Nissan Altima 2017: full model review, pros and cons, buying tips

Nissan Altima 2017 - a middle class sedan, which became a logical continuation of the fifth generation of the model. This car combines Japanese build quality, modern design and time-tested technical solutions. In 2017 Altima It was offered with two gasoline engines, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, as well as rich equipment even in basic trim levels.

The model was positioned as a competitor Toyota Camry, Honda Accord And Ford Mondeo, but stood out for its more aggressive exterior and dynamic characteristics. Particularly popular Altima was on the markets of the USA and Canada, where it was valued for its reliability and comfort. In Russia and the CIS countries, this model is less common, but is still in demand among lovers of Japanese sedans.

In this article we will look at technical specifications, operating features, typical problems And recommendations for selection Nissan Altima 2017. You will also find comparisons with competitors and answers to common questions from potential buyers.

2017 Nissan Altima Specifications

In 2017 Altima offered with two petrol engines:

• 🔥 2.5 liter QR25DE (182 hp) - a basic engine with a timing chain drive, known for its reliability and efficiency.
• ⚡ 3.5 liter VQ35DE (270 hp) - a powerful V6 with an aluminum block, which ensured dynamic acceleration.

Both engines were combined with Xtronic CVT, which in this generation received an improved switching program and simulated steps for greater comfort. Front-wheel drive was standard, and all-wheel drive AWD offered as an option for Altima 2.5 S And 2.5 SL.

The car suspension is built according to the classical scheme: front - MacPherson type, rear - multi-link. This provided a good balance between comfort and handling. The braking system included ventilated discs at the front and drums or discs at the rear (depending on trim level).

Parameter	2.5 (QR25DE)	3.5 (VQ35DE)
Engine capacity	2.5 l	3.5 l
Power	182 hp	270 hp
Torque	233 Nm	358 Nm
Fuel consumption (city/highway)	9.8 / 6.2 l	12.4 / 7.8 l
Transmission	CVT Xtronic

Important: The 2017 Nissan Altima with the VQ35DE engine was equipped with a direct fuel injection system, which required the use of gasoline not lower than AI-95. Otherwise, the risk of carbon deposits forming on the valves increased.

Options and equipment

In 2017 Nissan Altima offered in five basic trim levels:

• 🚗 2.5 S — basic version with air conditioning, power accessories, 16-inch wheels and an audio system with a 5-inch screen.
• 🎵 2.5 SR — sports modification with 18-inch wheels, leather steering wheel, system NissanConnect with 7-inch display.
• 💺 2.5 SL — luxury version with leather interior, heated and ventilated front seats, rear view camera.
• 🔥 3.5 SL — top-end trim with V6, adaptive cruise control, collision warning system.
• 🛡️ 3.5 Platinum — maximum equipment: premium audio system Bose, panoramic roof, 360-degree camera.

Among the options stood out:

• 🔦 Adaptive LED headlights (available in top versions).
• 🚨 Blind Spot Monitoring System (Blind Spot Warning).
• 🅿️ Automatic parking (Intelligent Park Assist).

⚠️ Attention: In basic configurations Altima 2017 there was no system Apple CarPlay And Android Auto — it appeared only in 2018. If this functionality is important, it is worth considering later models.

Pros and cons of the 2017 Nissan Altima

Like any car, Altima 2017 has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's look at them in detail.

Benefits:

• ✅ Reliable engines - especially QR25DE, which with proper maintenance runs 300,000+ km.
• ✅ Comfortable suspension — smooths out unevenness well, does not break through in potholes.
• ✅ Spacious salon — one of the most spacious in the class (trunk volume — 436 l).
• ✅ Good sound insulation — on the highway you can hardly hear the wind or tires.
• ✅ Rich equipment even in basic versions (climate control, heated seats).

Disadvantages:

• ❌ CVT — when driving aggressively, it can overheat and requires regular oil changes (every 60,000 km).
• ❌ Paintwork quality - thin paint, prone to chipping and corrosion at the joints.
• ❌ Electronics - sometimes the multimedia system is glitchy, especially in the early games of 2017.
• ❌ Fuel consumption - y VQ35DE in the city it can reach 14-15 l/100 km.

⚠️ Attention: Owners Altima 2017 often complain about variator oil seal leak after 100,000 km. When buying a used car, be sure to check for oil stains under the car and the condition of the transmission fluid.

Typical problems and their solutions

Despite the reliability Nissan Altima 2017 has several characteristic “diseases” that you should know about before purchasing.

1. Problems with the variator

Symptoms: jerks during acceleration, delays when switching, hum.

Solution:

• 🔧 Changing the oil in the variator (original fluid NS-3).
• 🔧 Checking solenoids and valve body.
• 🔧 In severe cases, replacing the variator chain (expensive, but less often required).

2. Oil leak from under the valve cover

Symptoms: oil streaks on the engine block, smell of burnt oil.

Solution: replacing the valve cover gasket (the part is inexpensive, but the work is labor-intensive).

3. Failure of the oxygen sensor (lambda probe)

Symptoms: error P0130-P0161, increased fuel consumption, unstable idling.

Solution: replacing the sensor (it is recommended to use original Denso or NTK).

4. Corrosion of thresholds and arches

Symptoms: rust at joints, blistering paint.

Solution: anticorrosive treatment, welding in case of severe damage.

Comparison with competitors

Nissan Altima 2017 competes with several popular midsize sedans. Let's look at the main differences:

Model	Nissan Altima 2017	Toyota Camry 2017	Honda Accord 2017
Engine (base)	2.5 l (182 hp)	2.5 l (178 hp)	2.4 l (185 hp)
Transmission	CVT	6-automatic	6-automatic transmission / CVT
Fuel consumption (combined)	8.1 l/100 km	7.8 l/100 km	7.6 l/100 km
Price (used, 2026)	1.2–1.8 million ₽	1.4–2.0 million ₽	1.3–1.9 million RUB

What makes the Altima stand out?

• 🚀 More dynamic design compared to Camry.
• 💰 Lower price on the secondary market.
• 🔧 Easier to repairthan Accord (parts are cheaper).

What is it inferior to?

• ⚠️ Less reliable variatorthan automatic transmission Toyota.
• ⚠️ Worse sound insulation at high speeds compared to Honda.

Tips for operation and maintenance

To Nissan Altima 2017 served for a long time, follow these recommendations:

1. Engine maintenance

• 🔧 Change the oil every 7,000–10,000 km (synthetic 5W-30 or 0W-20).
• 🔧 Check the oil level once a month - VQ35DE prone to oily appetite.
• 🔧 Every 100,000 km, clean the throttle valve and replace the spark plugs.

2. CVT care

• 🔧 Changing the oil in the variator - every 60,000 km (at least!).
• 🔧 Avoid towing and sudden starts - this reduces the transmission resource.
• 🔧 At the first sign of jerking, contact the service.

3. Body and interior

• 🔧 Wash your car regularly in winter to prevent corrosion.
• 🔧 Treat thresholds with anticorrosive once every 2-3 years.
• 🔧 To preserve the interior leather, use protective creams.

Owner reviews

Opinions about Nissan Altima 2017 are divided, but overall the car receives positive marks.

Positive Feedback:

• 👍 "The car is very comfortable, the suspension is soft, but not rolly. Handles the road excellently." — Alexey, Moscow.
• 👍 "The 2.5 engine is simply indestructible. For 150,000 km, not a single serious breakdown." — Sergey, Yekaterinburg.
• 👍 "The design still looks modern and does not become outdated." — Olga, St. Petersburg.

Negative feedback:

• 👎 "The variator began to twitch after 90,000 km. I had to change the oil and solenoids." — Dmitry, Novosibirsk.
• 👎 "In winter, the heater does not heat well at idle." — Anna, Krasnoyarsk.
• 👎 "The paint is very soft - a lot of chips have appeared over the year." — Igor, Kazan.

Many owners note that when timely service Altima 2017 doesn't cause any trouble. The main complaints relate to paint quality And variator resource, but this is typical for most Japanese cars of that period.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the 2017 Nissan Altima

Which engine is more reliable: 2.5 or 3.5?

Engine QR25DE (2.5 l) considered more reliable and economical. It is easier to maintain and less picky about fuel quality. VQ35DE (3.5 l) more powerful, but requires more frequent oil changes and high-quality gasoline (AI-95+). If the resource is important to you, choose 2.5. If you need dynamics - 3.5.

How much does it cost to service a 2017 Altima?

Average cost of scheduled maintenance (oil change, filters) — 8 000–12 000 ₽. Changing the oil in the variator will cost 15 000–20 000 ₽. Repair of suspension (struts, bushings) - from 20 000 ₽. Overall, Altima cheaper to maintain than German competitors, but more expensive than Toyota Camry.

Can I put gas on my 2017 Altima?

Install HBO on Altima 2017 not recommended, especially on the engine VQ35DE. The variator does not tolerate additional loads well, and the direct injection system may fail. If you really need it, choose 4th generation HBO and tune in with trusted professionals.

What are the best tires for a 2017 Altima?

Recommended sizes:

• 215/60 R16 - for basic configurations.
• 235/45 R18 - for versions SR And SL.

Suitable for summer Michelin Primacy 4 or Continental ContiPremiumContact 5. In winter - Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 (Velcro) or Bridgestone Blizzak LM-32 (studded).

Should you buy a 2017 Altima today?

Yes, if:

• You need a stylish sedan with good dynamics.
• You are ready to monitor the CVT and service it regularly.
• You are looking for a car with rich equipment at an adequate price.

No if:

• You plan to drive on bad roads (low ground clearance - 150 mm).
• You don't want to have to deal with electronics repairs.
• You prefer an automatic instead of a CVT.