If you are in the market to buy a Nissan Altima, then you must first learn about Nissan Altima years to avoid and buy. This is crucial because not all Nissan Altima years are created equal. Some year releases are impressive, while others are burdens to their buyers.
The Nissan Altima is among the most popular mid-size cars in the American automotive market. It is one of the oldest and most popular models of Japanese Automaker Nissan. Over the years, Altima has shown a good track record regarding reliability. But still, some are doing better than others.
So, before you go out and buy the first Altima you see, I bring you this comprehending guide that covers Nissan Altima’s best years and worst years to buy. Keep reading to learn everything about Altimas in new and used car markets.
Nissan Altima Generations – All Model Years
The Altima is a midsize car from the Japanese automaker Nissan, introduced in 1992. Since then, the model has been revamped through six generations. Since its introduction, the Nissan Altima has set new standards for midsize cars or sedans with its style, efficiency, and balanced power.
The first four generations of the Altima lineup were manufactured exclusively in the US and officially sold in North & South America, Australia, and the Middle East.
However, the following generation models are up for sale globally. Through the Altima lineup, Nissan set up direct foot in one of the most competitive segments in the automotive market.
And if you want the taste of Japanese reliability and confidence of the “Made In USA” building, you shall explore all the Nissan Altima generations.
You can find them all in the new and used car market, along with Nissan Altima years to avoid and the ones to pursue.
- Model Years 2002-2006: 3rd Generation
- Model Years 2007-2012: 4th Generation
- Model Years 2013-2018: 5th Generation
- Model Years 2019-Present: 6th Generation
Nissan Altima Years To Buy – Best, Worst, & Neutral
A personal mode of transportation has become a necessity more than a want. To be able to go anywhere and at any time, owning a personal ride is not only helpful but liberating.
However, not everyone is going after the luxurious cars in the market. Some people simply need an automobile they can trust with their investment and safety. The Nissan Altima is undoubtedly one such ride. However, you can not go ahead and just pick any Altima model from the market.
There are some releases deemed as excellent, while others are downright horrible. To ensure you do not end up with a burdensome ride, you must learn what year Nissan Altima to avoid and which one to go after.
To tell you all the right details, we have done a thorough research and have divided all the Nissan Altima model years into three categories:
Best – The model years where Altima performed in a top manner
Worst – the model year where Altima was a massive disappointment to buyers
Neutral – The model years where Altima performed adequately but did not well enough to be considered among the best
We have taken help, data, and references from deemed authoritative sources like:
- J.D. Power ower ratings
- NHTSA ratings, complaints, recalls, & investigations
- Consumer Reports owner satisfaction scores & reliability scores
- Cars.com owner ratings
- Kelley Blue Book owner ratings
- Edmunds owner ratings
Below is a graph that shows the combined data of Nissan Altima’s performance over the years from all the authoritative sites we have mentioned above:
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The following are Nissan Altima’s generations divided into Nissan Altima years to avoid and buy.
Model Years 2002-2006: 3rd Generation
- Best Years: 2004
- Worst Years: 2002, 2003
- Neutral Years: 2005, 2006
Model Years 2007-2012: 4th Generation
- Best Years: 2010, 2011, 2012
- Worst Years: 2008, 2009
- Neutral Years: 2007
Model Years 2013-2018: 5th Generation
- Best Years: 2017, 2018
- Worst Years: 2013, 2014, 2015
- Neutral Years: 2016
Model Years 2019-Present: 6th Generation
- Best Years: 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
- Worst Years: 2019, 2020
- Neutral Years: N/A
Neutral, Best And Worst Years Of Nissan Altima – 3rd Generation (2002-2006)
Nissan launched the third generation of Altima in 2002. The released model lineup showcased transformation in aesthetic, size, power, and overall appeal. 2004 is the best Nissan Altima year for the third generation, and 2005 & 2005 are the neutral years.
And if you are wondering what Nissan Altima years to avoid in the third generation, model years 2002 and 2003 are your answers.
Best Nissan Altima Years (3rd Generation): 2004
2004 is the best year of Nissan Altima’s third generation. The model came with many improvements and very few issues compared to its predecessors. The models came with two engine options: 2.5 L 4-cylinder and 3.5 L V6 mated with either 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, channeling 170 to 245 hp.
2004 Altima was 192″ long, 70″ wide, and 58″ high, offering great interior space across two rows. You get up to 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient ride for your everyday driving tasks.
Nissan became more serious with safety by offering standard features like side airbags, dual front airbags, and anti-lock brakes, but mostly in upper-level trims. 2004 Nissan Altima was the best third-generation year. However, some buyers reported issues related to engine performance.
Worst Nissan Altima Years (3rd Generation): 2002, 2003
The third generation Nissan Altima years to avoid are 2002 and 2003. These were the beginning years of the new generation and thus came with several issues. Cars.com ratings have showcased how these years are to be avoided at any cost. In these model years, engine problems were the most severe.
There were numerous complaints about engine stalling. In some cases, it led to defects in the camshaft position sensor and massive oil consumption. In addition, transmission problems were also at the surface, making it hard for the owners, along with improper functioning of exterior lighting components.
Furthermore, structural quality was also a huge concern for these years’ models. Buyers complained about excessive rusting and corrosion, mainly affecting the front door pan and floorboard. You can explore NHTSA’s 2002 Nissan Altima and 2003 Nissan Altima recalls and complaints to know more.
Neutral Nissan Altima Years (3rd Generation): 2005, 2006
The final two years of the third generation are hailed as the neutral years for the lineup. 2005 and 2006 Nissan Altima models came with engine and transmission options similar to their predecessors.
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However, Nissan worked well to handle the persistent issues in previous years. The company did get a hold of the severe issues, but many were still able to make their way in these years.
Issues like engine stalling, excessive oil consumption, issues with piston rings, failure of camshaft position sensor, and transmission complaints kept 2005 and 2006 from becoming the best years.
Neutral, Best And Worst Years Of Nissan Altima – 4th Generation (2007-2012)
Nissan launched the fourth generation of the Altima lineup in 2007. There was a new platform, enhanced performance, updated styling, and advanced technology to look for.
2010, 2011, and 2012 are the best fourth-generation years. These facelifted years offer you the security you are looking for. But 2008 and 2009 are the worst years whereas 2007 is the neutral.
Best Nissan Altima Years (4th Generation): 2010, 2011, 2012
The last three years of the fourth generation are the best. These years have higher than average J.D. Power ratings, ensuring you can trust them on the road. There are two engine options. One is a 2.5 L 4-cylinder channeling 175 hp, and the other is a 3.5 L V6 channeling 270 hp.
Each engine is paired with Nissan’s Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or 6-speed manual transmission. You get a good 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, an impressive fuel economy for the class.
You can enjoy top features like navigation systems, a Bose audio system, a rearview camera, an anti-lock braking system, a push-button start, keyless entry, and Bluetooth connectivity. Thus, when it comes to the fourth generation’s best Nissan Altima model, 2010, 2011, and 2012 are the years to approach.
Worst Nissan Altima Years (4th Generation): 2008, 2009
You need to avoid the 2008 and 2009 model years of the fourth generation at any cost. These years came with severe issues like failure of CVT transmission, excessive engine oil consumption, poor engine performance, defective airbags, and many electrical system malfunctions.
In the 2009 Nissan Altima, a new steering wheel lock failure issue emerged. It left the vehicle immobile, which led to a class-action lawsuit. Nissan handled it by offering an extended warranty for the affected component.
In addition, consumer complaints about rusting in floors and subframes build up structural concerns. Due to this, multiple recalls were issued during these two worst years. Check out Nissan 2009 Altima NHTSA recalls and complaints.
Neutral Nissan Altima Years (4th Generation): 2007
2007 was the beginning year of the fourth generation, and surprisingly, it was a neutral year. The year retained the previous generation’s engine and transmission options, offering good fuel economy and consistent performance.
However, the 2007 Nissan Altima experienced several complaints and recalls, mainly concerning rusting and corrosion in the structure and braking system. In addition, several owners struggled with issues related to the power steering column and air conditioning system.
Neutral, Best And Worst Years Of Nissan Altima – 5th Generation (2013-2018)
The fifth generation of the Altima lineup debuted in 2013. It came with a modern outlook inside out, new technology, enhanced safety & comfort, and improved fuel economy.
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If you are looking for the recent Nissan Altima best years, 2017 and 2018 are among the best. Meanwhile, 2013, 2014, and 2015 are the Nissan Altima years to avoid.
Best Nissan Altima Years (5th Generation): 2017, 2018
2017 and 2018 are among the best model years for Nissan Altima because they have fewer complaints on NHTSA, fewer recalls, and outstanding owner ratings on several platforms. You can check Nissan Altima’s outstanding ratings on Cars.com and J.D. Power to know more.
In these model years, Altima again came with two engine options, a four-cylinder, and V6 paired with the continuously variable transmission, producing up to 270 hp. You get to enjoy EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 27 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, making the models highly efficient.
In addition, Nissan also introduced advanced safety features like the Nissan Safety Shield in the best years of the fifth generation. This attempt to make the Altima safer is why both the 2017 and 2018 Altima earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and the Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.
Worst Nissan Altima Years (5th Generation): 2013, 2014, 2015
If you were wondering if the 2013 Nissan Altima years to avoid, it is, along with the 2014 and 2015 model years. These three are the introductory years of fifth generations and thus had difficulty coursing their aimed path. There were numerous complaints regarding transmission failure, shuddering, and vibration.
Multiple recalls related to secondary hood latch causing corrosion and getting the hood open suddenly when driving and the Occupant Classification System (OCS) was also an issue which could fail out of the blue and deactivate the passenger airbag were only working against these years.
In addition, steering wheel vibrations, premature failing of suspension components, and braking system wear were other issues on the list.
Neutral Nissan Altima Years (5th Generation): 2016
2016 is the neutral year for the fifth generation. The coincidence is it lies precisely between the worst and best years. It came with technology, safety, and powertrain options similar to the best years, with mid-generation refreshment touches like upgraded styling.
However, the year was not untouched by the persistent issues related to CVT, air conditioning systems, and electronic systems. The only reason 2016 is not among the years to avoid Nissan Altima is that it did not see severe complaints as the worst year, thus keeping this model year neutral.
Best And Worst Years Of Nissan Altima – 6th Generation (2019-Present)
The Nissan Altima is currently in its sixth generation. The current generation was introduced in 2019 and came with plenty of upgrades to the lineup, making it better than ever.
There was a new design, enhanced performance choices, new AWD options, and plenty of advanced safety features. In the latest generation, 2019 and 2020 are the Nissan Altima years to avoid, whereas model years from 2021 to 2024 are the best ones to buy.
Best Nissan Altima Years (6th Generation): 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
If you are looking for the latest Nissan Altima releases, then these four model years are the best Nissan Altima years. You can find them easily in the used and new car market.
The models came with a potent 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 188 hp as standard and a turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder engine making 24 hp optional.
Both these engines came with Xtronic CVT, a great innovative feature offered by Nissan. The AWD option is also available, but only with the standard engine. With both these engines, you enjoy an estimated fuel efficiency of 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
For your safety, the models from these four years come with expanded Nissan’s Safety Shield 360, offering features like automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.
Worst Nissan Altima Years (6th Generation): 2019, 2020
Like all the other generations, the sixth generation also has its launching years as the worst ones. Thus, if you are contemplating what years of Nissan Altima to avoid in the current generation, 2019 and 2020 is your answer.
Both these years came with issues and complaints related to malfunction of the ProPILOT Assist system, VC-Turbo engine, backup camera settings, and fuel pump failure.
Not only this, but the 2020 Nissan Altima recalls and complaints were the worst. It was explicitly recalled for the hood latch issue where the hood of the car would open suddenly when the vehicle was running on the road.
Top FAQs About What Nissan Altima Years To Avoid
What is the Nissan Altima reliability rating for the latest releases?
The Nissan Altima for model year 2025 has yet to be rated for reliability. However, the 2023 Nissan Altima has received a predicted reliability score of 84 out of 100 from J.D. Power, making it a great ride to buy.
The Nissan Altima is an excellent choice if you are looking for a durable and reliable automobile. 2023 and 2024 are among the best years of the sixth-generation Altima.
Thus, it is safe to assume that the 2024 Altima will also showcase, if not better, at least the same reliability as its predecessor, the 2023 model.
What is the Nissan Altima transmission issue?
Throughout its six generations, the Nissan Altima faced recurring issues related to its transmission.
Altima’s transmission problems included premature failures, mainly in the models equipped with automatic variants. There were numerous complaints about transmission failure, vibration, and shuddering.
This widespread failure of CVT led to significant repair costs, which was not something every owner could afford.
What year Altima is most reliable?
Whether you wish to buy a brand-new Altima or a used one, the best years across the six generations are ideal.
If you want to own a brand new Altima, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 are the best years. And for used Altima, you can go for 2004, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2017, and 2018 model years.
All these model years of Nissan Altima are reliable and safe to buy.
What were the most common issues with the Nissan Altima?
Like any other model lineup, the Nissan Altima had its fair share of car problems. Out of them all, transmission problems were the most prominent and caused the most chaos.
But other issues made it hard on the Altima owners. The issues related to the engines, like excessive oil consumption, oil leakage, and engine malfunctions & stalling, were a headache.
In addition, faulty fuel pump issues were also there, leading to stalling, vibrations, and trouble with the engine starting.
Is the Nissan Altima worth buying?
YES. Since its debut, Altima has proved itself as a dependable ride that is an ideal choice for daily commutes and long journeys.
This car offers ample space in two rows with a generous cargo area. Whether it is an experienced adult or an inexperienced teenager behind the wheel, Altima is easy to drive for everyone.
It features plenty of advanced tech & safety features, ensuring your comfort, entertainment, ease, and protection on the road.
Currently, the 2024 Nissan Altima is the latest model in the market. It comes in five trim options ranging from $26,000 to $35,700.
And if you were to go for the used models, you would enjoy great features and amazing price value. You can explore it in the graph presented below:
Conclusion
Knowing Nissan Altima years to avoid and the ones that are good to buy can help you immensely with your next ride purchase. The Nissan Altima is a great mid-size car whose production has spanned over six generations.
This article covers all the worst and best Nissan Altima years to buy, along with their best features and prominent issues. Explore each, and you will find a Nissan Altima that perfectly aligns with your needs and wants for your car purchase.
