Used 2003 Nissan Altima Consumer Reviews
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The best I've owned!!!
Fitchick, 02/26/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I sold cars for the last 3 years. I sold Fords, Infiniti's and BMW's. This car is by far the best value for your money!!!
Mine
deadhead, 01/15/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent car which is fun to drive and filled with conviences
2003 Nissan Altima for sale near you
Showing 3 of 21 listings
- 2.5 S SedanMSRP: $2,99554 mi away
- 3.5 SE SedanMSRP: $4,999370 mi away
- 3.5 SE SedanMSRP: $4,500376 mi away
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One problem after another...
amb, 01/23/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Many problems. Have had to replace center adjusting armrest, door panel (leaking). Also had recall on airbag just after purchase, have replaced windshield once, and it needs to be replaced again. Nissan refuses to pay stating environmental. However, the glass can't seem to withstand any rocks hitting it. Right now, the vehicle is in the shop because it died in traffic yesterday and would not restart. This is the second time this has happened. The first time it was in a heated garage for three days and would not start. The second time it stalled out in -5 degree weather. Nissan reports that it is an "Altima" problem they are trying to figure out.
More Bang for your buck
goodcarfinder, 05/25/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm guessing people who are in this market of buying this type of automobile have already looked into the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 6, BMW 5-series, MB E-Class, and Volkswagen Passat. Out of those cars only the BMW was the best. It had better handling,design, and of course a good reputation. However, the price is not appealing. The Nissan though, more moderately priced does share some of the BMW's characteristics as its ride is very stable (no bumps felt) and the car itself it breathtaking. I highly recommend this car for any person in the market of buying a mid- size auto. Don't go domestic and don't go for the V6 (eats too much gas).
Do Your Homework Before Shopping !!
Erudite, 05/23/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Buying a new car still requires mastering the "art of negotiation." The 2003 Altima clearly is several levels better than the 2001 it redesigned and replaced. Before buying a comparably price Honda or Toyota -- check out the Altima at your local Nissan dealer. The contemporary, up-to-datestyling and, above average comfort level are merit your consideration. Furthermore, you'll appreciate the refined 175 horsepower 4 cyl. engine. The Altima is not underpowered compared to many other cars in its class. For under 20K the Altima is a worthy competitor in its class. Check it out !!
best car ever
ally, 05/26/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
once i saw the car i thought it was just another nissan but when i got closer and was able to see its comfort ans its awesome designs i was hooked on it and only it
Yep
LilPnyRacer, 06/02/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I Love the quickness of the car. The interior quality is bad but I can get by with it. Also my chairs are charcol cloth so lint gets stuck in them and hard to keep clean. Other than that its a wonderful car.
Ultimate Altima
Iceman36, 05/27/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fell in love with the car on the first test drive. Performance and handling are excellent and the body styling is very eye catching. (SE 3.5 Sport Plus)
I own one, I love it!
Rick owner, 05/30/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i bought this car 30 days ago and It is very nice. I owned a Lexus 300 and this car is not far off it's ride and comfort. I would definately buy one again. The mileage is not too spiffy <yet> maybe it will get better after break in. I think it is one of the best looking cars in it's price range available. Nissan also makes buying one first class.
Great Car
hello241, 05/31/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the car looks great, rides superb, and has excellent interior room. The interior is very ergonmic, very clean and efficient. I love the radio volume controls on the stearing wheel. The CD is awesome.
The Happy Monkey
Mollejuax, 05/30/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is a great experience.. It look alot better than the Honda Accord... It has a bigger engine than the Accord and the Camry..I don't understand why anyone would even consider buying the accord or the camry...Lets make it fair and combine both the accord and the camry together..Damn what an ugly car.. We will call it the Japanese Mollejuax 2.49 1/2 stutter..
Near Perfect
Kristo, 06/03/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
At triple-digits on the open highway, this baby roars quietly enough to keep my wife asleep and unaware. Admirable acceleration too, especially for a 4- cylinder. I'm not sure what prior vehicals many of the other reviewers have owned, but considering the Altima is an entry-level mid-sized sedan, the interior is impressive. Sure, there's plastic. Sure, the latches on the arm rest are stiff and prone to breaking. But the car is $20k, people! My Altima is a joy to drive, still turns heads with it's sleek look (despite all the other Altima's on the road), and has been virtually problem free. I don't know about the rest of you, but Nissan got my Altima right!
Fully loaded - Get the Maxima!
Jersey Driver, 06/04/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had a ton of electrical problems with this vehicle. Don't rely on the handling of this car. Maybe with the entire car full and the truck stuffed with weights it might handle well. I was fooled by the looks and hype. The interior is gracious and roomy. The exterior looks are one of a luxury car. With the options that I purchased the price reached one of a well-equipped Maxima. So, to make a long story short this car isn't worth the money. Once again, Nissan has a good marketing strategy when it comes to this one, but that's about it.
A HEAD TURNER
MMPP, 06/08/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
FAAAAAAAST CAR! Too fast for a middle model. Got pulled over for speeding 2 wks in a row; luckily I'm a female.I get nothing but compliments. Very sexy- head turner. Sporty. Easy to dress up. Engine is great.Interior could be refined, but could be the same elsewhere. Wouldn't trade it. ENJOYING THE RIDE!
One Fast 4 Door
altimateone, 06/07/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car because I was impressed by its performance the V6 w/5speed. I also love the exterior styling. Its one classy looking car. The front seats could be more performance oriented. For the performance this car is capable of it does'nt hold you in very well. If it had seats like the 350Z. I can get better than advertised fuel mileage if I keep it under 65mph. this car is like a race horse it wants to go 80+mph. You get on the freeway before you know it your going 80mph. You have to feather the throttle lightly to keep it under 80. I love this car I was not dissapointed in buying this car.
Cheap at an expensive price
Bruce McShane, 06/05/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car looks good and has a decent mechanical reputation. The paint is rough the clearcoat is thin the dealer even made it a point that the car should not be washed except by hand or pressure washed. Putting on a coat of wax showed a porous uneven surface. The inside is appointed cheaply the cloth seats are a course mesh rough to the touch. Someone must have decided to shave a few yen off costs by shortening the seat backs and narrowing them. Anyone over six foot will need to duck down in the back seat and find a way to get in and out without hitting their head on something. The ride is sensitive to any and all bumps and roadway transitions
Fun Car
Laxcamel, 06/05/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just purchased my Altima a week ago and I love it! A fun, fast car, however, at 670 miles it almost broke down. I stopped to get gas and it wouldn't start up again for five minutes. I'm hoping this is a fluke, and otherwise than that, I am extremely happy.
2003 Altima 2.5SL
Eric M, 06/10/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'd highly recommend the 2.5SL over the 2.5S for the extra money. The Leather seats, Standard Bose, Wood Trim and Homelink make for a luxurious ride that easily rivals the high end Japanese brands (Acura, Infiniti, Lexus). The backseat is HUGE, your friends and family who drive in the back will definitely appreciate the roominess. The 4 Cylinder engine is perfect for the Altima, 175HP is plenty for the open road. The Altima frame stays strong at higher speeds (and the cabin stays very quiet) If you're in the market for a new sedan, I highly recommend dropping by your local Nissan and taking an Altima out for a spin, you will not be disappointed!
Best car I have owned
zaragozi, 06/15/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned a few cars in my lifetime but this one is the best.
Excellent Ride, Nimble Handling
James The G-Man, 06/16/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car Oct 02 and it has performed superbly. I have no complaints for my Silver 2.5S. I feel the acceleration is the best in its 4cylinder class, its body style is sharp and sleek, and it does very well on gas.
I used to think my Supra was fast
SimiDave, 06/19/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car. Great looks. You get a lot of car for the money. Really moves and fun to drive. My SE handles a lot like my old 85 Supra. Miles per gallon is very good. 27 to 28 on long trips. 18- 19 stop and go city driving. Fun car to drive, people always looking at it in parking lots. Glad I got the SE with the Maxima engine instead of the 4 banger.
great first car
carina, 06/18/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first car and so far it has been great. The interior quality could be higher but is reasonable at the price. It is a very smooth ride.
bad brake pads
Chesley Garrett, 06/18/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The only problem I have had with my 02 Altima besides the bad dealership experience in a persistant squeaking of the brakes. Repeated forays into the dealer to have this problem remedied had proven to be an excercise in futility. They only say the Nissan brakes are just that way and the new Maxima does the same thing.
Great Dealer
raylesholm, 06/20/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is fantastic, rides great and gets good gas mileage.
Great Car for Money
lohms, 06/29/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just recently purchased 2003 2.5 SL. Initial impressions are great value for the money. Lots of extras, great outside styling, nice leather, great bose stereo. The interior is a little on the cheap side, but the leather and stereo make up for it. Overall, great value for the money. I may be nit picking on the interior quality as I'm the only one who has noticed out of everyone I've shown the car to. The 2.5 is a decent engine, not quite like the 2002 Maxima I traded in but I didn't expect it. I went for fuel economy and think I got it. I definately recommend this car.
The Altima Has Arrived!
dcurbelo, 07/01/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned three previous Altimas, my first bought in 1995. This is by far the best Altima ever made. This car truely can compete with the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and any other mid- size family sedan. I don't say this lightly. I have owned several Accords and a Camry. The car is quick, comfortable, roomy & stylish. It has all the creature comforts at a reasonable price. Gas milage is good in the city and great on the road. I drive in excess of 35000 miles per year. All of my previous Altima's have been very reliable and I expect this one to be as well.
Perfect Car!
OURTOYS, 07/02/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the first car that I have owned that I absolutley love!! My previous car was a Honda Civic and the Altima is a far superior car than the Civic. I commute in my car about 1 hour everyday. The seats are very comfortable and the controls on the steering wheel are a wonderful feature. It has a lot of headroom, my husband is 6'5" and he has more than enough room to sit comfortably in the car. I recommend the Altima to everyone I know.
Altima 2.5S
Love-A-Nissan, 07/07/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is a little over 6 months old and has 11,000 miles I still love it. I must agree with what many are saying about the poor interior fit and finish and "orange peel" look to the paint, but I feel that Nissan put the money where I would rather have it...in the chasis and engine. The ride is a little rough, but the car really sticks to the road and the steering is crisp. Although the build quality is a little sub-par, I have faith that this car will be just as reliable as the 5 other Nissans that have passed through my family. Besides, this car is far better looking and much more fun to drive than a Camry or Accord.
catalitic converter problems
Don't buy one, 04/27/2008
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice car when I first bought it. Larger than toyota. But, at 50,000 miles check engine light, had to spend 800 on a new catalytic converter, then at 90,000 crank position sensor, failed several times before the dealer figured it out. Now check engine light again. Who knows what now. Buy a honda, much more reliable.
Great Highway Car
matthew, 05/06/2008
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought car with 5000 miles, dealer demo. So far, has been great. Bought to use as commuter so I can keep truck for towing. Overall, I love the car. Handles great. Secure driving in the rain and snow. Installed Bridgestone Turanzas, made huge improve in overall handling and foul weather performance. Accelerates decent with 2.5, great gas mileage. With my new job I am now driving 100+ miles a day, and on the highway it is great. Average 27 mpg at 75 mph. Good NDSS sound system, decent features for base car. Seats are awesome. Interior quality not great, nothing really broke on car but I am careful with her. Reliability so far great. Now has 54,000 miles, still love it. Overall, great car!
Great Car
cami, 05/22/2008
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I saw my car in the lot and had to have it first of all because of the pearlish white color. It had 17 inch rims, a spoiler, a sunroof and nice ground effects. I drove it down the highway and loved the power it had. It is very zippy! I drive over 100 miles a day and have not had it in the shop yet. I keep the oil changed and that is all it needs.
My 03' "Style and Power"16yrs great for the money!
Bryan, 04/15/2019
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was one of the best years for the Nissan Altima 2.5 L 4 cylinder models (SL). This model has the standard transmission and requires the traditional trans oil. My recommendation is to change Motor mounts after 130,000 miles because you will notice a not so smooth ride. Mine is still going strong and I have 203k. I did change my valve cover gasket, cam/crankshaft sensors during my major tune up. Current value on a dealer lot is $2600.00 if you were to buy one now in great condition. All future models have issues with the new style CVT engines. Not Good!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
PIECE OF JUNK
SUBIENUT, 01/16/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
having had a 97 altima and a 2000 Altima I tried a 2003 for a test drive. It is still a piece of junk that has been slapped together with very poor straight line stability when it hit bumps and dip. My 2001 LL Bean outback is decidedly better and my new 2003 H-^ outback sedan absolutely trounces an equivalently priced Altima. The new altima is pathetic and your reviewer must have received a free vacation or something. Tyoical Nissan more sizzle and less beef. By the way does Nissan believ in rear bumpers?
2003 Altima 2.5s
John, 02/08/2009
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful
I just bought my Altima used. After having the car for a month now I can say that all works very well with the power, handling and comfort. I love the power moon roof and the stereo is very good too. I found out that the turning radius is not all that good so you need to do a 3 point turn for many U turns that you need to make. The big problem I found is even a simple snow fall makes the car handle very badly and is quite dangerous even with good tires.
What a great car!
Kristin45, 11/09/2002
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am very pleased with this car. I like the new style, which was my first reason to purchase the car.
Great car.
Pmano, 11/11/2002
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great car. Roomy interior and best styling in its class... The Bose 8 spkr system is one of the tops out there. This is a highly competitive class but the altima is the tops in my boook. the accord's new styling was a bit off... The Camry is nice but too bland. The Passat doesnt have the reliability and is too expensive. We won't even start with the american cars (although the stratus is pretty good).
Dee's Review of Altima 2.5S
dogholoh, 10/01/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought this vehicle in the 2002 model for our daughter. We were so pleased with it that we bought the 2003 model for our son early (before he was eligible to drive). That gave me the time to have the pleasure of driving it for 9 months. Then, I had to turn it over and go back to driving my 2000 Infiniti I30t.
repeat excellence
ecb, 08/05/2006
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
very comfortable leather seats-- car fits like a glove. fast pick up. excellent steering amazing trunk size
typical
jische, 06/26/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car has been in the shop at least 1 or twice a month being fixed since I bought it. I willnever ever buy a nissan as it is obvious that they have not learned a lesson since they were datsan
Go with Honda, not Nissan!!
MoneyBags, 06/27/2003
2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is an 'ok' car. not all that great. Reliablity is very questionable... I would go with a Honda Accord over this car anyday. Better performance, handeling, features, and RELIABILITY!! The Honda Accord is the car that the Altima wanted to be.