Trouble codes › By vehicle › Nissan Altima
Common check-engine codes on the Nissan Altima
2002-2023
Altimas with the 2.5L QR25 four-cylinder have a few well-known codes: crankshaft and camshaft sensor problems that cause stalling (Nissan ran recall campaigns for some 2002-2006 models), catalyst codes, and CVT transmission codes on 2007 and later.
Most common: P0335, P0340, P0420, P0171, P0300, P0700.
Known problems on the Nissan Altima
- Nissan 2.5L crankshaft and camshaft sensor stalling (P0335, P0340, P0339)
P0335 Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit
P0335 means the engine computer isn't getting a usable crankshaft position sensor signal, which can cause stalling or a no-start.
On the Nissan Altima: Crankshaft position sensor faults are common on the QR25 and can cause stalling, often when hot. Nissan ran recall campaigns on some 2002-2006 Altimas (sensor replacement or engine computer reprogramming); check your VIN on nhtsa.gov/recalls.
P0335: causes, can I keep driving, and what to check first →
P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit (Bank 1 or Single Sensor)
P0340 means the engine computer isn't getting a usable camshaft position sensor signal, which can cause hard starting.
On the Nissan Altima: Camshaft position sensor faults on the QR25, sometimes with P0335. Use a quality sensor; cheap ones often fail again.
P0340: causes, can I keep driving, and what to check first →
P0420 Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
P0420 means the catalytic converter on bank 1 isn't cleaning the exhaust well enough, usually a worn converter, an exhaust leak or a lazy oxygen sensor.
On the Nissan Altima: Catalyst efficiency, common on higher-mileage QR25s. On some years the front converter is part of the exhaust manifold; check for misfires and oil burning first.
P0420: causes, can I keep driving, and what to check first →
P0171 System Too Lean (Bank 1)
P0171 means bank 1 is running lean (too much air or too little fuel), most often from a vacuum leak or a dirty MAF sensor.
On the Nissan Altima: Lean: a dirty MAF sensor or a vacuum leak (intake and PCV hoses).
P0171: causes, can I keep driving, and what to check first →
P0300 Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
P0300 means the engine is misfiring in more than one cylinder, often from worn plugs or coils, a vacuum leak or low fuel pressure.
On the Nissan Altima: Misfires: plugs and coils; some QR25 engines also burn oil at high mileage.
P0300: causes, can I keep driving, and what to check first →
P0700 Transmission Control System (MIL Request)
P0700 means the transmission computer has stored its own fault code; read the transmission codes to find the real problem.
On the Nissan Altima: On 2007 and later CVT models, a transmission fault flag. CVT problems (shudder, slipping, Nissan's own P17F0 code) are well known; Nissan extended CVT warranties on some years. Read the transmission codes and check with a dealer.
P0700: causes, can I keep driving, and what to check first →
Got a code on your Nissan Altima?
iRepair researches your exact year, engine and code (service bulletins, recalls and owner reports) and tells you what to check first. Your first 3 questions are free.
Ask iRepair about your Nissan AltimaNo scanner? Most auto parts stores read check-engine codes for free.
Common codes and known problems as widely reported for these model years; your vehicle may differ. Check nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a dealer about service bulletins for your VIN, and confirm in your service information.