A bad year for the Altima with engine problems and rust shortening the lifespan to only 200,000 miles. Prices are more expensive than rivals at $4,037 to $6,274.
2006 Nissan Altima: Quick Overview
- The 2006 Nissan Altima reliability is average with engine problems developing over time. Avoid the 2006 Altima and consider the 2007 with its significantly fewer problems.
- Two engine choices are available. There’s a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder, and a V6 with good power for a midsize car.
- Good fuel economy for a midsize car at 24 MPG.
- Safety ratings are okay, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Consumer Reports finds the 2006 Altima to be quick but noisy, and has a lower-than-average owner satisfaction rating.
- The 2006 Nissan Altima ranks 10th out of 15 midsize cars based on owner reviews. Questionable long-term reliability and expensive failures make the 2006 model one buyers should avoid.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2006 Nissan Altima Have?
There are an average number of problems with the Altima compared to other midsize cars from 2006, but some are more costly to fix. The 2007 model has half as many complaints, making the extra $800 worth the cost to upgrade.
Engine problems are very common, happening around 83,000 miles. The pistons, rings, and cams cause the engine to use more oil. Nissan issued a recall addressing some of the problems. If your car isn’t covered by the recall, the only solution is replacing parts costing $350 to $1,400.
Floor panels rusting out are another frequently reported problem at around 112,000 miles. The panels don’t have enough corrosion inhibitor applied from the factory. When rust eats through, the only solution is replacing the panels, which costs about $1,200.
Transmission problems including slipping out of gear, are also a regular occurrence at around 115,000 miles. There are two options, including rebuilding the transmission for $1,300 or a complete replacement for about $2,500.
There are 4 recalls, fewer than some other old midsize cars. The recalls include the rear suspension subframe, engine oil consumption, headlamp assembly, and crankshaft position sensor. All are serious mechanical issues which affect the long-term reliability of the car.
How Much is the 2006 Nissan Altima Worth?
Blue book values on the Altima are $4,037 to $6,274, which is more expensive than competitors including the Mazda6 and Accord. When new, the price range was $18,620 to $28,670. Depreciation is average for the class, losing about 12% of its current value per year.
What Are the Models & Specs?
2.5 is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Power Door Locks
2.5 S adds features including:
- Air Conditioning
- Cruise Control
- 6-Speaker Stereo System
3.5 SE is a big step up adding:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Larger V6 Engine
- Sport Suspension
3.5 SL offers luxury upgrades including:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Sunroof
- Automatic Climate Control
3.5 SE-R is a performance-oriented model with:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Larger Brakes
- Upgraded Suspension
- Black Exterior Trim
How Long Will the 2006 Nissan Altima Last?
A properly maintained 2006 Nissan Altima will last about 200,000 miles, which is 50-100k shorter than competitors including the Camry and Accord. The regular annual maintenance costs are average for the class, and Repair Pal estimates them to be $359 per year.
As the Altima ages and reaches over 100,000 miles, there are a few maintenance items owners should be prepared for. These include window regulators for $400, valve timing control solenoids costing $300, as well as blower motors which cost around $125.
I have had my Nissan for 14 years, and it has many miles on it and is still reliable. As long as I maintain preventative care on it like oil changes, it will last a long time. Major repairs like replacing the water pump are inexpensive, and afterwards, my car keeps being reliable.
Yes, for the most part my Nissan Altima is reliable. I can drive it far distances without worrying about it breaking down. I have had a few problems with it, but nothing that couldn't be fixed. My service light has been on a few times, but by fixing the problem it has turned off.
Not right now. It drives great and I don't see anything wrong. I don't know how long it is, but it is a four door, the inside is in excellent condition.
It is reliable. It does not have any problem. You need to care your vehicle. Need to servicing in time to time.
Yes, it is reliable. The car has not broken down with me even in the winter time. It does not have any problem that was not caused by human error like I put in an automatic starter at Nissan and it kept short circuit the battery but once I remove it the car had not stalled.
Yes it is reliable. There a minor things that need fixing. Like fluids, brakes, etc. I haven't had to do much to my car at it works just fine. I travel well over 20 miles in 1 day.
It is reliable if it is taken care of. The only major problem I have with my car is that it needs new spark plugs after 80,000 miles.
Yes it is extremely reliable. Has small issues but easily fixable and it is been proven Nissans are very good vehicles.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is very basic in the Nissan Altima, but is average for a car from 2006, with no major frills.
- Base technology includes a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system.
- Optional upgrades include a 7-inch navigation screen, and a premium 8-speaker Bose stereo system.
- Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, and air bags. Optional upgrades include traction control.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2006 Altima is better than many other midsize cars including the Camry and Sonata. The larger V6 engine takes the Altima from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.1 seconds.
- The standard engine found in all 2.5 models is the 2.5L 4-cylinder with a respectable 175 horsepower.
- An upgraded engine is the 3.5L V6 which has good power at 260 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Altima?
The 2006 Nissan Altima is a midsize sedan, similar in size to the Fusion and Malibu. Passenger room is good, but taller passengers have less headroom in the back seats due to the sloping roofline. The trunk is large, fitting 3 to 4 suitcases in the 15.6 cubic feet of room.
How Does the 2006 Nissan Altima Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 10th out of 15 midsize cars, based on owner reviews, the 2006 Nissan Altima is in the lower half of the class.
The highest-rated midsize car of 2006 is the more expensive Toyota Camry. Where the Camry comes out ahead is with better long-term reliability ratings. On the other hand, the Altima is more engaging to drive. Between the two cars, we recommend a Camry since there are fewer problems.
A close competitor is the slightly more costly Ford Fusion. The Fusion offers a larger cabin, but the Altima has more power. Ultimately, the Fusion is a better choice since it’s roomier and has less mechanical issues.
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Nissan Altima a Good Car?
No, the 2006 Nissan Altima is not a good car. We base our decision after considering 347 verified owner reviews giving the car an overall rating of 4.1/5 with powertrain problems.
After 16 years, most Altimas are at the end of their life, and not worth buying. Downsides include more mechanical problems than some competitors, and less room in the back seats than rivals. Positives include good performance figures, and technology which is easy to use.
Overall, upgrading to a 2007 model for $800 more is a better choice since there are significantly fewer mechanical problems.
Yes. My car is older, and it is still very smooth driving, reliable, and easy to maintain. Except for some minor exterior damage, I still love the way my red car looks and love driving it.
Yes, the 2006 Nissan Altima is a great car. I drive it to my school in Rhode Island and back to New Jersey all of the time, and haven't had any issues doing so. The occasional issues I have with it are easily fixable.
Yes, it runs great- I just got my car 12/18/2019- I enjoy driving my car. It has power windows, seats- the trunk space is large.
Yes Nissan Altima 2006 2.5 s is a good vehicle. It gives good mileage. It decoration is also very good and it is comfortable.
Yes it is. It has not given me any major problems for example engine, carburetor etc. It drives smoothly. It has the features I wanted radio, it comes with 2 cigarettes lighter to plug electronics. The driver chair is able to rise and also the steering wheel is able to move up and down.
Yes it is. Gas is reasonable and fixing it is cheap. I have had the car for well over 2 years with minimal maintenance needed.
Yes it is, it also has the premium sound system option in it. The car is front wheel drive, but I do not have any problems with driving it in the snow.
Yes it is a great vehicle. Very good on gas and easily to fix up, parts are inexpensive and easy car to learn about. Very reliable vehicle.
