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2000 Nissan Altima Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.19
Based on 22 Owner Reviews â–¶
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2000 Nissan Altima marked a significant point in the model's history. It belonged to the second generation (1998-2001), offering a reliable and practical sedan option. Available in trims like XE, GXE, SE, and GLE, the Altima provided a range of features to suit different budgets. New, prices ranged approximately from $15,000 to $20,000. It was popular for its balance of fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing, making it a solid choice for families and commuters.
The Good

The 2000 Altima offered a blend of practicality and comfort. Its reliability was a major selling point, attracting practical buyers. A comfortable ride and user-friendly design appealed to those seeking a pleasant driving experience. Fuel efficiency made it economical, while its affordability represented excellent value, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious individuals.

The Bad

Potential buyers should be aware of common issues like premature catalytic converter failure and potential rust, especially in areas with harsh winters. Oil leaks can also be a concern as the vehicle ages. Furthermore, some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission. A thorough inspection is recommended before purchase.

2000 Nissan Altima: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: Primarily a 2.4-liter inline-4 (KA24DE) engine.
  • Horsepower: Approximately 150 horsepower.
  • Fuel Economy: Estimated around 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (may vary based on driving conditions and maintenance).
  • 0-60 Times: Roughly 9-10 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • XE: Base model, typically included standard features such as air conditioning, basic audio system, and cloth seats. Power windows and locks were sometimes optional.
    • GXE: Added features like power windows and locks, upgraded interior trim, and sometimes a better audio system.
    • SE: Sportier trim with features like alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded seats. Might also include fog lights.
    • GLE: Top-of-the-line trim with leather seats, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and other convenience features such as keyless entry and a sunroof (optional).
Note that exact features could vary based on specific packages and regional variations.

2000 Nissan Altima Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2000
Make Nissan
Model Altima
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City AGUASCALIENTES CITY
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine KA24
Engine Size 2.4L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2000 Nissan Altima Have?

The 2000 Nissan Altima, while generally reliable, has some frequently reported problems. A common issue is catalytic converter failure, often requiring replacement. Owners also reported problems with the ignition system and occasional sensor malfunctions. Oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket and rear main seal, are also concerns as the car ages. Rust can be a significant issue, especially in areas where salt is used on roads during winter, affecting body panels and undercarriage components. While specific recall information should be verified with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), common recalls for vehicles of this era often related to safety concerns like airbags or seatbelt malfunctions. Long-term reliability hinges on consistent maintenance. Neglecting oil changes or addressing minor issues promptly can lead to more significant and costly repairs down the line. The automatic transmissions in these models, while generally durable, can sometimes exhibit shifting problems if not properly maintained. Check for any signs of transmission slippage or rough shifting during a test drive.

How long will the 2000 Nissan Altima last?

With proper maintenance, a 2000 Nissan Altima can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners have reported achieving 250,000+ miles with consistent oil changes, timely repairs, and preventative maintenance. However, neglect can significantly shorten its lifespan. Long-term durability is generally good, but weaknesses include rust susceptibility, especially in colder climates, and potential issues with the catalytic converter and oil leaks as the engine ages. The automatic transmission can also be a point of concern if not properly serviced throughout its life.
Positive Owner Reviews
Early Gurl
For the $$$ spent I got a great value. 17 years old, starts right up, rides good only added a better sound system & speakers. It still doesn't have 100,000 miles! Best purchase I could've made!!!
Altimafan
I've had this car for 7 years, bought it used from a dealer in 2010 with 154K miles, now has 194K miles in 7 years. Has been nice all thru, never failed on me in middle of a trip. Great car all in all.
Nissan lover
I bought my Altima used with 80,000 miles, I am now over 255,000 miles. It is very comfortable, handles great, not too big and not too small, and it looks great, still. Insided and out has held up very well. Besides regular maintinance I have had to do very little to this car. Replaced the clutch at 240,000 miles and it is starting to leak oil a bit but with the miles I have on it I am very happy. Starting to shop for a another car but hate to part with this one!
Negative Owner Reviews
Patrickjnb
The car runs perfectly good compare to other car that you and in good condition. It will be just for helping
Patrickjnb
This car is going to be for respond to other necessary needs, Is going to serve me and my family., like go to school and work

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2000 Nissan Altima offered fairly basic tech features for its time. Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Higher trims might have offered a CD player as an optional upgrade. There were virtually no driver-assistance features available; these were not common in vehicles of this era. Safety features included standard front airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often optional, particularly on higher trims.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be consulted for specific data. These ratings generally assessed frontal and side impact protection. Keep in mind that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2000, so even "good" ratings from that time may not be comparable to modern safety benchmarks. Optional features would primarily revolve around convenience and aesthetics, such as a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. No advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring were available.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Super Black
Cloud White
Sierra Green Metallic
Cayenne Red Pearl
Sterling Silver Metallic
Deep Sapphire
Interior Colors
Beige
Gray

2000 Nissan Altima Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2000 Nissan Altima ranged in price from approximately $15,000 to $20,000, depending on the trim level and options. In today's used market, you can expect to find these Altimas for anywhere between $1,000 and $4,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been significant, as is typical for older vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include the car's overall condition (rust-free is a major plus), documented maintenance history, low mileage (relative to its age), and functioning features. A clean title is also essential.

2000 Nissan Altima Cost of Ownership

The 2000 Nissan Altima is generally considered an economical car to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and value. Fuel economy is reasonable for its era. Maintenance and repair costs can be moderate; parts are generally affordable and readily available. However, potential for age-related repairs (e.g., oil leaks, rust repair) needs to be considered. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on the vehicle's condition and how well it has been maintained. Consistent maintenance is key to keeping ownership costs down.

2000 Nissan Altima Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2000 Nissan Altima Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2000 Nissan Altima Recalls & Defects

Tires:tread/Belt
Recall date 2001-02-23
Recall no. 01v065000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Equipped With Firestone Firehawk Gta-02 , Size P205/55r16 89H Tires. THE Recalled Tires ARE Identified BY DOT Serial #W2 T2 VF3 XXX or W2 T2 VF3 Xxxx; Where XXX MAY BE 289, 299, 309, 319, 329, 339, 349, 359, 369, 379, 389, 399, 409, 419, 429, 439, 449, 459, 469, 479, 489, 499, 509, 519, 529, 010, 020, 030, 040, 050, 060, 070, 080, 090, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 170, and Where Xxxx MAY BE 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, 2600, 2700, 2800, 2900, 3000, 3100, 3200, 3300, 3400, 3500, 3600, 3700, 3800, 3900, 4000, 4100, 4200, 4300, 4400, and 4500. With Increasing Mileage, THE Tires MAY Develop Shoulder Area Cracking. Continued USE OF A Tire With This Condition MAY Lead TO Exposure OF THE Belt Edge.
Consequence Under These Circumstances, A Belt Edge Separation IS Posible, Which Could Resulting IN THE Loss OF Tire Pressure.
Remedy Bridgestone/Firestone Will Replace THE Tires Which Were Installed AS Original Equipment ON These Altima Vehicles. Firestone IS Conducting THE Owner Notification and Remedy FOR This Campaign. Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During March 2001. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Firestone Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Firestone AT 1-800-465-1904.
Notes Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2007-09-14
Recall no. 07e074000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Eagle Eyes Headlamp Assemblies, P/Nos. Ds517-B001l and Ds517-B001r, Sold FOR USE AS Replacement Equipment FOR THE Above Listed Passenger Vehicles. THE Opticel Surface OF THE Reflector IS Corroded Inhibiting THE Performance OF THE Upper and Lower Beams Which Fails TO Conform TO THE Photometric Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Eagle Eyes Will Notify Owners and Offer Reimbursement FOR ANY Noncompliant Headlights. THE Recall Began ON December 11, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Eagle Eyes AT 1-800-568-1098.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Nissan.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.

2000 Nissan Altima Insurance

Insurance for a 2000 Nissan Altima is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2000 Nissan Altima Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2000 Nissan Altima competed against vehicles like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Taurus. In terms of performance, it was generally on par with the Taurus, but slightly less refined than the Accord and Camry. Features were fairly similar across the board, though the Accord and Camry often offered slightly more advanced options. Reliability-wise, the Altima was generally considered reliable but perhaps not quite as bulletproof as the Camry or Accord.
Price was a strong selling point for the Altima, often undercutting the competition. For similar reliability and features, the Toyota Camry would be a strong alternative if budget is not a major constraint. The Honda Accord offered a slightly sportier driving experience. Given the Altima's potential rust issues, carefully inspect the vehicle's undercarriage and body panels. If a reliable and affordable car is the primary goal and you find a well-maintained Camry in similar condition for a reasonable price, it might be a better alternative.

Ranks #1326 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
1326 2000 Nissan Altima (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Nissan Altima a Good Sedan?

The 2000 Nissan Altima is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable transportation. Given its age, buying a new one is impossible, so it's solely a used-car consideration. It's worth buying *if* you find a well-maintained example with minimal rust and a clean maintenance history. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended. The GXE or SE trims offer a good balance of features and value. Avoid examples with significant rust or signs of neglect, regardless of price. It’s a decent option for students or those needing a basic, affordable commuter car.

2000 Nissan Altima Owner Reviews

4.19
Consumer Rating, Based on 22 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Capt. Blaze on July 15, 2020

Runs like a top & the Air Conditioning Works

In the Fall of 2018, my mechanic said: "My customer's daughter bought a new Altima, and is giving my customer her used Altima. So my customer must get rid of the previous Altima that her daughter gave her. It runs like a top & the air conditioning works." I've been driving said 2000 Altima to date (7/15/2020) without problems except for the duct-taped bumpers & fenders. Good acceleration. The smooth automatic transmission allows me to drive slower more comfortably than I do in my manual 5-speed 1990 240SX. The check engine light lit recently. It probably indicates I need a routine oil change as it did last time. 18 mpg under all conditions. My other car is a 1988 Fiero which handles better than anything new available below $50,000. The Fiero is better in the snow. But the Altima makes me think a new 21st-century car might be a good thing.

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sbelden1970 on October 4, 2019

very dependable car, only issue i have is not good

good on gas, comfortable, and reliability has been good. Its 19 yrs old, and only has 90,000. only issue now is sensors near cadalac converter. i believe previous owners driving in OD all the time is causing issues with sensors causing bucking and skipping running and idling rough.

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Early Gurl on December 19, 2017

17 years old & still starts on first turn!!!

For the $$$ spent I got a great value. 17 years old, starts right up, rides good only added a better sound system & speakers. It still doesn't have 100,000 miles! Best purchase I could've made!!!

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lovemynissan on August 25, 2017

2000 Nissan altima excellent car

I bought it in 2002 and it still keeps on ticking! Take good care of it and it will run forever. I would say it is an excellent car...but gave a 4 star due to the fact it does not drive good in the snow. I have another car I use in snow and so that isn't a problem for me. Can't believe it is almost 18 years old and still drives like a champ! I love it!

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AMRuiz on August 2, 2017

First car I owned

This was the best first car I could have asked for, although sometimes it had a lot of problems to deal with due to the age log it, whether it was a speaker blowing out or the AC not working, this car was still always safe and reliable.

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Patrickjnb on July 18, 2017

MOST Reliable car,

The car runs perfectly good compare to other car that you and in good condition. It will be just for helping

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Patrickjnb on July 18, 2017

Most reliable

This car is going to be for respond to other necessary needs, Is going to serve me and my family., like go to school and work

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Altimafan on July 11, 2017

Very reliable and trustworthy car

I've had this car for 7 years, bought it used from a dealer in 2010 with 154K miles, now has 194K miles in 7 years. Has been nice all thru, never failed on me in middle of a trip. Great car all in all.

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Joe on July 7, 2017

Reliable

Good car , it had fairly actuated pictures , owner was really good to work with and liked the website

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TJ on October 31, 2014

tj

Purchased new in 2000. 14.5 years later 262000 miles and still going strong. AC tempermental. If using oil recommend get gaskets done. I had 100000 miles on it at 2 years . If I had to I would take it across country again. I did the required maintenance throuh 200000 miles. Handles well in snow up to 6". Anything more than that is testy as it sits low to the ground. Am looking at Nissan again as one day my baby will die.

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.