How Long Do Nissan Altimas Last?

When buying a car, one of the first things you should consider is its longevity.

You want the best for yourself and your family, so you drive a vehicle with fewer problems, which can last a long time.

Since its introduction in 1992, the Nissan Altima has earned a reputation for being a dependable car, and it competes with several other models.

However, if you are wondering about one question; how long do Nissan Altimas last?

This may change for you for various reasons, but the life expectancy of this car is estimated to be between 200,000 and 300,000 miles.

It can also survive longer than 300,000 miles. This is a fantastic feature of this sedan.

Now, in this post, I’ll go over the Nissan Altima’s life expectancy compared to other vehicles comparable to it and its auto parts so don’t skip out and make sure you read to the end.

What Is The Average Life Expectancy Of A Nissan Altima?

As I previously stated, the Nissan Altima has a total mileage range of 200,000 to 300,000 miles, which corresponds to more than 20 years of service before it begins to have functioning issues and becomes difficult to drive around.

Now you might be wondering what could conceivably be the reason behind this.

Well, this is mainly because once the vehicle exceeds its life expectancy, it is more likely to have various issues that would require expensive repairs and replacements, more frequently than in the past, and that can be quite difficult for various people to handle.

The vehicle becomes burdensome as the problems keep occurring, especially at the least expected time.

Maintaining the car regularly is the first thing an expert would suggest to car owners.

In this article, I will be discussing how you can prolong the life of this vehicle and its parts so you can have the best driving experience for a long period.

Does Nissan Altima Last Longer Than Other Similar Vehicles?

As you already know, the Nissan Altima already has the best life expectancy rate.

Still, it is also quite famous for being one of the most reliable, comfortable, and high-performing vehicles in its class.

However, you can say this for a lot of vehicles in the same category as the Nissan Altima.

Nonetheless, it is still worth mentioning that according to the J.D. Power website, this vehicle received excellent and better ratings for quality along with reliability compared to other similar vehicles.

That’s not all! Looking through various car experts’ websites, they have compiled data and reports on this vehicle that stand by the statement of being a reliable midsize sedan.

It is also a family-friendly vehicle and received excellent reviews from people who own it.

Plus, as you know that it can last longer than 300,000 miles, which is a major sign to consider and compare with other vehicles.

However, it is best to compare it with certain similar vehicles so you can get the answers to your curiosity. So without further ado, let’s get into it!

1. Nissan Altima Vs. Honda Accord

Before I start by comparing the two, it is worth noting that many car experts find the Honda Accord as a rival of the Nissan Altima because of the similarities the two shares.

But here, I will be comparing both of them with all the elements in better detail, so you have a clear understanding.

So let’s see which car lasts longer than the other:

• The Nissan Altima and Honda Accord are both said to be equal in performance aspects.
• The Nissan Altima has better reliability and quality ratings than the Honda Accord.
• The Honda Accord has more complaints than the Nissan Altima.

Comparing the two shows how Nissan Altima is more reliable than Honda Accord even though they both deliver the same performance.

It is mainly because of the two factors; complaints and reliability ratings by various sites.

Related: How Long Will A Honda Accord Last?

2. Nissan Altima Vs. Toyota Camry

Now coming over to the second vehicle, I will be comparing the Nissan Altima with the Toyota Camry, including all the important factors.

Do keep in mind that Toyota Camry is another popular vehicle in the midsize sedan lineup.

So let’s see which one last longer:

• The Toyota Camry has a longer life expectancy than the Nissan Altima.
• The Nissan Altima and the Toyota Camry both have the same scores for reliability and safety.
• The Nissan Altima has far more complaints than the Toyota Camry.

Looking at the longer lifespan and fewer complaints of the Toyota Camry indicates that it is a better vehicle to own despite the fact the Nissan Altima has the same reliability and safety scores as the Toyota Camry.

Related: What Is The Life Expectancy Of A Toyota Camry?

3. Nissan Altima Vs. Chevrolet Malibu

Now I will be comparing the Nissan Altima with the Chevrolet Malibu. Keep in mind that Malibu is also a fun and comfortable midsize sedan to drive in.

So with that being said, let’s see which one is more reliable:

• The Nissan Altima has a greater life expectancy than the Chevrolet Malibu.
• The Nissan Altima also has far better reliability scores than the Chevrolet Malibu.
• The Chevrolet Malibu has a lot more complaints than the Nissan Altima.

This, without a doubt, shows that the Nissan Altima is a better midsize sedan than the Chevrolet Malibu because it has better results in all three aspects which are; lifespan, reliability scores, and complaints.

It is worth mentioning that even though Malibu is also a midsize sedan, it still has a shorter mileage than the Altima, which is only around 150,000 miles to 200,000 miles.

Related: How Long Does A Chevy Malibu Last?

Life Expectancy Of Nissan Altima Car Parts

As you know, every vehicle is equipped with various types of car parts to run smoothly and comfortably at all times.

Some of the car parts can be expensive and are far more important than the others, whereas some can be difficult to find and replace because of the scarcity of resources.

However, it is worth noting that the life expectancy of your car parts mainly relies on how well you maintain them. But it also depends on how you drive your car daily.

This is because your car parts are likely to wear and tear throughout their lifespan.

It is your responsibility to provide regular maintenance for their longevity, so it will require fewer repairs and replacements.

Nevertheless, knowing about the life expectancy of the Nissan Altima car parts will help you have a better idea about them to prepare yourself beforehand and fix the issue before it gets out of control.

With that being said, below, I will be discussing in further detail the most important car parts of the Nissan Altima, what their life expectancy is as well as what you can do to boost the lifespan of each component.

Average Lifespan Of Nissan Altima Brake Pads

Starting with the Nissan Altima’s brake pads, it is said that the average lifespan of them is around 30,000 miles up to 70,000 miles, which also equates to around two to seven years.

However, you need to note that this mainly depends on how well you drive your car and how well you maintain it.

Besides that, the annual repair cost or replacement cost for this car part is between $150 to $300 per axle and the type of brake pads you are purchasing, with the labor cost included.

Moreover, you must provide regular maintenance on the brake pads after getting the new ones and clean the brakes and the discs yourself regularly.

Make sure you replace them quickly once you notice they’re wearing out. Make sure to check for leaks before and after driving the vehicle.

Also, brake pads with less friction will be better for you if you are a heavy driver because they can reduce the chances of the brakes wearing out too soon.

Other than that, heat-resistant and anti-lock brakes are also better options though they can be quite costly.

Average Lifespan Of Nissan Altima Battery

The battery of the Nissan Altima is said to last for around three to five years of usage.

However, the battery life mainly depends on your driving habits, the weather conditions of the place you reside, the type of battery you use, how you shelter the vehicle, and how regular you maintain it.

Changing the battery usually comes when the battery voltage is low and it isn’t operating efficiently anymore.

It is also worth mentioning that the greater the Amp-hours are, the higher the price you will have to pay for the battery.

Other than that, signs like leaking fluids, the fluid levels being low, corrosion in the battery, battery engine lights illuminating or delay in the engine crank are why you must change the battery right away.

To increase the life of your battery, you must make sure to always turn off the car completely, do not leave the radio on for too long, especially when the engine is not running as well, and shut the doors completely.

Average Lifespan Of Nissan Altima Tires

When it comes to the tires of the Nissan Altima it is said to last around 50,000 miles up to 60,000 miles, which is approximately three to five years of service.

But do keep in mind that factors like what type of tire you purchase, terrain, drivetrain, the conditions of the road, tread wear, and how you drive the vehicle matter a lot and can affect the lifespan of the tires.

To sustain the tire’s life longer, you must clean them regularly because they are likely to get grime, dirt, mud etc. to get on them, which can cause them to wear out quickly.

Other than that, driving carefully in harsh road conditions, not overloading the car, and avoiding the use of soap while washing the tires can all increase the life of the tires.

Just be sure to go for regular maintenance so they can last for a long period.

Average Lifespan Of Nissan Altima Transmission

The Nissan Altima’s average lifespan is around 90,000 miles up to 100,000 miles, which also correlates to around seven to eight years of service.

However, this can also vary because it mainly depends on the vehicle’s maintenance and the services required for the transmission system to work properly.

Speaking of the services, the transmission system comes with various things such as a transmission filter, transmission fluid, and transmission flush.

It is worth noting that the cost of services for these things can be around $100 to $200.

But if you plan to replace the transmission altogether with a new one, that can cost around $4000 to $6000.

To boost the life of the transmission, you must avoid harsh weather conditions like too hot or too cold, always check the fluid levels, make sure to not take any harsh shifts as well as breaks, especially with the CVT and provide regular maintenance going to the mechanics.

Average Lifespan Of Nissan Altima Spark Plugs

The spark plugs are an important component of the vehicle to have the best acceleration and less emission.

Generally, the average lifespan of the Nissan Altima’s spark plugs is announced to last up to 100,000 miles or more in some cases.

However, this also mainly depends on how well you maintain them. If you notice any wear and tear in the spark plugs, make sure to change them immediately.

If you clean the plugs with a dry fabric regularly when not using the vehicle can make them last longer.

Besides that, if you notice signs like cracks or dents or are dirty, then it is time to replace them because they will not start the engine.

Average Lifespan Of Nissan Altima Key Fob

The Nissan Altima’s key fob has a battery inside it which makes it usable.

The battery lasts around two to three years long for a smart key fob. However, it will last for four to six years in a regular key fob.

When the battery is low, the transmitter also forfeits its spectrum most of the time.

Keep in mind that the life of the key fob mainly depends on the type of battery you use. You can get it replaced easily by yourself or go to a dealer and get it done for you.

What Is Good Mileage For A Used Nissan Altima?

For a midsize sedan, the good mileage like the Nissan Altima has between 200,000 miles to 300,000 miles is considered pretty high.

But when it comes to a used Nissan Altima, the good average mileage is said to be between 150,000 miles to 200,000 miles.

However, the mileage of a used car can vary due to the road conditions it was driven on.

But if you are in the market looking for a Nissan Altima, then the good mileage has to be between 150,000 to 200,000 miles.

It will also be less likely to have any issues during that period, but gradually the problems will grow when it exceeds the mileage.

How To Increase How Long Your Nissan Altima Last

There are various ways you can make the Nissan Altima last for a long period. But it is important to follow these habits regularly to see efficient results.

• Better use less friction or antilock brake pads.
• Clean and avoid overloading and driving in harsh road conditions.
• Provide regular transmission system services such as changing the fluids.
• Go to the car expert regularly for a maintenance check.
• Check the voltage of the battery regularly.
• Make sure to change the components before nearing expiry time.

There you have it; when you start following these steps, I can guarantee you that your Altima will have an increased lifespan.

Problems That Limit The Life Of Your Nissan Altima

As you may know that one way or another, cars will start to have issues, whether in the early stages of driving or later after exceeding the life expectancy.

But learning about these problems can prepare you beforehand, so here are some Nissan Altima problems:

• Hood latch failure.
• Automatic emergency braking issues.
• Faulty CVT transmission.
• Leaking gasket.
• Delayed throttle response.
• Rusting and corrosion problems.

The problems I’ve mentioned are the most common ones that can have a huge impact on the life of the Nissan Altima.

If these issues get any serious, especially transmission problems then it will be difficult to accelerate.

Related: Nissan Altima Starting Problems

What To Look For When Buying A Nissan Altima

There are certain things that you must look for in the Nissan Altima before buying so you know that you are investing in a reliable vehicle.

Some include:

• Look at the model years that have the least problems.
• The lifespan of the tires.
• How old is the engine.
• Service history.
• Damages if buying a used car.
• Type of warranty coverage.

There are some more things that you must look into, but it is worth mentioning that you should avoid purchasing 2002, 2005, 2009, 2013 and 2016 model years as they have the most problems, and we’re given the worst model years title.

Related: Best And Worst Years For Nissan Altima

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is The Nissan Altima A Reliable Car?

According to various websites, the Nissan Altima is a reliable vehicle considering its high lifespan and mileage.

The safety rating of this car is also pretty high, plus you will also get a lot of great features in this car, so it is a worth-have.

Q2. Does Nissan Altima Have A Lot Of Problems?

Like other cars, the Nissan Altima also has various issues in a lot of its model years.

Most commonly in the 2002 model, it has over 3000 complaints and is quite expensive when it comes to fix the problems of this model.

Q3. Is It A Good Idea To Buy A Used Nissan Altima?

Yes, buying a used Nissan Altima is a good idea because they are known for holding their value and are said to be moderately reliable, especially when you maintain it well.

Just be sure to avoid the 2002 model because it has the highest number of complaints and problems.

Q4. Does Nissan Altima Rust Easily?

Yes, the rusting issues are commonly found on the Nissan Altima 2002 until 2006 model. The next-generation models did not have any problems at all.

To avoid this problem from happening, be sure to keep your car away from high temperatures.

Q5. Is Nissan Altima Expensive To Maintain?

The average maintenance and repairs cost for Nissan Altima is around $5561, which is for the first ten years of service.

This exceeds the industry cost by $1278 for the famous midsize sedan models.

Conclusion

The Nissan Altima is one of the most reliable midsize sedans in the market and a worth investing vehicle.

So this just answers the question of how long do Nissan Altimas last. You can get around 200,000 up to 300,000 miles easily on it.

Moreover, according to various drivers, this vehicle is also capable of exceeding 300,000 miles on the odometer. Though this mainly depends on how well you maintain and care for it.

So be sure to try the methods I have mentioned in the article above as they will be beneficial for you in the long run.