1995 Nissan Altima SE 2.4 DOHC 4 cylinder KA24DE from North America
Summary:
Unbeatable value and quality for the price
Faults:
Left front axle and output shaft seal.
Transmission at 217000.
General Comments:
My uncle bought this car new, and kept all the service history, which he gave to me when he sold me the car in July 2011. It has been a very good car for him, and so far for me.
The interior is nearly unscathed, despite over 200k miles (steering wheel is wearing and the leather shift knob is worn through). Also a hole has been worn in the carpet from constant scuffing (from using the clutch pedal).
The car is very well built, and is still almost all original.
The following is the list of things this car has needed over the years:
One starter at 120k.
Alternator at 140k.
First tuneup at 180k (oil changes every 6000 miles).
New flex pipe on original exhaust at 208k.
Original clutch made it to 216k.
I did have to replace the trans with a good used one (the oil was never changed, and the input shaft bearing was worn). It still never broke down, I just had to replace it before it stranded me.
Brake rotors are still original, and it's looking like the brake pads will last nearly 60k.
Rear brakes lasted 150k.
The one drawback is body rust. It's not going to last much longer, it has terminal rust (rad support, floor, quarter panels and strut towers). It's a shame, because the engine still purrs like new, and I still get 32MPG (and I drive 90mph on the highway).
It still only uses 1/2qt oil every 6000 miles, most of that out a leaky valve cover.
The body is a bit beat up, but it's held up well to repeated assaults from careless parkers, and most lately, a deer impact at 60mph.
I am going to keep my Altima till the body rots off around me. Great automobile. Alas, Nissan decided to drop the manual trans option, so when it comes time to replace this one, I will have to shop used.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 4th June, 2012
8th Aug 2008, 14:05
Great review! I was thinking of buying an '85 Altima and he convinced me it would be okay.