GradeNissan Altima Reliability Grade
Above-average reliability
Grade a specific Nissan Altima
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Nissan Altima earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an A for its engine and a B for its transmission. It ranks 5th of 11 midsize cars we grade. The transmission (B) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 6,079 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Nissan Altima reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2000, 2001, 2004, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Nissan Altima last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Nissan Altima vs. other midsize cars
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | A | A- | A |
| Mazda Mazda6 | A- | A- | A- |
| Volkswagen Passat | B | A | A- |
| Nissan Maxima | A | B | A- |
| Nissan Altima | A | B | B+ |
| Honda Accord | B- | B+ | B- |
| Chrysler 200 | C+ | C+ | B- |
| Chevrolet Malibu | C+ | C | C+ |
| Kia Optima | F | C+ | C- |
| Hyundai Sonata | F | C | D |
| Ford Fusion | D | F | D |
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Rate your AltimaNissan Altima reliability FAQ
Is the Nissan Altima reliable?
Above-average reliability. The Nissan Altima earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an A for its engine and a B for its transmission. It ranks 5th of 11 midsize cars we grade. The transmission (B) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 6,079 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Nissan Altima last?
We estimate a well-maintained Nissan Altima lasts around 180,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Nissan Altima?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Nissan Altima model years are 2000, 2001, 2004, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
What Nissan Altima years should I avoid?
No Nissan Altima model year stands out as a problem year in NHTSA owner complaints.
Is the Nissan Altima transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Nissan Altima transmission a B (above-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Nissan Altima engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Nissan Altima engine an A (excellent reliability).