The 2016 Nissan Altima is a midsize car with a price range of $15,715 to $21,657. It’s an affordable sedan, but expensive mechanical problems make it a bad choice for long-term ownership.
2016 Nissan Altima: Quick Overview
- The 2016 Nissan Altima has a mid-generation refresh with new interior and exterior styling, transmission updates, and more safety technology added.
- Reliability ratings are above average according to J.D. Power, but transmission issues still exist.
- Two engines are available. The 4-cylinder is more efficient, and the V6 has good power for its class.
- Fuel economy is better than average and the Altima ties for fourth place out of 12 midsize cars, getting up to 31 miles per gallon combined.
- Safety ratings are above average. It gets a perfect five-star rating in government crash tests. The 2016 Altima also earns the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s highest award of Top Safety Pick+.
- The Altima ranks near the bottom of its class based on owner reviews. It is missing technology and has too many problems to recommend it, especially when compared to other midsize sedans.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2016 Nissan Altima Have?
The 2016 Altima has fewer problems than the 2015 model, and significantly less than 2013. Although improvements have been made, it still has more problems than other midsize cars.
Transmission failures are the most common problem in the Altima. It’s an issue that affects nearly all Nissan vehicles. Transmissions fail around 60,000 miles, and they can cost over $3,000 to replace since most shops cannot rebuild them.
Engine problems are also mentioned by owners and include delayed acceleration. Owners of 2016 Nissan Altimas have reported air fuel sensor issues to be the cause, and others have said it’s tied to transmission problems.
Air conditioning problems are rare in the Altima but are still brought up by owners. Typically the A/C system fails when the compressor dies. It costs about $1,000 to replace the compressor.
There are four recalls affecting the 2016 Nissan Altima, which is an average number for a car its age. Recalls include malfunctioning airbags that may not deploy in a crash, a hood latch that could pop open the hood while in transit, and problems with a rear door that has the potential to open when the automatic window is lowered. The 2016 Nissan Altima’s recalls and transmission problems prevent its value as a practical sedan from being fully realized.
What are the Prices, Trims, Models & Specs?
The 2016 Nissan Altima comes in seven trims, from the basic 2.5 to the top-of-the-line 3.5 SL. The 2016 Nissan Altima is more affordable than other midsize cars, with a price range of $15,715 to $21,657, depending on mileage and model. When new, it had a retail price of $22,500 to $32,690. The vehicle depreciates at an average rate, losing about 30% of its value in the first five years.
- 2.5 is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, keyless entry, push button ignition, Bluetooth, and a four-speaker stereo system.
- 2.5 S is above it and adds automatic headlights, cruise control, a rearview camera, an upgraded six-speaker stereo system, and a five-inch infotainment screen with USB connectivity.
- 2.5 SR is next in the lineup with 18-inch alloy wheels, sporty suspension, eight-way adjustable power driver’s seat, and sport seats.
- 2.5 SV adds 17-inch alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, remote engine start, blind spot monitoring, and satellite radio.
- 2.5 SL is the flagship luxury model with heated leather seating, a heated steering wheel, a seven-inch infotainment screen, and a nine-speaker Bose stereo system.
- The SR and SL models are available with the upgraded 3.5L V6 engine.
How Long will the 2016 Nissan Altima Last?
A properly maintained 2016 Nissan Altima will last about 250,000 miles, which is average for its class. Buyers should be aware of transmission failures around 60,000 miles. Listen for excessive noise from the transmission on a test-drive. Maintenance costs are average for a midsize car. Repair Pal estimates it to be $415 per year.
I haven't had any major problems with the Altima. I have the car serviced often so I won't have any issues.
Very reliable. It does not have any problems. Everything is great with this car! It is good on gas, it does not make any weird sounds. It is the perfect car.
Yes, it is reliable. I do believe there have been a couple recalls on parts of the car. The engine may be the part recalled.
Super reliable! No issues thus far. I would recommend this car to anybody! It's a car I know I can trust wherever I go.
Yes it is reliable. No it does not have any problems. If someone is looking for their first car, I would recommend it.
The automatic transmission had a problem, it would take a second for gears to shift. It is also too small for a family of three, toddler seat is a pain to install.
It is reliable, I have only ever had problems with tire pressure and once with the battery and fuse box but that was random. Otherwise it gets me where I need to go.
Yes the Nissan Altima is reliable. I haven't had any major problems. I get regular oil changes and that is about it.
2016 Nissan Altima Test Drive Video
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is average in the 2016 Nissan Altima compared to other midsize cars. It has the same technology from when it was first released in 2013.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD, four-speaker stereo system with Bluetooth.
- Technology upgrades include a five or seven-inch infotainment screen, navigation, satellite radio, six-speaker stereo system, or flagship nine-speaker Bose stereo.
- For safety, the Altima has airbags, antilock brakes, and traction and stability control. Upgrades include a rearview camera, forward collision alert with emergency braking, a blind-spot warning system, and adaptive cruise control.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is good in the 2016 Nissan Altima with the upgraded engine. With the V6, it goes from 0 to 60 in 5.9 seconds, quicker than many competitors.
- The base engine is a 2.5L four-cylinder with 182 horsepower.
- An upgraded 3.5L V6 is available producing 270 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Altima?
The 2016 Altima is similar in size to other midsize sedans, and has comfortable seating in the front. Backseats are cramped, and there’s not enough legroom to fit adults comfortably. Interior materials are okay, but it’s not as luxurious as other sedans. The Altima has 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space, which is average for a midsize car. It can easily fit four suitcases for a road trip.
How Does the 2016 Nissan Altima Compare to Other Cars?
The 2016 Nissan Altima ranks eleventh out of 12 midsize cars based on owner reviews. At the top of the lineup is the Honda Accord, which is more expensive than the Nissan. The Accord has fewer mechanical problems, and a more spacious and comfortable interior. The Nissan is more fuel-efficient, and has a quieter cabin. Technology is similar between the two cars, but the Honda comes standard with a backup camera on all models. Overall, the Honda is a better choice since it’s a more reliable sedan.
Another competitor is the Hyundai Sonata, which is nearly the same price as the Altima. The Hyundai has engine problems, and Nissan has transmission problems. Both are serious issues, but the Hyundai is more affordable to fix. Technology is better in the Hyundai, with an updated infotainment system compared to the dated system found in the Nissan. Between the two cars, the Sonata is a better choice since it’s more up-to-date and cheaper to own than the Altima.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Nissan Altima a Good Car?
Based on our research of 12 automotive and government websites, and 1,123 owner reviews, no, the 2016 Altima is not a good car. It has some good features, including powerful engine options and good optional safety technology. Where it misses the mark is with a bad transmission and an outdated infotainment system. If you’re in the market for a midsize car, there are better options with fewer problems.
Photos: Nissan