Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Nissan Altima
The 2017 Nissan Altima has a moderate number of complaints and three recalls, primarily involving latches and power train issues. While these are notable, many complaint categories have limited entries, suggesting varied experiences among owners. Proper inspection and a thorough test drive are key when considering this purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Nissan Altima has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns and 394 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V315000 Unintentional Release of Primary Hood Latch NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V915000 Rear Door May Open When Window Is Lowered NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V040000 Rear Door may Open when Window is Lowered NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 133 complaints
- Air Bags 74 complaints
- Unknown or Other 62 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 41 complaints
- Engine 40 complaints
- Electrical System 28 complaints
Of the 394 complaints on file, 24 report a crash and 7 a fire; across all 394 complaints, owners report 23 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Hood latch corrosion
How to check: Inspect hood latch for signs of corrosion or rusting.
Rear door opening unexpectedly
How to check: Test rear doors and windows for proper operation.
Power train issues
How to check: Listen for unusual noises or delays when shifting gears.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or loud rattling sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warnings or alarms
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness.
Red flag: Unresponsive or spongy brakes
- 04
City driving
What to check: Observe steering response and alignment.
Red flag: Pulling to one side
- 05
Accelerating to highway speed
What to check: Monitor for transmission smoothness.
Red flag: Jerky or hesitant acceleration
- 06
Maintaining highway speed
What to check: Feel for vehicle stability and vibrations.
Red flag: Excessive vibration or steering issues
- 07
Braking from highway speed
What to check: Ensure brakes stop smoothly and straight.
Red flag: Brakes pull or shudder
- 08
Parking
What to check: Check for easy gear engagement.
Red flag: Difficulty shifting into park
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the hood latch recall been addressed?
- Have there been issues with the power train?
- Are there any transmission problems reported?
- Have all recalls been completed?
- Has the rear door latch recall been done?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Complete service history
- Accident history report
- Title and registration papers
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Nissan Altima at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 Nissan Altima? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.