This page covers 2 recalls, 61 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2021 Nissan Altima.
29–32 mpg combined
7.4–8.1 L/100km
Midsize Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Complaints about the 2021 Nissan Altima center heavily on the automatic emergency braking system, which draws more reports than any other named system. Owners consistently describe the vehicle braking or coming to a full stop without warning during normal driving, often called phantom braking, which multiple owners say has caused near-collisions with following traffic. The electrical system is the next most-reported area, with owners describing malfunctions involving steering wheel controls, sensors requiring recalibration, and various warning lights. Engine complaints, while fewer in number, describe a recurring pattern of debris or metal contamination found in the oil pan, in some cases leading to engine replacement at relatively low mileage. A single report mentions a seatbelt unbuckling on its own while driving, though that appears isolated and does not represent a broader pattern in this complaint set.
61
Total Complaints
4
Crash-Related
1
Fire-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2021 Nissan Altima has 2 recalls, the most serious being a tie rod ball joint that can detach from the steering knuckle and cause a sudden, complete loss of steering control.
The second recall involves the rearview camera, where damage to the camera wiring harness can distort or blank the camera image while reversing, reducing the driver's rear view.
At a glance
What can fail
The rearview camera harness can become damaged, causing the rearview camera display to show a distorted or lost image.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the rearview camera and harness, replacing them if damaged. If undamaged, protective tape will be applied and the harness rerouted.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
At a glance
What can fail
The fastener connecting the tie rod ball joint to the steering knuckle was not tightened sufficiently during manufacturing, which could cause the tie rod ball joint to separate from the steering knuckle.
What the fix does
Dealers will tighten or replace the left and right tie rod ball joint fasteners as needed at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
