2000-2023 Nissan Altima Problems: 16 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2000-2023 model years · 7,820+ owner reports · Updated May 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 7,820+ owner reports, the 2000-2023 Nissan Altima has 16 documented known issues, with 9 rated critical. The most serious are CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder ($300-$5,000 repair), Steering Column Lock Failure ($400-$1,200 repair), Fuel Pump Failure (Recall) ($0-$0 repair), Engine Control Module Relay / ECM Power Interruption Causing Stall or No-Start ($0-$250 repair), Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor / Air Bag Warning Light Fault ($250-$1,800 repair), Brake Master Cylinder Internal Seal Failure Causing Long Pedal or Reduced Braking ($0-$900 repair), Rear Lower Control Arm Corrosion and Separation Risk ($0-$1,200 repair), 2.5L Pre-Catalyst Breakdown Causing Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Damage ($900-$4,500 repair) and Rusting Front Floorboards and Underbody Corrosion Near the Firewall/Subframe Area ($500-$3,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder with 4,500 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $100 to $5,000. at .

All 16 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

Brake Master Cylinder Internal Seal Failure Causing Long Pedal or Reduced Braking

30K-120K

Sunroof Drain Leakage Causing Wet Front Floor, BCM Corrosion, and Electrical Malfunctions

30K-150K

Engine Control Module Relay / ECM Power Interruption Causing Stall or No-Start

40K-140K

Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor / Air Bag Warning Light Fault

40K-140K

2.5L Pre-Catalyst Breakdown Causing Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Damage

60K-140K

Rear Lower Control Arm Corrosion and Separation Risk

70K-180K

Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensor Failures Causing Stalling or No-Start

70K-160K

Power Steering Rack and High-Pressure Hose Leaks Leading to Loss of Assist

80K-180K

Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Failure Causing Humming Noise and ABS/Wheel Speed Issues

90K-180K

CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder

96K-144K

Rusting Front Floorboards and Underbody Corrosion Near the Firewall/Subframe Area

100K-220K

063K125K188K250K mi

Community Reported

920 owners

On the 2013-2018 Nissan Altima, the electronic steering column lock can malfunction, preventing the car from starting. The system fails to release the steering lock even with the correct key. This is a safety feature that can strand drivers.

This issue also affects: Ford Explorer

Common Symptoms

Car won't start
Steering Lock warning on dash
Steering wheel won't turn
Key recognized but won't start
Random no-start conditions

How to Fix

Steering column lock actuator replacement required. Nissan issued service campaigns for some model years. Some owners have had the system disabled. Check for recalls or service campaigns for your VIN.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 920+ owners who fixed this issue

TipThe electronic steering column lock can malfunction, preventing the car from starting.
NoteThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
UpgradeComplete strut and shock absorber set for full suspension refresh (KYB Excel-G Strut/Shock Set)
View on Amazon
UpgradeFour-wheel alignment kit with cam bolts for proper tire wear correction (Moog Alignment Cam Bolt Kit)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,200

Research This Issue

920+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence920 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima, in salt-belt states, 2002-2006 Altimas have a documented corrosion problem affecting the rear lower control arms. Severe rust can perforate the arm and eventually lead to cracking or separation, which alters rear wheel alignment and can affect vehicle control. Nissan issued a recall in affected regions after owner reports of heavy corrosion and suspension instability.

Common Symptoms

rear suspension clunk
uneven rear tire wear
vehicle feels unstable from rear
visible rust on rear control arm
rear alignment out of spec

How to Fix

Inspect the rear lower control arms carefully, especially around spring seats and high-corrosion areas, and check whether the regional recall was completed. If rust scaling, perforation, or deformation is present, replace both rear lower control arms and perform a four-wheel alignment. Vehicles in rust-prone areas should also have the rear suspension and underbody treated with rust inhibitor after repair.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipIn rust-belt cars, inspect rear suspension arms during every tire rotation or brake service.
TipReplace corroded arms in pairs and get a four-wheel alignment immediately after installation.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,200

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima, hydraulic power steering Altimas commonly develop leaks from the steering rack seals or high-pressure hose assemblies. Owners report groaning noises, fluid on the subframe, a burning smell from fluid contacting hot components, and progressively heavier steering effort. On higher-mileage cars the leak can become severe enough to empty the reservoir and sharply reduce steering assist.

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Chrysler Concorde

Common Symptoms

power steering fluid leak
groaning while turning
heavy steering
whining pump noise
fluid under front of car
burning fluid smell

How to Fix

Diagnosis involves checking the reservoir level, inspecting the pressure hose crimps and rack boots for fluid, and verifying whether the pump has been damaged by low fluid operation. Repairs typically involve replacing the leaking hose or steering rack, flushing the system, and refilling with the correct fluid. Alignment is usually required after rack replacement.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipIf the reservoir keeps dropping, inspect the rack boots and hose crimps before replacing the pump; many owners replaced noisy pumps only to find the real problem was a leak.
TipAfter any rack or hose repair, flush contaminated fluid out of the system to reduce repeat pump noise and seal wear.
UpgradeAftermarket pressure hoses from Gates are commonly used when the original crimped hose starts leaking. (Gates Power Steering Pressure Hose)
View on Amazon
UpgradeMany owners use a remanufactured steering rack from a known brand rather than the cheapest unbranded unit to reduce repeat leaks. (A1 Cardone Remanufactured Steering Rack)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$250 - $1,400

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima, a well-documented problem on 2002-2006 Altima involves failure of the engine control module (ECM) relay, which can interrupt power to the ECM while driving or prevent the car from starting. Owners report sudden stalling, intermittent crank-no-start, or an engine that dies and restarts after cooling down. Nissan issued a safety recall because relay heat damage and internal failure could cause an unexpected engine stall.

Common Symptoms

engine stalls while driving
intermittent no-start
cranks but will not start
engine restarts after sitting
loss of power with warning lights illuminated

How to Fix

Confirm recall completion status by VIN first. Diagnosis typically includes checking for ECM power loss, relay operation, and signs of heat damage or intermittent contact in the IPDM/relay circuit. The fix is replacement of the ECM relay with the updated part per recall procedure; if symptoms persist, inspect related fuse box terminals and wiring for overheating or poor pin tension.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipCheck VIN for open recall before paying for diagnosis; many cars were repaired free under the campaign.
TipIf stalling continues after relay replacement, inspect the underhood fuse box for heat-damaged terminals and loose relay socket tension.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $250

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

780 owners

On the 2013-2020 Nissan Altima, the A/C compressor can fail, particularly on vehicles in hot climates. When the compressor fails internally, it can contaminate the A/C system with debris. Clutch failure is also common.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Colorado, Honda Civic

Common Symptoms

A/C blows warm air
Clicking when A/C engages
A/C clutch not engaging
Loud noise from compressor
Refrigerant leak

How to Fix

Replace A/C compressor assembly. If internal failure, flush system, replace condenser, receiver/drier, and expansion valve. Use quality replacement parts. Some owners opt for aftermarket compressors to save cost.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 780+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeUse quality replacement part
View on Amazon
TipConsider OEM parts for critical components like sensors and electrical parts - aftermarket can be unreliable
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,500

Research This Issue

780+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence780 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima, altimas in this period frequently suffer from failing crankshaft position sensors and camshaft position sensors, especially on the 2.5L and 3.5L engines. Owners report intermittent stalling at stops or while driving, extended cranking, sudden no-start conditions, and check-engine lights. Nissan issued service information and many owner reports describe repeat failures with cheap aftermarket sensors.

This issue also affects: Acura MDX, Citroën C3, Cadillac Fleetwood

Common Symptoms

engine stalls while driving
intermittent no-start
long crank time
tachometer drops to zero
check engine light
hard restart when hot

How to Fix

Diagnosis includes scanning for correlation and sensor circuit codes, checking live RPM signal during cranking, and inspecting harness connectors for oil contamination or heat damage. The most reliable fix is replacing the failed sensor(s) with OEM-quality parts and clearing codes; in some cases both cam and crank sensors are replaced together due to similar age and failure patterns.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipUse OEM or OEM-supplier sensors; many owners report repeat failures within months when using the cheapest aftermarket cam/crank sensors.
TipIf one sensor fails on a high-mileage car, many owners proactively replace the matching cam/crank sensors together to avoid another breakdown soon after.
UpgradeHitachi is a common OEM supplier choice for Nissan engine sensors and is frequently recommended over no-name replacements. (Hitachi Crankshaft Position Sensor)
View on Amazon
UpgradeA matching OEM-quality cam sensor helps prevent correlation faults and intermittent hot-soak stalling. (Hitachi Camshaft Position Sensor)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$150 - $600

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

520 owners

On the 2013-2020 Nissan Altima, some Altima owners experience unexplained battery drain, resulting in a dead battery after sitting for a few days. Various electronic modules not going to sleep properly can cause excessive draw. The Intelligent Key system may also be a factor.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Colorado, Honda CR-V

Common Symptoms

Dead battery after sitting
Battery won't hold charge
Frequent jump starts needed
New battery dies quickly
Key fob battery drains fast

How to Fix

Have dealer perform parasitic draw test. Common causes include Intelligent Key system, radio, or BCM. Update software to latest version. Use battery maintainer if vehicle sits for extended periods.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 520+ owners who fixed this issue

TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
TipSearch Nissan Altima forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
UpgradeHigh-performance AGM battery with excellent cold cranking amps and deep cycle capability (Optima RedTop AGM Battery)
View on Amazon
UpgradeOEM-quality replacement battery with reliable performance (ACDelco Professional AGM Battery)
View on Amazon
UpgradeAutomatic battery maintainer to prevent parasitic drain issues during storage (Battery Tender Junior 12V Battery Charger Maintainer)
View on Amazon
UpgradeProfessional OBD-II diagnostic scanner for reading infotainment and body module codes (BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool)
View on Amazon
UpgradeAutomotive relay replacement set for common relay failures (Bosch Automotive Relay 5-Pin 12V)
View on Amazon
UpgradeDigital multimeter for diagnosing fuse, relay, and module electrical faults (Innova Digital Multimeter)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$100 - $500

Research This Issue

520+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

Medium Confidence520 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

420 owners

On the 2019-2023 Nissan Altima, the infotainment system can experience freezing, lag, and connectivity issues. Bluetooth pairing problems and CarPlay/Android Auto disconnections are common. The touchscreen may become unresponsive.

This issue also affects: Honda Civic

Common Symptoms

Screen freezes
Bluetooth disconnects
CarPlay/Android Auto issues
Touchscreen lag
Random reboots

How to Fix

Update infotainment software. Perform system reset by holding power button. Delete paired devices and re-pair. If persistent, head unit may need replacement. Check for Nissan service bulletins.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 420+ owners who fixed this issue

TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
TipSearch Nissan Altima forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
UpgradeProfessional OBD-II diagnostic scanner for reading infotainment and body module codes (BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$0 - $800

Research This Issue

420+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence420 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2000-2006 Nissan Altima, older Altimas in rust-belt climates are known for severe floorboard and underbody corrosion, especially around the front floor pan, firewall seams, and nearby structural mounting areas. Owners report soft floors, water intrusion, failed inspections, and concerns about structural integrity around suspension or subframe attachment points. The issue is most common on early-2000s cars that saw repeated winter salt exposure.

Common Symptoms

soft floorboards
visible rust holes under car
water on front carpet
musty interior smell
failed safety inspection
subframe area corrosion

How to Fix

Inspection should include lifting carpets, probing floor pan seams, and checking the subframe and adjacent mounting points for perforation. Minor corrosion can sometimes be cut out and welded with rust treatment, but advanced structural rust often makes the vehicle uneconomical to repair. Keeping drains clear and addressing windshield or cowl leaks can slow recurrence after repair.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipPull the front carpet and inspect from inside as well as underneath; several owners found much worse rust hidden by sound deadening and wet carpet.
TipIf buying an early-2000s Altima in a salt state, inspect the floor pan and subframe before spending money on engine or transmission work.
UpgradeAfter rust repair, owners often use a cavity wax or rust inhibitor inside seams to slow future corrosion. (Fluid Film Rust and Corrosion Protection)
View on Amazon
UpgradeA rust converter is commonly used on surface corrosion before sealing repaired areas. (POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$500 - $3,000

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2007-2012 Nissan Altima, a recurring issue on 2007-2012 Altimas with a moonroof is clogged or poorly routed sunroof drains that allow water to overflow into the cabin, often soaking the front carpet and padding. Owners report musty odors, wet passenger or driver footwells, and in some cases electrical problems when water reaches connectors or body control modules under the dash or carpet area. The problem is widely discussed in owner forums and appears in complaint databases as repeated water leak/electrical symptom combinations.

This issue also affects: BMW M5, Cadillac ATS

Common Symptoms

wet carpet
musty smell in cabin
water on front floorboards
electrical accessories acting erratically
fogging windows

How to Fix

Confirm the leak source with a controlled water test at the sunroof cassette and A-pillar drain outlets. Clear the drains with low-pressure air or flexible line, repair disconnected drain tubes, dry the carpet and padding completely, and inspect nearby connectors/modules for corrosion. If electrical symptoms are present, clean or replace corroded terminals and verify no water remains trapped in the insulation.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipUse weed-trimmer line or similar flexible nylon line to clear drains instead of hard wire that can puncture the tube.
TipIf the carpet got soaked, lift and dry the padding fully; leaving it damp often causes recurring odor and connector corrosion.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $1,200

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

4,500 owners

On the 2013-2023 Nissan Altima, the CVT transmission is known for reliability issues including shuddering, jerking, and complete failure. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on some model years to 10 years/120,000 miles due to widespread problems. High-mileage CVTs are particularly at risk.

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Acura CL, Acura ILX

Common Symptoms

Shuddering during acceleration
Jerky or hesitant response
Delayed engagement from stop
Whining noise from transmission
Complete loss of power
Check engine light

How to Fix

Change CVT fluid regularly with Nissan NS-3. Check if vehicle is covered by Nissan extended CVT warranty. If shuddering, may need valve body or complete CVT replacement. Avoid aggressive driving to prolong CVT life.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 4,500+ owners who fixed this issue

TipChange CVT fluid regularly with Nissan NS-3.
NoteThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
UpgradeCVT fluid specifically formulated for continuous variable transmissions (Valvoline CVT Transmission Fluid)
View on Amazon
UpgradeReplacement CVT transmission filter to maintain fluid cleanliness (ATP CVT Transmission Filter Kit)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$300 - $5,000

Research This Issue

4,500+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence4,500 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

680 owners

On the 2019-2021 Nissan Altima, nissan issued a recall for fuel pump issues that can cause engine stalling or failure to start. The fuel pump impeller may deform, causing fuel delivery problems. This affects multiple Nissan models.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Giulia, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

Common Symptoms

Engine stalls while driving
Long crank time
Engine won't start
Rough idle before stall
Loss of power

How to Fix

Check if your VIN is covered by recall campaign. Nissan dealers will replace fuel pump free of charge. Symptoms before complete failure include long crank times and rough running.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 680+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
TipSearch Nissan Altima forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
UpgradeDelphi fuel pump module — OE-quality direct replacement (Delphi Fuel Pump Module)
View on Amazon
UpgradeBosch fuel pump — reliable OEM alternative (Bosch Fuel Pump)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

680+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence680 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2007-2012 Nissan Altima, multiple 2007-2012 Altima owners report the air bag warning light flashing and the passenger air bag status behaving incorrectly due to faults in the occupant classification system (OCS) or related seat sensor components. This can disable the passenger frontal air bag when it should be enabled, or trigger a persistent SRS warning light. Nissan issued service information and warranty extensions on some related OCS concerns because the issue was common enough to generate many complaints and dealer repairs.

Common Symptoms

air bag light flashing
passenger air bag off light stays on with adult seated
SRS warning light illuminated
intermittent passenger air bag operation
warning returns after battery disconnect

How to Fix

Diagnosis requires a capable scan tool that can read SRS and OCS data, not just generic OBD-II codes. Technicians typically inspect seat harness connections, zero-point calibration, seat cushion sensor mat operation, and the occupant detection control unit. Repairs may involve OCS recalibration, harness repair, or replacement of the passenger seat cushion/sensor assembly followed by SRS initialization.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipDo not clear the air bag light repeatedly without reading SRS codes first; the stored codes help distinguish a bad sensor mat from a calibration issue.
TipCheck for objects under the passenger seat and inspect seat harness connectors before replacing expensive seat components.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $1,800

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2005-2006 Nissan Altima, certain 2005-2006 Altimas were subject to a brake master cylinder recall because internal seal damage could allow brake fluid bypass inside the cylinder. Owners describe a soft or sinking brake pedal, increased stopping distance, and inconsistent braking feel. In severe cases, braking performance is reduced enough to create a crash risk.

Common Symptoms

soft brake pedal
brake pedal slowly sinks to floor
longer stopping distances
inconsistent brake feel
need to pump brakes

How to Fix

Verify recall completion status and inspect for pedal sink with steady pressure. If the master cylinder is original or symptoms are present, replace the master cylinder, bleed the hydraulic system thoroughly, and inspect pads/rotors for contamination or secondary wear from prolonged low-pressure operation. A scan tool ABS bleed may be needed if air entered the ABS hydraulic unit.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipIf the pedal sinks under steady pressure, stop driving until the hydraulic system is inspected.
TipAfter master cylinder replacement, insist on a full bleed and road test rather than a simple bench swap.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $900

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE I4, on many 2.5L QR25DE Altimas, the pre-catalytic converter material can deteriorate and be drawn back into the engine during valve overlap, scoring cylinder walls and accelerating oil consumption. Owners report needing to add oil frequently, loss of compression, rough running, and in severe cases complete engine failure. This issue is widely discussed in owner communities and tied to Nissan service information addressing catalyst and ECM updates on affected 2.5L cars.

This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Encore

Common Symptoms

excessive oil consumption
blue exhaust smoke
check engine light
rough idle
loss of power
engine knocking
failed emissions test

How to Fix

Diagnosis usually includes checking oil consumption, compression, catalyst condition, and inspecting for catalyst substrate breakup. Repairs range from replacing the pre-cat/manifold and upstream O2 sensor to replacing the engine if cylinder damage is already present. Owners also commonly verify ECM calibration updates and monitor oil level closely after repair.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipIf a 2.5L Altima is using oil, inspect the pre-cat before simply replacing valve cover gaskets or PCV parts; continued driving can turn a catalyst issue into a full engine replacement.
TipPerform compression and leak-down testing before authorizing repairs, because many owners found the catalyst was only part of the problem once cylinder scoring had started.
UpgradeOwners commonly replace the upstream air/fuel sensor when replacing the manifold pre-cat because a lazy sensor can contribute to rich operation and catalyst stress. (Denso Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor)
View on Amazon
UpgradeFor engines that survive without major damage, frequent high-quality oil changes are commonly recommended to manage consumption and reduce wear. (Mobil 1 High Mileage Full Synthetic 5W-30)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$900 - $4,500

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima, a recurring higher-mileage Altima problem is front wheel bearing wear, often first noticed as a humming or growling noise that increases with road speed. As the bearing deteriorates, owners may feel vibration, looseness, or see ABS warnings if the integrated wheel speed signal becomes erratic. This is widely reported in repair databases and owner forums, especially on cars driven on rough roads.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Cobalt, GMC Sierra 1500

Common Symptoms

humming noise from front wheel
growling that changes with speed
vibration
ABS light
wheel play
noise changes when turning

How to Fix

Diagnosis includes road testing for load-sensitive humming, checking for play at the wheel, and using a chassis ear or scan tool to compare wheel speed signals if ABS lights are present. Repair typically requires replacing the affected hub/bearing assembly or pressing in a new bearing depending on model year and setup. An alignment check is wise if other front-end wear is present.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipDo not assume tire noise; many owners chased alignment and tire issues before confirming the bearing by loading the car side-to-side during a road test.
TipIf an ABS light appears with bearing noise, inspect the hub tone ring/sensor signal before replacing separate ABS components.
UpgradeTimken hub and bearing parts are commonly recommended for durability over bargain assemblies. (Timken Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly)
View on Amazon
UpgradeMoog hub assemblies are another common owner choice when replacing noisy front bearings. (Moog Front Wheel Hub Assembly)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$250 - $700

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Nissan Altima problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 7,820+ owner reports, the 2000-2023 Nissan Altima has 16 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder, Steering Column Lock Failure, Fuel Pump Failure (Recall). Of these, 9 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Nissan Altima reliable?

The 2000-2023 Nissan Altima has 16 known issues documented across 7,820+ owner reports. 9 issues are rated critical: CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder and Steering Column Lock Failure and Fuel Pump Failure (Recall) and Engine Control Module Relay / ECM Power Interruption Causing Stall or No-Start and Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor / Air Bag Warning Light Fault and Brake Master Cylinder Internal Seal Failure Causing Long Pedal or Reduced Braking and Rear Lower Control Arm Corrosion and Separation Risk and 2.5L Pre-Catalyst Breakdown Causing Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Damage and Rusting Front Floorboards and Underbody Corrosion Near the Firewall/Subframe Area. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Altima problems?

Repair costs for known Nissan Altima issues range from $0 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder, typically costs $300-$5,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Nissan Altima is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Nissan Altima. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2000-2023 Nissan Altima with 16 documented issues documented across 7,820+ owner reports.

All 16 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

2013-2018 Nissan Altima: Steering Column Lock Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2002-2006 Nissan Altima: Rear Lower Control Arm Corrosion and Separation Risk#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2002-2012 Nissan Altima: Power Steering Rack and High-Pressure Hose Leaks Leading to Loss of Assist#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2002-2006 Nissan Altima: Engine Control Module Relay / ECM Power Interruption Causing Stall or No-Start#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2013-2020 Nissan Altima: A/C Compressor Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2002-2012 Nissan Altima: Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensor Failures Causing Stalling or No-Start#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2013-2020 Nissan Altima: Parasitic Battery Drain#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2019-2023 Nissan Altima: Infotainment System Glitches#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2000-2006 Nissan Altima: Rusting Front Floorboards and Underbody Corrosion Near the Firewall/Subframe Area#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2007-2012 Nissan Altima: Sunroof Drain Leakage Causing Wet Front Floor, BCM Corrosion, and Electrical Malfunctions#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2013-2023 Nissan Altima: CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2019-2021 Nissan Altima: Fuel Pump Failure (Recall)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2007-2012 Nissan Altima: Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor / Air Bag Warning Light Fault#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2006 Nissan Altima: Brake Master Cylinder Internal Seal Failure Causing Long Pedal or Reduced Braking#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2002-2006 Nissan Altima: 2.5L Pre-Catalyst Breakdown Causing Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Damage#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2002-2012 Nissan Altima: Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Failure Causing Humming Noise and ABS/Wheel Speed Issues#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix