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
391 reports, newest first.
Air bags, Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Aug 7, 2024, crash
I left for work, acceleration at slow speed around 30 mph within 40 seconds, the car began to gain speed, I let off the gas pedal, still accelerated. I tried slowly using brakes to slow down - no response. At this point, I notice that cruise control light, was lit up, on the dashboard but not set. I'm now gaining speed of 72 MPH. Not even 1 mile, from turn off. I literally fish tailed three times, then the car slowed down and I ended up sideways, in a ditch. Chipped hubcap and some plastic piece hanging, from underneath the car. I had a bystander, whom was headed towards me - stop in fear of what happened. Got the car out of ditch. I parked, checked for leaks, nothing. Since this incident, I'm in fear of this happening again. I'm assumption was the accelerator stuck. No brakes is dangerous, let alone feeling like my life was gonna end. I cried. Thinking Jesus my children were home. I have noticed that both airbag "warning" signs have displayed and won't go off. I would hate to have or hear of a fatality, from this. Please look into other reports. I felt like I couldn't even explain this bizarre, unlikely/impossible event to happen but it did.
Air bags, Aug 2, 2024
The airbag warning light began going off October/November 2023 and was intermittent at first and became constantly on. I took it to the dealership in December of 2023 and they said that the airbag sensor plug had become disconnected under the front passenger seat, they said they reconnected it and the warning light was out. It was also stated that this is a common issue when items get under the front passenger seat. In May 2024, the airbag warning light again started to come on intermittently and then became consistently on. Took the car back to the same dealership which diagnosed the fault as an airbag sending unit in the passenger seat. The dealership stated that there was no way to tell if the airbag would operate as intended. The repair would require a new seat as Nissan does not make a replacement airbag unit and would cost $2800. If this, by the dealership's own statement, is a common problem with an important safety feature it would seem that Nissan should be responsable for making any vehicle affected safe.
Structure, Aug 1, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that on two separate occasions, the center light console located on the roof in between the front driver and passenger seat had fallen off while driving at various speeds. After the initial failure, the vehicle was taken to a dealer where the console was repaired free of charge. The contact stated that almost two years after the initial failure, the same failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls or warranties on the vehicle. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
Power train, Engine, Jul 26, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was jerking, inadvertently shifting between gears, and then lost motive power. The contact was able to drive a short distance to the residence with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 136,960.
Power train, Jul 23, 2024
my transmission went bad at 80,000 miles it is a 4 cylinder cvt and my car shudders when shifting and at random times when i press on the gas from a stop the car slowly rolls forward. my safety is at risk because if it happens when I'm turning onto a road or major road it can cause me to get hit because the accelerator doesn't work at random times. it is because my transmission is slipping. But i don't understand why because i have taken great care of my Nissan Altima. this issue needs to be fixed with Nissan before someone gets seriously injured or killed. the least Nissan could do is help pay for a new transmission.
Seat belts, Jul 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while the driver’s side seat belt was in use, the seat belt warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Power train, Jul 8, 2024
Loss power on the interstate would not excell at all no warning lights on very dangerous with getting hit by several cars
Air bags, Jun 28, 2024
The vehicle airbag light malfunctions and stays on. It can cause the airbag to deploy or on deploy in a crash. This is an issue with many 2017 Nissan Altimas.
Air bags, Jun 26, 2024
In January 2024 my airbag light came on, I had purchased an extended warranty and the dealer replaced the Drivers Seat back assembly. April 2024, same airbag light came on, dealer diagnose it being the passenger seat back needing replaced this time. No longer covered by my extended warranty, wanted over $1000 to repair. This is obviously an ongoing issue and should not be a responsibility of the owner, this is a costly repair but more importantly a safety hazard!
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
Exterior lighting, Visibility/wiper, Jun 18, 2024
Nissan had a extended warranty on their headlight assembly. I didn't know this until 2023. I than went to Riverhead Auto Mall and had it tested, they said it passed This was on 11/28/2023. Finally based on my disbelief they agreed to have it retested pro bono at Nissan 112. It did fail the test in May of 2024. I have a daughter with a condition that requires me to drive her to and from work in inclement weather. At night I can barely see and I am putting ourselves and others at risk. They are now claiming the warranty ended in 2024 and they want me to pay half of the replacement cost. My contention is that if the first dealer had done the right thing I wouldn't be in this position.
Interior lighting, Jun 14, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving at approximately 15 MPH, the interior dome light assembly detached from the ceiling of the vehicle and fell striking the head of the driver. No injury was reported. The vehicle was later taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the interior dome light assembly clip had failed, and the entire assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 42,000.
Air bags, Jun 11, 2024
Last week, the air bag warning light came on in my 2017 Nissan Altima - the very same day as the recall was published about the recall on older Nissans - but my vin was not among those recalled - I called the dealership and was told it would have to be replaced at my cost - I have done nothing to cause this problem and do not feel I should be responsible for repairs concerning this matter - I regularing service my car and this is not among the items that require regular servicing .
Power train, Jun 7, 2024
While driving the care for a minutes to an hour. While stopped at a light or stop sign, the car does not want to accelerate. It takes about 3 sec for the car to finally go. When it does finally moves the car takes off and the RPM goes all the way to about 5 or 6 then drops back down. I will have to pull over and turn the car. I guess it restarts it self and I am good to drive again until it happens again. No check engin light come on.
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 4, 2024
I own a 2017 Nissan Altima. This vehicle has been having similar issues that other owners have reported with the vehicle failing to accelerate after stopping or sitting ideal while running the and you go too take off, barely moves to a crawl even if the gas pedal is to the floor. It will also loose power (speed) without warning while driving. The vehicle will not register any warning lights when this occurs not even a check engine light comes on when this occurs. It does not register any issues in a diagnostic test to which one was completed by a Nissan dealer in Lebanon Pa. (Moyer Nissan). Because of this the Service advisor/mechanic indicated that they would be "guessing" as to what the issue was even though it is clearly a issue with the 2017 models; it hasn't been the first time I'm sure that someone came to that Nissan dealer with the same problems and knowing that the 2017 have complaints with CVT Transmission. I'm no mechanic but I think it is a blatant disregard for human life if that they do NOT recall this vehicle or at the very least replace all equipment (transmission; throttle, pertaining to the accelerator) at no expense to the owner.
Power train, Forward collision avoidance, May 24, 2024
Subject: Urgent Complaint Regarding Nissan Altima CVT Transmission and Emergency Brake System Failure I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent failure of my Nissan Altima's CVT transmission and emergency brake system. This unexpected issue has jeopardized the safety of myself and others on the road, and I urgently need assistance in resolving these critical issues. The failure was confirmed by a trusted, who emphasized the seriousness of the situation. Without warning signs or symptoms leading up to the failure, the safety implications are even more concerning. I kindly request immediate action from the manufacturer to investigate and provide a solution to ensure the safety of all Nissan Altima owners. Additionally, I seek assistance from insurance representatives and other relevant parties in addressing this urgent matter, including guidance on replacing my transmission. Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated, and I look forward to a swift and satisfactory resolution. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
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.
Air bags, Apr 29, 2024
Airbag light came on randomly. Dealership says the unit needs to be replaced. 2900 dollar cost. No reason light came on, airbag was never deployed. Clear safety risk driving the vehicle if the airbag would not deploy.
Power train, Mar 21, 2024
The car has problems changing gears which also came with a weird sound. Eventually the car wouldn’t excel when pressing the gas, eventually the car stop working all together. This problem started at 95,000 miles and each service center I went to claim their wasn’t a problem until 107,962 miles it completely stopped and now I’m paying for a car that I can not drive and Nissan knows their is a problem but won’t fix it under the warranty.
Engine, Feb 28, 2024
The CVT transmission stopped working there was no warning or anything it just stopped. There was no warning light or anything, we took it to a mechanic and they confirmed that the transmission went out. I called the dealership where i bought it and they said they can’t do anything and i have no warranty. We were driving on the interstate and it just randomly stopped working which was incredibly dangerous.
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Power train, Feb 27, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was not functioning as intended. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle stalled. In addition, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The contact stated that the failure continued and became persistent. The contact stated that due to the failure, the contact was almost rear-ended by a semi-trailer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics and was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.
Power train, Air bags, Feb 14, 2024, crash
The contact's mom owns a 2017 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while his mom was at a stop light, a one-ton truck crashed into the vehicle. The driver attempted to reverse from the intersection. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact had previously reported an incident for acceleration and throttle issues. While his sister was driving and reversing, the vehicle was slow to accelerate. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The driver sustained facial injuries, and her forehead and eye were bruised. The patient was taken to the hospital for an MRI and ocular examination. The contact called the same local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was towed to an auto body shop. The insurance company informed him the vehicle would be towed to a salvage yard. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was filed. There was no reported fire. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 73,501.
Power train, Feb 14, 2024
The car had been acting odd and the dealership would not listen. I then noticed an engine light come on after my incidents. My transmission was failing in traffic!!!! I need a new transmission, I have had the diagnosis at Nissan.It needs a total replacement , $6000. This was right in the extended warranty period and Nissan refused to fix this at 100 % like they are supposed to My safety was at risk because I was on the freeway and my car was slowing down and joking around.
Exterior lighting, Feb 10, 2024
low beam headlights extremely dim
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.