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2026 Nissan Altima Report

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

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

Overall Score

8.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent reliability, backed by a strong public verdict and zero reported recalls or complaints.
  • Solid safety scores, including a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA.
  • Fuel-efficient powertrain achieves 30 MPG combined, contributing to lower running costs.
  • Front-wheel drive and a 2.5L engine provide a balanced, predictable driving experience.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2026 Nissan Altima

The 2026 Nissan Altima enters the used car market with a strong reputation for reliability and safety. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) delivers an impressive EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined. NHTSA ratings are robust, with an overall 5-star score, including 5 stars for side and rollover impacts, and 4 stars for frontal crash. Nissan's commitment to safety is evident, and the absence of recalls or consumer complaints further bolsters its appeal. However, a single TSB warrants attention during inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Excellent reliability, backed by a strong public verdict and zero reported recalls or complaints.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
30
MPG
City
26
MPG
Highway
36
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking a fuel-efficient and dependable daily driver.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Enthusiast drivers seeking sporty performance or engaging handling.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2026 Nissan Altima Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2026 Nissan Altima.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
30

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

Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Nissan Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering, windshield washer)

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)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2026 Nissan Altima reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2026 Nissan Altima is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2026 Nissan Altima for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 30 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2026 Nissan Altima?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2026 Nissan Altima is 8.3/10. Overall score is 8.3/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 9.3/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2026 Nissan Altima?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Nissan Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering, windshield washer) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600.

What engine is in the 2026 Nissan Altima?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2026 Nissan Altima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2026 Nissan Altima, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2026 Nissan Altima?▾

EPA combined estimate is 30 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2026 Nissan Altima?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System.

What body style is the 2026 Nissan Altima?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2026 Nissan Altima, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2026 Nissan Altima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2026 Nissan Altima, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2026 Nissan Altima?▾

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

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2026 Nissan Altima?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2026 Toyota Camry and 2026 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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