CD Article: Nissan Altima, 2002-2006

[CD_Editor]

You may discuss our cover story of the day in this thread....
Used Vehicle Review:

The third generation Altima, introduced in 2002, was much bigger than previous Altimas, and bigger than its two major rivals of the era, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.  It was also the first Altima to offer an optional V6 engine.  Known for its roomy cabin, decent handling and powerful powertrains, 2002 through 2006 Altimas have had some engine and emission control reliability issues and have been the subject of seven recalls over their five-year lifespan.
   More...

[jww]

Hmmm - no mention of the well-documented and dreaded torque steer problem in all models? Reliability was at best average on our 2002 - in accordance with the article.

I would agree that the 2.5lSL is probably the sweet spot model in the lineup. 175HP was ample given my experience, and mileage was very good indeed. The materials quality of the interior was way poor, but in-cabin storage compartments were tops. I especially liked the deep cup holders in both the front centre console and rear armrest. The sound system was awesome - probably the best stock car stereo I have ever owned. Trunk hinges broke plenty of small boxes and crushed their fair share of groceries.

[hartotis]

I've had my '03 for just about 70,000 kms now and have been pretty happy with the car. There  have been several recalls with the biggest one being for the rear supension. The radiator and radio have been replaced under warranty but there have been no major problems. Fuel mileage has been very good and the car has held together very well. Looking at the newer Altimas the interior of my car is kind of cheap looking, the upgrade done in '05, I believe, makes the interior look much better. The only regret I have with the car is I bought used with a manual tranny. Next time I go with an automatic, just tired of shifting. Would definetly consider another Altima.

[kwconnection]

Don't be mislead by the recall's offered in US. They are not equal here.
Nissan Canada has elected to not treat their Canadian Customers as well as their US Customers.

In Dec. 03 Nissan US issued a recall R3022 to replace Crank Position Sensors as well as both of the Cam Position Sensors. You can find this recall at nissanhelp.com


In Canada the same issue was "addressed" by issuing a recall R86 to replace the crank position sensor only.
See the Transport Canada Vehicle Recalls On-Line Database

I have spent a good deal of time today trying to track this down but was just advised by a Service Supervisor at Nissan Canada that the Canadian Recal did not cover the Cam Sensors and that the US recall covered the Cam Sensors as it was required under US Safety regulations but not under Canadian Regulations. I will continue to pursue this with Transport Canada as I beleive if it was necessary there is should be here as well.


I had my car in for an issue today and was advised that one of the cam sensors had failed - they are not expensive but I recalled there being a recall. Why should we not have them covered as was the case for vehicles south of the border?

How is it acceptable to Nissan that a quality issue in the US merits a recall but the same issue in Canada does not.

I truely beleive Nissan is designing some great cars and was considering a New Van for my wife but will not consider the Nissan any further as a result of their service failure.