One problem related to transmission gear slipping has been reported for the 1997 Nissan Altima. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Airbag - driver's side airbag did not deploy in 35mph head-on crash. Driver was severely injured. Brakes - brakes did not adequately stop the vehicle in 35mph head-on crash. Driver was severely injured. Transmission - transmission constantly slips, takes few minutes to engage from reverse to drive. Engine - engine won't start at random. Dealer findds no problems. Has happened 3 times since purchased vehicle.