1994 Nissan Altima GXE 2.4 liter inline 4 from North America

Summary:

Easy to own

Faults:

1998: The cam angle sensor failed causing the engine to die. Cost of repair was $600.

1999: The cam angle sensor failed again. Cost of repair was an additional $600.

1999: The plastic radiator top started to crack. The entire radiator unit was replaced with an after market lex an unit that has a lifetime warranty. Cost of $150.

2001: Both half shafts were replaced by 130,000 miles. This is normal wear and tear for all front wheel drive cars.

Three hubcaps have been replaced over time of ownership. Cost of $50 a piece.

General Comments:

The Nissan Altima is a very reliable car, especially when all maintenance required is performed on time.

No performance loss has been noticed over the time of ownership. The engine is still strong and eager, and the transmission's tall gearing, and locking torque converter make it excellent for highway commuting.

Handling is tight and the steering is fast to respond. The heavy center feel makes it easy to cruise in a straight line, and it communicates lateral force well in the turns. However, some tail swag occurs in situations requiring switchback steering. This is not a sports car. It is a predictable and confident daily driver.

The fuel economy is decent with an average of 29 miles per gallon.

The interior is high quality, with a tight fit and finish. This stands out when compared to Toyota and Honda products made in 1994.

The exterior does not rust, if you remember to wash and clean the under-body, wheel wells, door jambs, and sills weekly, and wax it at least twice a year.

This car is a joy to own, especially considering the reliability and low cost of operation. It is a car that everyone would enjoy living with.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th January, 2003

1994 Nissan Altima GXE 2.4 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

Could be one of the best built cars ever made!

Faults:

Alternator.

Exhaust.

Brakes.

Belts.

AC/Heat only work on high (145,000)

Paint starting to fade in 2003.

General Comments:

These are great looking, great driving and super low maintenance cars. The above mentioned represents the only problems I have had with this automobile in 7 years and through 120,000 miles.

This car steers responsive and reacts responsive.

The only thing this vehicle lacked up till the new models has been power. At 120 - 140 HP the car is just a little less than potent even though it is hot off the line. Not a real sacrifice at this price point.

The back seat also leaves a little to be desired in leg room, but so many do.

All in all this is a great car that still resides in my driveway and has earned itself a new paint job for being so darn reliable.

If you find one of these with low miles, buy it!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th November, 2002

18th Feb 2004, 12:39

Dude, you are right about MOST of the stuff that you said...

I'll give you that. However, one thing that you weren't actually correct about is the 1994 Nissan Altima GXE comes from the factory with 150 HP. Not 140 or 130.

The altima is SO much faster than other cars in it's class or even for its time. It has a 2.4 liter... Hondas generally comes with like a 1.7...

It takes off a lot quicker than plenty of vehicles... I know. I raced my Altima against 4 cars in a row, and beat them all like nothing off the line. So, all that I ask is if you want to talk about your car, then do it right and well. thanks.

1994 Nissan Altima GXE 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

A great first car

Faults:

The CV joints were replaced.

The cruise control quit at 51,000 miles.

Front grill/bumper paint chip and fade.

Hubcaps are prone to fall off. They also chip horribly.

General Comments:

Over all this is an excellent car. This is my first car and it has behaved very well. From a complete stop, the car is modestly quick, it also corners great, and stops on a dime. It rolls at 85 mph effortlessly. If Nissan did as well of a job on the newer Altimas, I'd definitely consider purchasing another.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th August, 2002

20th Apr 2003, 22:33

I drive a 1994 Nissan Altima. My car has been great. I bought it used in 1997 and have only had typical repairs. New Starter and Alternator, New Tires, New Brakes. This car drives like a champ and is always reliable. I would happily buy another Nissan. My previous car was a Honda Accord.

21st Jul 2004, 14:31

I bought it used with about 62,000 miles on it and currently have 152,000 miles on it. I have changed the alternator, starter, axles and cv joints, but beyond that it has been routine maintenance. My experience has been positive. My experience has been consistent with what has been mentioned. Hub caps are prone to falling off and paint chips on the bumpers.