Nissan Altima
2.5L four-cylinder with good refinement. Powerful enough for SUV use.
Same formula, new sheet metal
The L33 repeats the L32 in newer clothing: 182 hp, CVT, zero emotion. The CVT issues were not fixed, just postponed. Anyone planning long miles should flush the transmission early and often.
Engine Weaknesses 7
The Jatco CVT (RE0F09A) in the QR25DE is Nissan's biggest reliability scandal in recent years. Class action lawsuits for 2007-2016 and 2017-2018 Altimas were settled for a combined $277.7 million. Nissan extended CVT warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles for affected model years. Many owners outside the warranty still faced $3,500-5,000 repair bills.
Symptoms: Transmission jerk, hesitation on takeoff, slipping, transmission sticking in gear, vehicle won't accelerate despite engine revving, complete transmission failure
The crankshaft position sensor (P0335) fails on the QR25DE around 60,000-100,000 miles. In the worst case, the engine stalls in traffic. Nissan recalled over 600,000 vehicles (2002-2007). Newer model years can also be affected.
Symptoms: Engine stalls suddenly, difficult to restart after shutoff, fault code P0335, power loss at idle, check engine light
Nissan recommended preventive timing chain replacement for T30 X-Trail models with QR engines due to elongation beyond tolerance. Replacement possible for under €1,000.
Symptoms: Poor cold start behaviour, rough engine running, occasional rattling on cold start
Especially common on 2013-2016 Altima: CVT shuddering from around 45,000-100,000 miles. Nissan documented 179 complaints for this single issue on the 2013 Altima at CarComplaints alone. The CVT fluid additive package degrades and causes friction oscillations. Fluid flush with genuine NS-3 CVT fluid can help.
Symptoms: Vibration and shuddering between 25-60 mph, especially at 1,500-2,000 RPM, vehicle shakes on takeoff, rough idle at standstill
The lambda sensors of the QR25DE fail from around 100,000 km, frequently with fault codes P0134 or P0154. Increased consumption and engine warning light are typical.
Symptoms: Engine warning light, fault codes P0134/P0154, increased fuel consumption
The QR25DE throttle body carbons up from around 100,000 km and causes an elevated idle of 1,400–2,500 rpm. Cleaning resolves the issue, but the ECU must relearn idle afterwards.
Symptoms: Idle speed 1,400–2,500 rpm, rough idle, occasional stalling
The valve cover gasket on the QR25DE becomes leaky from around 115,000 km. Oil drips onto the exhaust manifold and causes a burning smell. Identical issue to the QR20DE.
Symptoms: Oil traces on valve cover, burning smell after parking, oil drips under the engine
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
The 2013-2018 L33 Altima is the epicenter of the Nissan CVT crisis. Nissan paid $277.7 million in class action settlements. On average, the CVT fails at 56,000 miles. Costs: $3,000-5,000. Nissan extended warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles for affected model years.
Certain 2013 Nissan Altima (L33) models are affected by the Takata airbag recall. Dealers replace inflators free of charge. VIN check at nhtsa.gov recommended.
CVT shuddering in the L33 is one of the most complained-about issues on CarComplaints. The transmission fluid degrades and creates friction oscillations. NS-3 CVT fluid changes every 60,000 miles are essential.
The L33 Altima AC compressors show similar failure patterns to the L32. High temperatures and frequent short-trip driving accelerate wear.
L33 Altima wheel bearings wear out around 120,000 miles and produce a characteristic humming or droning noise that changes with speed. Repair costs are $280-400 per wheel bearing.
