1997 Nissan Altima

1997 Nissan Altima

The 1997 Nissan Altima is a mid-size sedan that was available with two engine options: a 2.4-liter inline-four and a 3.0-liter V6. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Altima was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and affordable price. However, it was criticized for its lack of power, especially with the four-cylinder engine.

Engine

2.4-liter Inline-Four

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold, which can lead to overheating and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: NHTSA ID Number: 01V108000
• Timing chain tensioner failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner fails, causing the timing chain to skip, which can lead to engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA ID Number: 01V039000

3.0-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift solenoid failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The shift solenoid fails, which can cause the transmission to slip or not shift properly.
  • Solution: Replace the shift solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut mount bearing failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The bearing in the strut mount fails, causing a clunking noise when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension arm bushing failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The bushings in the rear suspension arm fail, causing the suspension to become loose and unstable.
  • Solution: Replace the rear suspension arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, which can cause the battery to drain and the car to stall.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains prematurely, which can make it difficult to start the car.
  • Solution: Identify and fix the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail light assembly cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic housing of the tail light assembly cracks or breaks, allowing water and dirt to get inside.
  • Solution: Replace the tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power window failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window motor or switch fails, causing the window to become stuck in the up or down position.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC blower motor failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor in the HVAC system fails, resulting in a lack of air flow from the vents.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Nissan Altima has a number of potential issues, some of which can be quite costly to fix. The most common issues include intake manifold gasket failure, timing chain tensioner failure, shift solenoid failure, and strut mount bearing failure. While the Altima is a relatively reliable car, it is important to be aware of these potential problems before purchasing one.