TELEMATICS SERVICE INFORMATION HINT: This bulletin applies to vehicles equipped with a 4G network compatible TCU. TCUs compatible with 3G network only are no longer supported. SERVICE INFORMATION The APPLIED VEHICLES that come equipped with a factory installed SOS switch, located near the overhead map lamp, also come equipped with a wireless communication device called a Telematics Communication Unit (TCU). With an active NissanConnect® Services subscription, the TCU communicates with the NissanConnect® Services Data Center to provide various security and convenience services. This bulletin contains important service procedures that must be performed properly in order to set-up and maintain
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2018 Nissan Altima electrical problems
moderate Owners of the 2018 Nissan Altima have filed 36 NHTSA complaints about the electrical, typically surfacing around 35,000 miles at roughly $850 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See electrical across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
36
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
| Model year | electrical complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 Altima | 59 |
| 2015 Altima | 42 |
| 2016 Altima | 32 |
| 2017 Altima | 18 |
| 2018 Altima (this page) | 36 |
| 2019 Altima | 54 |
| 2020 Altima | 38 |
| 2021 Altima | 18 |
| 2022 Altima | 3 |
1crash
When does it fail?
Of the 36 electrical complaints filed for the 2018 Nissan Altima, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 36 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
No new NHTSA electrical complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 4 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
INTELLIGENT CRUISE CONTROL INOPERATIVE AND AEB/FEB WARNING LIGHT ON OR RADAR OBSTRUCTION MESSAGE DISPLAYED WITH DTC C1A16 OR C2582 IF YOU CONFIRM IMPORTANT: The purpose of ACTION (on the next page) is to give you a quick idea of the work you will be performing. You MUST closely follow the entire SERVICE PROCEDURE as it contains information that is essential to successfully completing this repair. Nissan Bulletins are intended for use by qualified technicians, not 'do-it-yourselfers'. Qualified technicians are properly trained individuals who have the equipment, tools, safety instruction, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. NOTE: If you believe that a described condition may apply t
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗CAN COMMUNICATION CODES – DIAGNOSTIC TIPS AND GUIDELINES This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗CAN COMMUNICATION – NETWORK DIAGNOSTIC FLOW CHART This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗VEHICLE KEY NOT DETECTED / AUTHENTICATED, ENGINE WILL NOT START This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2018 Altima electrical system shows widespread failures across multiple safety systems. The forward collision radar sensor is the most common complaint: owners report false "Radar Unavailable Due to Obstruction" warnings appearing randomly in clear weather on dry roads, causing the automatic emergency braking system to deactivate repeatedly during a single drive. Multiple owners cite the system triggering false emergency stops at highway speeds with no vehicles present—a Nissan dealership confirmed to one owner this is a "very common problem" with no recall issued, and parts cost $1,500.
Brake light switches fail serially: owners replace them once, twice, even three times within five years. The switch typically causes the push-to-start button to fail and brake lights to stop illuminating—creating a legitimate safety hazard. When the switch sticks, brake pedals feel stuck and require pumping to engage the start button.
Power door lock actuators fail on driver's side and rear doors, leaving passengers unable to exit. Airbag warning lights stay on or flicker continuously; dealerships run diagnostics multiple times and find nothing, leaving owners uncertain whether airbags will deploy. Backup cameras black out during reverse; one owner experienced a sunglasses compartment fall from the roof. Battery terminals corrode severely and cause electrical shutdown while driving. Push-to-start buttons require multiple presses or key fob workarounds. These failures recur even after dealer repairs.
Same Nissan Altima electrical reports on nearby years: 2015 · 2016 · 2017 · 2019 · 2020
Failure modes owners describe
Forward Collision Radar Sensor Malfunction
Front collision/forward collision radar sensor triggers false warnings and unavailable alerts during normal driving, even in clear conditions with no obstructions. System deactivates automatic emergency braking (AEB) intermittently. Some owners report the system triggers false emergency braking events at highway speeds with no vehicles present.
When: Occurs randomly throughout ownership, frequently from purchase (early 2018 or later); some report daily occurrences within months to years of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Warning message 'Front Radar Unavailable Due to Obstruction' with no obstruction present; False positive emergency braking events at speeds including 50 mph on freeway; Sensor goes off multiple times per day (1-6 times reported); System deactivates and reactivates repeatedly during single drive; Alerts occur in clear daylight, dry pavement, rain, sunny conditions, bumpy roads, highways, and local streets
Codes mentioned: FEB: Unavailable Front Radar Obstruction
Repairs/costs cited: Radar sensor replacement cited at $1,500 or higher; warranty may not cover once expired; one owner reports personal Pathfinder had part replaced with less than 10,000 miles
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Nissan acknowledged issue in several cars per owners; no recall issued despite widespread reports; dealers referred owners to wait for recall; one owner's Pathfinder (same issue) had part replaced under warranty
Brake Light / Stop Lamp Switch Failure
Stop lamp switch (brake light switch) fails, causing push-to-start feature to malfunction, brake lights to not illuminate, and vehicle immobility. Switch fails multiple times over vehicle lifetime.
When: 3 months after purchase; again 1 year later; again after 1.5 years; at 32,344 miles; under 2 years of ownership; intermittently over multiple years
Symptoms owners cite: Push-to-start button does not engage; vehicle won't start; Vehicle will not shift out of park; Brake lights do not illuminate; Brake pedal feels stuck or hard to depress; continuous pumping required to release; Dashboard warning lights illuminate including battery light; Vehicle stranded and unable to move
Codes mentioned: Defective stop lamp switch
Repairs/costs cited: Switch replaced multiple times (up to three replacements in less than 5 years per one owner); one owner tapped switch with hammer to release it temporarily; repairs done at dealership
Push-to-Start Button Malfunction
Push-to-start ignition button fails to function as designed, requiring multiple attempts or alternative key fob start method. Issue recurs after dealer reset or key fob replacement.
When: Intermittent from 2020 onward; recurring issue after prior repair attempts
Symptoms owners cite: Push-to-start button requires multiple presses to start vehicle; Vehicle will not start via push button; responds only to key fob; Unknown warning lights illuminate on dashboard; Vehicle shows brake pedal and key fob warning together on display; No visible warning lights in some cases
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership replaced key fob batteries; issue recurs after weeks; battery, alternator, transmission, and engine checked with no faults found; customer advised nothing could be done on initial visit
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified in at least one case and promised to escalate claim
Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
Power door lock actuators fail, rendering doors unable to lock or unlock electronically. Driver's side fails first, then rear doors fail sequentially. Owners report this is a widespread known issue.
When: Around June 2024 (driver side); June 2025 (rear driver side); unspecified timing on other vehicles
Symptoms owners cite: Door locks and unlocks electronically; Doors will not respond to key fob or interior lock/unlock buttons; Rear passengers trapped inside vehicle or unable to exit without manual assistance; Safety issue with vehicle entry and egress
Repairs/costs cited: Owners report purchasing replacement parts; no repair costs cited in narratives
Airbag System Electrical Failure
Airbag warning light illuminates persistently or intermittently; occupant sensors and weight sensors fail to activate airbag deployment circuit. Dealers unable to diagnose cause on repeat visits.
When: Unspecified timing; occurs during ownership; one case at least three service attempts
Symptoms owners cite: Airbag light remains constantly on or flickers on and off; Occupant weight sensor and seatbelt sensors fail to activate airbag system; No diagnostic fault codes found on repeated dealer scans; Light turns off at dealership but returns or never resolves
Repairs/costs cited: Weight sensors and modulator replacement cited at $585 for parts alone; full airbag system replacement estimated $5,000-$7,000; repairs not completed due to warranty denial
Delayed and Harsh Acceleration
Vehicle exhibits delayed acceleration response after stop, followed by sudden jolt forward when throttle is finally engaged. Creates safety risk in traffic.
When: Occurs when stopped and accelerating from stop
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle does not accelerate for several seconds after pedal depression; Vehicle does not rev or move even with increased pedal force; After delay, vehicle suddenly accelerates with significant jolt; Creates increased accident risk in traffic scenarios
Backup Camera Malfunction
Backup camera display blacks out or shows static lines intermittently or consistently when reverse gear is engaged.
When: Occurs during reverse operation; intermittent or chronic
Symptoms owners cite: Camera screen is completely black in reverse mode; Screen displays static lines then blacks out; No video feed provided during backing operation
Hood Latch Release
Hood latch mechanism fails to remain locked at certain highway speeds, causing hood to come loose or unlock while vehicle is in motion.
When: Occurs at certain speeds on highway
Symptoms owners cite: Hood latch releases or unlocks during highway driving; Hood comes loose while in motion
Battery Terminal Corrosion and Electrical Disconnect
Battery terminal connector corrodes and loses contact integrity, causing vehicle to shut off during operation.
When: Unspecified timing
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle shuts off while driving; Battery terminal connector becomes loose; Terminal corrodes severely and deteriorates; Loss of electrical contact at battery connection
Repairs/costs cited: Terminal cleaned up; corrosion removed; contact restored
Shift Lock / Transmission Shift Malfunction
Vehicle unable to shift out of park; PRND (Park-Reverse-Neutral-Drive) shift lever stuck or unresponsive.
When: Intermittent; occurs during starting sequence
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not shift out of park after starting; PRND shift lever will not move; Occurs alongside push-to-start button issues
Repairs/costs cited: Nissan dealership unable to identify cause after checking battery, alternator, transmission, and engine
Battery Overcharge / Thermal Event
Battery exhibits signs of overcharging or thermal runaway, with black powdery residue observed on battery top, suggesting boilover.
When: Prior to starting failure
Symptoms owners cite: Black powdery substance on top of battery; Battery appears to have boiled over; Vehicle will not start (related symptom)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership tested battery and reported fully charged and fine despite visual evidence of thermal event
Synthesized from 36 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
The problem of delayed acceleration. The problem occurs when the vehicle does not seem to accelerate for a short period of time. When I'm at a stop. and I depresses the pedal. The vehicle does not rev. It does not do anything for a few seconds. Even with increased force on the pedal, the vehicle does not move. The second concern is that, once it does move, it does so significantly with a jolt.…
Intermittent front radar. Warning message will appear stating "front radar unavailble due to obstruction" when there is not an obstruction, then the system deactivates the automatic emergency braking. After a few minutes, the "obstruction" is cleared and the system resumes functionality. This will repeat quite often. While I own a Nissan altima, it appears this is an issue in the Nissan sentra,…
I purchased a new 2018 Nissan, the front end collision sensor is alarming and has ever since the car was new. I have taken it to two different dealers and they have referred me to Nissan and say that I should wait for the recall. I think this is unacceptable as my car is not safe with the front end collision not working properly. Please help me fix this problem. As I am driving down the road,…
Had electrical trouble with your 2018 Nissan Altima?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2018 Nissan Altima?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 36 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $850 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 17 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 31,000 and 48,000 miles, with the median around 35,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 31,000; a quarter make it past 48,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2018/Nissan/Altima.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.