CarComplaints.com Notes: You don't want to get 2009 and 2010 Altima owners started about their cars. That is, unless, you know how to start their cars.
These vehicles can suddenly become impossible to start thanks to a faulty electronic steering column lock (ESCL). Nissan dealers will gladly replace it, but that will run you $1000.
More info & videos about the Nissan ESCL defect are available over at NissanProblems.com.
It's one of the many reasons this car was named CarTalk's Turd of the Week and given our Beware of this Clunker badge. Two dubious honors.
This problem developed over time, starting at about 25K miles, initially only when it was hot outside. While the car was under warranty for some reason techs at Arlington Nissan could never find what was the issue or reproduce it, they also didn't bother noting in car service history that it was an existing issue. Now instrument cluster shut down completely and Nissan customer service would not assist with repair because it's out of warranty. Very nice of them, no issues found apparently while it's on their dime, and obvious problem once I have to pay for it. Second and last Nissan car for me, not the level of service I expected from Nissan after buying two brand new cars from them within 5 years. Nissan customer service isn't even bother to call me back to let me know they will not cover any repairs. So much for "personal attention". Had to replaced prematurely warped rotors at 36K miles, but that was wear item. Overall long term reliability of this car is now very questionable base on my experience, will try to trade it for something else ASAP
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
This problem developed over time, starting at about 25K miles, initially only when it was hot outside. While the car was under warranty for some reason techs at Arlington Nissan could never find what was the issue or reproduce it, they also didn't bother noting in car service history that it was an existing issue. Now instrument cluster shut down completely and Nissan customer service would not assist with repair because it's out of warranty. Very nice of them, no issues found apparently while it's on their dime, and obvious problem once I have to pay for it. Second and last Nissan car for me, not the level of service I expected from Nissan after buying two brand new cars from them within 5 years. Nissan customer service isn't even bother to call me back to let me know they will not cover any repairs. So much for "personal attention". Had to replaced prematurely warped rotors at 36K miles, but that was wear item. Overall long term reliability of this car is now very questionable base on my experience, will try to trade it for something else ASAP
- Dmitry M., Nashua, NH, US