2021 Nissan Altima Safety Report

The 2021 Nissan Altima presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including 5 stars for side and rollover, and 4 stars for frontal impact, there are notable concerns from owner complaints and recall history. A total of 56 complaints have been filed, including 4 crashes, 1 fire, and 2 injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents. The most frequent complaint patterns revolve around the forward collision avoidance system, electrical system, and service brakes, suggesting potential issues with advanced driver-assistance systems and vehicle electronics. The vehicle also has two significant recalls addressing critical safety components. The recall history highlights two key areas of concern: a 'BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA' recall affecting the rearview camera display, which can increase crash risk, and a 'STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY' recall where improperly tightened tie rod ball joint fasteners could lead to a loss of steering control and increased crash risk. These recalls directly address fundamental safety functions. Owner complaints corroborate some of these issues, with multiple reports of distorted or malfunctioning backup cameras and issues related to the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system, which owners describe as falsely activating or being easily obstructed. Beyond the recalls, common complaint patterns include issues with the electrical system, particularly concerning door locks and key fob entry, and power train problems, specifically related to the CVT transmission. Several owners reported the vehicle entering 'limp mode,' experiencing jerking, or significant power loss, indicating potential reliability issues with the transmission. The 'SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' category, with 8 complaints, points to problems where the vehicle brakes independently or unexpectedly, which is a severe safety hazard. Despite the strong crash test ratings, the volume and nature of owner complaints, coupled with the recalls, suggest that while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash scenarios, its active safety systems and certain mechanical components may pose real-world safety and reliability challenges.

Our recommendation: While the 2021 Nissan Altima has strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of documented issues with the forward collision avoidance system, electrical components, and CVT transmission, and ensure all recall remedies have been performed.