By Finn Hart The 2014 Nissan Altima, known for its fuel efficiency and comfortable interior, faces common problems. Engine issues, particularly excessive oil consumption, manifest through noise and exhaust smoke. The CVT transmission suffers from slipping and potential failure. Electrical system troubles, including battery failures, hinder reliability, while brakes often experience premature wear. Recall alerts involve fuel leak risks and airbag malfunctions. Owner satisfaction varies; 67% recommend the vehicle, yet 30% express regret due to these reliability issues. Compared to similar models, like the Camry and Accord, the Altima holds slightly lower resale value but remains competitive. Further insights reveal crucial maintenance strategies.
Overview of the 2014 Altima
The 2014 Nissan Altima is known for its good mix of performance and fuel efficiency. This midsize car offers two engine choices: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 with 270 horsepower. It uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to improve fuel economy, with ratings of up to 27 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway for the four-cylinder engine.
The design focuses on being aerodynamic, which not only gives it a sporty look but also helps with fuel efficiency. Inside, the Altima is roomy and comes with easy-to-use technology like a touchscreen for entertainment and safety features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning.
In the market, the 2014 Altima competes with cars like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. The Camry is known for being reliable, while the Accord is praised for its driving experience. The Altima stands out with its sporty design and quick handling.
However, some reviews mention concerns about the CVT's durability, which may cause performance problems over time. Some owners also feel the interior quality isn't as good as some rivals.
When looking at the 2014 Altima, buyers might want to consider these points about its reliability.
Common problems reported for the 2014 Altima
Issues Reported for the 2014 Nissan Altima
Engine
Owners of the 2014 Nissan Altima often report that the car uses too much oil. This happens a lot and seems to be getting worse.
Signs of this problem include the engine making noise, warning lights turning on, and smoke coming from the exhaust. This can make the engine work less efficiently and might even damage it over time.
About 65% of consumers are satisfied despite these issues.
Transmission
The car's CVT, or Continuously Variable Transmission, has problems too.
People notice that it sometimes slips, shudders, or takes a while to speed up. These issues seem to happen regularly and can make the car accelerate poorly, with the risk of the transmission completely failing.
Consumer satisfaction for this issue is about 58%.
Electrical System
Battery problems are another concern, happening with moderate frequency and increasing over time.
Many owners experience dead batteries often and face other electrical issues. These problems can make the car less reliable and might be a safety hazard.
Satisfaction in this area is around 60%.
Braking System
The brakes on the 2014 Altima can be noisy and wear out too soon.
This happens moderately often and has been consistent over the years. People hear squeaking or grinding when they brake.
While it doesn't always affect how the car performs, it could be a safety concern. About 70% of consumers are satisfied with the braking system.
Interior Features
The dashboard in the 2014 Altima often cracks and peels, which is a common complaint.
This issue is happening more and more. It's mainly a visual problem but could lead to more damage inside the car.
The satisfaction rate for this issue is about 55%.
Fuel System
The fuel gauge in the 2014 Altima sometimes gives wrong readings.
This happens moderately often and hasn't changed much over the years. The gauge might make it seem like there's more or less fuel than there actually is, which can cause unexpected stops.
Satisfaction for this issue is around 62%.
HVAC System
The heating and cooling system in the 2014 Altima doesn't always work well.
Complaints about this are increasing. People notice that the temperature control is inconsistent, which affects comfort.
Satisfaction in this area is about 68%.
Recall information specific to the 2014 Altima
The 2014 Nissan Altima has had several recalls for safety and performance issues. These recalls show Nissan's focus on keeping their cars safe and reliable.
Here are some of the main problems:
- Fuel Leak Risk: Some cars might have fuel leaks, which can cause fires. This needs quick repairs to the fuel system.
- Airbag Problems: In some cars, airbags might not work right in a crash, which could be dangerous.
- Transmission Software Issues: Some Altimas had software problems that affected how the car shifts gears. This could make the car speed up on its own or the engine might stall.
Nissan has started these recalls to fix these issues. If you have a 2014 Altima, check if your car is part of any recalls by using your VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
Nissan dealers usually fix these problems for free. They also provide information about the recall process so owners know what repairs are needed.
Keeping up with recall news is key to keeping your 2014 Nissan Altima safe.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2014 model
Many people who own the 2014 Nissan Altima feel both happy and annoyed with their car. They like how it looks, how comfy it is inside, and how it saves on gas. The car gets about 27 miles per gallon in the city and 38 on the highway. The roomy cabin and easy-to-use infotainment system also make driving enjoyable.
But there are some problems that bother owners. The transmission often causes jerky acceleration and unexpected power loss. There are also electrical issues, like dashboard displays not working right and faulty sensors. These issues often overshadow the car's good points.
When it comes to satisfaction, opinions are divided. While many like the performance and design, a large number are unhappy because of these reliability problems.
Surveys show that about 67% of owners would recommend the car, but 30% wish they had picked a different model due to ongoing issues.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Altima model years
The 2014 Nissan Altima is different from the 2013 and 2015 models in several ways. The 2014 model has a more modern look with sharper lines and a sportier design compared to the 2013 version, which looks more traditional. This new style is aimed at attracting younger buyers.
In terms of performance, the 2014 Altima comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower, similar to the 2013 model. However, it offers better gas mileage, reaching up to 38 miles per gallon on the highway, which is appealing for those who want to save on fuel costs.
The 2015 Altima keeps the design features of the 2014 model but adds a stronger 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower. This makes the car faster and more powerful.
However, some users have reported issues with the transmission in the 2015 model, which were not common in the 2014 version.
Tips for buying a used 2014 Altima
When buying a used 2014 Nissan Altima, take a few steps to ensure a good choice. This model is known for being reliable and fuel-efficient, offering comfort and performance. Here are some tips to help you with your purchase:
– Inspect the Car: Check for wear and tear. Look at the tires for uneven wear, which might mean alignment issues.
Check the body for scratches or dents that could suggest past accidents. Look underneath for any fluid leaks that might point to mechanical issues.
- Get a Vehicle History Report: This report shows past ownership, service records, and any reported accidents. A clean report may suggest the previous owner took good care of the car.
- Test Drive the Altima: Notice how the transmission responds, how the brakes work, and the overall comfort.
Listen for any odd noises, especially from the engine or suspension.
Also, be aware of common issues other Altima owners have reported, like transmission problems and engine oil consumption.
Research these issues to know what to expect.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2014 Altima
Maintaining your 2014 Nissan Altima helps it run well and last longer. Doing regular checks keeps it in good shape and prevents problems. Here are some key things to do:
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Interval | Why It's Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles | Keeps the engine running smoothly. |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000-7,500 miles | Makes tires wear evenly for safety. |
| Air Filter Replacement | Every 15,000 miles | Helps engine work well and keeps air clean inside. |
| Brake Inspection | Every 10,000 miles | Checks wear to make sure brakes work properly. |
| Fluid Checks | Every 3,000 miles | Checks coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid to avoid overheating and damage. |
Following these steps can avoid big repair bills. Skipping oil changes might cause engine problems. Rotating tires helps them last longer and saves fuel. The Altima has modern systems that need regular attention. Keep a record of maintenance to remember when to do each task. Regular care keeps your Altima running well.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
The resale value of a Nissan Altima matters for those thinking about long-term costs. This mid-size car usually keeps a good part of its original price. Things like its condition, miles driven, how much people want it, and how reliable it is can affect its resale value.
Over time, the Altima has done well in keeping its value compared to the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Here's a look at how these cars stack up after five years:
| Vehicle | Average Resale Value (5 years) | Average Annual Maintenance Cost | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Altima | $14,000 | $450 | 28 |
| Toyota Camry | $15,500 | $400 | 30 |
| Honda Accord | $14,500 | $425 | 29 |
The Altima's resale value is in the middle. Its maintenance costs are a bit higher than the Camry but less than the Accord. The car's fuel economy helps keep running costs down.
Taking care of a Nissan Altima can help keep its value. Regular maintenance and care are key to making the most of this vehicle's potential.
People Also Ask
What Are the Engine Options Available for the 2014 Altima?
The 2014 Altima has two engine choices. One is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower. The other is a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 270 horsepower. Both engines work with a special transmission called a continuously variable transmission that helps save fuel.
How Does the 2014 Altima Perform in Crash Tests?
The 2014 Altima did really well in crash tests. It got top safety ratings from important places like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This shows it has a strong design and good safety features to keep people safe.
What Fuel Economy Ratings Does the 2014 Altima Achieve?
The 2014 Altima gets good gas mileage. It can go about 27 miles per gallon when driving in the city and up to 38 miles per gallon on the highway. This makes it a strong choice for people who want to save on fuel costs.
Are There Any Common Aftermarket Modifications for the 2014 Altima?
People often make changes to the 2014 Altima to make it look and drive better. They add things like new exhaust systems for a sporty sound, air intakes for more power, better suspension for smoother rides, and cool-looking wheels.
What Are the Warranty Details for the 2014 Altima?
The 2014 Altima comes with a basic warranty for 3 years or 36,000 miles. It also has a powertrain warranty for 5 years or 60,000 miles. There might be extra coverage for rust and emissions depending on where you live and the car's condition.