By Jude Knox The 2018 Nissan Altima, recognized for reliability, faces several reported problems. Common issues include transmission troubles, particularly with the CVT, leading to shuddering and a satisfaction rate of only 65%. Engine stalling poses safety risks, compounded by electrical system battery drain issues, which mark satisfaction at 60%. Safety recalls include brakes affecting stopping distances and potential airbag deployment risks. Owner satisfaction averages 70%, with positive remarks on fuel efficiency (up to 39 mpg highway) and interior comfort. To ensure a satisfactory purchase, buyers should consider vehicle history, maintenance records, and inspect for common issues. More insights await those interested.
Overview of the 2018 Altima
The 2018 Nissan Altima is a midsize car that's known for being reliable and innovative. It offers good performance, comfort, and technology options, making it a strong choice in its category.
It comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine provides 182 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The car uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to improve fuel efficiency. It gets about 26 miles per gallon in the city and 37 miles per gallon on the highway, which is great for daily driving.
For those who want more power, there's a 3.5-liter V6 engine option. This engine gives you 270 horsepower. Even with the extra power, it still gets decent gas mileage, with 22 miles per gallon in the city and 32 on the highway.
Safety features in the 2018 Altima include things like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera. It received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Inside, the car focuses on comfort and tech. It has an easy-to-use infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and optional navigation features.
The 2018 Nissan Altima has a lot to offer for different kinds of drivers.
Common problems reported for the 2018 Altima
| Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Engine stalling | Moderate | More reports over time | Power suddenly cuts off, dashboard warning lights | Slower acceleration, accident risk | 70% |
| Transmission | CVT issues (shuddering/slipping) | High | Consistent reports | Odd noises, slow response | Bad acceleration, bumpy ride | 65% |
| Electrical System | Battery drain | Moderate | Steady reports | Needs frequent jump-starts, warning lights | Unreliable | 60% |
| Suspension | Struts wear early | Low | Few reports | Rough ride, noise on bumps | Less comfort | 75% |
| Brakes | Brake pads wear early | Moderate | More reports | Squeaks, less braking power | Safety worries, longer stops | 68% |
| Interior Features | Infotainment glitches | High | More reports over time | Freezes, touchscreen doesn't work | Distracts driver | 62% |
| Fuel System | Fuel pump failure | Low | Few reports | Hard to start, engine misfires | Less reliable | 72% |
Common Problems in 2018 Nissan Altima
The 2018 Nissan Altima has several known problems. Here's a look at these issues:
Engine
Engine stalling is a problem. It happens moderately often and is reported more as time goes on. Drivers face a sudden power loss with warning lights on the dashboard. This leads to slower acceleration and accident risks. Satisfaction with engine reliability is 70%.
Transmission
Transmission problems, especially with the CVT, happen a lot. Shuddering and slipping are frequent issues. People often report odd noises and slow responses when accelerating. This causes poor acceleration and a jerky ride, leaving satisfaction at 65%.
Electrical System
Battery drain is a common electrical issue. It occurs with moderate frequency. Owners often need jump-starts and see warning lights. This affects reliability, with satisfaction at 60%.
Suspension
Struts wear out early but reports are few. Drivers may feel a rough ride and hear noise over bumps. This impacts comfort. Satisfaction is higher here at 75%.
Brakes
Brake pads wear out early, reported moderately often with an upward trend. Squeaking noises and reduced braking power are common. This raises safety concerns and longer stopping distances. Satisfaction is 68%.
Interior Features
Infotainment system glitches are frequent. Users report freezing and unresponsive touchscreens. This distracts from driving. Satisfaction is 62%.
Fuel System
Fuel pump failures are rare. Symptoms include hard starting and engine misfires. This reduces reliability. Satisfaction is at 72%.
Recall information specific to the 2018 Altima
Safety is a big concern for car makers and owners, and the 2018 Nissan Altima has some recalls you should know about.
These are important for both current and future owners because they affect how safe and reliable the car is.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recalls for the 2018 Altima for different reasons:
- Brake Problems: Some cars might have issues with the brakes, which can make it take longer to stop.
- Airbag Trouble: There might be a problem that causes the airbag to go off when it shouldn't, which can hurt people inside the car.
- Fuel Leak: Some cars might have a faulty fuel pump that could leak fuel, which can be a fire risk.
- Electrical Issue: There might be a short in the car's wiring, which could drain the battery or, in some cases, start a fire.
Car owners should check the NHTSA website or talk to their local Nissan dealer to get the latest recall details and find out if any repairs are needed.
It's a good idea to fix any issues quickly to keep everyone safe and keep the car in good shape.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2018 model
In looking at owner reviews for the 2018 Nissan Altima, there are clear pros and cons. About 70% of owners are satisfied based on various review sites.
One big plus is the good gas mileage. It gets up to 39 mpg on the highway, which is pretty competitive. The inside is roomy with comfortable seats, ideal for families or long trips. The tech package with the touchscreen and driver aids is also a hit for being easy to use.
On the downside, some owners aren't happy with the car's performance. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can hesitate during acceleration. Road noise is another complaint, as the cabin isn't as quiet as some other cars.
Reliability gets average scores. There are reports of possible electrical issues. The car does well in certain areas but has some drawbacks too. Potential buyers should consider these points when looking at the 2018 Altima.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Altima model years
The Nissan Altima has changed a lot over the years. Each year comes with its own good and bad points. The 2018 Altima is known for balancing good fuel efficiency and performance. It has a 2.5-liter engine that gets 39 miles per gallon on the highway. Earlier models, like the 2015 version, didn't do as well on gas mileage and had less smooth engines, which some buyers didn't like.
The 2019 model got a new look, with sharper design and more driver-help features. This made it safer and nicer to look at. It also had a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine for better performance. But these changes made the car more expensive, which might not be ideal for those watching their budget.
When it comes to reliability, the 2018 Altima did better than the 2016 and 2017 models, which had problems with the transmission. This shows Nissan worked on fixing past issues.
The 2020 Altima added new tech, like ProPilot Assist, which helps with semi-autonomous driving. While this makes driving more enjoyable, it might be complicated for some people.
Tips for buying a used 2018 Altima
Considering a used 2018 Nissan Altima? Focus on these important areas. This car is comfortable, fuel-efficient, and has modern tech, but check it out carefully before buying.
First, look at its maintenance records. A good service history shows the car has been looked after, which can mean it's more reliable.
Next, check the mileage. Normally, cars have about 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. Lower mileage often means less wear.
Watch out for common 2018 Altima issues, like transmission problems or brake complaints. Make sure these problems were fixed in the car you want.
Here are some tips:
- Check for Recalls: See if there were any recalls and confirm they were fixed.
- Conduct a Vehicle History Report: Use services like Carfax to find out about accidents or title problems.
- Test Drive Thoroughly: Notice how it accelerates, brakes, and if there are any strange noises.
- Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a professional check it for hidden problems.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2018 Altima
Regular care keeps your 2018 Nissan Altima running well. Follow these service tips to avoid big repair bills later.
Maintenance Schedule for 2018 Nissan Altima
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Tire Rotation | Every 6,000 miles |
| Air Filter Replacement | Every 15,000 miles |
| Brake Inspection | Every 10,000 miles |
Change the oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months. High-quality synthetic oil is good for the engine. Rotate tires every 6,000 miles to make them last longer and keep you safe.
Replace the air filter every 15,000 miles to help the engine work better. Check the brakes every 10,000 miles to spot any wear on pads and rotors.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Taking care of your 2018 Nissan Altima helps keep it running well and keeps its resale value high. The Altima generally does well when sold as a used car, but it's smart to think about the costs over time and how much its value drops, known as depreciation.
Depreciation tells you how much a car's value goes down each year. Usually, a Nissan Altima loses about half its value in five years, which is normal for cars like it. Things like how many miles you've driven, the car's condition, and how many people want it can change this number.
Here's a look at what it might cost you to own a 2018 Nissan Altima compared to similar cars:
| Vehicle Model | 5-Year Depreciation (%) | Average Annual Maintenance Cost | Fuel Economy (MPG) | Insurance Premium (Annual) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Altima | 50% | $400 | 30 | $1,200 |
| Toyota Camry | 45% | $350 | 31 | $1,100 |
| Honda Accord | 47% | $375 | 29 | $1,150 |
| Hyundai Sonata | 53% | $300 | 28 | $1,050 |
| Subaru Legacy | 49% | $425 | 27 | $1,250 |
Keeping up with maintenance and driving fewer miles can help keep your car's value up and your costs down over time.
People Also Ask
What Are the Engine Options Available for the 2018 Altima?
The 2018 Nissan Altima has two engine choices. One is a 2.5-liter engine with 179 horsepower, and the other is a bigger 3.5-liter V6 engine with 270 horsepower. These options give drivers a mix of good gas mileage and strong performance.
How Does the 2018 Altima Perform in Crash Tests?
The 2018 Altima did well in crash tests. It has strong safety features that protect people inside during accidents. Both front and side crash tests showed it is safe and sturdy, which means Nissan cares about keeping passengers safe in their cars.
What Is the Fuel Economy Rating for the 2018 Altima?
The 2018 Nissan Altima gets about 26 miles per gallon when driving in the city and about 37 miles per gallon on the highway. This means it uses less gas and is a good choice if you want to save money on fuel.
Are There Any Known Transmission Issues With the 2018 Altima?
The 2018 Nissan Altima has some problems with its transmission, especially the CVT. Some people who own this car say it doesn't always work smoothly and might not be very reliable. So, it's important to think about this before buying the car.
What Technology Features Are Included in the 2018 Altima?
The 2018 Nissan Altima has cool technology features. It includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth for connecting phones, and a rearview camera to help with parking. You can also get navigation and fancy music systems if you want to make driving more fun.