2004 Nissan Altima

Introduction:

The 2004 Nissan Altima is a midsize sedan that was popular for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reliable performance. It was available with various engine and transmission options, including a 2.5L 4-cylinder, a 3.5L V6, and a 4-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission. Some of the strengths of the Altima include its fuel efficiency, affordability, and user-friendly technology. However, like any vehicle, it has some reported issues that owners have encountered.

Engine

2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leakage from the intake manifold area, causing overheating and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption Issue:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the piston rings or oil control rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Engine

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy operation of the engine at startup, potential loss of power or engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken or loose exhaust manifold bolts, leading to exhaust leaks and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping or Hesitation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slippage or hesitation during gear changes, difficulty accelerating smoothly.
  • Solution: Flushing and replacement of transmission fluid and filter, or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Grinding Noises:
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noises when shifting into or out of gears, difficulty shifting smoothly.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of synchronizers or shift forks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged strut mounts, causing noise, vibration, and decreased ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Deteriorated control arm bushings, leading to alignment issues, uneven tire wear, and reduced handling stability.
  • Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning alternator, leading to insufficient charging of the battery, electrical component issues, and potential engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Window glass becoming stuck, unable to move up or down smoothly, or falling out of the window channel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator motor or regulator assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Accumulation of moisture or condensation inside the headlight assemblies, impairing visibility.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning climate control system, resulting in ineffective heating or cooling, or excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of climate control components, such as the blower motor, compressor, or expansion valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Nissan Altima has generally been known for its reliability and practicality. However, like any vehicle, it has some potential issues that owners may encounter. The majority of the issues reported are related to engine components, transmission functionality, and suspension wear. Although the severity and cost of these issues can vary, it is important to be aware of them when considering the purchase or maintenance of a 2004 Nissan Altima. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these potential issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.