2002 Nissan Altima Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
394 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The all-new third-generation 2002 Altima represents a total revision and rethinking of Nissan's midsize sedan -- it brings a level of design and performance that currently does not exist in its class. With a choice of a 240-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 or 175-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and an all-new four-wheel independent suspension, the Altima offers spirit with state-of-the-art technology. An aggressive new exterior design with increases in all major dimensions and a driver-oriented interior with myriad convenience and luxury features set the Altima apart in the highly competitive sedan marketplace.

Pros:
  • Sports car power in a midsize sedan body, high level of features, distinct new shape.
Cons:
  • All-new design could mean first-year teething problems and dealer mark-up.

User Reviews:

Showing 141 through 150 of 394.00
  • Nissan has a winner in 2002 - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    What a good re-design Nissan made with the 2002 model, the 4 cyl. drives like a 6 cyl. and the drivers space has the most room out of any other 2002 model I test drove within the $20000 limit. Even a 6 footer can be comfortable in this one!

  • Biggest Mistake - EVER!!!!! - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I purchased this brand new vehicle in October 2001 to ensure my 3 week old had a safe, reliable vehicle. The style of the vehicle, roominess, and overall design drew me to this purchase. I have since had 5 recalls, two of which are being re-done, the vehicle would not start on three separate occassions as well as the vehicle stalled while driving the vehicle on three separate occassions. Both the dealership and Nissan Corporation have had no empathy for my $23K purchase nor for the safety of my family. Additionally, the OEM tires were the worst ever. Had to replace at 30K and paying more than $500 for new tires. Never another Nissan - EVER!!!!

  • Great Restyle - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Great power,room and design

  • Great looking but not mechanically sound - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    only 32k miles: Having been a short term owner thus far I have had to replace many parts: from brake rotors to master clutch and rear shocks all not built well from factory having speaking with many owners whome also replaced many parts either under warrenty or not. Otherwise I am thrilled with the look and functionality of this car and its relatively low weight makes the mid powered 2.5L feel more powerful than other cars with similar engines. It also handles excellant in corners and bumpy roads.

  • Great car - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I bought this car with 59,000 kms on it in 2004. I now have 255,000 kms on it. I have never had anything major go wrong with it. I have replaced the rad, the alternator, the usual stuff, like ball joints and battery. Last year I did have to change some suspension parts. It was a lot of money, but it has a lot of mileage on it. So far it still has the same exhaust on it. It also has the original struts on the front. It doesnt burn oil. I change it regularly between 5000 and 7000 kms. It is starting to show signs of age though. I am having problems starting it. It still starts, it just takes a couple of cranks. Living in Canada, the salt is starting to take its toll also.

  • Great vehicle! - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I started looking for a car and I found my self with three last chooises, Jetta, Saturn series 300, and Altima. I do not regret my decision, and I enjoy this vehicle every time I get on it.

  • Altima 4 cylinder - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Fun to drive.Very peppy for a four cylinder.Still love looking at it. Averaged 30MPG on my last trip out of town,with a.c. running and cruise set at 85. My only regret is the cheap looking interior.

  • dissatisifed - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Handles great, a blast to drive. Plagued with problems. This car has burned oil from the day I got it. Two service managers and the GM agree it should have a long block. I have had this problem tracked by driving to the dealer every 500 miles for documentation. Nissan wont stand behind their car. I shouldve stayed with Toyota!

  • Stay Away!!! - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I bought my Altima 7 months ago, and I finally got rid of it. I feel sorry for the person who bought it. I am a college student and cannot afford huge maintenance cost on this lemon. I have noticed most of the complaints are with S, and SL trims. The only major flaw with this car is the excessive oil consumption, and this model burns oil like crazy it does not even leak. It surely is a lemon, I didnt spend a lot on it except had keep up with oil replacement twice a month, which sounds really awful for a car that was rewarded as car of the year back in 2002. Nissan got bad reputation because of this car. Now I am looking forward to buy MAXIMA 6th GEN. They are a lot powerful and reliable.

  • Buyer Beware - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Ever since i bought the car the clutch would stick down in the bottom but it never happened frequently enough for the problem to get resolved and they always claimed that there was nothing wrong with. At 114000 miles my engine started to knock and i later found out coolant was leaking into my engine through a bad head gasket. $3000 later a used engine was installed and now Im looking to repair a head gasket issue on this newly installed engine at 160000 miles. Never again will i purchase and Altima!!

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