The 2011 Nissan Altima is a midsize car with a price range of $7,537 to $10,782. It’s more affordable than other cars in its class, but expensive transmission problems make it a poor value for shoppers.
2011 Nissan Altima: Quick Overview
- Updates for the 2011 Altima are minor and include new exterior color choices.
- Reliability ratings are average, but it suffers from Nissan’s infamous transmission problems.
- Two engines are available. The V6 found in the 3.5 SR model is quick for a midsize car.
- The 2011 Altima ranks 4th out of 13 midsize cars in fuel efficiency, getting a combined rating of up to 26 miles per gallon.
- Safety is average in the Altima, earning a four-star rating in government crash tests.
- The 2011 Altima ranks in the middle of its class based on reviews from owners. It has better styling and performance than other midsize cars, but the problems outweigh the benefits making it a car buyers should skip.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Nissan Altima Have?
The 2011 Altima has fewer reported problems than newer models, but more than other midsize cars. Transmission failures are the most common problem. Failures are caused by the weak continuously variable transmission (CVT). If you are test driving an Altima, pay attention to the transmission. Delayed shifts, slipping, and vibrations while driving are signs of problems. Failures occur around 100,000 miles, and require a complete replacement. Owners have also reported paint peeling on the Altima, usually due to improper curing at the factory. There are rare complaints of the A/C system not working, requiring a compressor replacement.
There is only one recall affecting the 2011 Altima, low for a car its age. It’s for the transverse link bolts, which can come loose while driving. If they come loose, it increases the risk of an accident.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2011 Nissan Altima’s models include a sedan and coupe with three trim levels and 14 packages. The 2011 Nissan Altima is available from $7,537 to $10,782, depending on mileage and model, more affordable than other midsize cars. When new, it had a price of $20,270 to $30,540. Depreciation is faster than average, losing 58% of its value in the first five years.
- 5 is the base model. Features include 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, push-button ignition, cruise control, and a stereo with six speakers.
- 5 S is above that. Improvements include more supportive front seats, MP3 playback with an AUX input, and Nissan Intelligent keyless entry.
- 5 SR is the flagship model. It comes with a larger V6 engine, 17-inch aluminum wheels, an eight-way power driver’s seat, a power moonroof, and improved suspension.
How Long Will the 2011 Nissan Altima Last?
A properly cared for 2011 Nissan Altima should last over 200,000 miles, which is average for its class. Potential buyers should be prepared for a costly transmission replacement around 100,000 miles though. In most cases, a transmission replacement is not expensive enough to mechanically total the car, but it is an expected cost with a Nissan from this era. Owners report replacements to be $2,500 to $4,000 depending on local labor rates. Repair Pal estimates it will cost about $470 per year to maintain, which is average for a midsize car.
I personally have yet to run into any issues so as far as I can say, no there is no problems with the Nissan, it is very reliable.
Yes very reliable. Does not have any major issues. Automatic roll down window does not work in the cold. Otherwise no issues.
My car is very reliable. I haven't had any problems with it yet. My heart is nice and warm for the winter, my hair gets so cold for the hot summer. My car is a very great car!
Yes very reliable, never had any major issues with any of the Nissans I have owned. Just normal maintenance and one a/c issue that was easily repaired.
It is very reliable, I have owned more than one Altima and would continue buying them. Next time I buy a car I would look into a newer model but I love these cars.
With regular maintenance, such as oil change and brakes replacements, the vehicle should last with minimal issues.
Very reliable. I feel safe every time I get behind the wheel. It has zero problems. And I love that.
No, trans issue, overheads when weather is warm and at high speed, trans shuts down so it does not burn out.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2011 Altima is near the end of the fourth generation with a redesign occurring in 2013. It has a lot of the technology from when it was first introduced in 2007, and is average for a car from 2011.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with six speakers.
- Upgrades include a nine-speaker Bose stereo system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 6.5” infotainment screen.
- For safety, there are six airbags, stability and traction control, and antilock disc brakes.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2011 Nissan Altima engine options include efficient 2.5L, powerful 3.5L V6, and costly hybrid. Performance is average in the base Nissan Altima, and better with the upgraded V6 engine. It reaches 60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds, quick for a midsize car at its price.
- The base engine is a fuel-efficient 2.5L four-cylinder with 170 horsepower.
- An optional 3.5L V6 produces 270 horsepower.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Altima?
The 2011 Nissan Altima is available as either a coupe or a sedan, and both are average in size for a midsize car. Owners complain the Altima has poor rear headroom because of its sloped rear window. Passenger legroom in the back of the coupe is also small, and will not comfortably fit adults. Cargo space is very small in the coupe with only 8.2 cu. ft. of room in the trunk. It increases in the sedan to 15.3 cu. ft., average for its class. The sedan will fit three to four full-size suitcases.
How Does the 2011 Nissan Altima Compare to Other Cars?
Owners rank the 2011 Nissan Altima 6th out of 13 midsize cars, placing it near the middle of its class. At the top of the group is the Subaru Legacy, which offers similar power to the Altima, but is more reliable and comfortable to drive. Pricing is close, but the Subaru is slightly more expensive. The addition of standard all-wheel-drive is an improvement over the Nissan’s front-wheel-drive system as well. Both cars have similar efficiency and safety ratings. Overall, the Legacy is the better car between the two.
Another rival is the Toyota Camry. Reliability ratings are much better on the Toyota, but the Nissan is more engaging and fun to drive. Technology and performance are similar between the two. Fewer mechanical problems make the Camry the better choice since it will spend less time in the shop compared to the Altima.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Nissan Altima a Good Car?
Based on our research and ownership data, we conclude the 2011 Nissan Altima is not a good car. It offers positives including good engine choices and it’s fun to drive. Where it falls short is with transmission problems and a poor quality interior. Overall, the 2011 Altima is a car buyers should skip since the mechanical problems are expensive to repair.