Faults:

During a light rain today, there was a leak on the passengers side floor, from up under the dash to the far right.

I have a friend with a 2008, and she has the same problem when taking her car through the automatic car wash. After 3 trips to the dealership, there was no solution.

I have an appointment in the morning. Hope I have better luck.

Faults:

I didn't own this car, but rented it while on a business trip from Baton Rouge, LA to Dallas, TX.

Car used oil like crazy!!!

Car was profusely smoking from engine bay upon return home, oil control valve cracked.

But the car got me home, and in my book that's all I can expect from a car that's having problems.

I would buy one if I was in the market.

General Comments:

I am a technician for the local Hyundai dealer here in town, and about 3-4 times a year I go to Dallas TX for training. Each time I go the rent me a car from the rental company named after the aircraft carrier (Big E).

The first time I went I received a 2.5L 2007 Nissan Altima with P.I.C. system (keyless start) I was greatly impressed with the car's handling and performance. The ride quality was a little rough, but I think that was more road conditions than the car's suspension. Fuel economy was great also (29-31 mpg).

The only problem I had was every time I filled up, I had no oil!! I called my rental agency and they just told me to fill it with oil and keep my receipt. No problem, after all I am a mechanic!!

All the time in Dallas the car did fine, but on my way home it started smoking pretty badly out of the engine compartment, and I found it was from the oil control valve (crack). But surprisingly no check engine light came on, I probably had a code in the system, but the ECM just didn't pop the light on. Even still, the car took me home without any other problems. Believe it or not, but that really impressed me. Many cars might have crapped out, but the little Altima sucked it up limped on in. If I were looking for a vehicle, I would definitely consider this car.

Faults:

Nothing went wrong with the car while I drove it, it was 100% reliable. It was even good to drive in the snow.

General Comments:

I had driven this car for a week as a rental. For a 4 cylinder engine, it had great power. As soon as you put your foot on the gas pedal, it would speed up in no time. I could not believe the car had a 4 cylinder engine. Great job Nissan.

The radio had decent sound, but not the best sound. The radio was modern and the controls were very easy to use. I like that.

The interior was nice, everything was modern. The one I drove had a black interior, which was a bonus.

The car had a push start. No key was required.

The car had really good brakes. The brakes stopped way better than my 2003 Impala brakes ever did (even when replaced).

The car did not have automatic headlights. I do not understand that. A base model 2003 Impala that has a bland interior and a tape player comes with automatic headlights. Why wouldn't Nissan put that feature in a nice car?

The seats were uncomfortable, not enough support. The seats need to go back farther. I am 6 feet 4 inches and I was really scrunched (no power seats). I fit into a base model 2003 Impala without power seats comfortably.

The car was also a little noisy. I have an 03 Impala and the ride is way quieter than the Nissan. Nissan should have thought about that.

Overall I liked the car. I would purchase one if I could fit. The car was modern and everything was up to date. Nissan did a good job with the Altima.