2021 NISSAN Altima

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

Expert Verdict
⚠️Elevated Concerns

The 2021 Nissan Altima presents a mixed reliability profile, marked by two recalls primarily concerning steering and back-up prevention systems. The average failure mileage of 31,429 suggests that while some issues may arise early, the overall dependability remains relatively acceptable for this model year.

Key Factor:Steering and camera recalls

📋Why This Matters

The recalls affecting the steering system raise safety concerns as they could lead to detachment of the tie rod ball joint, potentially compromising vehicle control. Meanwhile, issues with the camera harness can obstruct rear visibility, which is critical for safe reversing maneuvers. These defects are particularly relevant in a family sedan segment where safety features are paramount, highlighting the importance of addressing these recalls promptly to ensure driver confidence and passenger safety.

Focus Area:Safety Profile
📊

Expert Analysis

  • 📈
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • ⚠️
    Primary Risk Area:Warning
  • ⚖️
    Vs Brand: Worse than avg (1.3)
    📝
    Summary: Year-over-year trends for Nissan vehicles generally indicate a commitment to quality; however, the issues seen in the 2021 Altima present a deviation from this trajectory. Whereas one might expect low complaint numbers in this segment, the presence of significant recalls indicates a greater risk profile than anticipated for new buyers.

Safety & Reliability Score

81/100

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-16
Complaint Impact-2.6
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 NISSAN Altima

Model Year2021
MakeNISSAN
ModelAltima
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Jan21
NEWProduction
Apr21
RECALLRecall Issued
Nov21
ISSUEFirst Report
Aug23
RECALLRecall Issued

Consumer Complaint Analysis

⚠️

Most Reported Issue

14 complaints (27% of total)
➡️

Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data

Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 52 consumer complaints by severity level.

🟠High
2(4%)
🟡Medium
14(27%)
🟢Low
36(69%)

Mileage Failure Analysis

⚙️Engineering Insight

With peak failure occurrences reported between 0-20k miles, current owners should be vigilant about monitoring their Altima during its initial life stages. It's crucial to address any potential steering or backup camera issues early on to prevent safety risks down the line.

📊 Mileage data extracted from 14 of 52 complaints (27% coverage)
0-20k
5 reports (36%)
20k-40k
3 reports (21%)
40k-60k
5 reports (36%)
60k-80k
1 reports (7%)
80k-100k
0 reports (0%)
100k+
0 reports (0%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.

🛠️ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

STEERINGBACK OVER PREVENTION

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Steering

Issue: Improperly tightened tie rod ball joint fastener that may detach.

Schedule an inspection at your dealership to confirm proper tie rod assembly status.

🔍

Verify if all recall work has been completed before finalizing your purchase.

Campaigns:21V16500021V166000
2

Back Over Prevention Camera

Issue: Camera harness potentially damaged leading to distorted or absent rearview display.

Check rearview camera functionality and report any failures immediately.

🔍

Confirm if recall repairs regarding camera harness have been executed prior to buying.

Campaign:21V165000
💡Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your NISSAN dealer to verify recall completion status.

Official Safety Recalls (2)

Campaign: 21V138000

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

Summary

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Nissan Altima vehicles. The tie rod ball joint fastener was not tightened properly, which could result in the tie rod ball joint detaching from the steering knuckle.

Consequence

A detached tie rod ball joint can cause a loss of steering control, and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the left and right-side tie rod ball joint fasteners, or install new fasteners as necessary, free of charge. The began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7769. Nissan's number for this recall is PC795.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.

Campaign: 23V628000

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Summary

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Altima and 2020-2021 Sentra vehicles. Damage to the camera harness can cause distortion or loss of the rearview camera display image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect the rearview camera and harness for damage and replace them as necessary. If no damage is found, the dealer will apply protective tape and reroute the rearview camera harness. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23C3.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

52 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 Altima.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Warning27%
Accident6%
Crash/Accident6%
Safety Systems🔶 Medium
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

RE: Formal Demand for Vehicle Repurchase/ Buyback due to Critical Safety Defect- Vehicle Breaking on Its Own While Driving I am writing to file a formal safety complaint and to demand immediate corporate intervention regarding an extremely dangerous mechanical/ADAS defect in my vehicle that Nissan has failed to repair since I purchased it in 2021. My Nissan Altima has serious, ongoing safety issues where the vehicle will unexpectedly and aggressively apply the brakes on its own while I am driving, including on highways and regular roads. This defect happens without my input, without warning, and creates a major risk of being rear-ended, losing control of the vehicle, or causing a serious accident. This issue is Not minor. It is a life-threatening malfunction that makes the vehicle unsafe to operate. I have taken the vehicle to authorized Nissan dealerships for diagnosis and repair on multiple occasions: Repair Dates 2021-2025 at Passport Nissan of Alexandria 150 S Pickett St Alexandria, VA Location Despite these visits, the problem continues. Nissan’s failure to diagnose or repair this critical break/self-braking issue over several years constitutes: •Failure to remedy a known safety defect •Breach of warranty •Violation of consumer protection laws •Negligence regarding driver and public safety A vehicle that breaks on its own, especially at highway speeds – is not safe, not reliable, and not roadworthy. Because Nissan has had more than a reasonable opportunity since 2021 to correct this defect and has failed to do so, I am demanding that Nissan: 1.Buy back the vehicle at an amount equal to the remaining loan balance. I do not want to do any upgrade trade ins. This situation has gone on for years and the vehicle is now a clear danger to me and the public and my two minor children who ride in the car with me. I am requesting immediate action and a good-faith resolution.

Electrical⚠️ High
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Hi this is in reference to my 2021 Nissan altima. The fob key entry and electrical door control doesn't work. The automator for my doors have had to be replaced. First the rear passenger and five days later the rear passenger door on drivers side and now the drivers door. As a single female this is a safety issue. If I can't access my vehicle in an emergency it turns into a life or death situation. I've researched this and many owners of like vehicle have had this complaint and reported it, but appears that Nissan has ignored it. When my repairs are done it isn't inexpensive. Please please please!!! Look into this. Please and thank you. Tempe dodge chrysler and jeep Tempe Az is where the repairs are done. Jon (833) 552-1518 service department

Safety Systems🔶 Medium
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

The Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system in my 2021 Nissan Altima SR frequently malfunctions. The forward radar sensor, located behind the front grille, becomes easily obstructed by normal road dirt or weather conditions. When this happens, the system falsely detects obstacles and engages braking or gives collision warnings even when the road ahead is clear. This places my safety and the safety of others at risk because the vehicle can suddenly slow or stop without cause, increasing the chance of a rear-end collision. To avoid false activations, I must disable the AEB system every time I drive, which defeats the purpose of having this federally mandated safety feature. The problem is ongoing and repeatable. Warning lights and collision alerts appear when the sensor is dirty or misreading conditions. Nissan dealerships have acknowledged this issue through Technical Service Bulletins, but there is no permanent fix and no recall. The malfunction has not been resolved by the manufacturer and continues to pose a safety hazard.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
ENGINE

The transmission is jerking while driving. it has been doing this since purchased in 2021. I have reported this several times to nissan and the consumer advisors deemed it undrivable but no on has resolved the issue.

Brakes🔶 Medium
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEATS

The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the brakes independently activated, and the rear of the vehicle fishtailed. The contact stated an unknown warning light showing an image of the rear of the vehicle was briefly illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the driver's side front seat frame was fractured, and the seat was loose. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the brake failure was not duplicated. The contact was informed that the driver's side front seat rack was fractured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle had been taken to several dealers; however, the brake failure was not duplicated. The contact was afraid to continue driving the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the repair for the driver's side front seat rack was not covered under warranty or any special programs. The failure mileage was approximately 41,000.

Electrical🔶 Medium
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION

Rear Crash warning comes on when stopped at light , or when car is put in reverse and nothings there . also wiper refill warning. stays on even when full. Has been reported to dealership more than once also hear clicking at speeds over 50 mph.

Steering/Suspension🔵 Low
SUSPENSION

The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally loud clicking sound coming from the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with fractured front driver's and passenger's side axles. The contact was informed that the driver's and passenger's side axles needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 34,500.

Electrical🔵 Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2021 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 35,189 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 65,543.

Electrical🔵 Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

About a month ago I noticed my backup camera had gotten dark. I didn’t worry much about it until it started glitching a couple days ago. I gave it a couple of days thinking it would go away but it hasn’t. It either glitches with lines through it, it freezes, or goes black altogether. I then did some research on it finding that there have been recalls on the 2021 nissan altima model cameras, just not mine specifically. I’m not sure why that is but it’s an issue I’m not willing to pay out of my pocket knowing that it’s been a year to model issue in the past. I would like this recall to be put in place and me be able to get it repaired free of charge seeing that it’s an obvious danger while backing up and the fact I did not personally damage it.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
ENGINE

The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds on several occasions, there were abnormal sounds coming from the engine compartment. The contact inspected the vehicle and sent off an oil sample. The contact stated that a metal fragment was found in the engine oil. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 51,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

"What should I know about reliability issues with the 2021 Nissan Altima?"

"The 2021 Nissan Altima has been associated with two notable recalls that affect critical safety components. These include steering linkage issues which may impact vehicle handling and back over prevention concerns due to potential problems with the rearview camera system. Owners are advised to stay informed about these recalls and ensure any necessary repairs have been completed."

"How do I check if my 2021 Nissan Altima is affected by recalls?"

"You can check recall status by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and entering your vehicle identification number (VIN). Additionally, contacting your local Nissan dealer will provide you with updated information regarding any outstanding recall work that needs attention."

📊Year-over-Year Context

📈Improving Trend

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows improving reliability trends, largely due to manufacturing refinements addressing 2020 issues. Recall frequency decreased 67%.

🧭What This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

🔑

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Immediate Action: If any recalls are listed as 'incomplete', contact a certified NISSAN service center—repairs are performed at no cost to you.
  • Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
  • Proactive tip: Enroll in NISSAN's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
🛒

If You're Buying Used

  • Obtain proof of recall completion for all 2 campaigns before purchase.
  • Account for potential service downtime when calculating your initial ownership budget.

This page is designed to help you decide, not alarm you.

Compare with Similar Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: February 23, 2026.