1999 Nissan Altima

Introduction:

The 1999 Nissan Altima is a midsize sedan that offers a comfortable and reliable driving experience. It is powered by a choice of three engines: a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with 155 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0-liter V6 with 190 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, and a high-performance 3.5-liter V6 with 240 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Altima is known for its spacious interior, responsive handling, and affordable price. However, it has also been reported to have some common issues.

Engine

2.4-liter 4-cylinder

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil or coolant leak, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or clicking noise from the engine, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace timing chain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-liter V6

• No Issues Found

3.5-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

4-speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut mount failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from front suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shock absorber failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable rear suspension, excessive body roll
  • Solution: Replace rear shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting the car
  • Solution: Inspect electrical system for parasitic draw
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, flickering dashboard, difficulty starting the car
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Body panel rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots appearing on body panels, especially around wheel wells and door seams
  • Solution: Repair or replace affected body panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Trunk lid latch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Trunk lid pops open unexpectedly
  • Solution: Replace trunk lid latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power window switch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not work, intermittent window operation
  • Solution: Replace power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard, especially in hot climates
  • Solution: Replace dashboard or apply a dashboard cover
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1999 Nissan Altima has various issues that range from minor to major. The most common issues are transmission slipping, torque converter failure, intake manifold gasket failure, and timing chain noise. While the issues can be costly to fix, the Altima is still a reliable and affordable midsize sedan. Owners should be aware of these potential issues and consider preventative maintenance to avoid them.