TransmissionCritical
CVT overheating and failure — the defining Altima issue.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test-drive hard, watch for whining, shuddering, RPM flare, or a burnt smell; check for prior CVT replacement.
2018 Nissan Altima problems
A 2018 Nissan Altima is now 8 years old, so an average example has covered around 108,000 miles. The final model year of the generation · generally the most sorted build, so mileage, servicing and condition matter more than build-year faults. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2018 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2018 Nissan Altima is 8 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 108,000 miles. At that mileage 2 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.
Faults a 2018 example has usually reached
Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~108k miles an average 2018 car has covered.
EngineMedium
2.5L timing chain rattle.
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a rattle on cold start.
Faults that appear at any mileage
Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.
BodyMedium
Hood latch / secondary latch recall.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Confirm the recall was completed and the hood latches securely.
InteriorLow
Dashboard and trim wear.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect the dash and seat bolsters.
Inspecting a 2018 Nissan Altima?
Generate a tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact year, mileage and variant · add photos and notes as you inspect.
Check this exact carNissan Altima · frequently asked questions
Are Nissan Altima CVT problems real?
Yes — the CVT is the biggest concern. Look for extended-warranty history and any prior replacement.
What mileage do Altima CVTs fail?
Problems often appear from 60,000–100,000 miles, though many last longer with careful fluid service.
Should I avoid the Altima?
Not necessarily — a well-maintained example with a healthy CVT is a comfortable car, but the transmission risk is real.