According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2003 Nissan Altima has 13 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are VQ35DE V6 Timing Chain Rattle from Worn Secondary Chain Guides and Tensioners ($1,200-$2,500 repair), Engine Control Module Relay / ECM Power Interruption Causing Stall or No-Start ($0-$250 repair), Rear Lower Control Arm Corrosion and Separation Risk ($0-$1,200 repair), Rusting Front Floorboards and Underbody Corrosion Near the Firewall/Subframe Area ($500-$3,000 repair), 2.5L QR25DE Head Gasket Failure Causing Coolant Loss and Overheating ($1,200-$2,500 repair) and 2.5L Pre-Catalyst Breakdown Causing Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Damage ($900-$4,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $60 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Altima and 2018-2021 Titan vehicles equipped with Continental tires. On the affected vehicles, it is possible that one or more tires were cured for too long during tire production.
Campaign #21V16900011/03/2021
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019 Altima vehicles equipped with front wheel drive (FWD) and 2.5 liter engines. The fuel pump lock ring may not be fully engaged, possibly causing fuel to leak. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Campaign #19V31600018/04/2019
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Nissan North America, Inc (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019 Altima vehicles. The retainer clip connecting the low pressure fuel tube to the high pressure fuel pump may not have been locked into position.
Campaign #18V92200020/12/2018
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According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2003 Nissan Altima has 13 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: VQ35DE V6 Timing Chain Rattle from Worn Secondary Chain Guides and Tensioners, Engine Control Module Relay / ECM Power Interruption Causing Stall or No-Start, Rear Lower Control Arm Corrosion and Separation Risk. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Nissan Altima reliable?
The 2003 Nissan Altima has 13 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 6 issues are rated critical: VQ35DE V6 Timing Chain Rattle from Worn Secondary Chain Guides and Tensioners and Engine Control Module Relay / ECM Power Interruption Causing Stall or No-Start and Rear Lower Control Arm Corrosion and Separation Risk and Rusting Front Floorboards and Underbody Corrosion Near the Firewall/Subframe Area and 2.5L QR25DE Head Gasket Failure Causing Coolant Loss and Overheating and 2.5L Pre-Catalyst Breakdown Causing Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Damage. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Altima problems?
Repair costs for known Nissan Altima issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, VQ35DE V6 Timing Chain Rattle from Worn Secondary Chain Guides and Tensioners, typically costs $1,200-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2002-2018 Nissan Altima VQ35DE V6 Timing Chain Rattle from Worn Secondary Chain Guides and Tensioners?
On the 3.5L VQ35DE V6 the plastic secondary timing chain guides/tensioner shoes become brittle and break, and the secondary (cam) chain tensioners lose tension. This produces a loud rattle or whine from the front of the engine, most pronounced for the first few seconds of a cold… Repairs typically run $1,200-$2,500. Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
Filter:
When Issues Typically Appear
Engine Control Module Relay / ECM Power Interruption Causing Stall or No-Start
40K-140K
2.5L Pre-Catalyst Breakdown Causing Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Damage
60K-140K
Rear Lower Control Arm Corrosion and Separation Risk
70K-180K
Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensor Failures Causing Stalling or No-Start
70K-160K
Power Steering Rack and High-Pressure Hose Leaks Leading to Loss of Assist
80K-180K
Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Failure Causing Humming Noise and ABS/Wheel Speed Issues
90K-180K
Rusting Front Floorboards and Underbody Corrosion Near the Firewall/Subframe Area
100K-220K
063K125K188K250K mi
On the 2002-2018 Nissan Altima, on the 3.5L VQ35DE V6 the plastic secondary timing chain guides/tensioner shoes become brittle and break, and the secondary (cam) chain tensioners lose tension. This produces a loud rattle or whine from the front of the engine, most pronounced for the first few seconds of a cold start. When a guide breaks, the chain runs slack and can contact the tensioner piston (the 'death rattle'), risking valve-timing skip and internal damage if ignored. Owners across multiple Altima forums document this as one of the defining VQ35DE problems, and there is a Nissan TSB covering secondary-chain replacement.
Common Symptoms
Loud rattle from front of engine on cold start lasting a few seconds
Whining or buzzing noise from timing cover area
Rattle that returns and worsens over time
Possible check engine light for camshaft/crankshaft correlation if chain skips
How to Fix
Diagnose with a cold-start listen plus inspection of the front cover for guide debris. The fix is replacing the secondary timing chains, tensioner shoes/guide rails, and tensioners (and typically the primary chain components and oil seals) as a complete kit while the front cover is off. Per the Nissan secondary-chain TSB, key OEM parts are secondary chains 13028-ZK01C (x2) and tensioner-shoe/guide rails 13097-ZK01C (x2) plus o-rings/seals. Use OEM or quality kits; do all guides, tensioners, and chains together. It is 8-14 hours of labor due to front-cover access.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
On the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima, the first-generation-era 2.5L QR25DE (2002-2006) is well known for head gasket failure. Because the QR25 uses an open-deck block, the combustion ring of the gasket commonly fails into the combustion chamber, so owners often see disappearing coolant, overheating, and white exhaust smoke without the classic milky oil. Failures are frequently linked to the pre-catalyst breaking up and scoring cylinders (raising heat/pressure) and to the secondary block thermostat sticking closed. Left unrepaired it leads to chronic overheating and potential warped-head / engine damage.
Common Symptoms
Unexplained coolant loss with no visible puddle
Overheating, especially under load
White smoke from the exhaust
Overflow tank overfilling/bubbling
Misfire or rough running from coolant in a cylinder
How to Fix
Pressure/combustion-leak test the cooling system to confirm. Repair requires removing the head, inspecting/machining for warpage, and installing a new MLS head gasket set with new head bolts. OEM cylinder head gasket for the 2.5L QR25DE is in the 11044- family (e.g., 11044-8J022 for ~2006, supersedes 11044-8J020/8J010; 11044-6N202 also referenced). Replace the secondary block thermostat while in there and address any pre-cat breakdown. Typical repair runs $1,200-$2,500+.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Fel-Pro HS26261PT QR25DE cylinder-head gasket set
Verify engine/VIN and machine-surface requirements.
2002-2006 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE; conditional on diagnosis and not a substitute for the primary thermostat or head-gasket testing. Fitment/availability: In stock and add-to-cart live at review
On the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE I4, on many 2.5L QR25DE Altimas, the pre-catalytic converter material can deteriorate and be drawn back into the engine during valve overlap, scoring cylinder walls and accelerating oil consumption. Owners report needing to add oil frequently, loss of compression, rough running, and in severe cases complete engine failure. This issue is widely discussed in owner communities and tied to Nissan service information addressing catalyst and ECM updates on affected 2.5L cars.
Common Symptoms
excessive oil consumption
blue exhaust smoke
check engine light
rough idle
loss of power
engine knocking
failed emissions test
How to Fix
Diagnosis usually includes checking oil consumption, compression, catalyst condition, and inspecting for catalyst substrate breakup. Repairs range from replacing the pre-cat/manifold and upstream O2 sensor to replacing the engine if cylinder damage is already present. Owners also commonly verify ECM calibration updates and monitor oil level closely after repair.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Evan Fischer REPN960339 integrated front manifold catalytic converter
Confirm emissions label, engine family and local law before purchase; gasket included.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
TipIf a 2.5L Altima is using oil, inspect the pre-cat before simply replacing valve cover gaskets or PCV parts; continued driving can turn a catalyst issue into a full engine replacement.
TipPerform compression and leak-down testing before authorizing repairs, because many owners found the catalyst was only part of the problem once cylinder scoring had started.
On the 2002-2018 Nissan Altima, the 2.5L QR25DE four-cylinder is widely documented for repeated coil-on-plug ignition coil failures, with cylinders 1 and 4 (the end cylinders) failing most often. A failing coil triggers a single-cylinder misfire, rough idle, hesitation, and a flashing check engine light. Failures are frequently accelerated by oil leaking from the valve cover gasket / spark-plug tube seals saturating the coil boots, so coils can fail again soon after replacement if the oil leak is not addressed. A persistent misfire dumps raw fuel into the catalytic converter and can damage it.
Confirm the bad coil by swapping the suspect coil to an adjacent cylinder and verifying the misfire follows it (e.g., P0301 becomes P0302). Replace the failed coil (OEM 22448-JA00C for 2007-2013, 22448-8H315-era for 2002-2006) and inspect coil boots and spark-plug wells for oil. If oil is present, replace the valve cover gasket / tube seals. Replace spark plugs at the same time; consider replacing all four coils on high-mileage cars. A new OEM coil runs roughly $30-$70 each.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
OEM 2002-2006 Altima QR25DE ignition coil
Confirm VIN/production date and do not buy four solely because one failed.
On the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima, in salt-belt states, 2002-2006 Altimas have a documented corrosion problem affecting the rear lower control arms. Severe rust can perforate the arm and eventually lead to cracking or separation, which alters rear wheel alignment and can affect vehicle control. Nissan issued a recall in affected regions after owner reports of heavy corrosion and suspension instability.
Common Symptoms
rear suspension clunk
uneven rear tire wear
vehicle feels unstable from rear
visible rust on rear control arm
rear alignment out of spec
How to Fix
Inspect the rear lower control arms carefully, especially around spring seats and high-corrosion areas, and check whether the regional recall was completed. If rust scaling, perforation, or deformation is present, replace both rear lower control arms and perform a four-wheel alignment. Vehicles in rust-prone areas should also have the rear suspension and underbody treated with rust inhibitor after repair.
On the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima, hydraulic power steering Altimas commonly develop leaks from the steering rack seals or high-pressure hose assemblies. Owners report groaning noises, fluid on the subframe, a burning smell from fluid contacting hot components, and progressively heavier steering effort. On higher-mileage cars the leak can become severe enough to empty the reservoir and sharply reduce steering assist.
Common Symptoms
power steering fluid leak
groaning while turning
heavy steering
whining pump noise
fluid under front of car
burning fluid smell
How to Fix
Diagnosis involves checking the reservoir level, inspecting the pressure hose crimps and rack boots for fluid, and verifying whether the pump has been damaged by low fluid operation. Repairs typically involve replacing the leaking hose or steering rack, flushing the system, and refilling with the correct fluid. Alignment is usually required after rack replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Replacement 419-043 steering rack with inner tie rods
Verify VIN, ports and pressure-switch configuration.
2002-2006 Altima 2.5L QR25DE or 3.5L VQ35DE; cooler-tube/return assembly, not the high-pressure pump-to-rack hose. Fitment/availability: Direct add-to-cart product page live at review
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
TipIf the reservoir keeps dropping, inspect the rack boots and hose crimps before replacing the pump; many owners replaced noisy pumps only to find the real problem was a leak.
TipAfter any rack or hose repair, flush contaminated fluid out of the system to reduce repeat pump noise and seal wear.
On the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima, repairPal documents front struts wearing prematurely on the Altima and producing a knocking/clunking noise from the front end, especially over bumps and uneven roads. The noise often comes from worn strut internals or a failing upper strut mount/bearing. Beyond noise and a bouncy ride, worn struts increase stopping distance and reduce stability, so it is a handling-and-safety wear item commonly needed around 60,000-80,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
Clunk or knock from front end over bumps
Bouncy or floaty ride
Nose dive under braking
Uneven/cupped front tire wear
Rattle from strut mount area
How to Fix
Inspect struts and strut mounts (also check sway-bar end links and control-arm bushings, which can mimic the same clunk). Replace front struts in matched pairs — loaded quick-strut assemblies simplify the job — and perform a four-wheel alignment afterward. OEM front strut part numbers for 2002-2006 include the 54302-xxxxx family (e.g., 54302-9E125); 2002-2007 use E4302-ZB03B-type members for some configurations. Quality complete strut assemblies are widely available aftermarket.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Unity 2-11593-11594-001 front complete-strut pair
2002-2006 Altima 2.5L QR25DE; excludes V6/SE-R. Includes both front complete assemblies.
2007-2012 Altima sedan/coupe 2.5L or 3.5L and 2007-2011 Hybrid per retailer fitment; select exact vehicle before purchase. Fitment/availability: In stock; add-to-cart live at review
On the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima, a well-documented problem on 2002-2006 Altima involves failure of the engine control module (ECM) relay, which can interrupt power to the ECM while driving or prevent the car from starting. Owners report sudden stalling, intermittent crank-no-start, or an engine that dies and restarts after cooling down. Nissan issued a safety recall because relay heat damage and internal failure could cause an unexpected engine stall.
Common Symptoms
engine stalls while driving
intermittent no-start
cranks but will not start
engine restarts after sitting
loss of power with warning lights illuminated
How to Fix
Confirm recall completion status by VIN first. Diagnosis typically includes checking for ECM power loss, relay operation, and signs of heat damage or intermittent contact in the IPDM/relay circuit. The fix is replacement of the ECM relay with the updated part per recall procedure; if symptoms persist, inspect related fuse box terminals and wiring for overheating or poor pin tension.
On the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima, altimas in this period frequently suffer from failing crankshaft position sensors and camshaft position sensors, especially on the 2.5L and 3.5L engines. Owners report intermittent stalling at stops or while driving, extended cranking, sudden no-start conditions, and check-engine lights. Nissan issued service information and many owner reports describe repeat failures with cheap aftermarket sensors.
Common Symptoms
engine stalls while driving
intermittent no-start
long crank time
tachometer drops to zero
check engine light
hard restart when hot
How to Fix
Diagnosis includes scanning for correlation and sensor circuit codes, checking live RPM signal during cranking, and inspecting harness connectors for oil contamination or heat damage. The most reliable fix is replacing the failed sensor(s) with OEM-quality parts and clearing codes; in some cases both cam and crank sensors are replaced together due to similar age and failure patterns.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Nissan 23731-6N21A crankshaft position sensor
2002-2006 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE; confirm VIN, DTC and sensor location because catalog terminology can overlap cam/crank/magnet sensor names.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
TipUse OEM or OEM-supplier sensors; many owners report repeat failures within months when using the cheapest aftermarket cam/crank sensors.
TipIf one sensor fails on a high-mileage car, many owners proactively replace the matching cam/crank sensors together to avoid another breakdown soon after.
On the 2000-2006 Nissan Altima, older Altimas in rust-belt climates are known for severe floorboard and underbody corrosion, especially around the front floor pan, firewall seams, and nearby structural mounting areas. Owners report soft floors, water intrusion, failed inspections, and concerns about structural integrity around suspension or subframe attachment points. The issue is most common on early-2000s cars that saw repeated winter salt exposure.
Common Symptoms
soft floorboards
visible rust holes under car
water on front carpet
musty interior smell
failed safety inspection
subframe area corrosion
How to Fix
Inspection should include lifting carpets, probing floor pan seams, and checking the subframe and adjacent mounting points for perforation. Minor corrosion can sometimes be cut out and welded with rust treatment, but advanced structural rust often makes the vehicle uneconomical to repair. Keeping drains clear and addressing windshield or cowl leaks can slow recurrence after repair.
Owner tips & cautions
TipPull the front carpet and inspect from inside as well as underneath; several owners found much worse rust hidden by sound deadening and wet carpet.
TipIf buying an early-2000s Altima in a salt state, inspect the floor pan and subframe before spending money on engine or transmission work.
On the 2002-2021 Nissan Altima, p0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold) is one of the most common check-engine codes on the 2.5L Altima. The integrated exhaust-manifold/catalyst on these cars loses efficiency as the substrate degrades, the downstream oxygen sensor begins tracking the upstream sensor, and the ECM sets P0420. Untreated upstream causes — misfires, oil consumption, or a failing O2 sensor — accelerate catalyst breakdown. Because the front (main) catalyst is integrated with the exhaust manifold on many model years, replacement is costlier than a typical under-car converter. Nissan ran emissions recall PC717 on certain 2018 Altimas (QR25DE) that replaced the exhaust manifold/three-way catalyst assembly and two exhaust sensors at no charge.
Common Symptoms
Check engine light with P0420
Reduced fuel economy
Sometimes rotten-egg smell or sluggish performance
Failed emissions test
How to Fix
Diagnose the root cause before replacing the converter: check for misfires, oil consumption, exhaust leaks, and a lazy/failed downstream O2 sensor (a bad rear sensor alone can mimic P0420). Replace the catalyst/manifold assembly with a CARB-compliant unit where required. For affected 2018 models verify VIN against emissions recall PC717 for a free repair. Average converter replacement is roughly $1,200-$1,850 depending on whether the integrated manifold assembly is needed.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
On the 2002-2016 Nissan Altima, the exhaust manifold on the Altima is prone to developing cracks from repeated heat cycling, producing a ticking/tapping noise from the front of the engine that is loudest on cold start (and often quiets as the metal expands and the crack closes), along with an exhaust smell and a leak ahead of the catalyst. On many 2.5L model years the manifold is integrated with the front catalytic converter, so a cracked manifold and a P0420 catalyst fault often go together and make replacement more involved.
Common Symptoms
Ticking/tapping from the engine bay, worst on cold start
Exhaust or sulfur smell
Hissing/puffing exhaust leak sound
Often paired with a P0420 catalyst code
How to Fix
Confirm the leak by listening for a cold-start tick and inspecting the manifold/gasket for soot or visible cracks (a smoke or soapy-water test on the flange helps). Replace the cracked exhaust manifold (or the integrated manifold/catalyst assembly on cars where they are one piece) and renew the manifold and downpipe gaskets. Address related catalyst codes at the same time. On affected 2018 cars the manifold/catalyst was covered under emissions recall PC717.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
On the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima, a recurring higher-mileage Altima problem is front wheel bearing wear, often first noticed as a humming or growling noise that increases with road speed. As the bearing deteriorates, owners may feel vibration, looseness, or see ABS warnings if the integrated wheel speed signal becomes erratic. This is widely reported in repair databases and owner forums, especially on cars driven on rough roads.
Common Symptoms
humming noise from front wheel
growling that changes with speed
vibration
ABS light
wheel play
noise changes when turning
How to Fix
Diagnosis includes road testing for load-sensitive humming, checking for play at the wheel, and using a chassis ear or scan tool to compare wheel speed signals if ABS lights are present. Repair typically requires replacing the affected hub/bearing assembly or pressing in a new bearing depending on model year and setup. An alignment check is wise if other front-end wear is present.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
TipDo not assume tire noise; many owners chased alignment and tire issues before confirming the bearing by loading the car side-to-side during a road test.
TipIf an ABS light appears with bearing noise, inspect the hub tone ring/sensor signal before replacing separate ABS components.
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019 Nissan Altima vehicles. The brake switch bracket may be in the incorrect location, which may cause the brake switch to remain on.
Campaign #19V23500025/03/2019
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Altima and 2020-2021 Sentra vehicles. Damage to the camera harness can cause distortion or loss of the rearview camera display image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
What is the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima Engine Control Module Relay / ECM Power Interruption Causing Stall or No-Start?
A well-documented problem on 2002-2006 Altima involves failure of the engine control module (ECM) relay, which can interrupt power to the ECM while driving or prevent the car from starting. Owners report sudden stalling, intermittent crank-no-start, or an engine that dies and res… Repairs typically run $0-$250. Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima Rear Lower Control Arm Corrosion and Separation Risk?
In salt-belt states, 2002-2006 Altimas have a documented corrosion problem affecting the rear lower control arms. Severe rust can perforate the arm and eventually lead to cracking or separation, which alters rear wheel alignment and can affect vehicle control. Nissan issued a rec… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: high.
What is the 2000-2006 Nissan Altima Rusting Front Floorboards and Underbody Corrosion Near the Firewall/Subframe Area?
Older Altimas in rust-belt climates are known for severe floorboard and underbody corrosion, especially around the front floor pan, firewall seams, and nearby structural mounting areas. Owners report soft floors, water intrusion, failed inspections, and concerns about structural… Repairs typically run $500-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE Head Gasket Failure Causing Coolant Loss and Overheating?
The first-generation-era 2.5L QR25DE (2002-2006) is well known for head gasket failure. Because the QR25 uses an open-deck block, the combustion ring of the gasket commonly fails into the combustion chamber, so owners often see disappearing coolant, overheating, and white exhaust… Repairs typically run $1,200-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2006 Nissan Altima 2.5L Pre-Catalyst Breakdown Causing Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Damage?
On many 2.5L QR25DE Altimas, the pre-catalytic converter material can deteriorate and be drawn back into the engine during valve overlap, scoring cylinder walls and accelerating oil consumption. Owners report needing to add oil frequently, loss of compression, rough running, and… Repairs typically run $900-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima Power Steering Rack and High-Pressure Hose Leaks Leading to Loss of Assist?
Hydraulic power steering Altimas commonly develop leaks from the steering rack seals or high-pressure hose assemblies. Owners report groaning noises, fluid on the subframe, a burning smell from fluid contacting hot components, and progressively heavier steering effort. On higher-… Repairs typically run $250-$1,400. Severity: medium.
What is the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensor Failures Causing Stalling or No-Start?
Altimas in this period frequently suffer from failing crankshaft position sensors and camshaft position sensors, especially on the 2.5L and 3.5L engines. Owners report intermittent stalling at stops or while driving, extended cranking, sudden no-start conditions, and check-engine… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2002-2021 Nissan Altima Catalytic Converter Efficiency Failure (P0420) on the QR25DE?
P0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold) is one of the most common check-engine codes on the 2.5L Altima. The integrated exhaust-manifold/catalyst on these cars loses efficiency as the substrate degrades, the downstream oxygen sensor begins tracking the upstream sensor,… Repairs typically run $300-$1,850. Severity: medium.
What is the 2002-2016 Nissan Altima Exhaust Manifold Cracking Causing Ticking Noise and Exhaust Leak?
The exhaust manifold on the Altima is prone to developing cracks from repeated heat cycling, producing a ticking/tapping noise from the front of the engine that is loudest on cold start (and often quiets as the metal expands and the crack closes), along with an exhaust smell and… Repairs typically run $300-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Failure Causing Humming Noise and ABS/Wheel Speed Issues?
A recurring higher-mileage Altima problem is front wheel bearing wear, often first noticed as a humming or growling noise that increases with road speed. As the bearing deteriorates, owners may feel vibration, looseness, or see ABS warnings if the integrated wheel speed signal be… Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: medium.
What is the 2002-2012 Nissan Altima Premature Front Strut Wear Causing Knocking / Clunk Over Bumps?
RepairPal documents front struts wearing prematurely on the Altima and producing a knocking/clunking noise from the front end, especially over bumps and uneven roads. The noise often comes from worn strut internals or a failing upper strut mount/bearing. Beyond noise and a bouncy… Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2002-2018 Nissan Altima QR25DE Ignition Coil Failures Causing Misfires (Cylinders 1 and 4)?
The 2.5L QR25DE four-cylinder is widely documented for repeated coil-on-plug ignition coil failures, with cylinders 1 and 4 (the end cylinders) failing most often. A failing coil triggers a single-cylinder misfire, rough idle, hesitation, and a flashing check engine light. Failur… Repairs typically run $60-$400. Severity: medium.
