Marco SRS Air Bag Suspension

Bag Nissan Altima

Gas Savings Equals Reliability in Recent Consumer Survey

Of the hundreds of different models of cars on the road today, which ones do you think are the most reliable? Well, if you pick by the brand – Toyota and Honda – you would be right, but there is a more telling way to figure out which cars are the best: they're the most fuel efficient ones.

In a recent survey conducted by Consumers Union -- the independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves – and published in their magazine, Consumer Reports, the small car segment performed quite well.

Consumer Reports found that nine hybrid models rated above average in predicted reliability, with most of those produced by Japanese automakers. In the the Family Cars category, the Toyota Prius, the Toyota Camry Hybrid, and the Nissan Altima Hybrid, as well as the luxury Lexus GS450h Hybrid sedan have all been recognized among the most reliable vehicles for sale today.

The Lexus RX400h and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid are among the most reliable in midsized SUVs, while the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid small SUVs rated above normal in expected reliability. The report also found that the Honda Civic Hybrid is above average while recognizing that conventional gas powered cars such as the Honda Fit, Scion xD, Smart ForTwo, and Toyota Yaris had few problems reported.

Although the report sung high praises for most Japanese makes while also recognizing the great strides in quality improvements from Korean and European brands, the report also recognized some interesting trends among the three American automakers.

Specifically, Consumer Reports now says that Ford's quality nearly matches the industry leaders – Toyota and Honda, while General Motors offers a mixed bag of quality across its many vehicle segments. For GM, some of their newer vehicles such as the Chevrolet Malibu performed quite well while its highly touted Cadillac CTS and crossover triplets – Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook – performed below average.

Worst, were the findings for Chrysler. The report noted that the Dodge Caliber hatchback and Jeep Patriot SUV were above average, but found that the company's minivans, midsize cars, and Jeep Liberty performed below average. Indeed, the convertible version of the Chrysler Sebring midsize car performed exceptionally bad in this survey.

So, if you are in the market for a new car, taking Consumer Reports' survey into consideration should help you make a purchase you can live with. I'm not endorsing Consumer Reports per se, but when you're researching what car to buy, considering what they have to say about various makes and models is a wise move.

(Source: Consumers Union)

About the Author

Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer who resides in Cary, North Carolina. Matt provides magazine, web content, and article writing services to clients all over the world serving the automotive, human interest, and business communities. Matt's Musings is his personal weblog.

Metra Electronics / NISSAN ALTIMA 02-04 / 99-7418 $23.24 Metra Electronics - NISSAN ALTIMA 02-04 - 99-7418

Metra Electronics / NISSAN ALTIMA 05-06 / 99-7419 $23.24 Metra Electronics - NISSAN ALTIMA 05-06 - 99-7419

Metra Electronics / NISSAN ALTIMA 07-UP / 99-7423 $53.62 Metra Electronics - NISSAN ALTIMA 07-UP - 99-7423

Metra Electronics / NISSAN ALTIMA DDIN KIT 05-06 / 95-7419 $20.75 Metra Electronics - NISSAN ALTIMA DDIN KIT 05-06 - 95-7419

Scosche Installation Kit for 2005 - 2006 Nissan Altima Vehicles $19.99 This kit will help you easily install a replacement or upgrade radio or navigation in-dash deck into your Nissan Altima vehicle.

2008 Nissan Altima 2.5S $13500 Four Door, A/C, Nissan 2.5L I4 FI DOHC 16V Engine, Shiftable Automatic Transmission, Front Wheel Drive, Cruise Control, Power Windows, Power Door Locks, Power Mirrors, CD Player

1997 Nissan Altima $450 4 Door, A/C, Nissan 2.4L Engine, Automatic Transmission, Tape Player, 195/65R15 Front Tires; 205/75R15 Rear Tires. The engine started and ran. The drivetrain engaged in forward and reverse. The main components appear to be in place and operational.

Metra Installation Kit for 2005-2006 Nissan Altima Vehicles - Black $19.99 Add a sound system to your vehicle with this installation kit that allows the mounting of an aftermarket radio into the dash location of 2005-2006 Nissan Altima models.

Metra Installation Kit for 2005 - 2006 Nissan Altima Vehicles - Black $16.99 This dash kit allows for the installation of an aftermarket double DIN radio or 2 single DIN components into the factory dash location of 2005 - 2006 Nissan Altima models.

Nissan Altima Haynes Repair Manual (1993-2006) $17.95 Complete coverage for your Nissan Altima for 1993 thru 2006 covering all models:? Routine Maintenance? Tune-up procedures? Engine repair? Cooling and heating? Air Conditioning? Fuel and exhaust? Emissions control? Ignition? Brakes? Suspension and steering? Electrical systems? Wiring diagrams

Nissan Altima Haynes Repair Manual (2007-2010) $17.95 Complete coverage for your Nissan Altima for 2007 thru 2010 (Does not include information specific to hybrid models): Routine maintenance Tune-up procedures Engine repair Cooling and heating Air conditioning Fuel and exhaust Emissions control Ignition Brakes Suspension and steering Electrical systems Wiring diagrams

SCOSCHE NN1496B 2002-Up Nissan Altima Kit W/ 2 CD Storage Pocket $15.99 Type: Installation Kit Features: 2002-Up Nissan Altima Kit With 2 CD Storage Pocket

Metra Installation Kit for 2007 - 2008 Nissan Altima Vehicles $39.99 Install a double DIN radio or 2 single DIN components in your 2007 - 2008 Nissan Altima with this installation kit that features snap-in mounting brackets and an oversize pocket for storage.

Metra Installation Kit for 2002 - 2004 Nissan Altima Vehicles - Black $16.99 Install 1 double DIN or 2 single DIN components in your 2002 - 2004 Nissan Altima with this installation kit that is textured and contoured to match your vehicle's dashboard.

Metra Electronics 997418 2002 Nissan Altima $26.72 Install dash kit for Single DIN/ISO Radios. Snapin ISO Support system. Compatible with 20022004 Nissan Altima. Includes a storage pocket below the radio. Designed and manufactured with precision tolerances resulting in a gapless fit between the dash and the kit. Painted to match factory dash color. Highgrade ABS plastic construction. Factory style texture. Kit Includes: Radio Housing Radio Housing Trim Plate Radio Housing Brackets.

2008 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL $14000 Four Door, A/C w/Dual Zone Climate Control, Nissan Gasoline 2.5L I4 FI DOHC 16V Engine, Shiftable Automatic Transmission, Front Wheel Drive, Leather Seats, Heated Drivers Seat, Heated Passenger Seat, Power Drivers Seat, Cruise Control, Power Windows, Power Door Locks, Power Sunroof, CD Player, Home Link, Alloy Wheels

Metra 997423 2007 Nissan Altima 2DIN Turbo Kit $49.37 2007 Nissan Altima 2DIN Turbo Kit. Two Trim Plates Retains Either Altima OEM Climate Control System Style. Quick Release SnapIn ISO Mount System with Custom Trim Ring. Designed for Installation of One 2DIN radio or Two 1DIN Radios. Recessed DIN Opening. Contoured and Textured to Match Factory Dash. Includes All Necessary Hardware for a Complete Installation. Comprehensive Instruction Manual. StepbyStep Disassembly and Assembly.

Metra 997419 Nissan Altima 20052006 Turbo Pocket Kit $26.72 Metra 997419 Nissan Altima 20052006 Turbo Pocket Kit. Recessed DIN Opening. Patented SnapIn ISO Support System. Contoured to Match Factory Dash. Comes with Oversized UnderRadio Storage Pocket. HighGrade ABS Plastic. Comprehensive Instruction Manual. All Necessary Hardware Included for Easy Installation.

SCOSCHE NN1496B 2CD Pocket Kit For 2000 up Nissan Altima NN1496B $26.62 Scosche is going to keep doing what it s best at: designing developing and bringing to market technically superior and reasonably priced car audio products. Scosche Industries attributes its success to several factors not the least of which is talented enthusiast people. The emphasis on only producing the finest quality products at reasonable prices and providing the consumer with easy to use welldesigned functional accessories has been the key to success. This install kit is designed for a perfect fit in a 2002Up Nissan Altima and features a built in pocket. Din Pocket Kit For 2002 and Up Toyota Camry. For 2002 Thur 2004 Nissan Altima.

Auto Ventshade 94111 Nissan Altima 4-Piece VentVisor (1993-1997) $55.95 The Original VentVisor is precision engineered for an exacting fit and proven protection in rain or heat for your Nissan Altima. It's unique design allows fresh air to naturally circulate through open windows while still keeping passengers and interiors dry in the rain and parked vehicles cooler in extreme heat. Exceptional style and protection for your Nissan Altima, as well as, superior comfort for every passenger.    Features: Keeps The Rain Out Lets Fresh Air In Original Ventvisor Design Reduces Heat Build-Up In Cab Windows Can Be Left Partially Open Install w/3M Adhesive Foam Tape No Drill Installation Limited Lifetime Warranty NOTE: Ventvisors are sometimes referred to as side window rain guards or side window deflectors.     Application: 1993-1997 Nissan Altima   The vehicle(s) that this product fits is subject to change and may fit additional makes, models, or years. Not sure if this will fit? Use the vehicle look-up below:

Auto Ventshade 94005 Nissan Altima 4-Piece VentVisor (2007-2010) $55.95 The Original VentVisor is precision engineered for an exacting fit and proven protection in rain or heat for your Nissan Altima. It's unique design allows fresh air to naturally circulate through open windows while still keeping passengers and interiors dry in the rain and parked vehicles cooler in extreme heat. Exceptional style and protection for your Nissan Altima, as well as, superior comfort for every passenger.    Features: Keeps The Rain Out Lets Fresh Air In Original Ventvisor Design Reduces Heat Build-Up In Cab Windows Can Be Left Partially Open Install w/3M Adhesive Foam Tape No Drill Installation Limited Lifetime Warranty NOTE: Ventvisors are sometimes referred to as side window rain guards or side window deflectors.     Application: 2007-2010 Nissan Altima Sedan   The vehicle(s) that this product fits is subject to change and may fit additional makes, models, or years. Not sure if this will fit? Use the vehicle look-up below:

Auto Ventshade 94504 Nissan Altima 4-Piece VentVisor (2000-2001) $55.95 The Original VentVisor is precision engineered for an exacting fit and proven protection in rain or heat for your Nissan Altima. It's unique design allows fresh air to naturally circulate through open windows while still keeping passengers and interiors dry in the rain and parked vehicles cooler in extreme heat. Exceptional style and protection for your Nissan Altima, as well as, superior comfort for every passenger.    Features: Keeps The Rain Out Lets Fresh Air In Original Ventvisor Design Reduces Heat Build-Up In Cab Windows Can Be Left Partially Open Install w/3M Adhesive Foam Tape No Drill Installation Limited Lifetime Warranty NOTE: Ventvisors are sometimes referred to as side window rain guards or side window deflectors.     Application: 2000-2001 Nissan Altima   The vehicle(s) that this product fits is subject to change and may fit additional makes, models, or years. Not sure if this will fit? Use the vehicle look-up below:

Auto Ventshade 94239 Nissan Altima 4-Piece VentVisor (1998-1999) $55.95 The Original VentVisor is precision engineered for an exacting fit and proven protection in rain or heat for your Nissan Altima. It's unique design allows fresh air to naturally circulate through open windows while still keeping passengers and interiors dry in the rain and parked vehicles cooler in extreme heat. Exceptional style and protection for your Nissan Altima, as well as, superior comfort for every passenger.    Features: Keeps The Rain Out Lets Fresh Air In Original Ventvisor Design Reduces Heat Build-Up In Cab Windows Can Be Left Partially Open Install w/3M Adhesive Foam Tape No Drill Installation Limited Lifetime Warranty NOTE: Ventvisors are sometimes referred to as side window rain guards or side window deflectors.     Application: 1998-1999 Nissan Altima   The vehicle(s) that this product fits is subject to change and may fit additional makes, models, or years. Not sure if this will fit? Use the vehicle look-up below:

Auto Ventshade 94722 Nissan Altima 4-Piece VentVisor (2002-2006) $55.95 The Original VentVisor is precision engineered for an exacting fit and proven protection in rain or heat for your Nissan Altima. It's unique design allows fresh air to naturally circulate through open windows while still keeping passengers and interiors dry in the rain and parked vehicles cooler in extreme heat. Exceptional style and protection for your Nissan Altima, as well as, superior comfort for every passenger.    Features: Keeps The Rain Out Lets Fresh Air In Original Ventvisor Design Reduces Heat Build-Up In Cab Windows Can Be Left Partially Open Install w/3M Adhesive Foam Tape No Drill Installation Limited Lifetime Warranty NOTE: Ventvisors are sometimes referred to as side window rain guards or side window deflectors.     Application: 2002-2006 Nissan Altima   The vehicle(s) that this product fits is subject to change and may fit additional makes, models, or years. Not sure if this will fit? Use the vehicle look-up below:

Nissan Altima Engraved Stainless Steel Wide License Plate Frame $31.95 The Nissan Altima Engraved Stainless Steel License Plate Frame uses solid stainless steel sheets as a base material for the frame, being that stainless steel is not porous, polishes well and doesn't rust. The frame will never rust or corrode and will look great for years. The Nissan Altima logo is computer engraved with the factory font name for authenticity, are cut to maximum depth, and then hand painted with UV-rated permanent resins. Hand polishing further ensures that your frame will have a faultless appearance. The license plate is constructed using a "coined" manufacturing process, which unlike other frames, are "cast" brass, zinc or other metal, they vary in size, form, and finish, and often don't have tabs on the back bottom to secure them to the license plate. The Nissan Altima Engraved Stainless Steel License Plate Frame has tabs on the back to secure your license plate. The license plate frame comes packaged with hardware and matching SnapCaps? anti-theft hardware caps.     NOTE: The following states have laws requiring that the license plate frame not cover any of the state name on the license plate itself: Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Missouri, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Washington. We recommend you use the wide frame license plate frame.

Auto Ventshade 194722 Nissan Altima 4-Piece In-Channel VentVisor (2002-2006) $55.95 The Original VentVisor is precision engineered for an exacting fit and proven protection in rain or heat for your Nissan Altima. Its unique design allows fresh air to naturally circulate through open windows while still keeping passengers and interiors dry in the rain and parked vehicles cooler in extreme heat. Exceptional style and protection for your Nissan Altima, as well as, superior comfort for every passenger.     Features: Sleek streamlined appearance No exterior tape touches your vehicle Greater visibility No leg to obstruct the side view mirror Decreased wind noise Snug secure fit No drill installation Install w/strong automotive grade tape Limited lifetime warranty   NOTE: Ventvisors are sometimes referred to as side window rain guards or side window deflectors.     Application: 2002-2006 Nissan Altima   The vehicle(s) that this product fits is subject to change and may fit additional makes, models, or years. Not sure if this will fit? Use the vehicle look-up below:

Metra 957418 Nissan Altima 20022004 2DIN Turbo Kit $24.06 Install dash kit for Dual Single DIN/ISO or Double Radios. Designed and manufactured with precision tolerances resulting in a gapless fit between the dash and the kit. Painted to match factory dash color. Highgrade ABS plastic construction. Factory style texture. Kit Includes: Radio Housing Trim Plate. Authorized Internet Dealer. Tools Required:. Phillips Screwdriver. Small Flat Blade Screwdriver. Compatibility List:. Nissan: 2002 2004 Altima.

VelourMat (Beige) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Black) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Caramel) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Cocoa) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Gray) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Navy) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Latte) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Red) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Smoke) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Wine) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

VelourMat (Taupe) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Made of soft, elegant rich velour. Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Limited One Year Warranty."

Dashmat (Beige) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Made of durable, color fast, non-shrinking needle punch carpet. Limited Lifetime Warranty"

Dashmat (Black) [98-01 Nissan Altima] $32.95 "Custom made to fit each dashboard. Cuts hazardous windshield glare. Dramatically reduces windshield haze caused by gasses emitted from the dashboard. Protects the dash from sun damages, helping to stop cracking and warping. Made of durable, color fast, non-shrinking needle punch carpet. Limited Lifetime Warranty"