The Nissan Altima offers stylish looks and sporty handling all in an affordable package. Most Altima owners are in love with their vehicles, Still, even the typically reliable Altima can sometimes have mechanical problems. Let’s look at some Nissan Altima repair problems and their associated costs. The Factory Nissan Auto Warranty is 3 years and 36,000 miles

An extended vehicle protection plan for Nissan Altima can pay for high repair costs after the factory warranty has expired. Get a free estimate from CARCHEX today.

Engine Stalling

This is a frequently reported problem with the Altima. The engine can literally stall at any time, even while driving at higher speeds. If this happens, pull over to a safe spot immediately and call a towing service. In some cases, you might only see the check engine light or other warning symbol before the engine stalls.

The Altima engine stalling might be attributed to a failed camshaft or crankshaft sensor. This typically occurs on models with over 120,000 miles. The cost of repair is generally around $1050 – $1550, parts and labor.

Engine Movement

If you feel that the engine in your Nissan Altima is shuddering or shaking, it could be due to engine mount wear. You might notice this only upon starting, or idling or at certain speeds. There may even be a loud knocking sound. It appears that the right sided mount is more susceptible to failure than the left side, but both can wear or even crack.

A worn engine mount is more common in Altimas with over 110,000 miles. The repair costs generally run from $800 to $1,000, labor included.

Engine Rattling & Tapping

Another engine problem that Nissan Altima owners may experience is engine rattling or tapping. In some cases, this is due to an engine timing chain failure and should be addressed immediately. When the timing chain guide and tensioners wear out, the chain becomes loose and rattles. This problem is more likely if you neglect to change the oil according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.

Repair costs can vary between $400 – $1,000 depending on what parts – including the timing chain – need to be replaced.

Oil Leak

Oil leaks are a common mechanical problem for any vehicle. However, the external seal of the Nissan Altima’s engine oil cooler is prone to failure. Should this seal fail, it will cause an oil leak that may start slowly, but can later grow into a massive leak.

This failure occurs more often in Altima models with over 97,000 miles. The cost of external seal replacement is usually $1700 or more.

Check Engine Light

This little light typically comes on before you notice any change in engine behavior. In Nissan Altima models with over 129,000 miles, a lit check engine light could point to a catalytic converter failure. This could be a serious problem if left unattended, so take your vehicle to the shop right away.

The cost to replace the Altima catalytic converter is from $670 – $1,200, with approximately $350 of the price dedicated to labor.

Extended Vehicle Protection Plan For Nissan Altima

If your factory warranty or extended warranty has expired, you’ll have to pay for the repairs yourself. However, with an extended vehicle protection plan, your repair costs will be covered.

Get a Nissan Altima extended vehicle protection plan free quote from CARCHEX now.