2001 Nissan Altima

The 2001 Nissan Altima marked a significant shift for the model, moving from a compact to a mid-size sedan. Engine options included a 2.4-liter inline-4 (KA24DE) producing around 150 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 (VQ35DE) producing 240 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated the Altima’s sporty handling and comfortable ride for the time. Common dislikes often centered around interior plastic quality and some reliability concerns as the vehicle aged.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 (KA24DE)

• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, or complete failure to start. Symptoms can be intermittent.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and/or rear main seal. Visible oil on the engine or ground, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (depending on location and severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

• Pre-Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, poor performance, and a check engine light with codes related to catalytic converter inefficiency. The pre-cats can disintegrate and cause damage to the main catalytic converter and even the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the pre-catalytic converters and potentially the main catalytic converter. In severe cases, engine repair may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (depending on extent of damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable decrease in oil level between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust pipe.
  • Solution: The fix varies, and could range from valve stem seals to piston rings. In severe cases, engine replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (depending on the cause and repair needed)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifting between gears, transmission slipping during acceleration.
  • Solution: Could range from a fluid change and filter replacement to a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2500+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and visible leaks from the struts or shocks.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for all four corners)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the worn sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow cranking, battery warning light on the dashboard, and eventual inability to start the car.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not going up or down, slow window operation, clicking sound from the door panel when attempting to operate the window.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and underbody.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard material, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Window Regulator
  • Description/Symptoms: Window falls into door
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Nissan Altima can be a decent car, but potential buyers should be aware of potential issues. The V6 engine, while offering more power, has a higher risk of catalytic converter failure and oil consumption. The automatic transmission can also present problems as the vehicle ages. Rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters, can be a significant concern. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like engine or transmission work, can be costly.