2017 Nissan Altima Problems: 7 Known Issues

On the 2013-2023 Nissan Altima, the CVT transmission is known for reliability issues including shuddering, jerking, and complete failure. Through class-action settlements, Nissan extended the CVT warranty on 2013-2016 and 2017-2018 Altimas from 60 months/60,000 miles to 84 months/84,000 miles. High-mileage CVTs are particularly at risk.

On the 2007-2008, 2013-2018 Nissan Altima, the Altima's JATCO continuously variable transmission (RE0F10-series on the 2.5L, RE0F09-series on the 3.5L V6) uses a torque converter with a lockup (TCC) clutch, and P0741 sets when the TCM detects an rpm slip mismatch showing the lockup clutch is not engaging as commanded (stuck off). On Altima CVTs the code is commonly driven by degraded/overheated CVT fluid, a worn or sticking lockup control solenoid, or a valve body whose bores wear and leak line pressure so the TCC can't hold. On earlier RE0F10A units (notably 07-08) the valve body is prone to internal leakage, and a Nissan bulletin directed control valve (valve body) replacement plus TCM reprogramming when P0744 and related codes appear; on the 2013-2014 V6, a lock-up judder bulletin (NTB13-086) can lead to torque converter or full CVT replacement. Drivers feel a shudder or judder under light acceleration (roughly 25-45 mph), rubber-band hesitation, higher-than-normal cruising rpm, and sometimes a slight surge as the converter fails to lock.

On the 2013-2018 Nissan Altima, recall 20V315000 covers certain 2013-2018 Altimas. If the primary hood latch is inadvertently released, the secondary latch may be corroded or contaminated and fail to engage, allowing the hood to open while driving. It follows earlier Altima hood-latch recalls whose remedies did not consistently eliminate the risk.

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.

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.

On the 2008-2020 Nissan Altima, the check-engine light comes on with code P0456 (EVAP very small leak) because the O-ring seal where the vent control valve mounts to the charcoal canister leaks. All 2008 and newer Nissan vehicles except LEAF and Titan XD diesel, which includes the 2008-2020 Altima; the bulletin applies only once a loose fuel cap has been ruled out.

On the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE I4, on the Altima, P0128 sets when the ECM sees that engine coolant fails to reach its target operating temperature (roughly 180-200F) within the expected time/warm-up cycle. The overwhelming Altima-specific cause is a thermostat stuck open (or a thermostat that opens too early), which lets coolant circulate continuously and never lets the engine fully warm. On the 2.5L QR25DE there are effectively two temperature-control components — the main thermostat behind the cylinder head and a secondary water-control valve at the front of the engine — and best practice is to replace both together, because replacing only one frequently leaves the code active. Drivers most often notice weak cabin heat in cold weather and a temperature gauge that sits low or drops on the highway. Left unfixed it causes poor fuel economy, higher emissions, and can fail an emissions/smog test.