Chevrolet Cruze vs Nissan Altima
For 2010–2020 models, the Chevrolet Cruze has 20.6 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 23.8 for the Nissan Altima. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2010–2020), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Chevrolet Cruze
20.6 complaints per 10,000 sold
13% fewer than the Nissan Altima
- Complaints
- 3,717
- Sold
- 1,805,322
- Recall campaigns
- 26
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2010–2012 and 2014. Fewest: 2018–2020. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 56,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 61,987 mi · repair $260–$1,910
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 54,000 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 33,160 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 48,228 mi
Nissan Altima
23.8 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.2× the Chevrolet Cruze’s rate
- Complaints
- 6,989
- Sold
- 2,942,589
- Recall campaigns
- 30
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2013–2014. Fewest: 2011 and 2018–2019. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 32,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 60,200 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 68,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 72,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Cruze or the Nissan Altima?
For 2010–2020 models, the Chevrolet Cruze has 20.6 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Nissan Altima has 23.8, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Chevrolet Cruze?
The most-reported problem on the Chevrolet Cruze is body control and other modules, typically around 56,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Nissan Altima?
The most-reported problem on the Nissan Altima is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 32,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Cruze and Nissan Altima years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Cruze: 2010–2012 and 2014; Nissan Altima: 2013–2014.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.