2003 Nissan Altima Review
Price Estimate: $1,311 - $2,047
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Sports car power in a midsize sedan body, high level of features, explosive V6 engine, distinct styling.
Cons
- Shabby interior materials, overboosted steering, no stability control.
What’s new
After last year's debut to critical acclaim, Nissan's midsize sedan receives minor changes for 2003. Two new exterior colors, Sonoma Sunset and Crystal Blue add pizzazz to the wardrobe. There's a new charcoal seat fabric, padded cloth front center armrest cover (genuine leather on leather-equipped vehicles) and bright titanium interior accent colors for all models to spruce up the interior. The 2.5 SL receives a standard automatic transmission, heated front seats, heated outside mirrors and simulated wood trim. For the 3.5 SE, there is a Sport Package, which includes a sunroof and spoiler, and a Sport Package Plus, which includes sunroof, spoiler, Bose audio system and HID headlights. The 3.5 SE Leather Package now includes a Bose audio system, sunroof and heated seats, while the Leather Sport Package adds a spoiler and xenon headlights. Finally, a new 3.5 SE Premium Leather Package sports all of the above plus throws in fake wood to boot. How can you go wrong?
Edmunds says
Once a frumpy wallflower, the Altima is now a car to be desired.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
29 listings
- $6,498fair price$461 above market
- 88,385 miles
- 1 accident, 1 owner, personal use only
- 17 City / 24 Hwy MPG
- Lititz Motorcar (99 mi away)
- Power Driver Seat
- Alarm
- Trip Computer
- Rear Bench Seats
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Lititz, PA
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
19 Combined MPG (17 City/24 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1N4BL11D83C134948
Stock: 134948
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 04-25-2025 - $4,700fair price$924 below market
- 97,525 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- 17 City / 24 Hwy MPG
- Wamsley's Auto Sales (121 mi away)
- Power Driver Seat
- Alarm
- Trip Computer
- Rear Bench Seats
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Colonial Heights, VA
Very low miles and only two owners. Comes with 3 month/3000 mile warranty.
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
19 Combined MPG (17 City/24 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1N4BL11D13C216424
Stock: 216424
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 06-16-2025
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 2003 Nissan Altima consistently draws praise for its impressive engine performance, giving drivers an exciting dose of power even from the 4-cylinder, while the V6 option provides a truly exhilarating drive. Owners enjoy the Altima’s excellent handling, whether navigating tight curves or cruising at highway speeds, which many find reminiscent of a more expensive sports sedan. Fuel economy also stands out, with reports of the car maintaining solid mileage, especially on longer trips. The spacious interior offers generous room for passengers, making it comfortable for family travel or carpooling with friends. Many drivers appreciate the distinct and stylish exterior design of the Altima, which sets it apart in its class. The seats, whether fabric or luxurious leather, are often described as comfortable, particularly on long journeys. Owners frequently commend the stock sound system for its impressive audio quality, with some enhancing their experience with aftermarket upgrades. Safety is another standout feature; multiple accounts mention the car's ability to withstand significant impacts, protecting occupants even in serious accidents. Versatility is another hallmark, as the Altima adeptly balances daily errands with the occasional spirited drive through winding roads. The cargo space and trunk size are also highlighted, accommodating everything from groceries to road trip luggage with ease. During colder months, the available heated seats and mirrors add an appreciated layer of comfort and safety. While the turning radius receives mixed reviews, those accustomed to it find the car easy to maneuver. Even with high mileage, the Altima tends to hold its own in reliability, with several vehicles surpassing the 150,000-mile mark with few major issues. The ride itself is described as solid and engaging—drivers feel connected to the road, enhancing the overall driving experience. An emphasis on simple maintenance reinforces the car's appeal, as preventative care can keep Altimas on the road for many years. The convenience of four doors is particularly appreciated by families and those needing extra utility without sacrificing style. The car thrives on delivering dependable power without breaking the bank, a claim supported by numerous long-term owners. It strikes a strong balance between practicality and driving enjoyment, capturing a broad audience of satisfied drivers. Many appreciate the visibility from the driver's seat, which facilitates confident driving in varied conditions. Despite some noted issues with interior materials, the overall functionality and design of cabin controls receive positive mentions for being intuitive and simple to use. Finally, the car’s reliability in various weather conditions, from rain to light snow, is a commonly noted advantage, only enhancing its reputation as a trusty daily commuter. This enduring performance often results in repeat Nissan purchases, underlining the strong loyalty the Altima cultivates. Notably, many drivers transition seamlessly into newer models but retain fond memories of their 2003 Altima's dependable service. The combination of style, power, and utility fosters a deeply satisfying ownership experience that has left a positive mark on many drivers' automotive journeys.
Common Issues
The 2003 Nissan Altima struggles with a range of issues that can frustrate owners over time. Chief among these complaints is the car’s propensity to consume oil excessively, which can lead to ongoing maintenance headaches and, if unchecked, serious engine damage. The engine is further plagued by sensor failures, particularly crankshaft and camshaft position sensors that often require frequent replacements. Additionally, the pre-catalytic converter has a notorious reputation for deterioration, potentially leading to internal engine problems if fragments get sucked into the combustion chamber. The interior quality of the Altima is another frequent source of dissatisfaction; many owners note the use of cheap plastics, leading to parts breaking easily, such as door handles and console latches. The steering wheel alignment also poses a common irritation, sometimes not aligning straight, making long drives less comfortable. Turn radius limitations add difficulty in executing tight maneuvers, which is something drivers encounter regularly in parking situations and narrow city streets. Suspension issues, such as strut noise and clunking sounds from the front end, also crop up, diminishing the comfort of daily commutes. Electrical problems, like intermittent windshield wipers and faulty window regulators, can lead to inconvenient and costly repairs. The air conditioning system also exhibits early failures, with the A/C compressor sometimes needing replacement far sooner than expected. Recurring brake issues are another major concern; the Altima is known for rotor warping, which can result in vibrations during braking and a need for premature replacement. Snowy or slushy conditions seem especially challenging for the Altima, where handling may become precarious due to a low ride height and inadequate traction with stock tires. Rust and corrosion, particularly significant in regions with harsh winters, plague many owners and can compromise both aesthetics and safety. Some drivers experience persistent exhaust system problems, manifesting as rattling or loud noises, which can detract from the overall driving experience. The car's stability isn’t confidence-inspiring in all circumstances, especially due to its lack of electronic stability control, raising concerns for those driving in diverse weather environments. Costs from these recurring problems can add up, causing some owners to consider trading in for a different make or model after cumulative frustrations. Additional reports of engine misfires further complicate the ownership experience, often returning after initial fixes. Reliability perceptions take a hit due to these mechanical and electrical foibles, denting Nissan's generally solid reputation in this vehicle category. Owners often express regret when unexpected repair bills start to mount, leading to broader dissatisfaction. Despite regular maintenance, some Altimas still suffer from surprise breakdowns, impacting overall trust in the vehicle. The materials used in the car’s construction are highlighted repeatedly as subpar, amplifying the frequency of wear and tear repairs. These issues sometimes cast doubt on long-term reliability, prompting discussions about resale value taking a hit due to perceived and real deficiencies. The cumulative effect of these problems can erode driver satisfaction, pushing some customers toward alternative brands in future vehicle purchases. In particular, factory defects like the pre-catalytic converter issue tend to result in complex and costly fixes that strain owner patience. The model year 2003 for the Altima certainly has drawn ire for these persistent problems that range from minor frustrations to major financial burdens. Such experiences often lead owners to voice their concerns and reconsider the Altima as a long-term automotive partner.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2003 Nissan Altima leaves many owners with mixed feelings when considering its everyday reliability and satisfaction. On the one hand, its engine performance consistently impresses, providing ample power for daily driving and long highway stretches alike. The vehicle's handling adds to the allure, making tight corners and open roads equally enjoyable for those behind the wheel. However, the Altima's reputation for mechanical reliability is often marred by frequent and sometimes costly repairs, particularly with the engine and sensors. Fuel economy varies, with commendable efficiency observed during highway travel but leading to disappointment in city driving. While several owners praise the spacious interior for both the driver and passengers, the quality of interior materials is a frequent drawback, as minor parts like handles and latches often require attention. Regular maintenance can keep the Altima running smoothly, but more significant issues like the pre-catalytic converter and oil consumption become a concern after a certain mileage threshold. Despite its sporty driving dynamics and attractive styling, the Altima's allure is tempered by the need for vigilance regarding engine health and interior upkeep. The turning radius meets mixed reviews, occasionally complicating everyday tasks like parking, yet remains manageable for those familiar with its limits. Safety features such as the strong construction and airbag reliability receive positive feedback following accidents, providing peace of mind for cautious drivers. In varied conditions, the Altima handles weather changes with mixed results—showcasing adequate performance in light snow but revealing challenges in more severe conditions without additional traction aids. Owners often remark on enjoying the car’s lively character, yet the potential for mechanical concerns may prompt second thoughts about long-term ownership. The stock stereo system satisfies many, though some opt for aftermarket upgrades to enhance their driving experience. Cost-conscious drivers appreciate the Altima’s initial affordability and daily functionality but note that unexpected repairs can offset the savings. For those prioritizing spirited driving and style, the Altima continues to satisfy, though it demands ongoing attention to keep it at its best. Dress-up packages like the Sport Package further allure drivers who want their sedan to stand out visually while maintaining a degree of practicality for everyday use. The accumulation of miles on well-maintained Altimas stands testament to their longevity, as some confidently clock over 200,000 miles. Yet the need for significant repairs at lower mileages can dampen that optimism, leaving some wary of unresolved design flaws. Owners often express their dual sentiments online, celebrating the Altima's value proposition while lamenting the frustrating repairs that occasionally blemish its appeal. Nonetheless, everyday drivers who thoughtfully manage maintenance and repairs find lasting enjoyment in their Altimas, indicating a car that satisfies when properly cared for. Across a wide array of driving experiences, the Altima injects vigor into mundane drives while hinting at the excitement of a sports sedan. As the editor pensively reflects on these insights, the review pauses while considering the diverse experiences of the 2003 Altima’s loyal fanbase and their varied journeys.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$149/mo for Altima 2.5
Altima 2.5
vs
$148/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Reliability
The 2003 Nissan Altima has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 10 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
10 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 09E012000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 16270
- Defect Description:
- SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Defect Consequence:
- DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Recall Number:
- 07E074000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 11300
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN EAGLE EYES HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. DS517-B001L AND DS517-B001R, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE OPTICEL SURFACE OF THE REFLECTOR IS CORRODED INHIBITING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE UPPER AND LOWER BEAMS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- EAGLE EYES WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 11, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT EAGLE EYES AT 1-800-568-1098.
- Recall Number:
- 07E063000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 130
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN ANZO AFTERMARKET HEADLIGHTS, P/N 02-AZ-NA02-B-A, SOLD FOR USE ON 2002-2004 NISSAN ALTIMA VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION THE LAMP HOUSING SHAPE DEFORMED DISTORTING THE ASSEMBLY ANGLE OF THE REFLECTOR AND INFLUENCED THE AIMING POSITION. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 10, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT ANZO AT 909-628-1440.
- Recall Number:
- 07E054000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 9145
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN MAXZONE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 315-1145L-AS AND 315-1145R-AS, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION THE LAMP REFLECTOR SHAPE DEFORMED CHANGING THE SHAPE OF THE OPTIC SURFACE. THIS WILL CHANGE THE OPPOSITE POSITION OF LOW BEAM AND HIGH BEAM OPTICSAND CHANGE THE ANGLE OF INCIDENCE AND ILLUMATED LOCATION WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- MAXZONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 16, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAXZONE AT 909-822-3288.
- Recall Number:
- 06V242000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- R0606
- Manufactured from:
- 2002-08-01 to 2003-09-02
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 294166
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.5L ENGINE, THE CRANK ANGLE SENSOR IS AFFECTED BY TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS. UNDER CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS, THESE VARIATIONS IN TEMPERATURE CAN BE LARGE ENOUGH TO CAUSE A BRIEF INTERRUPTION IN THE SIGNAL OUTPUT FROM THE SENSOR.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF THE INTERRUPTION IN THE SIGNAL FROM THE SENSOR IS SO BRIEF THAT THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM) LOGIC DOES NOT HAVE TIME TO DIAGNOSE THE CONDITION, THE ENGINE MAY STOP RUNNING WITHOUT WARNING WHILE THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN AT A LOW SPEED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE ECM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 21, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
- Recall Number:
- 06E064000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 4029
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.
- Recall Number:
- 06E023000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 292000
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.
- Recall Number:
- 03V455000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- R3021/R302
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-01-01 to 2002-06-30
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 630000
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE CRANK POSITION SENSOR OR CAM POSITION SENSOR MAY HAVE AN IMPROPER SOLDER JOINT DUE TO SOLDER DEFORMATION CAUSED BY HEAT STRESS ACCELERATED BY THE EXISTENCE OF FLUX RESIDUE DURING THE SOLDERING PROCESS.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS COULD CAUSE THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" WARNING LIGHT TO COME ON, CREATE A NO START CONDITION, CAUSE REDUCED ENGINE POWER, OR CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STOP RUNNING WITHOUT WARNING DURING VEHICLE OPERATION, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CRANK POSITION SENSORS. CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR(S), AND IN SOME CASES, THE VARIABLE TIMING CONTROL SENSOR(S). VEHICLES INVOLVED IN A PREVIOUS RECALL CAMPAIGN, 01V357, ARE ALSO INCLUDED IN THIS NEW CAMPAIGN. THE REPLACEMENT SENSORS USED IN THAT CAMPAIGN ARE ALSO AFFECTED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 22, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
- Recall Number:
- 03V251000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- R3012/P314
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-08-01 to 2003-05-20
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 377000
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF ALASKA, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, IOWA, IDAHO, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, KANSAS, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, MONTANA, NORTH DAKOTA, NEBRASKA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, SOUTH DAKOTA, UTAH, VERMONT, WISCONSIN, AND WYOMING. AT EXTREMELY COLD TEMPERATURES, MOISTURE IN THE FUEL TANK COULD FREEZE AND FORM ICE CRYSTALS. THESE ICE CRYSTALS MAY OBSTRUCT THE SUCTION OPENING OF THE FUEL PUMP.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS CAN PREVENT THE SUPPLY OF FUEL TO THE ENGINE AND CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STOP, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SCREEN AT THE SUCTION OPENING OF THE FUEL PUMP TO PREVENT ICE CRYSTALS FROM BLOCKING THE OPENING. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-333-0829.
- Recall Number:
- 03V084000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- R3007/14/1
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-08-01 to 2003-06-23
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 338000
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 2.5 LITER ENGINE, THE EXHAUST PIPE HANGER PIN MAY CATCH DEBRIS FROM THE ROAD THAT COULD BE IGNITED BY CONTACT WITH THE MAIN CATALYST. ALSO ON 2002 ALTIMA AND SENTRA VEHICLES, CERTAIN ENGINE OPERATING CONDITIONS MAY CAUSE THE PRE-CATALYST TO OVERHEAT AND DAMAGE THE CATALYST SUBSTRATE.
- Defect Consequence:
- EITHER OF THESE TWO CONDITIONS COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE PROTRUDING PORTION OF THE EXHAUST PIPE HANGER PIN. IN ADDITION TO THE CORRECTIVE ACTION, IN ORDER TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE IN THE EVENT OF POOR OR IMPROPER MAINTENANCE THAT COULD RESULT IN OIL SPILLAGE, HEAT SHIELD(S) WILL BE INSTALLED ON THE PRE-CATALYST AND EXHAUST TUBE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261. NISSAN RECALL NOS. R3007, R3014, R3015, R3016, R3017. ALSO ON 2002 ALTIMA AND SENTRA VEHICLES, CERTAIN ENGINE OPERATING CONDITIONS MAY CAUSE THE PRE-CATALYST TO OVERHEAT AND DAMAGE THE CATALYST SUBSTRATE. IF SUBSTRATE PARTICLES ENTER THE COMBUSTION CHAMBER, THEY COULD SCORE THE CYLINDER WALLS, RESULTING IN INCREASED OIL CONSUMPTION. IF THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL IS NOT CHECKED ON A PERIODIC BASIS AND DROPS BELOW THE LOW LEVEL, AND THE DRIVER CONTINUES TO OPERATE THE VEHICLE IGNORING NOTICEABLE ENGINE NOISE, ENGINE DAMAGE MAY OCCUR WHICH COULD RESULT IN A FIRE. THE PRE-CATALYST WILL BE TESTED TO ENSURE IT IS WORKING PROPERLY AND REPLACED IF NECESSARY. IF DAMAGE IS FOUND INSIDE THE PRE-CATALYST, IT WILL BE NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE ENGINE.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
Nissan Altima Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(68%)
4(19%)
3(8%)
2(3%)
1(2%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
My 2003 Nissan Altima
5 out of 5 starsdgzlz, 01/16/2013
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
I just felt the need to give special props to my 2003 Nissan Altima that is not at
(372 THOUSAND MILES) yes I had to spell it out so no one would think it was a typo. She needs a new catalytic converter, but other than that she is still the greatest money maker I have every had. I drive 172 miles a day, 5 days a week. I have tried reading online to see if anyone else was running with … this many miles, but it saddens me to see some have not been as lucky. A mechanic not long ago told me mine car must have came off the line on a Wednesday. I tried looking that up with no sucess.
A good car with some kinks
4 out of 5 starsGlenn J. darro, 02/22/2016
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
I bought my 03, 2.5 Altima with 38,000 miles on it. I now have driven it another 75,000 miles ( odometer reads113,000 miles). In that time my car has never failed. however, there were repairs. following is a list of those repairs:
2 motor mounts at about 60K
Coil at about 75K
Crankshaft position sensor at about 60K
Radiator replacement at about 60K
Fuel pump at about 90K
Pre-catalytic … converter at 110K
I love the way this car handles. The engine is peppy for a 4cyl. but sometimes I wish it was faster off the line. It is definitely a driver's car, though. It handles winding roads like a sports car, and the braking is excellent The ride is not cushy, but that's ok. The seating is quite comfortable.
Update: My Altima has 151000 miles on it now, with no major issues. The engine still has a lot of power, but it is a bit noisier and burns a little oil.
'03 altima 2.5s a drivers pleasure
4.75 out of 5 starsfastlane7, 08/26/2011
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
I got my altima with 38k. the previous owner, a relative, never had any problems with it. I now have 58k and it runs like a dream. I did have to replace the crank position sensor at 57k. However, although the 'ses' light was on, it never gave me problems. If your looking for a cushy ride,look elsewhere. The Altima is definitely a drivers car.sturdy frame, firm ride.
handling is … excellent. Very little body-lean when buzzing around roads. holds road very well The engine is responsive. quick off the line. open road acceleration impressive; especially for a 4cylindar engine. stunning exterior, and a roomy, comfortable, interior. some cheap plastics inside; no big deal. to sum up,love this car
buyer beware
2 out of 5 starsChris Moore, 08/04/2015
2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
Bought the car with 28,000 miles on it and my wife put 40,000 miles on it in about 7 years. I kept the oil changed and tires on it with no real problems, except for the door handles breaking, until recently. First the engine light came on sporadically and I could feel engine hesitate. Got the code checked out and it's was somewhat generic (p0300) with up to five different system that … could be the problem. I changed the plugs and ignition coils and the motor ran better but there was another problem. Took it to a garage and have the exhaust manifold and catalytic converter replaced. Cars running just fine again. One week later the oil light comes on and I add 3 quarts and I'm going to run the car for around 1k miles before I take it to get an oil change. Within another week or two the car starts sounding like the exhaust manifold is bad again. Before I can get the car to the shop it dies on the side of the road. Look at the oil and it's black with less than 500 miles since I put the 3 quarts in. The engine is now dead and I've already put around $2k into the car in the last 2 months. This really sucks for a car that I thought would last well over a 100K miles. I'll never buy another Nissan again. If you want to see all the problems with this motor look up misfires, exhaust manifold, and precat.
2003 Altima Highlights
2.5
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $16,749 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $149/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 15.6 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Altima include:
- Alarm
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver3 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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