Are Nissan Altimas Reliable in 2025? This is the kind of question many car buyers and owners find themselves asking when shopping for a midsize sedan that balances comfort, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The Nissan Altima has long been a familiar name on American roads, often chosen as a practical alternative to the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. But while popularity suggests trust, reliability is a deeper issue, shaped by real-world ownership experiences, maintenance costs, and the ability of the vehicle to hold up under long-term use.
In recent years, Nissan has invested heavily in redesigns and technology updates to keep the Altima competitive. Yet, concerns about the continuously variable transmission (CVT), the long-term durability of certain model years, and fluctuating resale values continue to spark debate among drivers and experts alike. For anyone considering a 2025 Nissan Altima—or even a used model from earlier years—the real question goes beyond surface-level performance. It’s about whether this sedan can deliver consistent dependability, manageable repair costs, and lasting value in a crowded segment where reliability can make or break a buying decision.
Reliability Ratings of Nissan Altima (2025 Update)
When it comes to reliability ratings, the 2025 Nissan Altima sits in an interesting middle ground. According to industry benchmarks like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, the Altima consistently earns scores that reflect “average” dependability, neither excelling like the Toyota Camry nor struggling as much as some budget-friendly rivals. RepairPal also places the Altima near the center of the midsize sedan category, estimating annual maintenance costs at a moderate level compared to its peers.
Strengths show up in areas like fuel economy, ride comfort, and modern safety technology. Nissan’s inclusion of standard driver-assistance features helps the Altima appeal to families looking for affordable peace of mind. However, the model’s long-standing Achilles’ heel remains the CVT transmission. While newer generations have been refined, long-term data still points to higher-than-average failure rates compared to traditional automatic gearboxes, dragging down the vehicle’s overall reliability perception.
For buyers in 2025, this creates a mixed picture. The Altima is not an unreliable car by definition—it provides steady performance and decent longevity—but it demands careful consideration of model year history and maintenance practices before being called a truly “reliable” choice.
Common Nissan Altima Problems Owners Face
One of the reasons reliability questions linger around the Nissan Altima is its history of recurring issues reported by long-term owners. Chief among them is the continuously variable transmission (CVT). While designed to improve fuel efficiency and deliver smoother acceleration, the CVT has often been linked to overheating, jerking, or even complete failure at mileages where competitors remain trouble-free. Repairing or replacing the transmission can be costly, making this a major concern for anyone considering an older Altima.
Beyond the transmission, some drivers have experienced engine-related problems such as excessive oil consumption or unexpected stalling. These issues are not universal, but they appear frequently enough in consumer forums and complaint databases to shape the Altima’s reputation. Braking systems and suspension components have also been highlighted in certain model years, sometimes requiring premature replacement.
It’s worth noting, however, that not every Altima suffers from these problems. Many owners report years of smooth driving with only routine maintenance. Still, the uneven pattern of reliability creates uncertainty. Prospective buyers in 2025 are advised to research specific production years carefully, as Nissan’s quality control has varied, leading to “good years” and “bad years” in terms of mechanical dependability.
Nissan Altima Maintenance Costs: Affordable or Expensive?
For many car buyers, reliability is not only about whether a vehicle breaks down but also how much it costs to keep running smoothly. In the case of the Nissan Altima, annual maintenance expenses typically fall between $500 and $700, a figure that positions it slightly above the Toyota Camry but on par with the Honda Accord. On the surface, this makes the Altima a reasonably affordable sedan to maintain, especially when routine services like oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tire rotations are considered.
The challenge comes when major components fail, particularly the CVT transmission. Replacing or rebuilding the unit can easily exceed $3,000, a financial burden that often outweighs the lower upfront purchase price of the vehicle. This creates a dilemma for owners: the Altima may be cost-effective in the short term but unpredictable in the long term.
Other recurring costs include brake system wear, air conditioning repairs, and suspension work, though these are not dramatically higher than industry norms. The real distinction lies in risk management. For buyers willing to set aside a maintenance budget and perform preventive care, the Altima remains manageable. For those seeking minimal repair anxiety, however, competitors may prove more reassuring.
How Many Miles Can a Nissan Altima Last?
When discussing reliability, longevity becomes a defining measure. A well-maintained Nissan Altima is capable of reaching 200,000 to 250,000 miles, placing it in the same conversation as other mainstream midsize sedans. Many owners report driving their Altimas for over a decade with consistent performance, provided that regular servicing schedules are followed.
The key factor influencing lifespan lies in how the car is treated. Routine maintenance, timely fluid changes, and careful driving habits can extend the vehicle’s durability significantly. On the other hand, neglecting these practices—especially when it comes to the transmission—can shorten its useful life dramatically. The CVT remains the single most unpredictable component, sometimes failing before 100,000 miles, while other units run without issue well past 200,000.
Certain model years have proven more resilient than others. Altimas from the mid-2010s onward tend to fare better thanks to incremental improvements in design and materials. However, reliability ratings still advise potential buyers to verify the history of any used model, as variations in build quality remain. For those considering the 2025 Altima, expectations should be set around average longevity, with the possibility of high mileage ownership if maintained with care.
Nissan Altima Reliability vs Competitors in 2025
In the midsize sedan market, reliability comparisons inevitably place the Nissan Altima alongside its two most direct rivals: the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord. Both competitors have built reputations for bulletproof dependability, often running well past 300,000 miles with minimal major repairs. The Altima, by contrast, delivers a more mixed track record, performing well in areas like comfort, fuel economy, and safety technology, but falling short when it comes to long-term mechanical durability.
The Camry continues to set the benchmark, with lower reported transmission failures and consistently strong ratings from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The Accord, meanwhile, balances engaging driving dynamics with impressive reliability, creating a package that appeals to buyers seeking both longevity and refinement. The Altima’s advantage lies in its lower initial purchase price and generous features, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
However, for drivers who prioritize a “buy it and forget it” ownership experience, the Camry and Accord still edge ahead. The Altima represents a calculated trade-off: affordable entry costs and competitive features, balanced against the risk of higher repair bills if the CVT or other components fail prematurely.
Is a Nissan Altima Still Worth Buying in 2025?
Answering whether the Nissan Altima is still worth buying in 2025 depends largely on buyer expectations. For shoppers seeking a midsize sedan that balances affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency, the Altima remains a sensible option. Its lower purchase price compared to the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, combined with strong safety features and a comfortable cabin, make it appealing to families and commuters alike.
The trade-off lies in long-term dependability. While many Altimas deliver years of trouble-free driving, the CVT transmission continues to cast a shadow over its reputation. Prospective buyers should approach with caution, focusing on models with a strong service history or considering extended warranty coverage to offset potential risks.
Ultimately, the Altima is best suited for drivers who value value-for-money features and are willing to take a proactive approach to maintenance. It may not match the legendary durability of the Camry or Accord, but it provides a practical alternative for those prioritizing cost and convenience in the short to medium term. For 2025, calling the Nissan Altima “reliable” is accurate within limits—it’s dependable enough if expectations are set realistically and ownership is managed wisely.
Conclusion
So, are Nissan Altimas reliable in 2025? The answer is not a simple yes or no, but rather a balanced perspective shaped by both strengths and weaknesses. The Altima delivers comfort, efficiency, and modern features at a competitive price, making it a smart choice for cost-conscious buyers. At the same time, its reputation is tempered by concerns over CVT transmission longevity and uneven performance across different model years.
For drivers who prioritize low maintenance anxiety and proven long-term durability, rivals like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord still hold the edge. But for those who value affordability, a comfortable driving experience, and are prepared to invest in preventive care, the Altima remains a practical contender in 2025.
Ultimately, the Nissan Altima is a sedan that rewards informed buyers. With the right expectations and a willingness to research the best model years, it can serve as a dependable daily driver that balances value with performance. If you’ve owned an Altima before, or are considering one now, the real question is: would you call it reliable? Share your experiences and insights—your story may help the next buyer make a confident decision.