Best & Worst Years for Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima has been a popular choice among car buyers since its introduction in the early 1990s. With its sleek design, comfortable interior, and reliable performance, it has become a staple in the midsize sedan market. However, not all years of the Altima have been created equal. Some years have been better than others in terms of reliability, performance, and overall value.
When it comes to the best years for the Nissan Altima, many experts point to the 2013 and 2014 models. These years are praised for their smooth ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. Additionally, they have a strong reputation for reliability, making them a smart choice for those looking for a long-lasting vehicle.
On the other hand, there are also some years of the Nissan Altima that are considered to be less than stellar. For example, the 2002 and 2005 models are known for having transmission issues, which can be costly to repair. Similarly, the 2007 and 2008 models have been criticized for their poor fuel economy and lackluster performance. By being aware of the best and worst years for the Nissan Altima, consumers can make an informed decision when purchasing a used model.
Table of Contents
Best Years for Nissan Altima
When it comes to the best years for the Nissan Altima, there are several models that stand out. These models are known for their reliability, performance, and overall value. In this section, we will take a closer look at the best years for the Nissan Altima, including the 2016, 2017, and 2018 models.
2016 Nissan Altima
The 2016 Nissan Altima is a top-performing model that offers excellent fuel efficiency, a spacious interior, and a smooth ride. This model is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It also comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and seamless acceleration.
One of the standout features of the 2016 Nissan Altima is its fuel efficiency. This model gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, making it a great choice for those who want to save money on gas. Additionally, the 2016 Altima comes with a variety of standard and available features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and NissanConnect infotainment system.
2017 Nissan Altima
The 2017 Nissan Altima is another great choice for those who want a reliable and efficient sedan. This model is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 179 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It also comes with a CVT that provides smooth and responsive acceleration.
One of the standout features of the 2017 Nissan Altima is its spacious interior. This model offers plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a great choice for families and those who need extra space. Additionally, the 2017 Altima comes with a variety of standard and available features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and NissanConnect infotainment system.
2018 Nissan Altima
The 2018 Nissan Altima is a well-rounded sedan that offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and plenty of features. This model is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 179 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It also comes with a CVT that provides smooth and responsive acceleration.
One of the standout features of the 2018 Nissan Altima is its comfortable ride. This model absorbs bumps and road imperfections with ease, providing a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, the 2018 Altima comes with a variety of standard and available features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and NissanConnect infotainment system.
Worst Years for Nissan Altima
When it comes to purchasing a used Nissan Altima, it is essential to know the worst years to avoid. Here are some of the worst years for Nissan Altima:
2008 Nissan Altima
The 2008 Nissan Altima has a history of transmission failure, which can be a costly repair. Many owners have reported that the transmission slips, jerks, or fails completely. Additionally, the 2008 Altima has a high number of complaints regarding the engine, with many owners reporting that the engine burns oil excessively.
2013 Nissan Altima
The 2013 Nissan Altima has several issues, including transmission failure, engine problems, and electrical issues. Many owners have reported that the transmission slips, hesitates, or fails completely. The engine has also been known to consume excessive oil, leading to engine damage. The electrical system has also been known to malfunction, causing issues with the air conditioning, radio, and other components.
2014 Nissan Altima
The 2014 Nissan Altima has several problems, including transmission failure, engine issues, and electrical malfunctions. Many owners have reported that the transmission slips, jerks, or fails completely. The engine has also been known to consume excessive oil, leading to engine damage. Additionally, the electrical system has been known to malfunction, causing issues with the air conditioning, radio, and other components.
Factors to Consider
When looking for the best and worst years for Nissan Altima, there are several factors to consider. These factors can help you determine which model year is the best fit for your needs and preferences. Below are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Nissan Altima.
1. Reliability
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Nissan Altima is reliability. You want a car that is dependable and won’t break down frequently. According to Consumer Reports, the 2013 and 2014 Nissan Altima models have had the most reliability issues. On the other hand, the 2016 and 2017 models have been rated as the most reliable.
2. Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is another important factor to consider when choosing a Nissan Altima. The 2019 model has been rated as the most fuel-efficient, with an estimated 28 miles per gallon in the city and 39 miles per gallon on the highway. The 2013 and 2014 models, on the other hand, have been rated as the least fuel-efficient, with an estimated 22 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway.
3. Safety Features
Safety features are also an important consideration when choosing a Nissan Altima. The 2021 model has been rated as the safest, with a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The 2013 and 2014 models, however, have been rated as the least safe, with only a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
4. Technology and Infotainment
Technology and infotainment features are also important to consider when choosing a Nissan Altima. The 2021 model comes with advanced features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a nine-speaker Bose audio system. The 2013 and 2014 models, however, have more limited technology and infotainment features.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Nissan Altima has had its ups and downs over the years. The best years for the Altima were from 2002-2006, with consistently high ratings for reliability, safety, and overall satisfaction. The worst years were from 2013-2018, with numerous complaints about transmission issues, engine problems, and overall poor quality.
Despite these fluctuations, the Nissan Altima remains a popular choice for many drivers. Its sleek design, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency make it an attractive option for those in the market for a midsize sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the model year they are considering and do their research to ensure they are getting a reliable and high-quality vehicle.
Overall, the Nissan Altima has had its share of successes and setbacks, but it remains a solid choice for those in search of a reliable and stylish midsize sedan.
FAQs
How reliable is the Nissan Altima?
According to J.D. Power’s 2021 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, the Nissan Altima ranks above average in terms of reliability. However, it’s important to note that the study only covers 2018 model year vehicles, so reliability for other model years may vary.
What is the fuel economy of the Nissan Altima?
The fuel economy of the Nissan Altima varies depending on the model year and engine type. For example, the 2021 Altima with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 32 mpg combined (28 city/39 highway), while the 2021 Altima with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined (25 city/34 highway).
Does the Nissan Altima have all-wheel drive?
Starting with the 2019 model year, the Nissan Altima is available with all-wheel drive as an option. However, not all trim levels come with this feature, so it’s important to check the specific model you’re interested in.
What safety features does the Nissan Altima have?
The Nissan Altima comes with a variety of standard and available safety features, depending on the model year and trim level. Some common safety features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
What is the warranty on a Nissan Altima?
The warranty on a Nissan Altima varies depending on the model year and whether it’s new or used. For new vehicles, the basic warranty typically covers three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain warranty typically covers five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. Used vehicles may have different warranty coverage depending on their age and mileage.
