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Nissan · Mid-Size · 2007–2012 Custom Search

Nissan Altima L32

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Nissan Altima L32 is available with one engine variant at 165 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

Altima · Petrol· 170–264 PS Engine Change
2007 2012
Stay Away! 10 weaknesses
2007 2012
Stay Away! 12 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Nissan Altima (Petrol, 170–264 PS) comes with 2 different engines: QR25DE (2007–2012, Stay Away!) and VQ35DE (2007–2012, Stay Away!). Pay attention to the model year for the Altima!

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Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖CVT total failure — often after 100,000 miles

The CVT in the L32 Altima is the most severe issue of this generation. Average repair cost: $4,400. The 2007-2009 models are worst affected. CVT fluid changes every 50,000 miles can significantly extend lifespan.

Symptoms: Transmission jerk, vehicle won't accelerate, transmission sticks in gear, whining or humming at higher speeds, complete transmission failure
from 100,000 km
Ad CVT replacement Nissan Altima L32 2007-2012RE0F09A transmission AltimaNS-3 CVT fluid Nissan Altima
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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 27 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan Altima L32 (2007–2012) — 22 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. 2 problem engines: QR25DE (2.5L), VQ35DE (3.5L). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Other, HVAC, Electronics.

Altima (QR25DE, 2007–2012) — Stay Away!: Intake manifold swirl flap screws come loose, Pre-catalyst disintegration elevates oil consumption, Cylinder head/gasket failure. Power: 170 PS.

Altima (VQ35DE, 2007–2012) — Stay Away!: Severe oil consumption from defective piston rings, Con rod bearing wear from oil starvation, Plastic timing chain guides fracture. Power: 264 PS.

What to watch out for with the Nissan Altima? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Nissan Altima L32 have? +
The Nissan Altima L32 has 22 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Altima L32? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the VQ35DE (3.5L). Problem engine: QR25DE (2.5L) — stay away!
Which Nissan Altima L32 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Nissan Altima L32 — rated: "Decent". {description} 270 hp in an Altima — it sprints hard and sounds surprisingly meaty, but the chassis is tuned for comfort and simply cannot keep up with the grunt. A V6 in the wrong box.
Is the Nissan Altima L32 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Nissan Altima L32 — 2 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Altima L32? +
The Nissan Altima L32 is available with engine variants from 165 to 280 hp. Petrol: QR25DE (2.5L), VQ35DE (3.5L).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee