general problems of the 2008 Nissan Altima - part 1

53 problems related to electrical system have been reported for the 2008 Nissan Altima. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2008 Nissan Altima based on all problems reported for the 2008 Altima.

1 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/01/2024

The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 08v521000 (air bags, electrical system). The contact called the dealer and made an appointment; however, the contact was informed that the part might not be available for the appointment. The contact arrived for the appointment and was informed 3 hours later that the part needed for the repair was not available. The contact was informed by the dealer that several other dealers and was informed that parts were not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and informed the contact that other dealers would be contacted for parts availability, and a case was filed. The contact stated that a week later, the contact called the manufacturer again and was informed that the part was found and sent to the local dealer. The contact called the dealer and was informed that there was no knowledge of parts being sent to the dealer location and that there had not been any communication with the manufacturer about parts. The contact stated that upon sitting in the passenger’s seat, the air bag sensor failed to recognize a passenger seated in the passenger’s seat. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown. Parts distribution disconnect.

2 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/17/2024

Parked car due to electrical and transmission issues had left it for a couple hours to receive assistance and the car was gone it had no plates because I was attempting to register the car that same day.

3 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/17/2022

I’m having to replace at least 2 sensors every 6 or 7 months.

4 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/15/2022

I pulled into regions bank parking lot to use atm machine and before I could even park my car accelerated for no reason. I had my foot on the brake but it just made it go faster. I crashed into the building and airbag deployed. This was the scariest driving experience I’ve ever had. The car is totaled and caused serious damage to bank. I escaped by the grace of god with sprained wrist and elbow and knee abrasions.

5 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/04/2022

The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while at a stop light the front passenger's side air bag warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring intermittently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the front passenger’s side seat cushion sensor had failed. The dealer updated an unknown software; however, the failure reoccurred persistently. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the front passenger's side seat cushion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA campaign number: 08v521000 (air bags, electrical system). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

6 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/10/2021

While driving down the highway at about 60 mph the vehicle shut off and has not restarted in almost 2 weeks. There was no indication or warning of any engine trouble prior to it shutting off. Luckily, I was getting off an exit and nobody was injured. Had I not been exciting the highway, there would have most certainly been a multi vehicle accident with severe injuries and possibly even death because of the high speeds. Once the car was completely stopped and off towards the shoulder I tried to restart but got a fast clicking noise, but wouldn't start. Let the car sit for a little tried to jump start it, but now the key indicator was being displayed which means the car wasn't recognizing the key even in the slot. This leads me to believe the security system/ immobilizer could've been what caused it to shut off. The car has not been looked at yet. Still waiting for Nissan dealer to diagnose it.

7 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/07/2021

I just purchased my Nissan not even 3 months ago and I've had to have it in the 4-5 shops because nobody could figure out why it was giving the code p0335. Finally found out it's the timing chain. I cant drive my own car because of it and I feel like I got robbed of my money. The dam car is stuck in limp mode. We was driving one day and all of sudden the car jerked really hard an lost power didnt have a clue what was going on.

8 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/17/2021

My wife's car shutdown on her last month and I had it towed to a local repair shop and they indicated the fuel pump was bad so I ordered a new one and things went fine for about a week and now the fuel hand just fluctuats up and down and just suddenly drops to (e) when it has gas or full tank of gas in it. Also the mileage display is showing inaccurate readings and blinking on the dash on and off and my wife is scared now to drive her 2008 Nissan Altima on long drives with this problem going on!! it happened while in motion on a busy hwy 278 in batesville,ms.

9 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/20/2020

Problems with the front passenger side suspension the engine of the vehicle slows/stalls when driven in high heat weather driving on the interstate the vehicle began to slow/stall.

10 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/29/2019

I was driving down a dirt road and my car died I tried to start it back up but it wouldn't do anything I can't turn on any lights unlock or lock the car nothing. Shows a light on the dash that looks like the key fob and looked it up and it says that something under the steering column can cause the issues and has a recall.

11 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/10/2018

I can drive the car for several hours then after several hours the car shuts down slows down and then cuts completely off tries to restart the car it completely dies have to get a jump start. Couldn't get a reading on the car no codes would show up it's been doing this for several months now. It's very dangerous to drive not knowing when it will just shut off on me and my daughter.

12 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/01/2017

The power start key isnt turning on the car, it allows you to enter the car but the start takes various attempts. The problem seems to be the lock steering feature malfunctions.

13 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/24/2017

The airbag sensor on the passenger seat stopped working about a year ago. I had to get my car inspected last month to drive in the state of va and to access the naval base for work. I failed the inspection because of it and had to pay $705 for a new seat. I saw a recall for this problem but was told by Nissan recall department my car wasn't covered. How can that be possible? I am requesting a full refund from Nissan as the issue was a safety recall issued in 2008. I appreciate your assistance in helping me accomplish it.

14 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/13/2017

The airbag sensor on the passenger seat stopped working about a year ago. I had to get my car inspected last month to drive in the state of virginia and to access the naval base for work. I failed the inspection because of it and had to pay $705 for a new seat. I saw a recall for this problem but was told by Nissan recall department my car wasn't covered. How can that be possible? I am requesting a refund as the issue was a safety recall in 2008.

15 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/15/2016

My dash board is melting from the heat and cracking all around. My passenger air bag light keep coming on along with tire sensor. Had sensor replace several time and have same issue.

16 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/14/2016

The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced a loss of power and the emergency brake warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the ecm malfunctioned and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.

17 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/01/2016

My tpms light has been on for quite some time now, and the dealer tells me that the system is reading zero psi in all tires. They said it was a part of the system that Nissan knows about and doesn't want to address it. So if I want it fixed its gonna cost me over $200. My wife who has a 2009 murano has the same problem with the tpms light being on and reading zero psi in all tires.

18 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/18/2016

5 yrs ago the sound of my engine changed and upon inspection the welding on the exhaust manifold was cracked. I was informed by pembroke pines Nissan that since car is at 38,500 miles and out of warranty despite it being a manufacture failure it would set me back $975. I didn't have the repair done. For the past 3 yrs, my passenger airbag light will turn off and on even irregardless if someone is in the seat or not. Furthermore, the radio will go blank or have illegible characters on it. I too have the melting dash issue as well as a couple of times I slipped and my finger nail has gouged out pieces of dash board. It's amazing that Lexus has issued a recall on their melting dash board on the is250 & is350 issues but Nissan could care less about its brand or reputation; I guess that's what happens when the company isn't whole japanese owned.

19 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/02/2016

When an adult is setting in the passenger seat the air bag indicator light will periodically go on. This has been an ongoing issue for years. St. Charles Nissan tech found occupant sensor failure to be causing the issue. There is a recall involving this issue, NHTSA campaign id number 08v521000. My car's VIN is not part of the open recall, however, since it is the same problem in the same year vehicle, I wondered if the recall should be expanded. I have not been informed at what VIN they stopped in the recall.

20 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2016

I have been experiencing recurring issues involving the gas pedal failing to work in my 2008 Nissan Altima. Whether on the highway, at a stop sign, or merging onto a highway the gas pedal will unexpectedly fail to accelerate the vehicle. I will press the pedal with absolute no acceleration from the vehicle. I have taken it to mechanic several times and each time the same codes appear. The codes are p0223, p0123, p2135. Respectively, each code means electronic throttle control actuator fault, electronic throttle control actuator fault and failed throttle position sensor. The recommendation from the codes is to replace throttle body. I have replaced the Altima's throttle body twice and the after each time this issue continues to occur. I have also replaced the gas pedal and the issue still occurs as well. I have also performed the throttle body re-learn procedures as directed by Nissan and the issue persists as well. Both my wife and I drive this vehicle and we have almost gotten into serious accidents involving this faulty issue with our Altima. It is very dangerous trying to merge onto a major road or highway when abruptly the gas pedal fails to accelerate the vehicle. This is very dangerous and Nissan must correct this issue. Upon, looking at the internet it seems numerous consumers of Nissan Altima's are experiencing this acceleration issue with the gas pedal. I have an appointment this Friday with Nissan but I am not very hopefully they can fix this affordably without charging an arm and a leg. This seems like an electrical or computer glitch with Nissan Altima(s).

21 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/24/2016

Intelligent key indicator on dash indicates low battery in key fob. At startup battery replaced twice and other fob used. Still lights on dash. Car starts for now but afraid it will not. Have seen this compliant on other 2008 Nissan Altimas.

22 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 10/12/2015

Tl-the contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the vehicle dashboard are crack. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 118,760. Aw.

23 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/15/2015

The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. While driving 35 mph, the front passenger side air bag warning light illuminated. The failure recurred several times. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 08v521000 (air bags, electrical system). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 170,000.

24 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/05/2015

The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. While the vehicle was parked, it failed to start intermittently. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure recurred on numerous occasions. The VIN was included in NHTSA campaign number: 14v373000 (air bags, electrical system). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 120,000.

25 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/15/2015

My 2008 Nissan Altima needs to be recalled due to dashboard melting. The dashboard is sticky and gives off a glare during the daytime while driving. This issue is extremely hazardous and blinds my vision when I drive during the day. Please Nissan fix this issue. Take responsibility for the materials used when manufacturing a vehicle. Care about your customers concerns and fix my dashboard.

26 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/01/2015

Tl-the contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving at 55 mph, the vehicle stalled. As a result, another vehicle crashed into the rear of the contact and the air bags failed to deploy. No injuries were sustained. A police report was filed. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who was unable to diagnose or repair the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000. Oo.

27 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/22/2015

The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. While driving at approximately 65 mph, the OCS warning light illuminated. The failure recurred on numerous occasions. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing the same failure listed in NHTSA campaign number: 08v521000 (air bags, electrical system), but the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the passenger seat cushion OCS needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 65,000.

28 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/24/2015

Was informed by our Nissan dealership that this vehicle has inoperable airbags due to a failure of the front crash zone sensor. Of course, this is just an assumption on their part. This vehicle has never been in an accident or experience any impact of any nature to cause this sensor to malfunction. Nissan dealership ran a diagnostics test, but still no clear indication as to there being inoperable airbags. Was given two options, starting with one option of replacing the sensor in its entirety at an estimated cost of $525, and if that didn't work, running another diag. Test at an additional estimated cost of $592. In an attempt for some assistance, a consumer complaint was filed with Nissan north America only to be denied assistance on the cost of this repair. Their decision was based solely on the age of the vehicle and it not being under a warranty. Paying a $1,000 for a "guess" is extremely steep and unreasonable and a cost to which I cannot afford. Due to their faulty transmissions, at 45,000 miles, the transmission on this vehicle had to be completely replaced, to which Nissan picked up the tab for due to faulty transmissions of their cvt transmissions. Being purchased as a brand new vehicle only to have a transmission being completely replaced at 45,000 miles sheds new light on the poor quality of Nissan vehicles. At this time, Nissan is refusing to assist.

29 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/16/2015

Nissan: door lock/unlock inoperative with intelligent key.

30 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/03/2014

Not so much one specific incident but a few over a couple of months. First and most importantly the seat moves side to side and seems to be off track. The internet mentions many instances of seat problems and I don't understand how a car seat can be a problem, I've owned many cars and know many folks who owned many cars and never ever heard of a seat being a problem ever. But I'm going to be charged $89. 95 to "diagnose" a seat problem that apparently if isn't affected by the tech bulletin could pay upwards of $1500 for a car seat. 2nd issue is my rear door locks stopped working. First it was the driver side back door and the lock stopped responding to the key fob and internal lock button. Week and a half later the passenger back door locks stopped working. Looking up this on the internet it's a common problem for Nissan's. The dealer conveniently is going to charge me two (2) diagnostic charges of $89. 95 to determine what the problem is with the door locks (again not 1 charge for both but two separate charges). The internet says actuators which I'll update later after this week if that's the issue. I'd think the NHTSA should investigate these two claims for a potential recall to save consumers from be fleeced for what appear to be consistent issues that arent wear and tear issues and appear to be defects.

31 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/23/2014

Regarding 2008 Nissan Altima: the air conditioning evaporator drain hose is poorly engineered leading to water draining back into the vehicle as opposed to outside of the vehicle. The water will pool in the back seat passenger side and continue to collect water until it moves forward toward the front seat passenger side. Without correcting this defect the water will lead to mold/fungus growth, rotted carpet, rusted floor wells, and potentially electrical damage as there is a main electrical wire that runs along the passenger side floor that parallels the evaporator drain hose.

32 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/12/2014

I was driving on hwy 610 in houston, texas when the vehicle engine shut off and caught fire. I had gone to the dealership several times initially for a start up key issue, then tires, hub cap, and then the engine shut off on the hwy January 25th 2014, the warranty company noted that there were underlying issues with the vehicle when it was first sold, made a proposal to the dealership, and dealership eventually placed an engine I was told later by a younger gentleman named steve that is was a sued engine. I had taken it home, and next day had issues again. Took it in to get spark plugs changed, but the end result was fire on the hwy way may 12, 2014.

33 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 10/16/2013

The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the body control module caused all of the electrical components in the vehicle to malfunction. In addition, the tpms warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to a tire dealer where the tpms was replaced. The contact referenced NHTSA campaign I. D. Number 07v599000 (electrical system) and called the manufacturer. The manufacturer stated that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 92,000.

34 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/19/2013

My car starting having problems starting. . . It was intermittent. . . But would start with a jump (most of the time), so I thought it was the battery and had it replaced. But the problem persisted. I took it to the dealer on 9/17 and the computer diagnosis was the electric sterring column lock. Upon further research, I found that all 2009 models had the warranty for this part extended to 6 years/unlimited milage, whichever comes first. . . But only the 2009 models. I also noticed during my research that many instances of this same part occuring on 2008 models as well. When I contacted Nissan consumer affairs, they said that they could not help me as my car was not included in the extended warranty. I want to know why only the 2009 models are included? the Nissan technician who worked on my vehicle said that the part is the same from 2007-2009. . . And in his opinion, all should be included. I would like to have this researched further to have additional model years included in the warranty extension.

35 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/01/2013

Power door locks malfunctioning on 3 of the 4 doors. Depending on day, sometimes one or more locks will not lock when using key fob or when using power lock button on driver door. At other times, one or more locks will not open when using key fob or when using power lock button on driver door. I am fearful that after a crash I will try to unlock doors to no avail. I have also found my doors unlocked when returning to my vehicle, even after hitting the lock button when exiting the vehicle. I am fearful that a car thief or murderer may have access to my vehicle because of this issue. Additionally, I have tried to access my vehicle quickly in dangerous neighborhoods, but I've had to try multiple times to unlock the doors.



Safety Ratings of Altima Cars
Fuel Economy of Altima Vehicles
Altima Service Bulletins
Altima Safety Recalls
Altima Defect Investigations