2013 Nissan Altima Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2013 Nissan Altima
- Has 12 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal.
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2011 Nissan Altima earns a 72.
- The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (critical severity).
Should You Buy the 2013 Nissan Altima?
The 2013 Nissan Altima offers a comfortable ride and respectable fuel economy, making it an attractive value proposition. However, its Achilles' heel is the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which poses a significant long-term reliability risk and demands meticulous pre-purchase scrutiny. If you can verify a well-maintained CVT, it's a decent commuter, but proceed with caution.
The 2013 Nissan Altima requires a very thorough pre-purchase inspection and a clear understanding of its significant CVT risk. While affordable and comfortable, the high likelihood of a costly transmission failure means it's not a 'set it and forget it' purchase. Only consider one with impeccable service records and…
Best Model Years
Later generations (2019+) of the Altima have seen some CVT improvements, but for this generation, there isn't a standout 'best' year due to the inherent CVT design. Focus on maintenance history over specific year.
Years to Avoid
2007-2014 models are generally considered the riskiest for CVT reliability.
Biggest Strengths
- Fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine (when paired with a healthy CVT)
- Spacious and comfortable interior for its class
- Generally good ride quality and quiet cabin
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2013 Nissan Altima, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Known for jerking, slipping, hesitation, overheating, and complete failure. Often manifests as a 'shudder' or 'limp mode.' The P17F0 Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for 'Judder' is widespread.
The BCM can fail, leading to phantom warning lights, battery drain, issues with power windows, door locks, or key fob recognition. Less common are crankshaft and camshaft position sensor failures.
Front lower control arm bushings and ball joints are prone to premature wear, leading to clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and loose steering feel. Struts can also wear out by 100k miles.
2013 Nissan Altima Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2013 Nissan Altima most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Warning Zone
While generally low risk, this is where early CVT shudder or minor electrical glitches might start to surface if the vehicle has manufacturing defects or has been driven hard. Ensure routine maintenance has been performed.
Maintenance & Moderate Risk Zone
This mileage often marks the onset of more noticeable CVT issues if not properly maintained. Suspension components may begin to show wear. Brake service is typically due around this time.
Elevated Risk Zone
The probability of significant CVT issues or outright failure increases substantially here. Electrical problems like BCM failure are more likely. Engine sensors might also start to fail.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, expect the Altima to be on borrowed time for its original CVT. Major engine component wear (seals, potentially timing chain) and comprehensive suspension overhaul are highly probable.
2013 Nissan Altima Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2013 Nissan Altima on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., BCM, suspension components)
How Long Does the 2013 Nissan Altima Last?
Higher mileage Altima models from this era significantly increase your risk of CVT failure; prioritize lower mileage examples with documented transmission service, or be prepared for a costly replacement.
What 2013 Nissan Altima Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Excellent fuel economy (especially 2.5L)
- Smooth, quiet ride on highways
- Spacious and comfortable interior for passengers
- Sleek and attractive exterior styling
Common Frustrations
- CVT reliability concerns and high repair costs
- Noisy engine when accelerating hard (CVT droning)
- Bland handling and uninspiring driving dynamics
- Interior materials feel somewhat cheap and prone to rattles
Who Should Buy the 2013 Nissan Altima?
Best For
- Budget-conscious commuters prioritizing fuel economy
- Buyers comfortable with potential high-cost repairs or willing to buy an extended warranty
- Drivers who prioritize a comfortable, quiet ride over sporty handling
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking absolute long-term trouble-free ownership
- Those on a very strict budget for unexpected repairs
How the 2013 Nissan Altima Compares to Rivals
While comfortable and efficient, the 2013 Altima falls significantly short of its Japanese rivals like the Camry and Accord in terms of long-term reliability due almost entirely to its problematic CVT.
More Reliable Than
- 2013 Ford Focus (with DCT issues)
- 2013 Chrysler 200
- 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer
Comparable To
- 2013 Hyundai Sonata (some engine issues but good warranty)
- 2013 Kia Optima (similar engine issues)
NHTSA Recalls
12 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Altima and Pathfinder vehicles, 2013-2014 Nissan Sentra vehicles, 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles, 2014-2015 Infiniti QX60 vehicles and 2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid vehicles. The affected vehicles received an incorrect occupant classification system (OCS) control unit during a repair. These OCS control units may incorrectly classify the front passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult.
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Altima vehicles manufactured January 3, 2013, to July 29, 2013, 2015-2016 Rogue vehicles manufactured October 14, 2014, to August 12, 2016, and 2016 Maxima vehicles manufactured June 4, 2015, to August 19, 2015. An incorrect Occupant Classification System (OCS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may have been installed in the front passenger seat. The incorrect ECU and seat combination may misclassify the front passenger seat occupant.
What breaks on the 2013 Nissan Altima?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Nissan Altima by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Altima. Click any year for its full report.
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