Verify with official recall databases, service records, a mechanic inspection, and local market data before relying on this summary.
At a glance
Fault summary
The Nissan Altima is commonly reported to experience a power-steering pump/line leak, often associated with the 2013–2018 model years. It can show up as whining when turning at low speed. Confirm the cause with...
SeverityModerateDrive?Drive with cautionEvidenceSource notes available
Affected system
Suspension & Steering
Severity
Moderate
Structured severity term
Urgency
Urgency not yet verified
Can I drive?
Drive with caution
Drive with caution and limit trips until it has been inspected; have it checked promptly.
Repair/cost band
$$ · Moderate
Typically a moderate repair; compare a couple of written quotes before authorizing work.
Vehicle applicability
Altima
Evidence/confidence
Source notes available
See source & evidence notes below
Short answer
The Nissan Altima is commonly reported to experience a power-steering pump/line leak, often associated with the 2013–2018 model years. It can show up as whining when turning at low speed. Confirm the cause with a qualified mechanic before deciding on repairs.
SeverityModerateDrive?Drive with cautionRepairProfessional
Key takeaways
Most often discussed around the 2013–2018 model years — verify the exact build.
Watch for early signs such as whining when turning at low speed.
Drive with caution and limit trips until it has been inspected; have it checked promptly.
Have a qualified mechanic confirm the cause before any major spending.
Can I still drive with this?
Drive with caution
Drive with caution and limit trips until it has been inspected; have it checked promptly.
SeverityModerate
Moderate
What the records show for the Nissan Altima
Records held for the model years this page covers — open a year to see its issue areas, official records and codes:
Record counts are not adjusted for how many vehicles were sold. They show where records exist, not how likely this fault is.
The Nissan Altima is commonly reported to experience a power-steering pump/line leak, often associated with the 2013–2018 model years. It can show up as whining when turning at low speed. Confirm the cause with a qualified mechanic before deciding on repairs.
CarFaultIQ summaries are informational — always confirm with a qualified mechanic and check official recall sources for the exact vehicle.
Common symptoms
Whining when turning at low speed
Fluid drips or low reservoir level
Likely causes
Worn pump seal or weeping hose
Aging power-steering components
Diagnosis checks
Ask a mechanic to inspect the pump and lines and check fluid condition and confirm the root cause before replacing parts.
Used-car buyer warning
If you're considering a used Nissan Altima from around 2013–2018, ask for service records, check for whining when turning at low speed, and budget to inspect this area. Confirm there are no open recalls for the VIN.
Repair actions / cost band
$$ · Moderate
Typically a moderate repair; compare a couple of written quotes before authorizing work.
Frequently asked questions
Which years are most often mentioned for this Altima issue?
Owner discussion commonly references the 2013–2018 range, but individual vehicles vary — verify the specific VIN.
Is it safe to keep driving?
Drive with caution and limit trips until it has been inspected; have it checked promptly.
Is this expensive to fix?
It depends on the cause and severity. Typically a moderate repair; compare a couple of written quotes before authorizing work.
Mercedes-Benz recalled certain 1998-2004 M-Class vehicles because the hose clamp securing the power steering fluid cooling hose to the power steering fluid…