Overview & Reviews

The 1997 models are virtually identical to 1996 models, except for the addition of new emissions equipment.

• Luxurious, sporty, and well-constructed, the Nissan Altima is the perfect car for those who want an Infiniti, but are stuck with a Nissan budget.

• It will never happen, but we would still like to see a V-6 engine offered in the Altima.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 61.00

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  Very good car - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By calshamus - October 17 - 10:00 am

  This is a very reliable car. I have 150K miles and I have only had to replace the alternator ($40). There are no rattles or squeks. A very good purchase.

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  No major complaints - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By Marylander975 - September 10 - 2:00 am

  I dont have any major complaints with this Altima, though I cant say I love the car. It has been dependable, but doesnt have enough cargo room for me. I would have preferred a car with rear seats that go down to extend cargo room. One thing - the paint job is the worst. It didnt take long for the paint to start peeling and chipping and for it to become oxidized. I have had to replace the alternator, windshielf wiper motor and have had a problem with the rear brakes.

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  Love my Altima - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By DMS - March 12 - 10:00 am

  I have been satisfied with this car (1997 Altima) since I purchased it used in 2000. I have not experienced any large problems with the vehical (engine, transmission, etc.) and overall it has been a very reliable car with plenty of power and control for Colorado driving.

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  97 Altima is Reliable Wheels - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By Grove City Johnnie - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Bought this 1997 Altima GXE in May, 2000. It is my work vehicle. I was tired of American vehicles that were unreliable - and spending too much time with them in the garage. This car is not fancy, not fast, but it IS very reliable. Im very satisfied with it and would buy a second one in a heartbeat. 92,000 miles and still going strong!

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  Unique Performace - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By Fateisj - January 5 - 2:00 am

  If you treat your car right, you will get 30 miles per gallon, and it will last you atleast 250,000 miles easily. It has good torque for its year and class. Its a very comfortable ride, and it is the absolute best to drive. it has the best road feel.

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  Good Car - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By Good Car - November 12 - 9:46 am

  I have had this car for 9 years. I have had transmission problems. Its on its 2nd one. The alternator and brakes have been replaced. Overall it has been a really good reliable car. It needs to go in the shop about once a year. Its been on a few road trips. Its a great car for city driving.

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  Its an OK Car - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By Rams - March 5 - 10:00 am

  I have this car for 6 years 98 K miles, no major problem but always some minor problems. Alternator died at 72 K, front brakes at 75, muffler at 84, rear break at 92. Car is very reliable so far. What i dont like about this car is its noisy, gear shif is not smooth, pick up is not smooth, power steering is not firm and there is a lot of vibration at high speeds (these are not just my car, i have some friends who have the same complaints). I would rather pay an extra 2000 and buy an accord.

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  Great Buy - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By PeekoSanchez - November 21 - 6:03 pm

  I bought my Altima used at 37,000 miles in 2001 and its still going strong at 130,000, though its needed some major repair. Ive had to replace the alternator (at 75k), one CV axle and the other will need replacement soon, the switch for the power windows and locks, and the clutch a year ago. Those are the only $200 plus repairs done in 7 years though, which is a bargain compared to the repair work other models need in that amount of time. The interior doesnt hold up well however; the vents on the dash are popping up, a sun visor fell off while I was driving, and the speedometer sticks sometimes. The fabric is cheap and stains easy.

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  Great car all around - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By HappyAltimaDriver - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I have 95000 miles on it now, and it has never left me stranded. I average 25 mpg. Engine has great power. Handles really well, which makes it fun to drive. I love everything about it.

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  Solid Car - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By Cabanna - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Altima used in 2001 with 51,000 miles and I havent had any major problems with it since besides normal upkeep and wear and tear. Im satisfied with this car for the most part. My complaint is that the Altima does shift a little hard. I took it to the mechanic and he told me that the transmission was okay though and that this version of the Altima tends to do that. The other thing I noticed is the brakes squeel when the car hasnt ran for a while, but as soon as the car warms up the squeeling stops. I did have this problem looked at as well and I was told this was okay for now.