Overview & Reviews

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.

• Sports car power in a midsize sedan body, high level of features, distinct new shape.

• All-new design could mean first-year teething problems and dealer mark-up.

User Reviews:

Showing 171 through 180 of 394.00

• 

  200k and very pleased - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Dayton Brown - September 1 - 1:53 pm

  Purchased from a friend with approx 175000 in 06. She did a lot of interstate driving so the miles where high but the car was in great shape. The only major issue has been leaking valve cover gaskets, but nothing else of importance for the past 6 years (time weve owned it and previous owner) the car has an amazing amount of cabin space is very comfortable for me even in the back seats (Im 62") we average 27 to 29 mpg depending on how much in- town or highway driver.

• 

  Great car - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By JeffS1000000 - August 25 - 10:00 am

  Lots of horsepower, corners great... looks great. I love it!

• 

  Generally a good car - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Dale - August 24 - 10:06 am

  I bought it new in April of 2002. It had its share of recalls but no more any other car. I did experience the hard starting and the dealer did fix the problem with chip re-programming. The paint on the front of the car will chip very easily and I noticed other Altimas with the same problem. The balancer shaft in the engine went bad at 61250 miles and wiped out the engine. Thats right, 1250 miles out of warranty. Nissan told me, "Out of warranty, tough". The car sat at the dealer for over 2 months and the dealer finally agreed to pay for half of the repair costs. It has run flawlessly since then. I love the car, I am taller than most people and this car fits me.

• 

  Dont let them fix it! - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By brandon11111111 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Yeah, it sounds strange, but dont take your car in forthe "cold weather shutdown" recall. They will install a screen that is capable of blocking ice crystals from getting to the fuel pump. Since that was done to our car, the car has shut down 3 times in any weather! Basically the accelerator stops working. Its as if you put your car in neutral, but if you try to use your accelerator, nothing happens. Doesnt even rev. I know this has happened to several Altimas because the dealership couldnt figure out what was wrong and called Nissan who said they have no idea, but that these complaints are coming in heavy.

• 

  So far, so good - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By PaulS - June 25 - 10:00 am

  The 2.5 S is the most common model. It has an excellent blend of perfomance and practicality. The ride is very European in feel... not too mushy or firm.

• 

  Love this car! - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Mark C - June 19 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a 98 Civic EX and I have not regretted it. This car is fun to drive, has a nice hitch in the giddeyup and is a great looker. Not bad for $21.8K

• 

  A Great Car - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Bob from Glen Burnie - June 19 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this car for almost a month. The looks and performance are outstanding - by far the best car Ive ever owned. Great gobs of power that come on smooth, excellent brakes and creature comforts. Contrary to several reviews, I dont think the interior is cheap looking - it looks fine with the charcoal leather package. Its a show car, performance car, and luxury car in one package.

• 

  WHAT A LEMON !! - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Ty01453 - June 11 - 2:40 pm

  bought this car 6 months ago (used) and it already needs a new motor. What a waste of my $$. For your own sake stay away from 2002 used altimas.

• 

  Long term update - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By kward - May 27 - 10:00 am

  We bought the first new Altima sold in our city in the fall of 2001. We have owned Hondas and Toyotas previously, but fell in love with the new Altima. After a year-and-a-half of ownership, we couldnt be more pleased. The car has been 100% reliable, it is very comfortable to drive and to ride in. It remains solid and the interior doesnt even show any wear (the seat fabric does collect some lint and hair, but a sticky lint brush cleans it up quickly). If I had to replace it I would buy another one just like it. We are very happy we chose it over the new Camry.

• 

  Buyer Beware - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By S Cantino - May 19 - 10:00 am

  Purchased this car with 56,000. Soon discovered what others have been talking about. Prepared myself for the worse and at 90,000 the catalytic converter self destructed. Caught it in time and replaced with new. Shortly thereafter the head gasket problem surfaced and the transmission needed to be replaced. Far more repairs than one would expect from Nissan. The engine problems should be addressed. There are better cars out there.