2004 Nissan Altima 2.5 S review from North America

The transmission has been replaced once at 10,500 miles. First and second gears are being replaced again at 19,200 miles. The dash has started rattling and the trunk release works only intermittently.

This is a 2005 model purchased in 2004. I think this is one of the most beautiful cars on the road.

The gas mileage is does not come close to what is stated on the Monroney sticker. We rented a very similar Altima before we bought ours, and were quite pleased that it returned 34 miles per gallon in mixed driving. That was with an automatic! However, we return only 25 miles per gallon in mixed driving (should be returning 28) and we max out at 28 on Interstate only trips (we should be returning 31).

The trunk release, be it with the key fob or the release under the dash. The problem corrects itself when you insert the key into the ignition, turn it to the "on" position, and then push the release on the dash. It is very frustrating, especially with hands full of goods for the trunk. The dealer has been unable to duplicate the problem.

I saved the best for last. I was adamant that we buy a manual transmission vehicle. I prefer it. However, we had the transmission replaced at 10,500 miles or so. The car started exhibiting problems at around 4,000 miles, and got progressively worse. After 1,500 miles on the new tranny, first and second became notchy again. We reported it to the dealer that replaced the first transmission, but to no avail. We waited, and again, the problem got progressively worse. Some days, we could not even engage first or second gear. At times, after the gear had been selected, it would pop out on its own. So, we took it to another dealer in town, and they have admitted that first and second gear require replacement. This will commence next week. If the problem persists, we may be seeking arbitration based on lemon law statutes in our state.