Used 2016 Nissan Altima for Sale nearOakland, CA

How much does the 2016 Nissan Altima cost?

Prices have softened 4.48% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 1,887 listings available, which suggests you have a decent amount of inventory to compare.

Is the 2016 Nissan Altima a good car?

Generally — the 2016 Nissan Altima earns a 4.47/5 user rating and an 8/10 expert rating, which points to a strong overall showing. The standout strength is Safety at 10/10.

Drivers consistently praise its great gas mileage, sleek design, and comfort, and they also value the modern features and overall value for the price. In use-case terms, it fits you well if you want a roomy, comfortable midsize sedan that balances space, economy, and everyday practicality.

Only 26.2% of listings are priced as good or great deals, so the market is selective rather than flooded with bargains.

Is the 2016 Nissan Altima reliable?

Owners rate it 4.47/5, a solid signal of long-term satisfaction.

User feedback also points to a car that many drivers find dependable and trouble-free in day-to-day use, with strong praise for its long-term value and comfort. The expert evaluation adds that the proven engine lineup and well-sorted CVT automatic are not harboring any nasty surprises for long-term maintenance.

That said, used buyers should still pay close attention to transmission history and overall service records, since long-term ownership risk is best managed by verifying maintenance and condition before you buy.

What should I look for when buying a used 2016 Nissan Altima?

At 45.6% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

You should start with a vehicle history report and then prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially if the car has higher mileage or incomplete service records. Focus on body condition, signs of prior repair, and whether the car drives smoothly under light and moderate throttle. Because this model has a CVT, it is especially smart to confirm that the transmission feels consistent and that maintenance has been kept up.

Key things to evaluate:

• Trim level: The lineup starts with the 2.5, then moves through the 2.5 S, 2.5 SR, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SR, and 3.5 SL. The 2.5 models use a 4-cylinder engine, while the 3.5 trims add a more powerful V6. The SR trim is the sportier choice, while the SL trim is the one described as carrying more luxury-oriented equipment.
• Powertrain: The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder makes 182 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque, and the 3.5-liter V6 makes 270 hp. The CVT automatic is the only transmission, and the car is front-wheel drive only.
• Safety package: The available active safety equipment includes 6 standard airbags, dynamic cruise control, blind-spot warning, and predictive forward collision alert with emergency braking. The system is described as being more affordable than similar tech in higher-end cars.
• Infotainment: The standard system uses a 5-inch color display that also serves as the rear-view camera display. A 7-inch display is available with NissanConnect Navigation with Mobile Apps, and the system can include navigation, voice command, terrestrial and satellite radio, Bluetooth, and integrated Facebook through NissanConnect with Mobile Apps.
• Fuel efficiency: The 4-cylinder is rated at 27 mpg city and 39 highway, for a combined 31 mpg in mixed driving. The V6 is rated at 22/32.

Which 2016 Nissan Altima trim should I buy?

The 2016 Nissan Altima is offered in 7 trim levels: 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SR, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SR, 3.5 SL.

Here's the short version:

• 2.5: This is the entry point, and it gives you the core Altima formula without moving up the ladder. It makes sense if you want the lowest-cost path into the model and do not need the extra equipment found higher up.
• 2.5 S: This trim is the first step up from the base model and is the better starting point if you want a little more equipment without jumping too far in price. It is the trim most likely to make sense if you want value first.
• 2.5 SR: This is the sportier 4-cylinder choice, and the content specifically calls out the SR as the trim with the upgraded suspension. If you want the most engaging Altima in this lineup, this is the one to focus on.
• 2.5 SV: This trim sits in the middle of the range and is a sensible choice if you want a more balanced mix of equipment and price. It should appeal to you if you want comfort and convenience without stretching to the top trims.
• 2.5 SL: This is the best-value trim if you want the richer feature set described in the test drive, including the more upscale feel and available driver aids. It is the trim that best matches the Altima’s value-plus-comfort mission.
• 3.5 SR: Choose this if you want the V6’s extra power and the sportier SR character together. It is the pick for buyers who care more about stronger acceleration than maximum efficiency.
• 3.5 SL: This is the most upscale V6 choice, so it suits you if you want the strongest engine and the more premium equipment mix in one package.

The safety package is a strong point across the lineup, but the feature set is especially noteworthy on the better-equipped trims.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2016 Nissan Altima?

This is a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop carefully and still find worthwhile listings.

• Deal availability: 26.2% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 1,887 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 4.48% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 45.6% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $9,213, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2016 Nissan Altima's resale value?

The current average of $9,236 sits slightly below last year's $9,669.

That softer pricing trend suggests the Altima is not currently in a strong appreciation phase, so future sellers should expect value to depend heavily on condition, mileage, and equipment. If you keep the car clean, well maintained, and accident-free, you can help protect its appeal in a market that already rewards good examples. The model’s broad value proposition should keep it relevant, but it is not the kind of car that typically commands a premium just because of the badge.

Vehicles with solid owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.47/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Is the 2016 Nissan Altima safe?

The 2016 Altima earns the IIHS top rating of Good across all categories, including the tough small-overlap frontal crash test.

It earns a 10/10 safety score from our experts.

The available active safety equipment includes dynamic cruise control, blind-spot warning, and predictive forward collision alert with emergency braking, along with 6 standard airbags. That combination gives you a strong safety story for the class, especially on better-equipped trims.

Should I buy a 2016 Nissan Altima or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2016 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2016 if:

• 26.2% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 45.6% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 4.48% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.47/5 — a solid satisfaction signal.
• The 2016 stands out for its deep refresh, crisp new styling, excellent economy, and a lot of tech.

Consider the 2015 if:

• At $8,193, the 2015 costs less than the current year's $9,236 average.
• It excels at handling, fuel economy, technology and comfort.

The bottom line: If you want the fresher styling, stronger tech story, and better current-market support, the 2016 is the better all-around pick. If your priority is spending less up front, the 2015 is the smarter value play, especially if you find one in excellent condition.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 20, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.