Dealer visit checklist
2021 Nissan Altima checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2021 Nissan Altima problems to check
- CVT transmission can exhibit shuddering or hesitation, especially under hard acceleration — a known Nissan weakness worth inspecting
- Some owners report excessive oil consumption on the 2.5L engine, particularly after 60,000 miles — check oil levels regularly
- Infotainment system touchscreen can be laggy and prone to freezing, often requiring a reboot
- Brake wear tends to occur faster than average, with some owners needing pad replacements around 30,000-35,000 miles
- Cabin and wind noise at highway speeds is higher than competitors like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY: Nissan North America, Inc.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Nissan North America, Inc.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $20,000 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away