Nissan's midsize Altima is available in both coupe and sedan body styles. The coupe's powertrain offerings are similar to the sedan's, but the coupe receives unique styling elements. Four-cylinder Altima sedans come in 2.5 or 2.5 S trim levels, while the 3.5 SE and 3.5 SL have V-6 ... Read Full Report
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Notable Features
You know those days as a mom that are so mundane it makes you want to rip your hair out just for the fun of it? That's what my two-and-a-half weeks in the 2009 Nissan Altima 2.5 S were like. It's not that there's anything inherently wrong with the Altima; it's functional and looks fine, but it's got no game. As a single mom, I'm definitely lacking in the game depar... Read full review for the 2009 Nissan Altima
This is my 1st new Nissan and it won't be my last. I now have 76,000 trouble free miles on this car and so far it has been more reliable that all 3 of my Honda's I've owned prior! I have nothing bad t... Read Full Review
Recalls
There are currently 4 recalls for this car.
Safety defects and recalls are relatively common. Stay informed and know what to do ahead of time.
Service & Repair
Bumper-to-Bumper
36mo/36,000mi
Powertrain
60mo/60,000mi
What you should get in your warranty can be confusing. Make sure you are informed.
Bumper-to-Bumper
Often called a basic warranty or new-vehicle warranty, a bumper-to-bumper policy covers components like air conditioning, audio systems, vehicle sensors, fuel systems and major electrical components. Most policies exclude regular maintenance like fluid top offs and oil changes, but a few brands have separate free-maintenance provisions, and those that do offer them is slowly rising. Bumper-to-bumper warranties typically expire faster than powertrain warranties.
Powertrain
Don't be misled a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty doesn't promise a decade of free repairs for your car. It typically covers just the engine and transmission, along with any other moving parts that lead to the wheels, like the driveshaft and constant velocity joints. Some automakers also bundle seat belts and airbags into their powertrain warranties. With a few exceptions, powertrain warranties don't cover regular maintenance like engine tuneups and tire rotations.
Roadside Assistance
Some automakers include roadside assistance with their bumper-to-bumper or powertrain warranties, while others have separate policies. These programs cover anything from flat-tire changes and locksmith services to jump-starts and towing. Few reimburse incidental costs like motel rooms (if you have to wait for repairs).
Free Scheduled Maintenance
Some automakers include free scheduled maintenance for items such as oil changes, air filters and tire rotations. Some include consumables including brake pads and windshield wipers; others do not. They are typically for the first couple of years of ownership of a new car.