1993 Nissan Altima SE review from North America
"Viva la Nissan"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Had to replace a fuel injector at 130K. At the same time also did a tune up and brake pads.
The seat belts were not retracting properly. Took the car back (10yrs old and 140K) to the dealer, and the belts were replaced under warranty.
General comments?
I was originally looking for a 90-93 Accord EX. While searching for one I ran across this Altima, it had all the same options that you would find in the EX Accord. I had test drove many of those, and thought I might as well see what the "Alty" had to offer. After driving the vehicle for five miles, and doing some research I realized that this was to be my next car. This is a fun car to drive; it has power, and the ability to control it. I enjoy the way this car handles just as much as my uncles SAAB.
With the KA24DE under the hood, a 2.4L DOHC engine, this car has great pickup and go, while keeping good gas mileage. With a gallon of petro, I average around 32 miles on the highway and 26ish in the city. The best I have got out of her was 37 MPG and the worst was around 20, which was immediately before I replaced the injector.
Having grown up in Minneapolis, I have seen plenty of rusty cars. One thing that I have not seen however is a rusty Altima. My car being ten years old and having so many miles on her, I am constantly in awe of the lack of rust on the car, or tarnish on the alloy wheels. The choice to use higher quality steel is evident, and very worth while for a mid-western car.
The car seems to fog up easily, I need to try some Fog-X to see if that will help. My current way of dealing with the fog, is to crack the back edge of the moon roof.
I would definitely buy an Altima (or any Nissan) again. However, if I had my choice again, I would get a '94, they have manual instead of auto belts.
Despite 142k, in a month I will be driving from Minneapolis, to southern Florida. I have faith in this well built car.
Recommended reviews
| I love my car, it has been dependable and with upkeep, I think it will last a while longer |
| I don't think there is a better quality car for the money |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1993 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4 DOHC Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 124000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 142000 miles |
| Previous car | Dodge Dakota |
| Date of Entry | 18th February, 2003 |