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2016 Nissan Altima Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2016 Nissan Altima Report

Overall Score

8.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

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.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Nissan Altima

The 2016 Nissan Altima offers a comfortable ride and good fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily commuting. Its 3.5L V6 engine option provides ample power, while the standard 4-cylinder is more economical. However, buyers should be aware of its history of recalls, including critical issues with the occupant classification system and door latches. A high TSB count also suggests potential for various minor issues that may arise over time. Despite these concerns, its strong NHTSA safety scores are a significant plus.

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.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
26
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
31
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

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.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

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 reported

Usage data observed

2. Occupant Classification System (OCS) Malfunction

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

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

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
5 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

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.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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