The 2008 Nissan Altima is a midsize car available as a coupe or sedan with a price range of $5,552 to $7,788. A higher purchase price paired with transmission problems makes the Altima a car buyers should avoid.
2008 Nissan Altima: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2008 model year include a new coupe body style.
- According to J.D. Power reliability ratings are average, however, transmission failures are common, leading to an average lifespan of around 150,000 miles, shorter than some competitors.
- Two engine choices are available, including an efficient 4-cylinder and a V6 with good power for the size.
- Fuel economy is excellent, ranking 1st out of all midsize cars from 2008, getting a combined rating of up to 26 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are great for the class, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
- The 2008 Nissan Altima ranks 6th out of 13 midsize cars based on owner reviews. Although the Altima is in the middle of the class, serious mechanical problems are reasons buyers should look elsewhere.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2008 Nissan Altima Have?
The 2008 Nissan Altima has more problems than other midsize cars on the market, and a lot of them are mechanical. The newer 2009 model has fewer complaints from owners, but is still not a great choice.
A melting dashboard is the most common complaint from owners. In hot weather the plastic and leather on the dash melts. There was a class action lawsuit in the state of Florida, where Altima owners can have their dashes replaced. If your car is not covered by the lawsuit, a replacement costs about $1,300.
Transmission failures are a very frequent problem, too. The continuously variable transmission is a weak spot on many Nissan vehicles, and when they fail the only solution is to replace the entire assembly. A replacement costs about $3,800, depending on local labor rates.
A blown head gasket is another problem owners have encountered over the years. Head gasket failures can destroy an engine in some cases. Installing a new head gasket costs about $2,400, and a complete engine replacement is more than $4,000.
There are 4 recalls, which is better than some other cars from the same year. Recalls include the body control module, transverse link bolt, occupant classification system control unit, and portable GPS overheating. Most serious are transverse link bolts since failures can lead to a crash.
What is the 2008 Nissan Altima Worth?
The 2008 Nissan Altima is more expensive than some competitors on the market with a price range of $5,552 to $7,788, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $18,620 to $28,670. Depreciation is average for the class, and continues at about 15% per year as the car ages.
What Are the Models & Specs?
- 2.5 is the stripped-down base model with 16-inch steel wheels, keyless entry, power windows and locks, keyless entry, as well as cruise control.
- 2.5 S is a more common entry-level model and adds air conditioning, a 6-speaker stereo system, AM/FM/CD playback and a 3.5mm AUX input.
- 3.5 SE is next in the lineup and has a larger engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, power folding mirrors, automatic headlights, a power driver’s seat, and wood trim throughout the car.
- 3.5 SL is the flagship choice with leather seating, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, Xenon headlights, and Bluetooth connectivity.
How Long Will the 2008 Nissan Altima Last?
A properly cared for 2008 Nissan Altima will last about 150,000 miles, which is shorter than some competitors. Repair Pal estimates the regular annual maintenance costs to be more affordable than some competitors though, and $380 per year.
Some common problems owners encounter as the Altima ages over 100,000 miles include transmission failures costing over $3,000, ABS control modules at around $800, and worn-out suspension components which cost about $400.
I have never had to do anything to the car outside dog normal routine maintenance. It has 150k miles and still runs great.
The 2008 Nissan Altima is a very reliable car that can take you around the world and back as long as it is regularly maintained.
Its reliable especially with proper upkeep. I haven't had any problems with it except an oil leak and I am not aware of any problems with the Altima and haven't had any major problems with mine.
Yes, very reliable. I have only had issues with the breaks and I am noticing a little bit of rust but that is bound to happen over the years living in a city with 4 different seasons.
No problems, accept a couple lights that comes on, besides that it has never broke down on me. So no other problems besides that.
Yes, it is reliable. Only thing is that it takes a lot in gas. Although I have heard that Altimas typically have problems with their transitions.
It is reliable. The doors get filled with water when it rains and snows. Sometimes the back tires get a little bit loose, could be because of the age of the car. Nothing too big which cannot be fixed.
Yes, the Nissan Altima 3.5 se is reliable. I feel comfortable and safe driving the car. It is push to start, so it makes it easier for me to just start the car up and let the car heat up until I am ready to drive. I am able to lock the doors, and still let my car heat up which is super cool.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is basic in the 2008 Nissan Altima, but is average for the class and age.
- The base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with AUX playback, and 6-speakers.
- Optional upgrades include a 9-speaker stereo system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system.
- Standard safety features include airbags and antilock brakes. Optional upgrades include stability and traction control on the 3.5 models.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is better than average in the 2008 Nissan Altima. The optional V6 engine takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.5L 4-cylinder with 175 horsepower.
- An upgraded 3.5L V6 is available and has 270 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Altima?
The 2008 Nissan Altima is a midsize car available as both a coupe and sedan. Passenger room is adequate in the sedan, but is not class-leading. In the coupe there is limited headroom in the front seats, and legroom is very cramped in the back seats. Cargo space is better than other midsize cars with 15.3 cubic feet of room in the trunk, enough space for 4 suitcases.
How Does the 2008 Nissan Altima Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 6th out of 13 midsize cars based on owner reviews, the 2008 Nissan Altima is near the middle of the class.
A highly rated competitor is the Honda Accord, which is slightly more expensive. The Honda is slightly more reliable, and has better technology available. Where Nissan wins out is with a more engaging driving experience, and higher-quality interior materials. Overall, both cars are bad choices for the 2008 model year since they both have serious mechanical issues.
Another close competitor is the more affordable Hyundai Sonata. The Sonata has a nicer interior with more luxurious materials, and better reliability ratings. On the other hand, the Nissan offers significantly more power, and has an optional coupe. In the end, the Sonata is a better choice because they are more affordable to own and don’t have transmission failures.
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Nissan Altima a Good Car?
No, the 2008 Nissan Altima is not a good car based on information from 423 verified owner reviews and 16 government and automotive websites. Positives include a sportier driving experience than other midsize cars, and good styling for the class. The downsides outweigh them all, though, with expensive transmission failures, and a smaller cabin than the competition. Overall, the 2008 Altima is a car buyers should avoid since there are better choices on the market.2
