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2011 Nissan Altima recalls and problems

The 2011 Nissan Altima has 1 safety recall and 242 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Nissan dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
242
Crashes / fires
11 / 5
Injuries / deaths
9 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2011 Nissan Altima vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2011 Nissan Altima recalls

Recall 11V-371: Suspension

Reported Jul 19, 2011 · 20,000 vehicles affected · NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Problem: Nissan is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 nissan altima sedan vehicles manufactured from april 25, 2011, through june 10, 2011 at the canton, mississippi plant. The transverse link bolt may not have been torqued to the proper specification. This condition could cause the bolt to become loose while the vehicle is being driven, creating a rattling noise and vibration.

Risk: If the bolt comes out completely, the driver may experience difficulty controlling the direction of the vehicle which could result in a crash.

Fix: Nissan will replace the transverse link bolts and nuts and tighten them to the proper torque specification free of charge. The safety recall began on august 8, 2011. Owners may contact nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

2011 Nissan Altima problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Power Train69
Unknown or Other40
Engine36
Electrical System32
Structure27
Air Bags22
Suspension14
Steering13
Fuel/Propulsion System10
Vehicle Speed Control9
Service Brakes8
Engine and Engine Cooling6

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body — 25
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 2
  • Seat Belts › Front › Warning Light/Devices — 1
  • Equipment › Other › Owners/Service/Other Manual — 1
  • Visibility › Rearview Mirrors/Devices › Exterior — 1
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder — 1
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Crankcase (Pcv) — 1
  • Structure › Interior Panels › Dashboard — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 72,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2011 Nissan Altima complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Air Bags · at 161,059 miles · reported Oct 16, 2026
The contact's granddaughter owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while a granddaughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction, followed by an abnormal sound while turning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where diagnosis revealed rack and pinion, power steering pressure sensor, and steering gearbox failures, requiring replacement. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated, the horn failed to function as intended, and power…
Vehicle Speed Control · reported Jun 3, 2026
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The Engine Control Module (ECM) is malfunctioning, triggering persistent P0101 codes related to the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. This specific issue is addressed in Nissan Technical Service Bulletin DE97AA, which recommends an ECM reprogramming. The component is still installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection. ⸻ • How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? When the vehicle is at a complete stop and I attempt to accelerate, it becomes jumpy and unresponsive…
Engine · reported Jul 12, 2025
This is the second nissan altima iv owed an the problem eatch one iv had is that were the idler tensioner pully gose and bolts to brakes so there for you cant put the idler tensioner pully back on
Engine · reported Jul 3, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The Engine Control Module (ECM) is malfunctioning, triggering persistent P0101 codes related to the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. This specific issue is addressed in Nissan Technical Service Bulletin DE97AA, which recommends an ECM reprogramming. The component is still installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection. ⸻ • How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? When the vehicle is at a complete stop and I attempt to accelerate, it becomes jumpy and unresponsive…
Unknown or Other · reported Feb 13, 2025
There is issue with sunroof drainage tubs causing rain to soak the floor of car. This definitely malfunction or inadequate problem with drainage tubs and sunroof parts with Nissans. I took it to the dealership and car collision repair shop and was told this is high reoccurring issue with Nissan sunroofs, but no recalls have been given, and I have to pay out pocket to get fixed. At 1st was told just get the drains cleaned out and you shouldn't have that problem again. The issue has progressed and now I have paid for drains to get unclogged 2x so far in one year and keep happening every time its…

Other Nissan Altima years

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Frequently asked questions

Does the 2011 Nissan Altima have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2011 Nissan Altima: 11V-371 (suspension). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2011 Nissan Altima?

Owners report power train problems most often (69 reports), followed by unknown or other (40). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 72,000 miles.

Are Nissan recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Nissan dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.