2005 Nissan Altima

Introduction

The 2005 Nissan Altima is a mid-size sedan that offers a comfortable ride and plenty of features for a reasonable price. It is available with three different engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a hybrid powertrain. The four-cylinder engine produces 175 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 produces 240 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 198 horsepower. All three engines are paired with a standard five-speed manual transmission, but a four-speed automatic transmission is available as an option.

Engine

2.5-liter Four-Cylinder

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to slip and the engine to lose power. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, a loss of power, and an illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: The timing chain tensioner must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can leak, causing a loss of power and an increase in fuel consumption. Symptoms include a rough idle, a loss of power, and an illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: The intake manifold gasket must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5-liter V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The 3.5-liter V6 engine can consume excessive oil, especially at high mileage. Symptoms include a low oil level, a loss of power, and an illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: The engine may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The clutch can fail, causing the transmission to slip and the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include a burning smell, a loss of power, and a difficulty shifting gears.
  • Solution: The clutch must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission can fail, causing the vehicle to lose power or become stuck in gear. Symptoms include a slipping transmission, a loss of power, and an illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The front lower control arm bushings can fail, causing the suspension to become loose and the vehicle to handle poorly. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the front end, a loss of handling, and an illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: The front lower control arm bushings must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use. Symptoms include a dead battery, a loss of power, and an illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: The battery may need to be replaced, or the electrical system may need to be repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuators can fail, causing the doors to become stuck locked or unlocked. Symptoms include a difficulty opening or closing the doors, or an illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: The door lock actuators must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor can fail, causing the heating and cooling system to stop working. Symptoms include a lack of air flow from the vents, a burning smell, and an illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: The HVAC blower motor must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Nissan Altima is a reliable and affordable sedan, but it does have some potential issues. The most common issues are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of these issues can range from minor to major, and the cost to fix them can be significant. However, overall, the Altima is a good value for the money.