According to Au7o's analysis of 6,720+ owner reports, the 2017 Nissan Altima has 17 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder ($300-$5,000 repair), Steering Column Lock Failure ($400-$1,200 repair), VQ35DE V6 Timing Chain Rattle from Worn Secondary Chain Guides and Tensioners ($1,200-$2,500 repair), Secondary Hood Latch Corrosion Allowing Hood to Fly Open at Speed (Recall 20V315, Multiple Campaigns), P0741 — Torque Converter Clutch Stuck Off from JATCO CVT Lockup/Valve Body Fault ($300-$4,500 repair) and P0016 — Crank/Cam Position Correlation from Stretched Timing Chain & Worn Guides/Tensioner ($1,000-$2,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder with 4,500 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $60 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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."
Campaign #23V62800008/09/2023
TIRES
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
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Nissan Altima vehicles. The tie rod ball joint fastener was not tightened properly, which could result in the tie rod ball joint detaching from the steering knuckle.
Campaign #21V13800004/03/2021
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According to Au7o's analysis of 6,720+ owner reports, the 2017 Nissan Altima has 17 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder, Steering Column Lock Failure, VQ35DE V6 Timing Chain Rattle from Worn Secondary Chain Guides and Tensioners. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Nissan Altima reliable?
The 2017 Nissan Altima has 17 known issues documented across 6,720+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder and Steering Column Lock Failure and VQ35DE V6 Timing Chain Rattle from Worn Secondary Chain Guides and Tensioners and Secondary Hood Latch Corrosion Allowing Hood to Fly Open at Speed (Recall 20V315, Multiple Campaigns) and P0741 — Torque Converter Clutch Stuck Off from JATCO CVT Lockup/Valve Body Fault and P0016 — Crank/Cam Position Correlation from Stretched Timing Chain & Worn Guides/Tensioner. 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 $60 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder, typically costs $300-$5,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2013-2023 Nissan Altima CVT Transmission Failure/Shudder?
The CVT transmission is known for reliability issues including shuddering, jerking, and complete failure. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on some model years to 10 years/120,000 miles due to widespread problems. High-mileage CVTs are particularly at risk. Repairs typically run $300-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2018 Nissan Altima Steering Column Lock Failure?
The electronic steering column lock can malfunction, preventing the car from starting. The system fails to release the steering lock even with the correct key. This is a safety feature that can strand drivers. Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. 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.
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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 2007-2018 Nissan Altima, p0016 is one of the most well-documented Altima powertrain failures and is a hallmark of the 2.5L QR25DE (it also affects the 3.5L V6). The ECM sets P0016 when the camshaft (Bank 1, Sensor A) and crankshaft signals fall out of their expected relationship. On the Altima this is most often caused by a physically stretched timing chain combined with worn plastic timing-chain guide rails and a failing chain tensioner: as the chain slackens, cam timing drifts and the correlation code sets. A contributing root cause is sludge building up behind the primary drive gear, which starves the tensioner of oil pressure and lets the chain slap. The classic early warning is a rattle from the front of the engine on cold start that worsens over time. Related VVT/correlation codes (P0011/P0021/P0024) often accompany it. If ignored, a jumped chain can cause valve-to-piston contact and catastrophic engine damage.
Common Symptoms
Rattle/tapping from front of engine on cold start
Check engine light
Rough idle and hesitation
Hard starting
Reduced power and fuel economy
How to Fix
Verify oil level/condition and rule out a sludged tensioner or bad camshaft position sensor first. The accepted repair is a full timing chain service: replace the timing chain, both guide rails, the tensioner, and the VVT/oil-control components as needed, and clean sludge from behind the drive gear. Use correct-viscosity oil and proper change intervals afterward to prevent recurrence.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Cloyes 9-4212SC QR25DE timing-chain kit
2007-2009 Altima 2.5L QR25DE including listed sedan/coupe trims; verify VIN and production date.
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 2013-2023 Nissan Altima, the CVT transmission is known for reliability issues including shuddering, jerking, and complete failure. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on some model years to 10 years/120,000 miles due to widespread problems. High-mileage CVTs are particularly at risk.
Common Symptoms
Shuddering during acceleration
Jerky or hesitant response
Delayed engagement from stop
Whining noise from transmission
Complete loss of power
Check engine light
How to Fix
Change CVT fluid regularly with Nissan NS-3. Check if vehicle is covered by Nissan extended CVT warranty. If shuddering, may need valve body or complete CVT replacement. Avoid aggressive driving to prolong CVT life.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
OEM 2013-2018 Altima 2.5L CVT service kit
2013-2018 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE CVT; select exact year. Maintenance/contamination service only, not a cure for internal CVT damage.
High Confidence4,500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima, the Altima's JATCO continuously variable transmission (RE0F10-series) uses a torque converter with a lockup (TCC) clutch, and P0741 sets when the TCM detects an rpm slip mismatch showing the lockup clutch is not engaging as commanded (stuck off). On Altima CVTs the code is commonly driven by degraded/overheated CVT fluid, a worn or sticking lockup control solenoid, or a valve body whose bores wear and leak line pressure so the TCC can't hold. On earlier RE0F10A units (notably 07-08) the valve body is prone to internal leakage, and Nissan bulletins have at times directed full CVT replacement when P0741/P0744 appears with lockup shudder. Drivers feel a shudder or judder under light acceleration (roughly 25-45 mph), rubber-band hesitation, higher-than-normal cruising rpm, and sometimes a slight surge as the converter fails to lock.
Common Symptoms
Shudder or judder under light acceleration (~25-45 mph)
Rubber-band hesitation from a stop
Higher-than-normal cruising RPM
Slipping or surging feel
Check engine light
How to Fix
Start with a full CVT fluid inspection and replacement using genuine Nissan CVT NS-2/NS-3 fluid (burnt or contaminated fluid alone can set the code). Test/replace the lockup (TCC) solenoid. If line pressure is low or the valve body bores are worn, rebuild or replace the valve body. When internal converter/CVT damage is confirmed, the accepted repair is torque converter or full CVT assembly replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
OEM 2007-2012 Altima 2.5L CVT service kit with NS-2
2007-2008 Altima sedan 2.5L QR25DE for this card, within the page's broader 2007-2012/2008-2013 coupe fitment. Not for VQ35DE or later NS-3 CVTs.
OEM 2007-2012 Altima 3.5L CVT service kit with NS-2
2007-2008 Altima sedan 3.5L VQ35DE for this card, within the page's broader 2007-2012 sedan/2008-2013 coupe fitment. The page notes the 3.5L filter is discontinued.
On the 2013-2018 Nissan Altima, the electronic steering column lock can malfunction, preventing the car from starting. The system fails to release the steering lock even with the correct key. This is a safety feature that can strand drivers.
Common Symptoms
Car won't start
Steering Lock warning on dash
Steering wheel won't turn
Key recognized but won't start
Random no-start conditions
How to Fix
Steering column lock actuator replacement required. Nissan issued service campaigns for some model years. Some owners have had the system disabled. Check for recalls or service campaigns for your VIN.
Owner tips & cautions
TipThe electronic steering column lock can malfunction, preventing the car from starting.
WarningThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
High Confidence920 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2013-2018 Nissan Altima, recall 20V315000 covers certain 2013-2018 Altimas. If the primary hood latch is inadvertently released, the secondary latch may be corroded or contaminated and fail to engage, allowing the hood to open while driving. It follows earlier Altima hood-latch recalls whose remedies did not consistently eliminate the risk.
Common Symptoms
VIN checked for all hood-latch campaigns
primary and secondary latch engagement verified
current dealer remedy completion confirmed
How to Fix
Check VIN recall status and follow Nissan's no-charge dealer remedy for the applicable campaign. For 20V315000 the remedy includes a stronger hood-release-lever spring, warning label and Owner's Manual addendum; do not assume every vehicle receives a replacement latch. Do not buy a hood latch, spring, cable, lubricant or body part from this page; VIN status and the current dealer remedy control the repair.
On the 2013-2020 Nissan Altima, the A/C compressor can fail, particularly on vehicles in hot climates. When the compressor fails internally, it can contaminate the A/C system with debris. Clutch failure is also common.
Common Symptoms
A/C blows warm air
Clicking when A/C engages
A/C clutch not engaging
Loud noise from compressor
Refrigerant leak
How to Fix
Replace A/C compressor assembly. If internal failure, flush system, replace condenser, receiver/drier, and expansion valve. Use quality replacement parts. Some owners opt for aftermarket compressors to save cost.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Four Seasons 78664 A/C compressor with clutch
2013-2018 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE; verify trim, HVAC controls, connector, refrigerant label and OE interchange before purchase.
2013-2018 Nissan Altima 3.5L V6, with trim coverage shown on the direct page; verify compressor model, climate-control configuration, connector and VIN.
High Confidence780 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
520 owners
On the 2013-2020 Nissan Altima, some Altima owners experience unexplained battery drain, resulting in a dead battery after sitting for a few days. Various electronic modules not going to sleep properly can cause excessive draw. The Intelligent Key system may also be a factor.
Common Symptoms
Dead battery after sitting
Battery won't hold charge
Frequent jump starts needed
New battery dies quickly
Key fob battery drains fast
How to Fix
Have dealer perform parasitic draw test. Common causes include Intelligent Key system, radio, or BCM. Update software to latest version. Use battery maintainer if vehicle sits for extended periods.
Owner tips & cautions
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
TipSearch Nissan Altima forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
Medium Confidence520 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
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 2007-2020 Nissan Altima, after a loose/failed gas cap, the most common cause of EVAP leak codes (P0455 large leak, P0456 very small leak) on the Altima is a failed EVAP canister vent control valve mounted near the charcoal canister at the rear of the vehicle. The valve seal sticks or fails to seal, so the EVAP system can't pass its self-test. It typically starts as an intermittent small leak (P0456) and worsens into a gross leak (P0455). It does not affect drivability but causes a persistent check engine light and an emissions-test failure. Nissan issued TSBs (NTB09-020F, NTB13-097J, NTB17-082a) addressing the diagnostic path and this component.
Common Symptoms
Check engine light with no drivability change
Failed state emissions / smog test
Fuel odor in some cases
Code returns after replacing only the gas cap
How to Fix
Begin with a known-good OEM gas cap (aftermarket caps often will not seal). If the code persists, smoke-test the EVAP system; a sticking/leaking vent valve is the usual culprit and is replaced as a unit. OEM vent control valve part numbers for this generation include 14935-JF00E / 14935-JF01C / 14935-JF02C (supersession family 14935-JF00A through JF02C). Valve runs roughly $60-$110; OEM gas cap $25-$40.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Nissan fuel-filler cap 17251-ZX60A
2007-2012 Nissan Altima for this card, within the page's broader 2003-2012 fitment; verify VIN and filler-neck application.
On the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima 3.5L VQ35DE V6, p0174 references Bank 2, which physically exists only on the Altima's 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (the inline-4 has no Bank 2), so this code points specifically at the V6 rear cylinder bank. It nearly always appears together with P0171, and that pairing is the diagnostic tell: a lean condition on BOTH banks is caused by something common to the whole engine rather than one injector. On the VQ35DE the usual causes are shrunken/hardened intake manifold and plenum gaskets that develop vacuum leaks, a cracked PCV or intake hose, or a dirty MAF sensor under-reporting airflow to both banks. Nissan issued ECM-reprogram guidance (TSB NTB19-030) for lean-code complaints on 2016-2018 V6 Altima/Maxima where fuel trims are borderline, so a software update can be part of the fix after mechanical leaks are ruled out.
Confirm the P0171/P0174 pair, then smoke-test the V6 intake. Replace the intake manifold/plenum gaskets and any cracked PCV or intake hoses to seal the vacuum leak. Clean or replace the MAF if trims stay lean. Apply the applicable ECM reprogram (per Nissan bulletin) if hardware is sound but trims remain out of spec. Verify long-term fuel trim on both banks returns to roughly +/-10%.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Universal aerosol cleaner for hot-wire MAF elements; follow label directions and never substitute other solvent cleaners. Fitment/availability: Retailer inventory and add-to-cart live at review
On the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima, on the Altima's 2.5L QR25DE four-cylinder (and Bank 1 of the 3.5L V6), P0171 sets when the fuel-trim correction runs beyond about +25% because unmetered air is entering the engine downstream of the mass-air-flow (MAF) sensor. The two dominant Altima-specific culprits are (1) the flexible rubber intake air duct/boot between the MAF and throttle body, which grows brittle and splits at the accordion folds with age and underhood heat, and (2) hardened, shrunken intake manifold gaskets that let in a vacuum leak. A dirty or contaminated MAF sensor element that under-reports airflow is the third common trigger and is the cheapest to rule out. On the inline-4 there is only one bank, so P0171 appears alone; on the V6 it typically shows up paired with P0174 when the leak or MAF fault affects both banks.
Common Symptoms
Check engine light
Rough or unstable idle
Hesitation or stumble on acceleration
Reduced fuel economy
Occasional hard start when cold
How to Fix
Smoke-test the intake tract for leaks. Replace a cracked intake air duct/boot; replace the intake manifold or plenum gasket if leaking. If no leak is found, clean the MAF sensor with MAF-specific cleaner and replace it if trims don't recover. Clear codes and confirm long-term fuel trim returns to roughly +/-10% after the repair.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Nissan QR25DE upper air duct 16576-JA000
2007-2013 Altima 2.5L QR25DE; 2013 requires body-style/VIN confirmation because the L33 sedan uses a different duct.
On the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima, a failed front ABS wheel speed sensor (or its corroded/damaged wiring) is a common cause of the simultaneous ABS, VDC (vehicle dynamic control), and SLIP warning lights on the Altima. Because the sensor feeds speed data to multiple modules, one bad sensor lights several warnings and disables ABS and traction/stability control. The sensors live at the wheels and fail from road debris, corrosion, and electrical wear. Driving is possible but anti-lock braking and stability assist are inactive until repaired.
Common Symptoms
ABS, VDC/traction, and SLIP lights on together
Speedometer dropout in some cases
ABS not engaging in hard stops
Stability/traction control disabled
How to Fix
Read ABS codes with an ABS-capable scanner to pinpoint the exact wheel before buying parts (a dirty tip or chafed wire can sometimes be cleaned/repaired instead of replaced). Replace the failed front sensor — OEM front left/right is 47910-JA000 (2007-2013 Altima / 2009-2014 Maxima); later body uses 47910-3TA1A/3TA2A. It is roughly a one-hour-per-wheel DIY job. Inspect the connector and harness for corrosion.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Nissan front ABS wheel-speed sensor 47910-JA000
2007-2013 Altima L32 front, left or right, 2.5L or 3.5L; 2013 requires body-style/VIN confirmation. Sold individually; do not infer that both sides need replacement.
Genuine Nissan front ABS wheel-speed sensor 47910-3TA2A
2013-2018 Altima L33 front, 2.5L or 3.5L; 2013 requires body-style/VIN confirmation. Catalog requires quantity two for the vehicle, but buy one when only one sensor is confirmed failed.
On the 2013-2023 Nissan Altima, owners report widespread clearcoat/paint peeling and flaking, with the hood and roof typically the worst-affected horizontal panels, sometimes coming off in large jagged strips. A class-action lawsuit (filed Nov 2023) alleges a defective/insufficient primer on 2017-present Nissan vehicles, claiming some colors received less primer and paint, so the finish peels in roughly half the 10-15 years a factory paint job should last. Numerous earlier 2013-2016 complaints exist on CarComplaints. Nissan recalled/addressed paint on some Rogue and Infiniti models but not the Altima, which has frustrated owners.
Common Symptoms
Clearcoat peeling/flaking on hood and roof
Paint coming off in strips, sometimes after washing/waxing
Dull, chalky, or primer-exposed patches
Chipping on bumpers and edges
How to Fix
There is no Altima recall, so repair is typically a body-shop respray of the affected panels (and ideally the full roof/hood) down to good primer; cost depends on panel count. Owners may pursue goodwill assistance through Nissan or join the pending paint class action. Document early with photos. Panel repaint commonly runs a few hundred dollars per panel up to several thousand for multiple panels.
On the 2007-2017 Nissan Altima, the plastic gears in the HVAC air-mix (blend) and mode door actuators strip, producing a repetitive clicking or knocking sound from behind the dash, usually loudest when the climate system is turned on or the temperature is changed. A failed blend actuator leaves the temperature stuck (often only hot or only cold), and a failed mode actuator leaves airflow stuck on one outlet (e.g., defrost only, won't switch to face/feet). These actuators cannot be repaired and must be replaced.
Common Symptoms
Repetitive clicking/knocking from dash when A/C or temp is adjusted
Temperature stuck on hot or cold
Air stuck blowing from one set of vents
Noise stops when ignition is off
How to Fix
Identify which actuator is clicking (air-mix vs. mode) and replace the failed unit. The air-mix/blend door actuator is OEM 27732-AL610 (fits 2007-2012 Altima 2.5L and 3.5L; later body uses 27732-4GA0C). Access is via the passenger side behind the glovebox; full dash removal is generally unnecessary. After replacement, recalibrate the climate system per the reset procedure. Part is inexpensive (~$30-$80); labor varies by location.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Nissan air-mix actuator 27732-AL610
2007-2012 Altima 2.5L or 3.5L; verify actuator location, HVAC configuration and VIN.
On the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima 2.5L QR25DE I4, on the Altima, P0128 sets when the ECM sees that engine coolant fails to reach its target operating temperature (roughly 180-200F) within the expected time/warm-up cycle. The overwhelming Altima-specific cause is a thermostat stuck open (or a thermostat that opens too early), which lets coolant circulate continuously and never lets the engine fully warm. On the 2.5L QR25DE there are effectively two temperature-control components — the main thermostat behind the cylinder head and a secondary water-control valve at the front of the engine — and best practice is to replace both together, because replacing only one frequently leaves the code active. Drivers most often notice weak cabin heat in cold weather and a temperature gauge that sits low or drops on the highway. Left unfixed it causes poor fuel economy, higher emissions, and can fail an emissions/smog test.
Common Symptoms
Check engine light
Weak or no cabin heat in cold weather
Temperature gauge reads low or drops at highway speed
Reduced fuel economy
Emissions/smog test failure
How to Fix
Verify actual coolant temperature with a scan tool to confirm the thermostat is opening early/stuck open rather than a faulty coolant temp sensor. Replace the thermostat; on the 2.5L QR25DE also replace the secondary water-control valve at the same time. Refill and bleed the cooling system, then confirm the engine reaches full operating temperature and the code stays cleared.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Altima, Maxima and Leaf vehicles. The rear window glass may not remain properly secured to the vehicle.
Campaign #20V57000022/09/2020
TIRES
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Altima S grade vehicles equipped with Continental ProContact TX tires, size 215/60 R16 H, with TIN date code 3320 and Mold ID S-419149. The tires may have been over cured.
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.
What is the 2013-2018 Nissan Altima Secondary Hood Latch Corrosion Allowing Hood to Fly Open at Speed (Recall 20V315, Multiple Campaigns)?
Recall 20V315000 covers certain 2013-2018 Altimas. If the primary hood latch is inadvertently released, the secondary latch may be corroded or contaminated and fail to engage, allowing the hood to open while driving. It follows earlier Altima hood-latch recalls whose remedies did… Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima P0741 — Torque Converter Clutch Stuck Off from JATCO CVT Lockup/Valve Body Fault?
The Altima's JATCO continuously variable transmission (RE0F10-series) uses a torque converter with a lockup (TCC) clutch, and P0741 sets when the TCM detects an rpm slip mismatch showing the lockup clutch is not engaging as commanded (stuck off). On Altima CVTs the code is common… Repairs typically run $300-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima P0016 — Crank/Cam Position Correlation from Stretched Timing Chain & Worn Guides/Tensioner?
P0016 is one of the most well-documented Altima powertrain failures and is a hallmark of the 2.5L QR25DE (it also affects the 3.5L V6). The ECM sets P0016 when the camshaft (Bank 1, Sensor A) and crankshaft signals fall out of their expected relationship. On the Altima this is mo… Repairs typically run $1,000-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2020 Nissan Altima A/C Compressor Failure?
The A/C compressor can fail, particularly on vehicles in hot climates. When the compressor fails internally, it can contaminate the A/C system with debris. Clutch failure is also common. Repairs typically run $500-$1,500. 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 2007-2018 Nissan Altima Front ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Failure Triggering ABS, VDC, and SLIP Lights?
A failed front ABS wheel speed sensor (or its corroded/damaged wiring) is a common cause of the simultaneous ABS, VDC (vehicle dynamic control), and SLIP warning lights on the Altima. Because the sensor feeds speed data to multiple modules, one bad sensor lights several warnings… Repairs typically run $80-$350. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima P0174 — System Too Lean (Bank 2) on 3.5L VQ35DE V6 from Intake Plenum/Manifold Vacuum Leak?
P0174 references Bank 2, which physically exists only on the Altima's 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (the inline-4 has no Bank 2), so this code points specifically at the V6 rear cylinder bank. It nearly always appears together with P0171, and that pairing is the diagnostic tell: a lean conditio… Repairs typically run $250-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima P0171 — System Too Lean (Bank 1) from Cracked Intake Air Duct or Leaking Intake Manifold Gasket?
On the Altima's 2.5L QR25DE four-cylinder (and Bank 1 of the 3.5L V6), P0171 sets when the fuel-trim correction runs beyond about +25% because unmetered air is entering the engine downstream of the mass-air-flow (MAF) sensor. The two dominant Altima-specific culprits are (1) the… Repairs typically run $120-$600. 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.
What is the 2013-2020 Nissan Altima Parasitic Battery Drain?
Some Altima owners experience unexplained battery drain, resulting in a dead battery after sitting for a few days. Various electronic modules not going to sleep properly can cause excessive draw. The Intelligent Key system may also be a factor. Repairs typically run $100-$500. Severity: low.
What is the 2013-2023 Nissan Altima Defective Paint Primer Causing Clearcoat Peeling and Flaking (Class-Action Alleged)?
Owners report widespread clearcoat/paint peeling and flaking, with the hood and roof typically the worst-affected horizontal panels, sometimes coming off in large jagged strips. A class-action lawsuit (filed Nov 2023) alleges a defective/insufficient primer on 2017-present Nissan… Repairs typically run $300-$3,000. Severity: low.
What is the 2007-2020 Nissan Altima EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve Failure (P0455 / P0456 Leak Codes)?
After a loose/failed gas cap, the most common cause of EVAP leak codes (P0455 large leak, P0456 very small leak) on the Altima is a failed EVAP canister vent control valve mounted near the charcoal canister at the rear of the vehicle. The valve seal sticks or fails to seal, so th… Repairs typically run $60-$250. Severity: low.
What is the 2007-2017 Nissan Altima HVAC Blend / Mode Door Actuator Clicking and Temperature Control Failure?
The plastic gears in the HVAC air-mix (blend) and mode door actuators strip, producing a repetitive clicking or knocking sound from behind the dash, usually loudest when the climate system is turned on or the temperature is changed. A failed blend actuator leaves the temperature… Repairs typically run $80-$350. Severity: low.
What is the 2007-2018 Nissan Altima P0128 — Coolant Below Regulating Temperature from Thermostat Stuck Open?
On the Altima, P0128 sets when the ECM sees that engine coolant fails to reach its target operating temperature (roughly 180-200F) within the expected time/warm-up cycle. The overwhelming Altima-specific cause is a thermostat stuck open (or a thermostat that opens too early), whi… Repairs typically run $180-$550. Severity: low.
