Used 2001 Nissan Altima Consumer Reviews
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OK for a town car, getting costly
We bought this car new and had the power windows go out while sitting in Yuma,AZ in 110 degree weather..after having the dealer replace two and a recall was issued and all were replaced by Nissan. We have 95,000 on it and have replaced the defective intake manifold gasket twice..replaced the radiator, cv boots and axles..and it eats brake shoes quite regularly. Just had the check engine soon..now the catalytic converter is shot, $700 or so. Noisy hubcaps are a tradition with this model.
Love my Alti
My older sister got a newer car and gave me her 2001 Altima GXE for my first car. I've had it for about 3 months and I love it. It currently has a bit over 165k miles on it. Exterior wise it's bland and blends in very easily with traffic but it doesn't look bad. The 155 horses seem to work hard and get the job done. If I push the pedal down on the highway it picks up and has quite a bit of pep in its step. It has a brake light out, a broken seal on the front axle, and a valve cover leak but I think the valve cover problem was from my sister abusing the car. So far I'm perfectly happy and impressed with it! ***Update: Almost two years and over 30k miles later, I finally got a new car. I really loved my Altima but at 196k miles and after being thoroughly used for 15 years it was getting worn out. The drivetrain is still fine and it still runs great but the exhaust system was all rotted and it started leaking oil. I hope my 2005 Camry will prove to be a worthy replacement.
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Good car to commute!
I like that car so much. It has 143k miles on it, still no gasket and/or transmission problems. Besides, it is a great DIY car. There are bunch of videos on YouTube about that car, and the replacement parts are not expensive. Installing the replacements are easy as hell! I have driven that car non-stop 450 miles. The only I would concern about that car is the gas consumption. It consumes a lot for a 2.4 4 cyl car (16/22mpg). You have to be aware of a point: 98-99 and 00-01 altimas are not completely identical (the interior as well); some of the replacements are different, such as shocks.
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Nice car to drive, some changes to be made
I just received the car about 6 months ago and love it so far. Its an overall great car as Nissan is known to produce well-reliable cars. The pros of the car are definitely the fuel efficiency, small compact size, the security of the driver seat and the space this little car has. The only thing that would be great to change is the amount of power this car can put in into high speeds, esp. while merging on the highway or simply having an exhilaration thrill. Wouldn't trade the car for anything else but horsepower could use a hand.
Just average
I have had this car for eight years. It has been okay except for the noisy hubcaps, which have been replaced twice while under warranty. They still drive me crazy when driving under 10 mph. You hear constant squeaks and rattles. Mileage is not great, 23 mpg combined. Ride is comfortable and decent power for a 4 cylinder. Radiator and CV boots needed changing after 80,000 miles. A/C clutch has been making noise for 2 years, but still works.
This Car Has Been Good To Me
I paid a private owner $1,200 for my 2001 Nissan Altima 6 years ago. In that time, I have replaced the radiator and both CAT converters. But with 179,000 miles on the ODOM, it's still a great commuter car, even on the Interstate. It starts up every time and gets me wherever I need to go. Has a powerful 4-cylinder engine. Heater and A/C work beautifully. So do all the power functions: seats, windows, etc. (I've never used the cruise control.) However, the body paint is starting to oxidize due to the harsh Pacific Northwest weather. But this car served me through some hard days. It gets a pass for lasting 20+ years.
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As Reliable as it Gets
This is the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. After 4 years, and 50,000 miles, I have had no repair bills other than preventive care. Personally, that's all I'm really looking for in a vehicle. However, while the Altima isn't a sports car, when equipped with the 5 speed manual, the KA24DE engine provides plenty of power for day to day driving. The car handles above average for a family sedan. My main complaints are disappointing MPG, and a bit too much wind noise. I also had to replace the the OEM CD Player as it did not play burned CDs. With low operating cost and low initial purchase cost, this would be a great car for college student or people on a tight budget. Highly recommended.
Keeps on Ticking
This is my third Nissan (92 & 96 sentras prviously) and is certainly the best and most reliable. I just had my first service problem this week after passing 70,000 miles in 26 months. The check engine light came on- I needed two new oxygen sensors. $400 is not bad after some serious use.
first car
this car is a good first car. i have not had any problems with this car since i bought it. very good performance.
Good Transportation
Bought used in March '04 when forced to become a courier due to being laid off. Was local rental with 41k miles. I only had $10k and had to find something reliable, low mileage, relatively safe and economical. The Camry and Accord were over my budget and the Altima seemed to fit the bill. After 38k miles in 5 months (that's right!) I have been mostly satisfied. I did have to replaced the alternator ($340 changed it out myself) but only maintenance items besides that. I drive an average of 10 hours a day so comfort is important, and I have been pleasantly surprised by the seat comfort. (I am a big guy!) Actually roomier up front than other cars.
Great car!
Bought this car shortly after totalling a '96 model. I feel completly safe in an altima! Great performance, no major issues so far. Some small issues: driver's window a little off track but no motor problems. A little road noise but if you want a soudproof car you need to spend a little more. Some vibration on hwy, but I think it's more alignment and balance due to the stiff suspension. Great car for a low price and it will get up and GO when you want to!
I love This Car
My mom bought this car New 2001 in Ct. In 05 the car became mine. When I got it it had 35,000 miles on it, my mom took very good care of the car with all the regular maintainable. I drove the car to Miami and stay for 9 months driving. Then I drove it to TX. This car has needed some work, but the car is 10 yrs old, manifold gasket @ 95,000 structs & shocks, hoses, and tire rods.. The rest of the stuff regular maintenance. This car runs great, The seat motor just went out the stereo system & speakers could use a major upgrade. I have 99,000 miles on the car and just wanted to know how long I can expect to drive.. LOOKS LIKE I GOT WAYS TO GO. I'll definitely buy another NISSAN!
I love this car!
I got my license in August 2013 and I immediately began shopping for a used car, when I found this one for $4000 at a used car dealership with only 93,522 miles on it! I was sold! Since then I've gotten it up to 95,993 miles and it's been my mobile best friend since I purchased it, and I've been lucky enough to jazz it up with new air fresheners, a New York Yankees license plate frame, sports decals and fun bumper stickers.
Eight years and going strong
I purchased my Nissan Altima GLE new, and currently have 84,400 miles on it, with plans to drive it several more years if it continues to perform well. I have been faithful with routine maintenance, and have had no problems at all. It is a comfortable, roomy sedan.
2001 altima
Bought the car new in aug. 2001. Selected Nissan because we wanted a mid- size car with a manual transmission. Already have 22,000 miles with no problems. However, in cold weather, noticed that when shifted into neutral, the engine revs to 1500rpm before falling to idle rpm -- contacted the dealer and was told all cars are designed that way with the 5 speed (I don't buy it, though).
An Oldie, But A Goodie!
Got it from my great aunt for $5 with 55,000 miles since it was an enterprise rental she bought years ago. It sat for 4 years, and even after that, all tires were still good, not rotting, the engine started up with no issues. When we got it, needed new brakes, exhaust, and taillight. Once I started driving it, replaced the EGR valve, thermostat, hoses, suspension components, all fluids, interior pieces, and gave it a new radio. I did all of this on my own labor, the parts were incredibly easy and cheap to find. She still runs amazing, although some suspension noise that's literally 20 years old. Never had power issues, or have her break down. I drove on a bad thermostat for about 300 miles and she still powered through. This engine is literally bullet-proof. She's very rusty, but I sealed her up with rust paint, and hopefully, I get another 4-5 years out of her.
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Very reliable
I have 2 of these cars and they have never left me stranded
Most reliable Vehicle I've owned - 267,000 miles
I received this car as a gift for my high school graduation because I needed a car to get me to and from my community college and work. The car had about 250,000 miles on it when I got it, and I sold it with 267,000 miles. I owned it for about a year and a half. It isn't the best looking car, but it is simple, easy to drive, good on gas, and reliable. The only 2 issues I had was having to replace the brakes which was nothing and I knew it was coming, and I had to replace one of the pipes because in the winter it made a loud, screeching noise. The pipe was a very cheap fix. It has never stalled on me. It is a great car for high school and college students. I wouldn't suggest it to a family because of the size. I really regret selling it but I had no choice given the situation I was in. It is still alive and kicking. The people who own it now go on 4-hour long road trips almost every weekend. If you are looking for a good car for your kids to have to take around, I would highly recommend this. It worked out really nicely for me. I am looking into buying a newer model of this car because I loved mine so much.
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Long Time Owner (17 years)
Good, dependable car.
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A lot of problems with the Altima.
This car has 75,000 miles and has had the alternator replaced twice, motor mounts, struts, tie rod ends, front end bushings replaced to stop a noise that won't go away. The fuel pump and sending unit replaced, power steering unit replaced, AC compressor replaced, and currently it is in the shop to have the intake manifold gasket replaced the second time, due to a flaw from Nissan's design. The alarm goes off randomly and mechanics can't find the problem. Etc., etc., etc. I am to the point I am afraid to drive the car because it breaks down so much.
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stronge car
this car really last for ever it has now 220000 miles and it was back to life again after running on the car without oil it was miracle engine started knock and I thought the engine is went out simply pulled the dip stick was no oil at all bought 4 quart of oil poured in to engine and after 3 minute the engine was back to normal you will never see that in other cars stronge engine reliable and over all good car just check your oil every month or 3 weeks and it will never disappoint you this is my sitaution
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Had it 18 months and for around 10,000 miles
This is my first car, bought it when I was in college in Arizona in 2010 for 3.5k with a 109k on it. My research said the car was worth it, and it has been so far. Had one minor issue with leaking water pump. But, the car is so easy to work on that I changed it myself and a few other things as well. Excellent performance in Arizona heat. Now the car is in Michigan, had it shipped here. Well worth it. Thermostat is giving me some trouble but she is resilient. It took her some time but she has adopted to the cold very well. The light wait does make it skid from time to time on ice, so watch out. But do not regret my decision not to buy a new car. This car has served me well and I love it!
Pretty good car
I bought this car as an everyday to-and-from work car, and used it that way for 5 yrs. Now my daughter has it at college. I have liked this car. It has a smooth, powerful 4-cylinder engine, and the ride is nice. It has been very reliable - a couple of repairs done under warranty (intake manifold gasket and remote fob) - no hassle. I had to replace the radio/CD player when the CD player stopped working. And I went through the round of tires/brakes/battery at 60K miles, which is normal except the cost on the brakes was high. My gas mileage has been OK - around 30 for highway, 25 in mixed city/freeway commute. Interior space is tight. I am 6'1" and I think that no one taller could use this car.
2001 Altima SE
This car does everything well. It is quick, responsive, economical to own and operate, with excellent brakes and handling.
Just OK
I purchased this car used in 2004. Don't get me wrong, I do like this car but I have been a bit disappointed as of late. I have always taken care of my cars, but I feel like in the past few years I'm always taking this thing in for maintenance. I know this car is getting up there in years (I also have 75000 miles on it) but I feel like I'm always taking time off from work to get this and that repaired. Mind you, I do routine maintenance and treat my car well. I am disappointed that I can't trust this car as much as I would like to. I highly doubt I will be buying another Nissan.
Bad Nissan Experience
I read before I purchased the car issues regarding "vibrations at high speeds". When I test drove it, it seemed fine, so I purchased it. After 3,000 miles the shake developed and i took it into the dealership. Conveniently, they "weren't able to reproduce the shake;" hence, unable to fix it. After 3 visits, they still can't "replicate it". Ugh! Second gear also shifts rough - another thing they can't fix. Now my engine's making a "metallic scratching noise", which - yup you guessed it - they can't replicate. This is my first and last Nissan. I'm going back to overpriced Hondas....
Poor reliability, known problems w/ this model
Seems like a good car overall, but do a search on the "nissan altima intake manifold gasket". Many people have experienced this same problem on this particular model; some have noted the same in their reviews here. A required $600 fix mars an otherwise decent vehicle. The engine is more powerful than other 4-cyl's I've driven, but you pay for it in gas mileage.
Ok, but disappointed
I was disappointed in this car. Have heard foriegn cars are better, and this was my first one - no more for me. Check engine light came on before we even got it home! Went round & round with the dealer who finally agreed to the repair - intake manifold gasket (exact same problem I had with my GM!) Car sits low - it will rust, even if you constantly wash it. Car is light and has a rough ride - feel every bump in the road. Exterior trim started falling off one day for no reason. Power drivers window was very sluggish. Gas mileage was horrid - I the best I got was 24mpg. I went back to GM and am happier. I get 28-30mpg consistently with my current full size GM product (V6).
Disappointing
I bought this '01 in 2005 with 75K. It's been pretty disappointing from the beginning. The handling is sloppy. I had to replace both motors at a cost of $300 each to the two front windows. That shouldn't have happened. The alternator also went out for another $600. New brake rotors on all four wheels cost another $900. I should have bought a used Camry or Accord (better quality), or a Ford Contour (cheaper, better handling). My parents had a '01 Camry and replaced nothing but the timing belt after 160K. No brakes, no window motors, no alternator. Nothing. The wheel caps are also extremely noisy. Poor quality over all. GM is probably better.
Ole Reliable
The car has been very reliable and fun to drive. It is very precise in turning and braking. There is a couple of things that I would change. When you are some course pavement, the sunglass holder vibrates as well as the hubcaps making noise going over bumps. It also seems to have a fair amount of road noise. The car is a bargain at the price and I would buy another one.
great value
I've had my 01 Altima since June/01 and have about 9000 miles so far. I have the GXE automatic and even in Houston, where we have to run the a/c often, it has plenty of power for a small 4 cylinder. It is fun to drive and easy to maintain. Mine came with the Limited Edition package at a great price and rebate. My only complaint is the usual bumpy ride with the stiff Nissan suspension. Other than that it is great!
My Altima
So far, I'm really enjoying my Altima. Great AC (for New Mexico) and reliable. Easy to change oil and filters and beautiful engine. Go 2.4L!
Reliable Altima
I bought my 2001 Nissan Altima brand new. With over 120,000 miles on the odometer nothings gone wrong with this car so far. I did replace the original hubcaps after 40,000 miles because of the racket they made; aftermarket hubcaps dont make noise! Otherwise this car has never been back to the dealer for anything except accident repair. I do change the oil & filter every 3000 miles, transmission fluid and coolant fluid every 30,000 miles, so the car is cared for.
Great Practical Car
This car has a lot of room for its size. I have had no problems with it at all, and it has over 26k miles. It is great on the open road (a little stiff maybe) but also handles two lane roads with lots of curves with ease. Fuel milage isn't great but not bad.
Solid like a rock - 214K miles!
I just hit 214 thousand miles on my 2001 Nissan Altima GXE Limited Edition. I purchased the car as a certified used vehicle with around 35 thousand miles. The only major problem I had was the fried intake manifold gasket at about 60K miles which was replaced under warranty. Transmission still shifts smoothly, you can hardly hear the engine run. I believe in religious maintenance and synthetic fluids - commuting daily from Pennsylvania to North Jersey, sitting in traffic jams on I-80 and trying to avoid the potholes are but everyday occurrences for my Altima. What's original on the car? Every single thing including the engine, transmission, battery and suspension. Not a single problem!
Awesome Altima
I fell greatful to have purchased one of the last 2nd generation Altimas. Yes, the 2002s are nice but I really like the previous generation's styling. This is one great car. Ride, handling, fuel economy, comfort, and durability all in one well-assembled package.
Good Car
We have had this car for 7 years now and it has been great all along. The car is very smooth in running and the handling is great as well.It is a great family car. Though it doesn't seat 5 in the most comfortable manner it still is a great car. Of late the fuel economy has been a bit on the disappointing side. I also am a bit disappointed with the trade-in value of the car as I am looking to trade-in this car for the new Altima later this year. Overall a great car.
doing search i found it is the best
2.4 liter engine for average size body. good ride
Great Car
Fun to drive. Good acceleration. Ordinary build qulity.
Verygood Try it
So far it has been great. No problems at all and it's still fun to drive after these first three months. I would buy one again, no question.
My First, But Not Last Altima
I was looking for a Honda Accord, but when I drove the Altima I immediately changed my mind. The 4-banger in this car is much more lively than the 4 in the Accord, hands down! This car is a pleasure to drive. A good car for long trips as well, especially commuting on the 405! Very reliable, so far!
Reliable So far, Easy to work on.
I have the Sporty version and it's not bad at all. Its easy to work on and reliable so far. It runs good, and cruses pretty solid at 80-90mph on the Interstate. It's a decent, solid, and sound lil car. I would be afraid to take off anywhere in it. Mine has 167k, and I feel 200k+ is very do- able. The have a that strong little 2.4 dohc that come in the legendary hardbody pick up.
RUNRUNRUN
I have a 2001 Nissan Altima. It is a beautiful car. That I will admit. There are some issues with the car that is too long for me to go into. Look at other cars like Toyota or Honda before purchasing your Altima. If you really need a Nissan, I suggest the Sentra.
2001 GXE Limited Edition
Comfortable car to drive. Rear suspension problems. Replaced the bushings on the rear sway bar twice. Just replaced a defective speed regulator on the driver side power window. Service department at the local dealer is very poor when it comes to customer service.
Horrible mistake
I bought this car after my very reliable Buick Skylark bit the dust. I'd owned an old Honda Accord (1990) before and thought I'd return to a Japanese sedan after growing up in Datsuns. A Datsun, this ain't... Instead, it was a horrible mistake. In the span of 1 year (2009), I put front brakes/rotors, exhaust/muffler, an intake manifold gasket (INCREDIBLY expensive repair for a $10 gasket-- $750), a battery, and an oil pan gasket and oil sender unit. I literally poured over $2500 into this car, and that's without my boyfriend helping me out, as he sells parts for GM and could do some of the repairs independently.
2001 Altima SE with all the wistles
I have 32000 miles on the car. Engine is powerfull. I usually cruise on highways at 80-85 miles an hour, and there is never a problem to accelerate higher. Suspension is stiff and well balanced. Joy to drive on the twisty roads. Sound system is great, 6 disks in dash is a pure pleasure. Seats (I have leather) are very comfortable. Lumbar support is useless - it is located too low and rubs agains your butt. I love the car and hope to keep it for a long while.
Not bad for under 15K brand new
Only needed a car that can take me from point A to point B that doesn't cost an arm and a leg and I'm actually having fun getting there.
236 k and still running strong
i bought the car when it was at 175k for miles and i have use it for work and fun.i live in r.i. and i have taken it to Ohio and to keywest f.l. with 200 plus miles on her and i never felt like she was going to brake down on me. i do play every hard on her with white racing rims and an exhaust system its hard not too. keep up on the oil and the altima will treat you every every good.
Altima is Good not Ultimate
The Nissan Altima is a good car. It doesn't do anything bad but it doesn't do anything great eithier.
Great value and reliability
Bought privately when it had 7,000 miles due to sellers expecting twins. No major repairs in 104,000 miles of ownership - now has 111,000 miles. I now drive 47 miles one-way to work all highway and average 33 mpg using non-ethanol 87 octane fuel. Plan on driving until 250,000. No rust anywhere. I believe the great reliability is due to the 6th and final year of this body/design style. All kinks worked out.