2002-2005 Altima possible purchase, WHAT ARE THE KNOWN PROBLEMS WITH ALTIMA 2.5?

[sanioll]

Hey guys I need to get rid of my junk 240sx and get somewhat decent 4 door auto vehicle. Had my mind on Altima 3.5, but don't wish to spend more than $11,000 on a vehicle now. Just out of college, first job, thus do not wish to risk any big numbers.

Anyways, I'd like to know if 2002-2005 year 2.5 liter Altimas are a good choice. Will probably be switching to Mobil 1 synthetic immediately, and be driving as heavy/harsh as I am with my 240sx. Any engine, or drivetrain weaknesses that I need to know about. Anything wrong with the engine timing chain or fuel problems? Anything??

Currently looking at 2002-2006 Altimas, with less than 70,000 miles on it. Auto transmission only, since I stay in DC now.

Thank you

[danielekfuj]

4th gen Maximas are fun, quick little cars. They don't break a lot and are pretty fuel efficient.

[spike228]

Hey guys I need to get rid of my junk 240sx and get somewhat decent 4 door auto vehicle. Had my mind on Altima 3.5, but don't wish to spend more than $11,000 on a vehicle now. Just out of college, first job, thus do not wish to risk any big numbers.

Anyways, I'd like to know if 2002-2005 year 2.5 liter Altimas are a good choice. Will probably be switching to Mobil 1 synthetic immediately, and be driving as heavy/harsh as I am with my 240sx. Any engine, or drivetrain weaknesses that I need to know about. Anything wrong with the engine timing chain or fuel problems? Anything??

Currently looking at 2002-2006 Altimas, with less than 70,000 miles on it. Auto transmission only, since I stay in DC now.

Thank you

I don't think the 3.5's had that many problems. For the 02-04 models, I believe there were issues with the rear sub frame failing.

The biggest problem with having a 3.5 is upgrading to headers. After a pain staking install, you will be faced with SES lights.

[Darius]

The 2.5's have two catastrophic engine design flaws that you will need to correct if they have not already started to ruin the engine of the car you are looking at. 1) Pre-cat break down and reversion into the engine via the exhaust runners. 2) Secondary runner butterfly screws backing out and entering the engine via the intake tract.

You will have to take the upper half of the intake manifold off and loc-tite the screws in (6 hours tops) It is also advisable to get an aftermarket header to get rid of the pre-cat alltogether.