1993-1997 Nissan Altima: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Nissan Altima includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Nissan Altima .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
Weak or failed A/C may be due to internal problem with evaporator or to debris in the expansion valve. (1993-97)
Air conditioner:
Poor air-conditioner performance may be caused by a refrigerant leak at the compressor-joint connector and is fixed by replacing the O-ring. (1993-95)
Automatic transmission:
If the gauges quit working, the check-engine light comes on, or the transmission shifts harshly, then a wiring harness may be chafing on the top of the transmission under the battery tray or the instrument-wiring harness is chafing on the airbag-harness support bracket. (1995)
Automatic transmission:
Burnt transmission fluid or no reverse gear signal a defective rear control valve and low/reverse brake. (1993-94)
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission does not shift properly until warmed up, make sure it is filled only with Nissanmatic "C" transmission fluid. (All)
Brakes:
Inspect the right-rear brake hose for chafing on the rear suspension, which could lead to a leak and brake failure. (1995)
Engine noise:
Noisy timing chain might be due to broken lower-chain guide. (1993-97)
Oil leak:
Oil leaking from the front of the engine could be caused by a bad O-ring between the timing cover and the engine block. (1993-95)
Rough idle:
If the spark plug vent holes get clogged, the engine may run rough and/or the check engine light might illuminate. (1995-97)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $510 |
| Alternator | $275 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $900 |
| Brakes | $200 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $440 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $385 |
| Exhaust System | $475 |
| Radiator | $280 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $540 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $755 |
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