2002 Nissan Altima SE review from North America
"Fast, good looking, but happy not to own it any more"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Both front struts leaked, one at 60 000 km and one at 90 000 km. This should never have happened. Nissan offered to pay for one only after I complained to the President after the second one leaked.
The front wheel bearing needed replacement at 100 000 km. If it was a North American car, I would have expected this, but not on a Japanese car.
Of course the Mass Air Flow Sensor also had to be replaced, and the rear sub-frame. Both essentially done as recalls.
Other than the above points however, the car was a good car for the 90 000 km or so that I drove it.
General comments?
The car really rips. It's a ton of fun to drive with the standard transmission. Leather heated seats, sun roof etc... The car was really nicely equipped, very luxurious and sporty at the same time. A nice combination.
I found the car to be a little noisy with the odd clunk and rattle here and there. These things never inspired a lot of confidence in the overall fit and finish, although I admit it was just a hunch and not something that ever came to prove itself as a concern.
I probably wouldn't buy another one. I'm just not convinced it's as good as an Accord or Camry.
Recommended reviews
| Pretty car, but it's a lemon |
|
| A few problems, but very reliable |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 2002 |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.5L Manual |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 32000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 122000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 1st June, 2008 |