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: On some early production vehicles, the manual adjuster for the air conditioner fails because the gear that controls the air blend door falls off. (2002)

Clutch: On some early build cars, the original-equipment clutch disc causes a howling sound during release (pedal being depressed) and a countermeasure disc with different friction is available. (2002)

Electrical problem: The exhaust manifold heat shield on early production cars cuts the oxygen sensor wires, resulting in lack of engine power. (2002)

Engine stalling: A problem with the ignition coils causes stumbling during light throttle cruise or stalling at idle, requiring installation of a resistor between the coils and spark plugs. (2002)

Wheels: The wheel covers chirp or squeak because they rub on the wheel (balance) weights which must be covered with felt tape to prevent the noise. (2002)

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.

2002 Altima: On certain vehicles, driver's-side-airbag electrical connector may come loose. If the connector comes loose, the supplemental airbag warning light flashes intermittently. In this situation, the driver's-side airbag will not deploy in the event of a crash. Dealers will install a retaining clip on the clock-spring electrical connector.

2002 Altima: One of the sensors for the airbag system does not work as well as expected in high-speed offset crash situations. Dealers will replace the airbag sensor.

2002-03 Altima in cold climates: Moisture in fuel tank could freeze and form ice crystals that may obstruct the suction opening of the fuel pump causing the vehicle to stop running. Dealers will install a screen at the suction opening of the fuel pump.

2002-03 Altima w/2.5-liter engine: Exhaust-pipe hanger pin may catch debris from that could be ignited by contact with the main catalyst. Dealers will remove the protruding pin and install heat shield(s).

2006 Altima: The rear subframe may have been manufactured incorrectly, which affect the rear suspension and cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Dealers will inspect the rear subframe to determine if it was manufactured incorrectly and replace it, if necessary.

2006 Altima w/2.5L engines: Excessive engine oil consumption as a result of improper performance of the piston rings may occur. If the oil is not maintained at least at the minimum level, engine damage can occur, and in extreme cases, an engine fire. Nissan notified owners of the possibility of excessive oil consumption and the importance of maintaining the oil at a proper level.