The Nissan Altima is an appealing choice for shoppers who want a comfortable midsize sedan with good fuel economy, available all-wheel drive, and plenty of everyday practicality. Depending on the model year and trim, used Altima models can also offer turbocharged performance, modern driver-assistance technology, and upscale convenience features without the price of a new sedan.
Key Takeaways
- Used Nissan Altima models combine roomy seating, strong fuel economy, and everyday comfort in an affordable midsize sedan package.
- Available all-wheel drive makes certain Altima model years particularly attractive to shoppers who want additional all-weather capability.
- Newer Altima generations offer increasingly advanced safety, connectivity, and convenience technology across a wide selection of trim levels.
Is a Used Nissan Altima a Good Car?
A used Nissan Altima can be a strong budget-friendly sedan, especially for buyers who prioritize comfort, fuel economy, and a lower purchase price than comparable Honda Accord or Toyota Camry models. Later examples, particularly 2019 and newer sixth-generation Altimas, offer improved styling, available all-wheel drive, modern safety technology, and Nissan's comfortable Zero Gravity seats. Well-maintained 2015-2018 models can also represent good value, although service history becomes more important as mileage climbs.
The biggest concern is the Xtronic CVT, particularly on 2013-2016 Altimas, which developed a reputation for shuddering, slipping, overheating, and premature failure. Buyers should verify regular CVT fluid servicing and test-drive the car carefully for hesitation or unusual transmission behavior. Older Altimas also tend to depreciate faster than their Japanese rivals, and lower trims can have less impressive interior materials. For the safest used purchase, focus on 2019-2025 models with documented maintenance records and have the transmission inspected before buying.
| What to Compare |
Used Nissan Altima |
| Vehicle Class |
Midsize sedan |
| Best Generation to Consider |
Sixth generation (2019-2025), particularly later 2022-2024 examples |
| Best Budget Alternative |
Later fifth-generation models, especially 2017-2018 with documented maintenance |
| Years Requiring Extra Caution |
2013-2015 models due primarily to a greater history of Xtronic CVT complaints |
| Common Engine |
Naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines provide the mainstream balance of efficiency and everyday performance |
| Performance Option |
Certain sixth-generation models offer Nissan's turbocharged VC-Turbo engine for stronger acceleration |
| Transmission |
Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) |
| Major Reliability Concern |
CVT shuddering, hesitation, overheating, slipping, or premature failure, particularly on some older fifth-generation cars |
| CVT Inspection |
Check transmission service records and carefully test acceleration from a stop, low-speed behavior, and highway operation |
| All-Wheel Drive |
Available on certain sixth-generation Altimas, giving the sedan an uncommon all-weather advantage within its segment |
| Fuel Economy |
Generally a strength, particularly with the standard four-cylinder and front-wheel-drive configuration |
| Interior Strengths |
Roomy seating, comfortable ride quality, and available Nissan Zero Gravity front seats |
| Connectivity |
Newer examples offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with equipment varying by year and trim |
| Safety Technology |
Later models can include Nissan Safety Shield 360 and available ProPILOT Assist |
| Older-Car Considerations |
Fourth-generation models now face age, mileage, wear, and earlier CVT technology in addition to ordinary used-car concerns |
| What to Inspect |
CVT behavior and service history, engine condition, suspension and brakes, electronics, tires, accident history, and outstanding recalls |
| Why Buy One? |
Comfortable and efficient midsize transportation with attractive used pricing and available AWD on newer examples |
| Best Buying Strategy |
Favor documented maintenance and a healthy CVT over simply choosing the lowest-mileage or cheapest Altima available |
Which Used Nissan Altima Generation Should You Buy?
The sixth-generation Nissan Altima is generally the best place to start when shopping used, with 2022-2024 models representing an especially appealing balance of age, features, and price. This generation offers available all-wheel drive, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available driver-assistance technology such as ProPILOT Assist and Nissan Safety Shield 360. Later examples also let buyers avoid many of the age-related concerns associated with older Altimas while still benefiting from used-car depreciation.
For shoppers on a tighter budget, the fifth-generation Altima (2013-2018) can cost considerably less, but model year matters. 2017 and 2018 models are preferable targets, particularly when accompanied by thorough maintenance records, while 2013-2015 Altimas warrant extra caution because of their history of CVT complaints.
The 2007-2012 fourth generation is harder to recommend as an everyday used purchase today due to its age, accumulated mileage, and early Xtronic CVT technology. Regardless of generation, a pre-purchase inspection and documented transmission maintenance are especially important when evaluating a used Altima.
Summary
Overall, the Nissan Altima is definitely one of the best models available for those looking to get themselves a sedan that packs on capability with a great price. Alan Jay All Star has a selection of Nissan Altimas that spans all sorts of model years, so whether you're looking for a budget base model or a more luxurious higher trim, we've got you more than covered!