2003 Nissan Altima
Summary:
I was advised not to buy one; look into a Toyota.
Faults:
I guess I should have kept track of all the dates and the mileage whenever a problem arose. All I can remember is that from the moment I drove off the dealership:
1) The check engine light has gone on and off to this day (a year later).
2) I've replaced two sensors, crankshaft position sensor (I believe) and camshaft.
3) I've replaced the battery twice.
There were other repairs that my dad has done for me that I completely forgot, and now I was told that I might need to replace the catalytic converter.
Its very sad how I completely fell in love with this car the moment I saw it (I bought it at 19 against everyone's wishes with a bank loan) and now I absolutely regret it. I have owned a '93 Honda Civic as well as a '95 Honda Accord before this, and would have to say that although I had problems with the Hondas, they were definitely not as annoying as this Nissan.
General Comments:
To me, the Altima is still one of the best looking mid-sized cars out there.
Its comfortable inside and spacious at the back.
The trunk is a good size.
Comfortable inside.
I however, would not purchase a Nissan again.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 4th December, 2008
3rd Aug 2012, 18:34
You should have replaced the cam and crank shaft position sensors, because that's why the car dies. Nissan engineering has crappy plastic square sensors that allow a bit of oil to leak through, and that contaminates the sensors. The car's computer gets confused from no signal and shuts off. That's what this one Nissan mechanic told me.
Auto Zone has the new redesigned cylindrical sensors made out of aluminum instead of cheap plastic. They cost $35 each, and the cam and crank shaft position sensors are the same part #. Weird huh?
Buy the parts yourself and have a garage install them for you, because the dealer wants about $400 to change them out.