2017 Nissan Altima
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 391 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 13th highest complaint count among 26 Altima model years with reports.
Of the 2017 reports, 24 involved a crash and 7 involved a fire. 23 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Latches/locks/linkages, hood, latchMay 28, 2020
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2018 Nissan Altima vehicles. If the primary hood latch is inadvertently released, there is an increased likelihood that the secondary hood latch may corrode over time.
Corrosion to the secondary latch may cause it to bind and remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed. If the primary latch is inadvertently released again and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will install a stronger release spring in the hood release lever, a warning label near the secondary hood latch, and an Owners Manual addendum card with instructions on how to lubricate and maintain the secondary hood latch mechanism, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: Recall 16V-029 remains open for any unremedied 2013-2015 Altimas and this recall applies to all vehicles covered by 16V-029 even if those repairs have already been performed.
Campaign 20V315000 on NHTSA.gov
Structure, emergency, escape/egress/exitDec 19, 2018
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Altima vehicles, previously remedied under recall number 17V-040. The door latch-lock cable may not have been routed properly in the rear door when the remedy was applied. As a result, the cable may interfere with the window regulator causing the rear passenger door to unlatch and inadvertently open without warning when the window is lowered.
If the rear passenger door opens while the vehicle is moving, the rear passengers have an increased risk of injury.
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will secure the latch-lock cables in the correct position using the new remedy procedure, free of charge. The recall began February 5, 2019. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7669.
Campaign 18V915000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkages, doors, latchJan 18, 2017
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Altima vehicles. The rear door latch/lock cable on the vehicles may have been improperly routed. As a result, lowering a rear window may inadvertently cause that door to unlatch and open.
If the rear passenger doors inadvertently open while the vehicle is in motion, it may increase the risk of injury to the rear passengers.
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will correct the rear door latch/lock cable routing, free of charge. The recall began on February 16, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
Campaign 17V040000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: other or unspecified
62 reports, newest first. Show all
Steering, Vehicle speed control, Other or unspecified, May 13, 2026
The first code it threw was for the master air flow sensor then it started bogging out not going over 1RPM -throwing the code "P17F0 CVT Judder" and has left me in some really,really bad situations in traffic, and when it boggs down like that (no matter how many times I turn it off and restart it, even if the battery drains all the way out and I have to get a jump) I have to wait two hours after unhooking the battery and sit for an hour if not more before I can start it up and actually get down the rd. And it runs great like nothing was wrong it. But doesn't get far before doing it again
Other or unspecified, May 3, 2026
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to formally report a dangerous design oversight and safety hazard regarding the trunk lid support mechanism on the Nissan Altima. On [Date of Incident], while the vehicle was parked, a gust of wind caused the trunk lid to slam shut unexpectedly. The metal door latch struck me directly in the frontal region of the skull, resulting in an injury that required medical monitoring for potential brain trauma. The current design relies exclusively on torsion bars or gas struts to maintain an open position. These components are prone to wear and environmental fatigue, and they lack a mechanical "positive lock" or secondary safety catch. Consequently, the trunk lid acts as a sail in windy conditions, easily overcoming the lift support and turning the heavy lid and metal latch assembly into a falling hazard for any consumer loading or unloading the vehicle. While Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) focus heavily on internal trunk releases (Standard No. 401), there is a significant gap regarding the prevention of sudden, gravity-induced or wind-induced lid collapse. I am requesting that the NHTSA: Investigate the frequency of "unintended closing" injuries related to Nissan Altima trunk lift systems. Evaluate whether the lift-support specifications for this model are sufficient to withstand common wind gusts. Mandate a mechanical locking mechanism or more robust secondary safety catches to prevent these lids from becoming dangerous projectiles. [XXX] Vehicle Information: Make: Nissan Model: Altima Year: [2017] Estimated Mileage: [105000] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Mar 11, 2026, crash
I am submitting this complaint regarding a defective aftermarket Fuyao windshield installed by Safelite in my 2017 Nissan Altima. This windshield presents a serious safety hazard to drivers, passengers, and the public. Windshield Identification: [XXX] Solar Tint Hazard Description: • The Fuyao DOT-1038 windshield produces extreme glare, light scatter, and optical distortion, making driving hazardous in daylight, low-angle sunlight, and nighttime conditions. • During daytime, sunlight reflecting off vehicles, the hood, and surrounding surfaces produces a snow-like field of intense points of light, severely impairing road visibility. • At night, oncoming headlights generate starburst patterns, temporarily blinding the driver. • Interior reflections from the dashboard amplify these effects. • These hazards are not present in OEM Nissan windshields and have been consistently reported by other vehicle owners and automotive technicians in online forums and discussions involving Fuyao DOT-1038 windshields. (Do a quick Google Gemini search on Fuyao-1038 and optical distortions) Incident: • On March 6, 2026, the glare caused a collision in a Walmart parking lot in [XXX] , where I struck a cement stop post that was obscured by the glare. • While no injuries occurred, the potential for serious injury or death was high. Consumer Pattern: • Multiple drivers have reported similar optical defects with Fuyao [XXX] / AS-1 M147 / FW4160 windshields, including excessive glare, light scatter, starburst effects, and unsafe driving conditions. • These reports indicate a systemic manufacturing or optical defect, making this an urgent safety concern. Safety Standard Reference: The optical behavior of this windshield raises concerns regarding compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 205 (FMVSS-205), which governs optical clarity and safety requirements for automotive glazing materials. Sincerely [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Other or unspecified, Sep 16, 2025
My CVT transmission has been replaced three times by Nissan. I am currently on the third CVT transmission and it has failed requiring a fourth CVT transmission replacement. I was in a few different situations each time the trasmission failed that were unsafe. I've been at intersections, trying to accelerate forward when the stop light turns green causing me to stop in the middle of intersections or accelerate slowly through the intersection which is very dangerous. I've been on the highway going normal highway speeds over 60mph when I would lose power and try to keep my speed and my car would stay in the 15mph - 40mph, having to turn my hazard lights on so other drivers know I'm having issues accelerating. The first time I took my car to the dealership, they could not recreate the issue after having my vehicle for 30 days. I received my car back and the engine light finally came on after some time and I immediately took my car to the dealership where they confirmed the CVT transmission was the issue.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Sep 4, 2025
The 2017 Nissan Altima has a delay in acceleration when the gas pedal is pressed. I couldn't accelerate pass 35-40 mph when I was driving. Thankfully it was bumper to bumper traffic.
Other or unspecified, Aug 14, 2025
Transmission
Other or unspecified, Jul 12, 2025
A few months ago, while at a stop light my car would not acceleration, I depressed the pedal all the way to the floor and there was no movement but rpm’s went up to 4000. I was almost rear ended as I was attempting to go. The car suddenly accelerated at a high rate of speed and drove normal. This occurrence happened intermittently a couple times, and is really dangerous while making left hand turns and almost being hit in the intersection. I took it to a shop to get a diagnostic but the mechanic said that since there was no check engine light or codes he’d “just be guessing.” I have been driving the car for sometime now without any issues. Last week I went an hour out of town and my car suddenly loss power on the highway while going 70 mph. It decelerated to 40 mph and would not go faster. I had to pull off the highway crossing 3 lanes of traffic barely going 40 mph. When I got to the shoulder, I turned my car off and waited a few minutes before turning it back on and the car drove fine for maybe 10 miles before it lost power again. I noticed a loud whining noise while accelerating and a smell of transmission fluid. It took me 2 hours to get home being I had to continue to pull over every 5-10 miles which seemed to reset the transmission. I had it towed to a different repair shop the next day and once again no check engine light, no codes and the car had not shown any reported symptoms, so the mechanics hands where tied but he did say that the CVT transmission in Nissan Altimas have been a major issue and of it is indeed the transmission it would cost 3k-6k for repairs. If this is truly an issue with Nissan’s CTV transmissions then there needs to be a recall and the repair should be covered. The sudden failure of engine mechanics is a safety risk for all drivers and needs to be investigated before Nissan is hit with a wrongful death suit.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Apr 26, 2025
When I push the start button my car sometimes won't start and it won't go in drive. There has not been any warning lamps, messages or symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. It started about 2 weeks ago, it doesn't always happen, but it's happening more frequently now. I had an emergency yesterday and I couldn't get my car started. After waiting about 10 minutes I was able to get it started, but I was afraid if I turned the car off it wouldn't start again. The problem has not been inspected by the dealership or confirmed by an independent service center. I'm interested in seeing if there has been a recall for this problem
Other or unspecified, Apr 11, 2025
My car is we don't have any problems
Other or unspecified, Mar 30, 2025
Mass airflow sensor and traction control light coming on . Second Nissan vehicle to do this.
Other or unspecified, Nov 21, 2024
Sun visor part number 96401-9HT2A needs replaced and Nissan has not had any available for this past year.
Other or unspecified, Sep 4, 2024
My Nissan was bought Used. It has no damages and it drives well. I was told it was in an accident that affected the right side. The doors were replaced.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 21, 2024
Was driving and when we stopped and was ready to pull out the car wouldn’t move. The gas pedal was all the way to the floor after several seconds it shot across the road a then wouldn’t get above 20 mph. The rpm gauge shot all the way, pegged out. Drove for a few miles and pulled over. Turned the car off and then it took off just fine. Shortly afterwards it bogged down again and would get over 20mph again. Something needs to be fixed right away
Vehicle speed control, Other or unspecified, May 20, 2024
Transmission: this is the 2nd transmission in about 22,000 miles. Car will start to stall out and then high rev the rpm’s. This has caused significant power loss suddenly in traffic. Issue has been recreated by mechanic and has been inspected thoroughly. Previously transmission was rebuilt with the torque converter being replaced. No indicator lights have come on prior or during sudden loss, only check engine light once. Shutting off vehicle for approximately 5 or so minutes resolves the issue but only for a limited amount of time.
Other or unspecified, Jan 24, 2024
Check Engine light is on and has been diagnosed twice at different Nissan dealerships. Once the car stops, it hesitates to accelerate. I have to press the gas more than once and then it zooms off. Cleaning the Mass Air Flow Sensor and Throttle Body worked for 3 days and light went out. I am back were I started with slower acceleration than before. Today I drove with my emergency flashers, after cars started honking at me for not moving. I have 3 kids with me most of the time and fear being rear ended. The car is being towed back to the dealership since its no longer safe to drive. This is a Safety Hazard due to the possibility of being rear-ended.
Other or unspecified, Nov 16, 2023
The inspection i change lamps the head light 2023 this year my car Still no warning the police officer
Other or unspecified, Oct 23, 2023
When I am driving this vehicle, I get to a stop sign or red light or even stopping at a drive-through window and when I need to go the car will not accelerate I have to shut the car off and turn it back on to get it to accelerate and go. This keeps happening and is very dangerous especially when I have my children in the car. The car also has trouble shifting into gear and jerks when I get onto the hwy. The car dealership last year told me it was nothing that they could not locate any issue with the vehicle. No symptoms prior to failure of the car sometimes it does it and sometimes it doesn't
Other or unspecified, Sep 22, 2023
I experienced My 2017 Nissan Altima having a delay accelerating after I stop at lights then it took a couple of seconds of my foot pushing down on gas petal to get going with it taking off very fast! It happened 3 times in a 2 week timeframe, then on Sunday, 9/17/2023 my daughter was driving and I was the passenger and it happened 4 separate times in 1 hour! I took it into Nissan in Salem, NH , (where I purchased the vehicle), on 9/18/23 and it isn’t giving a Code so they say they can’t fix it until they get a code by replicating it! That is unacceptable because it happens sporadically so unless you give me a loaner car so they can drive it all the time that to see it happen. So right now my car is at that service place! I need a “loaner car” and for Nissan to FIX this problem NOW or I will be force to file a lawsuit and I will make sure everyone I know doesn’t buy a Nissan!
Other or unspecified, Jun 24, 2023
I got this car 2 weeks ago and 4 days after i got it, I was driving on the free way when it started lunging forward and slowing down. There was a car behind me that almost hit me because the car was malfunctioning. This problem caused danger to me and others on the road.
Other or unspecified, Jun 2, 2023
Nissan has a very serious safety concern that if not remedied I will have to take action elsewhere. My 2017 altima lags and sputters randomly. I was almost hit today when I turned from an intersection and the car slowed down in the middle of the intersection. I demand more information about this issue and how to fix it within reasonable price range. The dealer couldn't find a problem. This is a huge problem that could cost many people their lives and money I do not have right now.
Other or unspecified, May 11, 2023
Nissan of Cerritos knowingly and with malice sold me a defective car. The car has a delayed acceleration issue. It is the most helpless feeling to be in such danger everyday due to this ongoing CVT defect. My life and passenger lives is in danger because I never know when the issue will occur.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Fuel/propulsion system, May 5, 2023
My car is periodically not accelerating at a stop when I push on the gas pedal.
Other or unspecified, Sep 16, 2022
On September 14, 2022 at about 7: 30 PM I attempted to shift from park to reverse and the gear shift would not move from park. I reset the park brake and released it once again thinking perhaps the brake did not fully release but it would not go into reverse. The gear shift was locked. I restarted the car and did everything I normally do and still nothing. I wiggled the shift after making sure I pressed the release lock on the shift at the same time and made sure the break was not the cause. Finally the shift released and I was able to put it into reverse. The next morning the same thing happened. I am taking it to the shop for an evaluation. My concern is that this situation is happening more than consumers are reporting and I suggest that NISSAN should look into having a recall for whatever the fix is to correct this so that wear and tear is not what it is considered as. As a result I would like to know what can be done to better address this inevitable problem with the gear shift
Power train, Other or unspecified, Aug 4, 2022
Delay acceleration at stop sign/red light : car moves very slow after pressing the gas paddle, engine revs 3-4K. It is really a safety issue when it comes to left turns with incoming traffic. Car move slow after complete stop with pressed gas paddle.
Other or unspecified, Jul 7, 2022
My problem began about a year to a year and a half ago. When I come to a full stop, and I press the accelerator pedal down, the engine does not rev, the RPM’s do not go up and the car does not move for about 3-5 seconds, and then the car just starts accelerating rapidly all of a sudden. This problem has been persistent and very random. It has occured countless times and at first I thought oh, that’s weird, maybe the car was just on an incline but that was not the case because it kept happening over and over. This problem has become more persistent and it is very scary, as whenever I am trying to turn left at a green light at a busy intersection, there have been times that I was almost hit by an on-coming car because my car would just roll for about 3-5 seconds, regardless of how far down I pressed the accelerator pedal, and then it would very rapidly accelerate all at once. I do not know what the issue could be, there has never been a check-engine light, nor any errors or codes. My mechanic can’t do anything for me as they do not know what the problem could be. I urge you, can you please, please help me with this by issuing a recall, or contact Nissan on me and many other Nissan Altima owners behalf as there is a lot of evidence that this problem is very wide-spread. My car currently has 47,000 miles on the odometer, and I have done regular maintenance as required in the owners manual. I simply do not know what to do, and I also do not want to keep driving a car that potentially puts my own life, as well as other road users at risk. Please I urge you to look into this problem and contact me as soon as possible. At this point I would really like to resplve this issue as soon as physically possible.