2003 Nissan Altima - Electric Vehicle Guide
The 2003 Nissan Altima belongs to a Nissan Altima lineup that Know Your Ride tracks across 29 model years, from 1993 to 2026. It is an all-electric vehicle, so it skips the oil changes, spark plugs and exhaust-system service of a combustion Altima entirely. It is configured as front-wheel drive with an automatic 4-spd. The 2003 sits mid-run, with both earlier (1993) and later (2026) Altima model years also documented.
The high-voltage battery is covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, separate from the bumper-to-bumper warranty. Routine upkeep centers on tire rotation, DOT 3 brake fluid, Long Life battery/cabin coolant, cabin air filters and brake service rather than engine oil. Know Your Ride lists 15 scheduled maintenance items for this vehicle, the earliest interval falling at 7,500 miles. Documented torque values include lug nut 80 ft-lb.
NHTSA complaints for this vehicle cluster around engine and engine cooling (384), structure (107), engine (74). A representative report reads: "What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Engine will not start. If I get the engine to start the car..." There are 10 safety recalls on record; one covers: ...D BY CONTACT WITH THE MAIN CATALYST. ALSO ON 2002 ALTIMA AND SENTRA VEHICLES, CERTAIN ENGINE OPERATING CONDITIONS MAY CAUSE THE PRE-CATALYST TO....
Estimated annual charging cost runs near $1,900.
Quick Specs
| Battery warranty | 8 yr / 100,000 mi |
| Est. annual charging | $1,900 |
| Tire size | 215/55R17 |
| Coolant | Long Life |
| Open recalls on record | 10 |
| Technical service bulletins | 65 |
Common Trouble Codes
- P0300 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
- P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
- P0171 - System too Lean (Bank 1)
- P0128 - Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation
- P0442 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
- P0455 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
- P0700 - Transmission Control System Malfunction
- P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
- U0100 - Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A
Related Vehicles
Part of the free Know Your Ride vehicle maintenance reference. Figures are sourced from EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer data and are for general reference - always confirm with your owner's manual.