
Nissan Repair and Service in Athens, GA
Nissan repair in Athens, GA starts with a shop that knows the CVT. Athens Import Auto Repair has fixed Nissan cars and trucks since 1991. We work on the Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Pathfinder and Frontier.
Nissan service in Athens, from people who know the brand
Nissan makes a good car at a fair price. A few parts need a close eye. The CVT transmission, the timing chain guides and the catalytic converters lead the list. We watch for each one.
James Miner, our owner and an ASE Master Technician, has worked on imports since 1972. Tony works beside him. Call 706-353-3880 and tell us what your Nissan is doing.
Models we see most
Common Nissan problems we fix
CVT problems
The CVT is a transmission with a belt instead of gears. Nissan CVTs from 2007 to 2016 can shudder, whine or lose power when hot. Fresh fluid on time helps. We test it and tell you where it stands.
Timing chain guides on the V6
The 3.5 V6 in the Maxima, Murano and Pathfinder can wear its timing chain guides. You hear a whine or rattle at idle. We replace the chains and guides before they fail.
Catalytic converters on older models
Older Nissan four cylinders had a weak front catalytic converter. It breaks up and the bits get pulled into the engine. A check engine light is the first clue. We check the converter and the engine.
Steering lock failure
The electronic steering lock on some 2009 to 2011 Altima and Maxima models fails. The car will not start and the key light flashes. We replace the lock unit.
Radiator and transmission cooler
The 2005 to 2010 Pathfinder and Frontier radiator can crack inside. Coolant mixes with the transmission fluid. That ruins the transmission fast. We replace the radiator and add an outside cooler.
Wheel bearing hum
Nissan front wheel bearings hum as they wear. The noise grows with speed. We replace the hub and the sound goes away.
Nissan services we offer
CVT and transmission service
Nissan CVT fluid changes and testing. Standard automatics too.
Learn moreTiming chain replacement
Chains, guides and tensioners on the 3.5 V6 and the four cylinders.
Learn moreExhaust and converter repair
Catalytic converters, oxygen sensors and exhaust leaks.
Learn moreNo start diagnosis
Steering locks, starters, batteries and fuel pumps tested.
Learn moreCooling system repair
Radiators, hoses, water pumps and transmission coolers.
Learn moreWheel bearing replacement
Front and rear hubs to stop the hum.
Learn more
Why Nissan owners choose us
CVT know-how
We know how a Nissan CVT should feel. We catch problems early, when fluid can still help.
We know the older ones
From the Maxima to the 350Z, we have fixed the Nissans of the last 30 years.
Plain talk
We explain what is wrong in words that make sense. No tricks, no upsell.
I bought a 2008 Mini Cooper S. Clubman about a month ago. I replaced just about everything on the engine to no avail. It just would not idle like it should. I determined it was a bad timing chain. As it turned out I was right. I took it to James who agreed and he had his technician Tony replace the timing chain components. They went the extra mile to remove the oil pan and remove the chewed up debris from the oil pump screen. It now runs like a brand new car! Thanks to them, I'll enjoy this car for many years to come. Great service and very polite. Very knowledgeable too.
Rob, customerNissan repair FAQ
Do you work on Nissan in Athens?
Yes. Athens Import Auto Repair services Nissan cars and trucks in Athens, GA. Altima, Sentra, Maxima, Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder and Frontier are all welcome. We have done Nissan work since 1991.
Why does my Nissan shudder when I speed up?
The CVT is the likely cause. It shudders when the fluid is old or the belt is worn. We change the fluid and test it. Then we tell you what to expect.
How often should I change CVT fluid in a Nissan?
Every 30,000 miles is a safe rule. Nissan may say longer, but fresh fluid is the best insurance. We use the exact fluid Nissan calls for.
Why does my Nissan V6 rattle at idle?
Worn timing chain guides are the common cause on the 3.5 V6. The chain slaps the loose guide. We replace the chains, guides and tensioners together.
Why will my Nissan Altima not start?
On 2009 to 2011 models, check the steering lock first. When it fails, the key light flashes and the car stays dead. A weak battery or bad starter are other causes. We test each one.
Can you fix the check engine light on my Nissan?
Yes. We read the codes with the right scan tool for Nissan. Common causes are a bad catalytic converter, an oxygen sensor or a misfire. We test before we replace anything.
Other brands we service

Let's take a look at your Nissan
Call us at 706-353-3880 or set up a visit online. We will keep your Nissan on the road.
Open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. After hours, leave a message or send the form and we will call you back.
Send us a message
Tell us your car and what you notice. We will call you back during shop hours.
If the form does not show, call 706-353-3880.