Nissan Altima The 2014 model year is a mid-size sedan that has gained popularity due to its balanced performance, comfort and reliability. The car belongs to the fifth generation (L33), released in 2013, and offers customers a modern design, economical engines and rich equipment. In Russia and CIS countries Altima This generation was not officially sold, but was actively imported from the USA and the UAE, which makes it in demand on the secondary market.
Main advantage Altima 2014 is a combination of dynamics and fuel efficiency. The car was equipped with naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, as well as a CVT Xtronic CVT, which provided smooth acceleration. However, the model also has weaknesses: for example, the variator requires special attention to maintenance, and the electronics can cause problems if used incorrectly. In this article we will look at all the key aspects - from technical characteristics to tips for choosing a used copy.
2014 Nissan Altima Specifications
In 2014 Nissan Altima offered with two petrol engines:
- 🔹 2.5L QR25DE - naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine with power 182 hp (179 hp in some versions) and torque 234 Nm. This engine is famous for its reliability and service life up to 300,000+ km with proper maintenance.
- 🔹 3.5L VQ35DE — V6 with a volume of 3.5 liters, developing 270 hp And 336 Nm. A more dynamic, but also more power-hungry option, which is more often found in top trim levels.
Both engines were combined with a CVT Xtronic CVT, which in Altima received a reinforced design compared to previous generations. Drive - front or full (Intelligent AWD), but the last option is only available for the version with 2.5L engine. Combined cycle fuel consumption varies from 7.8 l/100 km (2.5L) up to 10.2 l/100 km (3.5L).
| Parameter | 2.5L QR25DE | 3.5L VQ35DE |
|---|---|---|
| Power, hp | 182 | 270 |
| Torque, Nm | 234 | 336 |
| Consumption (city), l/100 km | 9.4 | 12.4 |
| Transmission | CVT Xtronic CVT | CVT Xtronic CVT |
| Drive | FWD / AWD | FWD |
Suspension Altima - independent MacPherson front and multi-link rear, which provides good handling and comfort. The braking system includes ventilated discs on all wheels, and in top versions - a system Brake Assist And VDC (stability control).
- 2.5L (182 hp)
- 3.5L (270 hp)
- I don't know, I need some feedback
- I'm interested in the hybrid version
Options and equipment
In 2014 Nissan Altima was offered in five basic trim levels for the American market: 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL And 3.5 SL. In the Gulf countries (UAE, Bahrain) there are modifications with advanced equipment, for example, with a leather interior and a premium audio system Bose even in basic versions.
Basic equipment 2.5 included:
- 📻 4-speaker audio system with CD/MP3, Bluetooth And USB;
- 🔧 Manual air conditioning;
- 🚗 16-inch steel wheels with hubcaps;
- 🔒 Central locking with remote control.
Top 3.5 SL added:
- 🎵 Audio system Bose with 9 speakers;
- 🪑 Leather seats with heating and electric drive;
- 🌡️ Dual-zone climate control;
- 📱 7" touch screen with navigation NissanConnect;
- 🚘 18-inch alloy wheels.
Separately, it is worth noting the system Nissan Intelligent Key (keyless entry) and a rearview camera, which have become standard on most versions. In some countries (eg UAE) Altima equipped with additional options, such as seat ventilation or panoramic roof.
Upon purchase Altima 2014 from UAE check availability certificate of conformity for Russia - without it, registration with the traffic police will be impossible.
Weaknesses and typical problems
Nissan Altima 2014 is considered a reliable car, but it has several “diseases” that are worth knowing about:
- CVT Xtronic CVT - the main “headache” of the owners. If the oil is not changed on time (every 60,000 km) jerking, slipping or complete transmission failure may occur. The cost of repairing a variator can reach 200,000–300,000 rubles.
- Engine 2.5L QR25DE - reliable, but sensitive to oil quality. When using low-quality lubricants, carbon deposits may form on the valves.
- Electronics — frequent malfunctions of the touch screen NissanConnect, especially in hot climates. Parking sensors may also fail.
- Suspension - stabilizer struts and bushings wear out 80,000–100,000 km, and the shock absorbers require replacement closer to 150,000 km.
⚠️ Attention: If during a test drive Altima 2014 did you hear hum or whistle when accelerating, this may indicate wear on the variator bearings. It is better to refuse to purchase such a copy.
Another common problem is body corrosion, especially in regions with aggressive winter chemistry. Most often, rust appears on the arches, sills and underbody. Before purchasing, be sure to inspect the vehicle on a lift or check its anti-corrosion treatment history.
How to check a variator before buying?
1. Warm up the car to operating temperature.
2. Press the brake pedal and move the selector to the D — there should be no jerks or delays.
3. When accelerating to 60–80 km/h, pay attention to the smoothness of the acceleration.
4. Listen to the transmission at idle speed - extraneous noise (humming, grinding) may indicate wear.
Owner reviews: pros and cons
Reviews on forums and social networks about Nissan Altima 2014 mostly positive, but with reservations. Owners praise the car for:
- ✅ Comfortable suspension — smoothes out unevenness well, does not break through on bumps;
- ✅ Spacious salon — enough space for passengers up to 190 cm tall;
- ✅ Economical - fuel consumption on the highway 2.5L version does not exceed 6.5 l/100 km;
- ✅ Engine reliability - with proper maintenance, the motors run smoothly 300,000+ km.
The most often mentioned disadvantages are:
- ❌ Expensive CVT maintenance - original oil NS-3 costs from 5,000 rubles for 4 liters;
- ❌ Poor sound insulation — at speeds above 100 km/h, noise from the wheels is heard;
- ❌ Electronics problems — especially in cars from the UAE, where the heat negatively affects the boards;
- ❌ Low liquidity - on the secondary market Altima sold longer than Toyota Camry or Honda Accord.
Interestingly, the owners 3.5L VQ35DE often complain about engine overheating in traffic jams, especially in the summer heat. This is due to the characteristics of the cooling system, so in such conditions it is recommended to monitor the level of antifreeze and the condition of the radiator.
If you choose between Altima 2.5L And 3.5L, keep in mind: the first is more economical and reliable, and the second is more dynamic, but more expensive to maintain.
Cost and prices on the secondary market
Price Nissan Altima 2014 in the secondary market depends on mileage, equipment and service history. At the beginning of 2026, the cost varies within the following limits:
| Equipment | Mileage, km | Price, rub. |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5S (base) | 80 000–120 000 | 1 200 000 – 1 500 000 |
| 2.5SV (medium) | 60 000–100 000 | 1 500 000 – 1 800 000 |
| 2.5 SL / 3.5 SL (top) | 50 000–90 000 | 1 800 000 – 2 300 000 |
| 3.5 SL with mileage < 50,000 km | 20 000–40 000 | 2 300 000 – 2 700 000 |
Cars from UAE usually cheaper by 10–15%, but require additional investments in customs clearance and adaptation to Russian standards (replacing headlights, tinting, etc.). Cars from USA or Canada more expensive, but more often have a full service history.
When purchasing, pay attention to:
- 📄 Availability of PTS and customs documents (for imported cars);
- 🔧 The history of changing the oil in the variator - if it is not there, be prepared for repairs;
- 🔍 Body condition — check for hidden corrosion;
- 📊 Mileage - real mileage can be checked through services like Carfax or AutoCheck (for American cars).
⚠️ Attention: If the seller refuses to provide a mileage report or documents for customs clearance, this is a reason to doubt the integrity of the transaction. In 2023–2026, cases of mileage “twisting” of imported cars became more frequent. Altima.
Comparison with competitors: which is better?
Nissan Altima 2014 competes with models such as Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion And Hyundai Sonata. Let's compare the key parameters:
| Parameter | Nissan Altima 2.5L | Toyota Camry 2.5L | Honda Accord 2.4L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power, hp | 182 | 178 | 185 |
| Consumption (city), l/100 km | 9.4 | 9.8 | 9.0 |
| Transmission | CVT | 6-automatic | CVT / 6-speed manual transmission |
| Price (2026), rub. | 1 300 000 – 1 800 000 | 1 500 000 – 2 000 000 | 1 400 000 – 1 900 000 |
Pros Altima before competitors:
- 💰 Lower price with similar characteristics;
- 🚗 Better acceleration dynamics (thanks to the variator);
- 🎨 More modern interior design (compared to Camry 2014).
Cons:
- 🔧 Less reliable variator compared to automatic transmission Toyota;
- 📉 Lower liquidity in the secondary market;
- 🛠️ More expensive maintenance (especially electronics).
If you care reliability - choose Toyota Camry. If you are looking balance of price and comfort — Altima would be a good option. For lovers dynamic ride will do Honda Accord with mechanics.
Tips for operation and maintenance
To Nissan Altima 2014 served for a long time, follow these recommendations:
Change the oil in the engine and variator (even if the seller claims that this has been done) | Check and, if necessary, change the brake pads and discs | Treat the body with an anti-corrosion compound | Diagnose the electronics (especially NissanConnect)|Check tire pressure and balancing
-->
Engine Maintenance:
- 🛢️ Change the oil every 7,000–10,000 km (for 2.5L fits 5W-30, for 3.5L — 5W-40);
- 🔥 Monitor the antifreeze level - it needs to be replaced every 90,000 km;
- 🔊 Replace spark plugs promptly (every 100,000 km).
CVT care:
- 🔄 Change the oil in CVT every 60,000 km (use only original oil Nissan NS-3);
- 🚫 Avoid sudden starts and towing heavy trailers;
- 🔧 Every 100,000 km check the condition of the variator belt.
Other recommendations:
- 🔋 Monitor the condition of the battery - in cold weather Altima may have trouble starting;
- 🎵 If the screen NissanConnect starts to glitch, try resetting the settings to factory settings (
Settings → System → Reset); - 🚿 Wash the air conditioner radiator at least once a year - this will prevent overheating.
⚠️ Attention: If jerking occurs in the variator after changing the oil, this may mean that the transmission is already worn out. In this case, diagnostics are required at a service station using a scanner. Consult-III.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the 2014 Nissan Altima
Can you tow a trailer with a 2014 Altima with the CVT?
Officially Nissan allows towing trailers weighing up to 900 kg for versions with 2.5L engine and up to 1,000 kg for 3.5L. However, owners and mechanics recommend avoiding regular towing, as this increases the load on the CVT and shortens its life. If you have to haul a trailer, use the L (low gear) and monitor the transmission temperature.
What kind of oil should I put in a 2.5L engine?
For QR25DE Suitable oils with viscosity 5W-30 or 0W-20 (according to standard API SN or ILSAC GF-5). Recommended brands: Nissan Original Oil, Mobil 1, Liqui Moly. Refill volume - 4.8 liters (with filter replacement). Important: do not use oils with a high content of additives - they can damage the catalyst.
How to reset the "Check Engine" error without a scanner?
To reset the error Check Engine without diagnostic equipment, follow these steps:
- Turn on the ignition (do not start the engine).
- Press the gas pedal all the way three times in a row and release.
- Wait 10 seconds.
- Start the engine and the error should clear.
How much does it cost to repair a 2014 Altima CVT?
CVT repair cost Xtronic CVT depends on the nature of the malfunction:
- 🔧 Changing oil and filters: 8,000–12,000 rub.;
- 🔄 Repair of hydraulic unit: 30,000–50,000 rub.;
- 🛠️ Major repairs (replacement of belt, cones): 150,000–250,000 rub.;
- 🆕 Complete replacement of the variator: 250,000–350,000 rub. (including work).
To avoid costly repairs, monitor the oil level and do not ignore the first signs of a malfunction (jerking, slipping, humming).
What are the best tires for a 2014 Altima?
Recommended tire sizes:
- 🔹 16":
215/60 R16; - 🔹 17":
215/55 R17; - 🔹 18":
235/45 R18.
Suitable for the winter season Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 or Michelin X-Ice North. In summer you can choose Continental ContiPremiumContact 5 or Yokohama Advan Sport. Tire pressure: 2.2 bar front and 2.0 bar behind.