2004 Nissan Altima

The 2004 Nissan Altima was a popular mid-size sedan known for its sporty handling and comfortable ride. Engine options included a 2.5L inline-4 producing 175 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque and a 3.5L V6 producing 245 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Transmissions included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic (2.5L) or a 5-speed automatic (3.5L). Owners generally appreciated the Altima’s fuel efficiency (with the 2.5L), spacious interior, and stylish design. Common dislikes included issues with reliability, particularly concerning the catalytic converter and rust problems.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (usually with codes P0420 or P0430), reduced fuel economy, decreased engine performance, sulfur smell from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Pre-Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, decreased engine performance, and potential damage to the engine if debris from the pre-cat is sucked back into the cylinders.
  • Solution: Replacement of the pre-catalytic converter and inspection of the engine for any damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs, blue smoke from the exhaust, especially upon start-up or acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, piston ring replacement or engine rebuild might be necessary. In other cases, switching to a thicker oil may alleviate symptoms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs, blue smoke from the exhaust, especially upon start-up or acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, piston ring replacement or engine rebuild might be necessary. In other cases, switching to a thicker oil may alleviate symptoms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on start-up, check engine light illuminated (potential codes related to timing).
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (2.5L)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping between gears, harsh or jerky shifts, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, potential valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (3.5L)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping between gears, harsh or jerky shifts, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, potential valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps, excessive body roll during cornering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Subframe Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise from rear of vehicle, loss of control.
  • Solution: Repair or Replacement of the rear subframe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light illuminated, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the engine, stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Grounding Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical problems, including intermittent starting problems, flickering lights, and malfunctioning sensors.
  • Solution: Cleaning and tightening ground connections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on body panels, especially around wheel wells, door edges, and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, patching, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning blowing warm air.
  • Solution: Recharge the AC system, replace the compressor or other component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Nissan Altima, while appreciated for its style and handling, suffers from a number of reliability issues. Engine problems, particularly excessive oil consumption and catalytic converter failure, are relatively common and can be costly. Transmission problems, rust, and electrical issues also plague the vehicle. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential repair costs.