2014 Nissan Altima — What to Check Before You Buy
The 2014 Nissan Altima is a widely available used sedan, but its CVT transmission has a well-documented reputation in this generation that makes a thorough pre-purchase inspection especially important.
CVT Transmission — The Most Important Thing to Check
The CVT used in this generation of Altima is widely regarded as one of the more problematic transmissions of its era, and owner communities discuss failure rates frequently. Symptoms to watch for include shudder or juddering from a stop, a shaking sensation during acceleration, hesitation, or unusual noise. A smooth, vibration-free experience during a comprehensive test drive — including city traffic, highway, and full acceleration — is essential. Have an independent mechanic evaluate the transmission before any purchase.
Power Steering System
The 2.5L Altima uses hydraulic power steering, and owners commonly report seeping or leaking around the hoses and rack assembly on older examples. Inspect underneath the vehicle near the steering rack for any fluid residue. Check steering feel during the test drive for any unusual play or effort.
Sunroof Drains & Interior Water Intrusion
If equipped with a sunroof, the drain tubes can become clogged with debris over time, leading to water pooling inside the cabin. Signs include musty odors, damp carpet near the front pillars, or water stains on interior trim. This is worth checking on any used Altima with a sunroof.
Official Recall Records
Sourced directly from the NHTSA database — these are federally documented safety issues for this exact make, model, and year.
| Recall Date | Component | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 19/12/2016 | AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION | Remedied |
| 25/03/2014 | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE | Remedied |
| 04/08/2015 | FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | Remedied |
| 20/10/2015 | AIR BAGS:FRONTAL | Remedied |
| 26/04/2016 | AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION | Remedied |
Recall data is pulled from the NHTSA public database. Always verify current recall status at nhtsa.gov.
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