Chevrolet Sonic vs Nissan Altima
For 2011–2021 models, the Chevrolet Sonic has 19.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 23.7 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 (2011–2021), 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 Sonic
19.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
17% fewer than the Nissan Altima
- Complaints
- 952
- Sold
- 483,310
- Recall campaigns
- 16
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2012–2015. Fewest: 2011, 2018–2019 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 50,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 48,000 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 48,500 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 31,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 62,000 mi · repair $260–$1,910
Nissan Altima
23.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.2× the Chevrolet Sonic’s rate
- Complaints
- 6,666
- Sold
- 2,817,102
- Recall campaigns
- 28
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2013–2014. Fewest: 2011, 2018–2019 and 2021. 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 Sonic or the Nissan Altima?
For 2011–2021 models, the Chevrolet Sonic has 19.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Nissan Altima has 23.7, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Chevrolet Sonic?
The most-reported problem on the Chevrolet Sonic is body control and other modules, typically around 50,000 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 Sonic and Nissan Altima years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Sonic: 2012–2015; 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.