Despite questionable reliability in the car’s fourth and fifth generations, the midsize Altima remains one of Nissan’s best-selling models. Just be wary of the sedan’s worst years, 2013 to 2016, over serious powertrain concerns.
Key Points
- Several fourth- and fifth-generation Altimas have poor reliability ratings, with 2013’s 2,000 registered complaints making it the worst year for the nameplate.
- Altimas from 2013 to 2016 have engines prone to fail, a problematic CVT, and a recall over a software glitch that can prevent airbag deployment.
- The fifth-generation Altima also has problems with engine stall, the transmission slipping gears, and the check engine light flashing intermittently.
- Sixth-generation Altimas are far more reliable, but still register complaints about faulty forward collision avoidance systems and various electrical problems.
- For the best experience when considering a Nissan Altima, avoid models from 2013 to 2016 and aim for those from 2019 or newer.
Altimas From Fourth and Fifth Generation Reportedly Have Problems With Faulty Electricals and Engine Stalls
Looking at the fourth-gen. Altima, the last three years are mostly reliable–2010, 2011, and 2012–are mostly reliable. However, reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show fifth-gen. models from 2013 to 2016 have several common problems.
Specific powertrain-related issues include the engine overheating, making whining noises, losing power, shaking, and sometimes, outright failure. The transmission has also been reported to fail, presenting through gears slipping or hesitating while shifting.
Additionally, there are many complaints made to the NHTSA related to error codes causing the check engine light to illuminate.
Fifth-generation Altimas Have Concerning Airbag, Suspension, and Structural Recalls, as Well as Several Worrying Investigations
Most of the fifth-gen. Altima recalls are related to airbags, suspension, and structure. The airbag recalls mostly concern a software glitch that can prevent the airbags from deploying correctly in an accident.
A number of investigations have also been opened for fifth-generation models. These pertain to rear suspension control arm failure, airbags that can rupture during deployment, and a faulty occupant classification system.
Structural recalls cover a rear door that may open when the window is lowered and a corroded hood latch that may break and release without warning.
2013 Nissan Altima is Model’s Worst Year Due to Massive Number of Complaints About Airbag and Powertrain Failure
2013 has been Altima’s worst year with 12 recalls five investigations, and over 2,000 registered complaints, 470 of which relate to airbags. Many of these mention the airbag warning light flashing intermittently, indicating the system isn’t armed.
As for recalls, Altimas from 2013 to 2016 have five recalls related to the Occupant Classification System (OCS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU).
An incorrect ECU and seat combination may misclassify the front passenger seat occupant and prevent the airbag from deploying. Nissan replaced the ECU and updated the OCS software in affected models free of charge.
Powertrain problems come in second for the 2013 Altima, with 467 registered complaints. Issues include the CVT slipping gears or not shifting and engine issues like failing to start hesitating during acceleration.
The five investigations relate to the defective OCS, two more cover rear suspension control arm failure (one still open), and the third, airbags that may rupture during deployment.
Nissan Debuted All-new Altima for 2019, Leaving Behind Some Old Problems While Also Adding a Few
The sixth-generation Altima arrived for 2019, and while most previous issues have been corrected, a handful of new worries, mostly about the electrical system, have surfaced.
Multiple reports of the passenger and rear doors not unlocking have been mentioned. The vehicle’s automatic braking system may also malfunction because of a blocked front sensor and a glitchy backup camera.
Other issues include chips and cracks on the windshield, or the glass completely shattering. A malfunctioning forward collision avoidance system can also result in reduced handling.
Engine-related issues include the vehicle stalling without warning due to a faulty air intake sensor, the engine light constantly flashing, and unusual RPM fluctuations.
Additional complaints about the fifth-generation Altima include the steering wheel shaking, feeling loose, and abnormal clanking noise coming when turning.
The 2019 Altima achieved a “Great” J.D. Power score in quality and reliability, placing the Altima as the second-best midsize car of 2019 below the Kia Optima.
Most Nissan Altima Years are Reliable, but the Sedan’s Worst Years, 2013 to 2016, are Best to Steer Clear Of
Since its arrival on the market, the Altima has been a popular midsize car thanks to its roomy interior and acceptable reliability.
Looking at the number of Altimas sold from 2010 to 2021, the incidence rate per recall and complaints isn’t remarkably high. Plus, the Altima’s low annual maintenance costs make it a great option for those seeking a reliable commuter car.
Ultimately, avoid Nissan Altimas from 2013-2016 over glitchy airbag software and many powertrain and electrical issues.
Photos: Nissan
