The 2014 Nissan Altima is a midsize sedan with a price range of $11,929 to $16,938. A lot of complaints from owners and expensive transmission failures make the Altima a car buyers should avoid.
2014 Nissan Altima: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2014 model year include an upgraded NissanConnect infotainment system, and better seat materials.
- Reliability ratings are above average, according to J.D. Power. There are significantly fewer complaints than the 2013 model.
- Two engines are available. One is a fuel-efficient four-cylinder, and the other is a powerful V6.
- Fuel economy is good, tying for 3rd place out of 14 midsize cars with a combined rating of up to 31 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are better than other sedans, getting a five-star rating in government crash tests. Also earning the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award.
- The 2014 Altima ranks near the bottom of the midsize car class based on owner reviews. Mechanical problems, and an uncomfortable cabin make us recommend other midsize sedans.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2014 Nissan Altima have?
The 2014 Nissan Altima’s recalls and problems cover malfunctioning airbags, failing hood latches. The 2014 Nissan Altima is a car buyers should avoid with more problems than other sedans in the same price range. The 2015 and newer models have a lower number of complaints from owners.
Transmission failures are very common, and happen around 70,000 miles. Replacing the entire transmission is the only solution, and costs nearly $4,000. If you notice excessive noise and shuddering while accelerating, there’s usually a transmission problem.
Headlight problems are also mentioned by owners. Usually, the headlights will start to dim, due to a problem with the housing. Replacing the entire assembly for about $650 fixes the problem, but Nissan has not addressed the issue.
Navigation and infotainment problems also happen, with the system freezing up while driving. Replacing the head unit for about $500 usually solves the problem, but in some cases it will continue to happen even after the replacement.
There are eight recalls, which is average for a car from 2014. The recalls include airbags, the hood latch, and the fuel sending unit. Most serious is the fuel sending unit since fuel leaks can lead to fires in the event of a crash.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2014 Nissan Altima offers seven trim levels, from the base ‘2.5’, named after its 2.5-liter engine, to the quicker, more luxurious 3.5 SV. The 2014 Nissan Altima is more affordable than other midsize cars, with a price range of $11,929 to $16,938, depending on the mileage and model. When new, the price range was $22,170 to $30,820. Depreciation is average, dropping about 45% in value over the first five years.
- 2.5 is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, keyless ignition, a four-speaker stereo system with a CD player, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- 2.5 S is next with 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, cruise control, a six-way power driver’s seat, and a six-speaker stereo system.
- 2.5 SV is in the middle of the lineup with 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, leather steering wheel, remote ignition, and a five-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a rearview camera, and USB connectivity.
- 2.5 SL is the luxury model and has leather seating, LED taillights, xenon headlights, an 8-way power driver’s seat, heated steering wheel, and a nine-speaker Bose stereo system.
- The S, SV, and SL models are also available with the larger 3.5L V6 engine.
How Long Will the 2014 Nissan Altima Last?
A properly cared for 2014 Nissan Altima will last about 250,000 miles, which is average for the class. Buyers should be prepared for transmission replacements every 70,000 to 100,000 miles. Repair Pal estimates maintenance costs to be more expensive than other midsize sedans, at $542 per year.
It is very reliable, as long as all aspects and functions are up to date. The car will alert the driver if there are any needs to services that must be applied to the car, and those alerts are delivered well in advanced for the driver to make arrangements.
It is very reliable. I have never had to take it to the mechanic unless it was for routine maintenance. I have never had any issues with it.
Yes.. Never had anything wrong with the car since I have had it. Great gas mileage on the car. Love it.
It is so reliable. I am able to go two or more weeks without even having to get gas. I have not had any breakdowns or other issues with this car.
Yes the vehicle is very reliable. I travel back and forth constantly from Rhode to New York back and forth every weekend. The car is very good on gas and the fixing prices for parts are at an affordable rate.
I bought my 2014 used almost 2 years ago. I put new tires and a package from ntb for unlimited alignments for 3 years. Mainly because in my experience with previous cars that package is more beneficial to me. Aside from that I do my routine oil changes and I had both front and rear brakes changed.
The only problem I have had so far is on the hood release latch inside the cab of car when it was pulled it came off so got to fix that or you cannot get the hood open.
This car is very reliable runs really good and does not have any problems and what I love is if it does have any problems they are an easy and inexpensive fix.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is average for a midsize sedan, but entry-level models are missing features found in other cars.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD four-speaker stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity.
- Upgrades include a five-inch touchscreen infotainment system, seven-inch navigation system, six-speaker stereo system, and flagship nine-speaker Bose stereo.
- For safety, there are airbags, antilock brakes, traction & stability control. Options include a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alerts.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2014 Nissan Altima engine options include basic inline-four, potent 3.5L V6. Performance is better than other budget-friendly sedans. Upgrading to the V6 takes the car from 0 to 60 in 6.2 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.5L four-cylinder with 182 horsepower.
- An upgraded 3.5L V6 is available and has 270 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Altima?
The 2014 Altima is similar in size to other midsize sedans. Passenger room is good in the front seats, but legroom is very cramped in the back seats. Cargo space is average, with 15.4 cu. ft. of room in the trunk, enough space to fit four suitcases.
How Does the 2014 Nissan Altima Compare to Other Cars?
The 2014 Nissan Altima ranks 11th out of 14 midsize cars, based on owner reviews, and is near the bottom of the class.
In first place is the Subaru Legacy, which falls into the same price range as the Altima. The Subaru has all-wheel-drive as standard, and less complaints than the Nissan. Where the Altima stands out is with better technology. Overall, the Subaru is a better choice with fewer problems and a lower cost of ownership.
Another competitor is the Honda Accord, which is slightly more expensive than the Altima. Passenger space, reliability, and comfort are better in the Honda. Nissan offers a more user-friendly infotainment system. The Accord is a better car, though, and is less of a headache to own.
Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Nissan Altima a Good Car?
After completing our research including 1,039 owner reviews, and information from 18 government and automotive websites, no, the 2014 Altima is not a good car. Positives include a good interior for the money, and a powerful V6 engine. Negatives include expensive transmission failures, and cramped back seats. Overall, if you’re in the market for a midsize sedan, there are better choices for the money.