Nissan Altima Years to Avoid
Every Altima model year ranked by owner complaints filed with NHTSA, with recalls and the top problem for each year.
Updated Oct 16, 2026.
Which Altima years should you avoid?
The 2013, 2009 and 2014 Altima have the most NHTSA complaints. Adjusted for how long each year has been on the road, the 2022, 2023 and 2021 models have the fewest problems.
Complaints by model year
Total complaints. Newer years have had less time on the road, so their totals will keep climbing.
Every year at a glance
| Year | Complaints | Per year | Recalls | Top problem |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 41 | 14 | 1 | Brakes |
| 2023 | 30 | 8 | 0 | Electrical |
| 2022 | 31 | 6 | 0 | Emergency Braking |
| 2021 | 70 | 12 | 2 | Emergency Braking |
| 2020 | 158 | 23 | 6 | Electrical |
| 2019 | 233 | 29 | 7 | Electrical |
| 2018 | 226 | 25 | 2 | Brakes |
| 2017 | 392 | 39 | 3 | Transmission |
| 2016 | 554 | 50 | 4 | Transmission |
| 2015 | 955 | 80 | 10 | Lights |
| 2014 | 1,114 | 86 | 8 | Lights |
| 2013 | 2,313 | 165 | 12 | Airbags |
| 2012 | 426 | 28 | 4 | Transmission |
| 2011 | 241 | 15 | 1 | Transmission |
| 2010 | 381 | 22 | 3 | Electrical |
| 2009 | 1,547 | 86 | 4 | Steering |
| 2008 | 1,030 | 54 | 4 | Body |
"Per year" divides complaints by the years since that model year went on sale, so new and old years compare fairly. Highlighted rows have the most complaints.
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Common questions
What is the worst year for the Nissan Altima?
The 2013 Altima, with 2,313 complaints. Its most reported problem area is the airbags.
What is the best year for the Nissan Altima?
Among years with at least three years of owner reports, the 2022 Altima has the fewest complaints per year on the road.
Which Nissan Altima years should I avoid?
Be most careful with the 2013, 2009 and 2014 models. Check service records and recall work before buying.