Surprising reliability gap: nissan altima vs toyota camry exposed

When it comes to choosing a reliable midsize sedan, the Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry are two standout contenders. Both vehicles have earned a reputation for durability and dependability, but which one reigns supreme in the realm of reliability? This comprehensive analysis delves into the intricacies of Nissan Altima vs. Toyota Camry reliability, providing you with the insights needed to make an informed decision.

Reliability Ratings

J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS)

J.D. Power’s VDS evaluates vehicle dependability based on owner-reported problems within the past 12 months. In the 2023 study, the Toyota Camry ranked 3rd in the midsize car segment, while the Nissan Altima placed 11th.

Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports’ reliability ratings are based on a combination of owner surveys and predicted reliability data. The 2023 Toyota Camry earned a predicted reliability score of 5 out of 5, while the Nissan Altima received a score of 4 out of 5.

Common Problems

Nissan Altima

• Transmission issues: Some Altima models have experienced problems with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), including slipping, hesitation, and premature failure.
• Electrical problems: Electrical issues, such as faulty wiring, can cause a range of problems, including engine stalling and dashboard malfunctions.
• Brake problems: Brake rotors and pads may wear prematurely, leading to reduced braking performance.

Toyota Camry

• Oil consumption: Some Camry models have been known to consume excessive oil, requiring frequent top-ups.
• Suspension problems: Suspension components, such as struts and shock absorbers, may fail prematurely, resulting in a rough ride and poor handling.
• Fuel pump issues: Fuel pump failures can cause the engine to stall or fail to start.

Maintenance Costs

According to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost for a Nissan Altima is $549, while the Toyota Camry averages $493. However, it’s important to note that maintenance costs can vary depending on factors such as driving habits, location, and the age of the vehicle.

Safety Features

Both the Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Fuel Economy

The Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry offer comparable fuel economy. The 2023 Altima achieves an EPA-estimated 32 mpg combined, while the Camry gets 33 mpg combined.

Resale Value

According to Kelley Blue Book, the Toyota Camry typically retains its value better than the Nissan Altima. This means that if you decide to sell your vehicle in the future, you may get more money for a Camry than an Altima.

Which Car is More Reliable: Nissan Altima vs. Toyota Camry?

Based on the available data, the Toyota Camry has a slight edge over the Nissan Altima in terms of overall reliability. The Camry’s higher J.D. Power VDS ranking and Consumer Reports predicted reliability score indicate that it is less likely to experience problems over time. However, both vehicles offer a high level of dependability, and the best choice for you will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which car has a better transmission?
A: The Toyota Camry‘s traditional automatic transmission is generally considered to be more reliable than the Nissan Altima’s CVT.

Q: Which car has lower maintenance costs?
A: The Toyota Camry has slightly lower average annual maintenance costs than the Nissan Altima.

Q: Which car has more safety features?
A: Both the Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, with no significant differences between them.

Q: Which car has better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Camry has slightly better fuel economy than the Nissan Altima.

Q: Which car has better resale value?
A: The Toyota Camry typically retains its value better than the Nissan Altima.