, in particular, faced 12 recalls and garnered over 2,000 complaints, according to NHTSA data. Notably, airbag malfunctions emerged as the most prevalent issue, followed by concerns regarding the engine and transmission. While four recalls aimed to resolve the airbag problems, powertrain-related issues may require additional attention and potential out-of-pocket expenses for owners. Further adding to the complexity are two ongoing investigations related to the 2013 model. Even worse, a class-action lawsuit was filed for all 2013-16 models due to its faulty CVT transmission.
Nissan
Summary: A Good Sedan But Not A Class Leader
The Altima may not sell as strongly as its Honda and Toyota rivals, but it’s a solid sedan. If you’re looking for a vehicle that offers a good balance of features, dependability, and overall value, the 2011, 2017, and 2019 models present the best bang for your buck. By carefully considering the best and worst Altima model years, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing this ever-popular midsize sedan, ensuring you select a model that will provide reliable and enjoyable performance for years to come.