What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (1993–1997) Altima?

Front 3/4 view of a Nissan Altima

Altima owners have made 43 complaints about the 1993–1997 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 13th out of 54 Nissan generations in overall reliability, with some engine and electrical concerns.

Compare With Other Altima Generations

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

1st Generation (1993–1997) Altima Key Numbers

  1. 5 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 43 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 13th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 54 eligible generations.