Nov 6, 2024
road trip with the family in a nissan

There’s a reason you see a lot of Nissan Altimas on the road: They are practical models with proven reliability. Altimas are a favorite for Uber, delivery, and taxi drivers who need to rely on their car as a long-term workplace, and they have been known to run for over a decade when well-maintained.

If you are looking to buy a new or used Nissan, it’s only practical to ask, “How long do Nissan Altimas last?” We can help you answer this question in round numbers and share a few smart tips to keep your Altima running even longer.

Average Lifespan of a Nissan Altima

Nissan Altima drivers report that these cars tend to last 15-20 years. They are one of the most durable models on the road when properly maintained, and that is partly due to the excellent quality and long-lasting performance that Nissan is known for. 

How Many Miles Do Nissan Altimas Last?

Nissan Altmas tend to perform well for between 200,000 and 300,000 miles of driving. They have been known to last beyond 300,000 miles if driven gently and under attentive care. This is a fairly long lifespan for a car, even when you include road trips and long commutes. It is one of the reasons that delivery and taxi drivers consider the Altima a reliable top pick.

For reference, the distance from Los Angeles to New York City is about 2,500 miles. You could make that entire sea-to-shining-sea drive 10 times before reaching your Altima’s mileage lifespan.

How Do We Know They Last?

The Altima model has been a popular model since its release in 1992, over 30 years ago. The original Altimas and every release since have provided great performance, but the Altimas released since 2017 seem to provide both the highest quality and the fewest reported issues from Altima owners.

How To Extend the Lifespan of a Nissan Altima

The best way to extend the lifespan of your Nissan Altima is with regular and attentive maintenance. Altimas do not have any regular or specific performance problems, so routine inspections, oil changes, and occasionally replacing a belt when it starts to fray are all that you need to worry about.

Your best bet is to seek maintenance from a licensed Nissan mechanic. They will have the best understanding of how to extend your Altima’s lifespan through timely repairs and part replacements.

As you might guess, driving gently can also improve your Altima’s lifespan. The same driving trends that make your insurance company happy (soft stops, gentle turns, and easy acceleration) will also minimize the wear and tear on your car so that it’s still performing well after 200K or even 300K miles of travel.

Important Maintenance That Extends the Lifespan

  • Regular Oil Changes: Make sure your Altima receives an oil change every 6 months or 5,000 miles. If you live in a climate with intense seasonal changes, consider getting seasonal fluid changes to match the temperature.
  • Inspections and Timely Replacements: Schedule an annual inspection and a checkup any time you suspect something is wrong. Take care of repairs at the early signs before anything has a chance to break whenever possible.
  • Respond to the “Check Engine” Light: Bring your Altima into the shop if you ever see the “check engine” light.
  • Keep Your Engine and Intakes Clean: Keep your engine compartment clean and clear your intake if it gets blocked.

Test Drive a Nissan Altima

If you are curious about the performance and durability of the Nissan Altima, test drive one today at Nissan of Visalia. Contact us with any questions or to schedule your visit.

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FAQ

How long do Nissan Altimas typically last?

Nissan Altimas can last 15–20 years with proper maintenance, making them a durable choice for daily commuting and long-term use.

How many miles can a Nissan Altima reach?

Altimas generally perform well for 200,000–300,000 miles, and some last beyond 300,000 miles with gentle driving and attentive care.

Do newer Altimas last longer than older models?

Yes. Altimas released since 2017 have the highest quality and fewest reported issues among Altima owners.

What’s the best way to extend the lifespan of a Nissan Altima?

Regular maintenance and oil changes every 5,000 miles, annual inspections, timely repairs, and gentle driving, helps keep your Altima running reliably for many years.

Should I take my Altima to a Nissan dealership for maintenance?

Yes. Licensed Nissan mechanics have the expertise to perform repairs and part replacements that maximize your Altima’s longevity.