2016 Nissan Altima Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2016 Altima received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, indicating strong crash protection.
- Fuel economy is a strong suit, with a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG.
- Multiple recalls, notably for the passenger airbag system and door latches, require verification of completion.
- A high number of Technical Service Bulletins (183) suggests potential for various, though often minor, issues.
2016 Nissan Altima
Critical Failure Risk
Rear doors may unlatch or open unexpectedly due to issues with the latch mechanism. This is a recurring concern addressed by multiple recalls.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Commuters seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient sedan.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a completely trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Nissan Altima Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Nissan Altima.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (AV-S7)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. Door Latch Failure
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Occupant Classification System (OCS) Malfunction
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Nissan Altima reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Nissan Altima is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2016 Nissan Altima for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Nissan Altima?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Nissan Altima is 8.0/10. Overall score is 8.0/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Nissan Altima?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Door Latch (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).
What engine is in the 2016 Nissan Altima?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2016 Nissan Altima use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Nissan Altima, transmission is Automatic (AV-S7). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Nissan Altima?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Nissan Altima?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2016 Nissan Altima?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Nissan Altima, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Nissan Altima use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Nissan Altima, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S7).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Nissan Altima?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Nissan Altima?
This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Nissan Altima?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Toyota Camry and 2016 Honda Accord.