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Nissan · Mid-Size · 2019–2024 Custom Search

Nissan Altima L34

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

The Nissan Altima L34 is available with one engine variant at 165 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

Altima · Petrol· 179–248 PS Engine Change
2019 2024
Stay Away! 10 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2019 2024
Stay Away! 5 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Nissan Altima (Petrol, 179–248 PS) comes with 2 different engines: QR25DE (2019–2024, Stay Away!) and KR20DDET (2019–2024, Stay Away!). Pay attention to the model year for the Altima!

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Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖CVT problems continue — new complaints from 2019

Despite the L33 class action settlements, the L34 Altima continues to have CVT issues. New complaints emerged from 2019. The fundamental Jatco CVT problem was not fully resolved. Regular CVT fluid changes remain essential.

Symptoms: Hesitation and jerking on takeoff, vibration and shudder at mid-range speeds, CVT overheating when towing or on grades
from 70,000 km
Ad CVT fluid NS-3 Altima L34 2019-2024Jatco CVT RE0F10H L34CVT change Altima 2.5 2019
 High
✖CVT shudder and failure

The JF017E CVT in the 2.5L Altima shows shudder, whining and fail-safe mode between 50-80k miles. Valve body repair from $2000, full replacement up to $7000.

Symptoms: Shudder at steady speed, whining, jet-engine sound under acceleration.
from 80,000 km
Ad JF017E CVT Altima 2.5RE0F10J transmission AltimaCVT fluid NS-3 Altima
 High

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Hyundai Ioniq 6 CE

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 25 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan Altima L34 (2019–2024) — 15 engine-related and 10 vehicle-related. 2 problem engines: QR25DE (2.5L), KR20DDET (2.0L VC-Turbo). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Electronics, HVAC, Other.

Altima (QR25DE, 2019–2024) — Stay Away!: Intake manifold swirl flap screws come loose, Pre-catalyst disintegration elevates oil consumption, Cylinder head/gasket failure. Power: 179 PS.

Altima (KR20DDET, 2019–2024) — Stay Away!: Main bearing and L-link premature failure, Engine failure recall (NHTSA 2025) — KR20DDET, Oil consumption from bearing wear. Power: 248 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 L34 have? +
The Nissan Altima L34 has 15 known engine weaknesses and 10 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Altima L34? +
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 KR20DDET (2.0L VC-Turbo). Problem engine: QR25DE (2.5L) — stay away!
Which Nissan Altima L34 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Nissan Altima L34 — rated: "Not Really". {description} 248 hp from the 2.0L VC-Turbo with variable compression — interesting on paper, overshadowed in real life by rod-bearing recalls. Once the campaign work is done, the engine delivers proper shove, but the CVT plus FWD layout stops it being any kind of sports sedan.
Is the Nissan Altima L34 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Nissan Altima L34 — 2 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Altima L34? +
The Nissan Altima L34 is available with engine variants from 165 to 248 hp. Petrol: QR25DE (2.5L), KR20DDET (2.0L VC-Turbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee