One problem related to dashboard failed has been reported for the 1997 Nissan Altima. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Rear brake lights failure- both sides- first left then right- replaced went out again soon after. Lights on heater gauges failed. Cigarette lighter "female part" pulls out of dash when you take the lighter out. Passenger door panel came off-keeps the doors from unlocking- tried to fix it and ended up being locked in my car in the rain for an hour. Back passenger side seat belt was jammed. Also odometer is jammed-has never been tampered with. Was bringing my husband to work and I know that it is a 10 mile drive-none of the numbers rolled over. Works when it wants to.