Is the Nissan Altima Reliable?
2002–2026 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Nissan Altima? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Nissan Altima Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 2 | — | — | 84 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 1 | 7 | 11 | — | 84 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 0 | 31 | 7 | — | 84 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 0 | 16 | — | — | 84 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 0 | 31 | 5 | — | 84 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 1 | 60 | 5 | — | 84 | Excellent |
| 2020 | 3 | 141 | 8 | — | 74 | Good |
| 2019 | 1 | 187 | 9 | — | 69 | Good |
| 2018 | 0 | 165 | 1 | — | 74 | Good |
| 2017 | 0 | 251 | 18 | — | 60 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Altima Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Altima scores 2 points above the average sedan — a strong result.
Known Nissan Altima Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 891 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nissan Altima reliable?+
The Nissan Altima scores 74/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 6 recall campaigns and 891 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Altima is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2026 Altima achieved the highest reliability score of 84/100 with 0 recalls and 2 complaints.
How many miles does a Altima last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Nissan Altima owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Altima will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Nissan Altima Research
Check a Specific Nissan Altima VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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