2003 Nissan Altima

The 2003 Nissan Altima was a popular mid-size sedan known for its sporty handling and relatively spacious interior. It came with a few engine options including a 2.5L inline-4 cylinder engine producing around 175 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 engine producing around 240 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. The available transmissions were either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic (with the 2.5L) or a 5-speed automatic (with the 3.5L). Many owners appreciated the Altima’s styling and driving dynamics, while some common complaints revolved around premature component wear and certain reliability issues.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 (QR25DE)

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, reduced fuel economy, and potential for engine damage due to catalyst material being sucked back into the cylinders.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil levels, blue smoke from the exhaust, and the need to frequently add oil. Can lead to engine damage if not monitored.
  • Solution: Possible piston ring replacement or engine rebuild, depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Pre-Cat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The pre-catalytic converter (integrated into the exhaust manifold) can break down, sending debris into the engine and causing severe damage, including scored cylinder walls.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold (with integrated pre-cat) and potential engine repair or replacement if damage has occurred.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+, depending on the extent of engine damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level. Common leak locations include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per gasket.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to timing chain failure and severe engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (RE4F04A - 2.5L Models)

• Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, and harsh or jerky shifts.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for fluid flush, $200 - $600+ for solenoid replacement, $1500 - $3500+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (RE5F22A - 3.5L Models)

• Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, and harsh or jerky shifts.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for fluid flush, $200 - $600+ for solenoid replacement, $1500 - $3500+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during turns, and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per link.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light on, difficulty starting the car, and potential for complete electrical failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor/Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, rough idling, and check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Rear Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the lower body panels, especially near the rear wheels.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, patching, and painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel, depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dash Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ for a cover, $800 - $2000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Nissan Altima, while generally a decent car, has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine problems, particularly with the 2.5L engine (catalytic converter, oil consumption), can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, suspension wear, and electrical problems are also common. Rust can be a significant concern in certain climates. The severity and cost of repairs can vary depending on the vehicle’s condition and maintenance history. Due to the age of the vehicle, finding well-maintained examples and performing a thorough inspection before purchasing are essential.