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2017 Nissan Altima Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ethan Miller
2017 Nissan Altima Report

Overall Score

8.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize inspection of rear door latches and hood latch mechanisms due to recall history.
  • Confirm all outstanding recalls, especially those related to door latch cable routing, have been properly addressed.
  • The vehicle achieves an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined, offering reasonable running costs.
  • Safety is a strong point, with 5-star ratings in frontal and side crash tests.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Nissan Altima

The 2017 Nissan Altima presents a mixed proposition for used car shoppers. It earns top marks in crash safety and delivers respectable fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice on paper. However, a history of four recalls, with a notable focus on door and hood latch issues, raises concerns about long-term durability and potential repair costs. The high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) also suggests a complex ownership experience.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate a persistent issue with rear door latch cable routing, potentially leading to doors unlatching when windows are lowered. This poses a significant safety risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,500-$4,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
179–270HP
Torque
177–251 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
26
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
32
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.4/ 10

Practicality

5.5/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and fuel efficiency in a mid-size sedan.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Nissan Altima Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Nissan Altima.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
179-270 hp
Torque
177-251 lb-ft
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
MSRP Range
$22,500 - $32,690
EPA Combined MPG
26

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Most Common Issues

1. Door Latch Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Hood Latch Corrosion

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

5,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Nissan Altima reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Nissan Altima is 9.4/10. Reliability score is 9.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Nissan Altima for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.5/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 436 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Nissan Altima is 8.1/10. Overall score is 8.1/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (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 Mechanism (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

MSRP range is $22,500 - $32,690.

What engine is in the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 / V6 • 6 • 3.5. Output is 179-270 hp • 177-251 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2017 Nissan Altima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Altima, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

7 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Altima, fuel economy range is 22-39 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Altima, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Altima, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Nissan Altima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Altima, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Nissan Altima?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Toyota Camry and 2017 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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