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2018 Nissan Altima Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2018 Nissan Altima Report

Overall Score

8.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • The hood latch recall is a critical item to verify completion on, as it addresses a potential for unintended hood opening.
  • While no complaints were logged, a high TSB count suggests a complex vehicle with potential for numerous minor issues.
  • Fuel economy is respectable, with a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG, contributing to manageable running costs.
  • Safety ratings are strong, with 5 stars overall from NHTSA, providing peace of mind.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Nissan Altima

The 2018 Nissan Altima presents a practical choice for used car shoppers, balancing decent fuel economy with a comfortable ride. It achieved a strong overall safety rating of 5 stars from NHTSA, indicating good performance in crash tests. However, its reliability assessment is average, primarily due to a history of recalls, including a significant one for the hood latch mechanism. While no owner complaints were logged in the provided data, a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests potential for various minor issues. Buyers should prioritize inspecting the hood latch system and verifying all recall work has been completed.

Critical Failure Risk

The secondary hood latch mechanism is susceptible to corrosion, potentially leading to unintended hood opening while driving. This issue has been addressed by recalls.

Early detection can help you avoid a $150-$400 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
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
32
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

5.4/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking a comfortable and reasonably fuel-efficient sedan.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who expect near-flawless reliability without potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Nissan Altima Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Nissan Altima.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (AV-S7)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
26

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Hood Latch Corrosion and Unintended Opening

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Backup Camera System 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 System 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 (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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Nissan Altima reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Nissan Altima is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Nissan Altima for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Nissan Altima is 8.1/10. Overall score is 8.1/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 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 System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Hood Latch Mechanism (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $400).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

Base MSRP is $23,260.

What engine is in the 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2018 Nissan Altima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Altima, transmission is Automatic (AV-S7). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Altima, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Altima, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Nissan Altima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Altima, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S7).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Nissan Altima?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Toyota Camry and 2018 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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