2008 Nissan Altima

The 2008 Nissan Altima offered a blend of practicality and style, making it a popular choice for consumers. Available engines included a 2.5L inline-4 producing 175 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 outputting 270 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 6-speed manual (limited availability) and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Owners often praised the Altima for its fuel efficiency (especially with the 2.5L engine), comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Common dislikes included concerns about the CVT reliability, build quality, and some of the cheaper interior materials.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust might also be present.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings could resolve the issue. In more severe cases, engine replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated with codes related to catalytic converter inefficiency. Possible rattling noise from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise, especially on startup. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to timing issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioner, and potentially the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Both Engine Options)

• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping, hesitation, jerking, or complete failure of the transmission. Warning lights may illuminate.
  • Solution: CVT Fluid Exchange, and if failure is apparent, CVT replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can also lead to uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Airbag Warning Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the issue, which could range from a faulty clock spring to a defective sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: Recall # 08V522000 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING Description: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE WIPER MOTOR MAY EXPERIENCE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT DUE TO WATER INTRUSION. Remedy: DEALERS WILL RELOCATE THE WIPER MOTOR CONNECTOR AND INSTALL A COVER ON THE WIPER MOTOR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING OCTOBER 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261. Notes: NISSAN RECALL NO. R8012. CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rear wheel arches.
  • Solution: Repairing and repainting the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Nissan Altima, while generally reliable, has some notable issues. The most concerning is the potential for CVT failure, which can be expensive to repair. Engine issues, such as excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L and timing chain problems in the 3.5L, also contribute to higher running costs. Suspension and electrical problems are less severe but should still be considered. Overall, the Altima is a decent vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their purchase decision and maintenance budget.