Nissan Altima 2013 problems
The Nissan Altima is a mid-size car manufactured by Nissan since 1992. It is a continuation of the Nissan Bluebird line, which began in 1955.
The Altima has historically been larger, more powerful, and more luxurious than the Nissan Sentra but less so than the Nissan Maxima. The first through fourth-generation cars were manufactured exclusively in the United States and officially sold in North and South America, along with the Middle East and Australia. For other markets, Nissan sold a related mid-size sedan called the Nissan Teana which was between the Altima and Maxima in terms of size. In 2013, the Teana became a rebadged version of the fifth-generation Altima.
The name "Altima" was originally applied to a top trim line of the Nissan Leopard for the Japanese market in 1986, and then to the Nissan Laurel mid-size car sold in Central America and the Caribbean before 1992. In 1992, Nissan discontinued the Stanza which was a Nissan Bluebird clone, replacing it with the US-built Altima, while remaining a compact car. The first Altima was produced in June 1992, as a 1993 model. All Altima models for the North American market were built in Smyrna, Tennessee, until June 2004, when Nissan's Canton, Mississippi plant also began producing the model to meet high demand.
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Common Nissan Altima 2013 problems
The 2013 Nissan Altima has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), engine, steering, and climate control system.
- CVT Problems: The CVT in the 2013 Nissan Altima has been a significant source of complaints, with many owners reporting shuddering, slippage, and neutralizing issues. These problems can lead to the transmission getting stuck while driving, requiring drivers to stop and restart the car. The repair cost for these issues can be quite high, with some estimates putting it at over $3,000, especially since the car is no longer covered by a warranty.
- Engine Problems: A failing camshaft or crankshaft position sensor can cause the vehicle to not start or cause the engine to stall while the car is moving. This issue can be dangerous and costly to repair, with the average cost to fix being around $3,100.
- Steering Problems: The 2013 Nissan Altima has been reported to have steering wheel lock failure, which can prevent drivers from properly controlling the vehicle. This is a significant safety risk, and the typical repair cost is $960.
- Climate Control Problems: The 2013 Altima's climate control system has also been a problem area, with many reports claiming that the compressor rubs against the car’s frame, which accelerates wear and tear. This problem will normally cost around $1,200 to repair.
These issues have led to the 2013 Nissan Altima being rated as the worst model year for the Nissan Altima, with over 3,000 complaints and the "Avoid Like the Plague" badge of disapproval from Car Complaints. It is essential for potential buyers to be aware of these problems and consider them when deciding whether to purchase a 2013 Nissan Altima.
Are 2013 Nissan Altimas reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2013 Nissan Altima? The Nissan Altima has a below-average reliability rating of 2.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
What is the biggest problem with Nissan Altima?
Most Common Nissan Altima Problems
- Failed Crankshaft Sensor. One of the most commonly reported Nissan Altima problems is related to the crankshaft or camshaft sensor. ...
- Transmission Issues. ...
- Acceleration Problems. ...
- Catalytic Converter. ...
- Engine Start.
How long can a 2013 Nissan Altima last?
between 250,000 and 300,000 miles
In terms of mileage and overall lifespan, you can expect somewhere between 250,000 and 300,000 miles of use from your Nissan Altima assuming that it is well-maintained and kept in adequate shape.
What is the suspension problem on a 2013 Nissan Altima?
On some 2013- 2018 Nissan Altimas and some 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima vehicles, one of the rear lower suspension links may corrode and separate at the bushing joint area. Customers may notice a knocking or rattling noise from the rear of the vehicle or observe wheel misalignment on the rear wheel(s) if the link separates.
Nissan Altima 2013 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Altima problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Suspension problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Altima 2013 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints Nissan Altima 2013
The NHTSA has received 2266 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Altima 2013. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Altima 2013 vehicles.
2024-11-04
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP1DN
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlamps are so dim, you can't even see the road at night. This is a well known issue to Nissan that the headlamps for this make and model are defective. The headlamp assemblies need to be replaced and this should be a recall. There was a civil lawsuit and I, like many others, tried getting the headlamps replaced during the acceptable time period, but my Nissan dealership was not able to get the parts in time. Looking online, this happened to the majority of people and people weren't able to get the proper repairs needed at no fault of their own. This is a major problem that Nissan needs to address. NHTSA also has a responsibility to be pushing Nissan on this recall. My automotive repair company said they've never seen so many complaints with the NHTSA without there being a full recall. It is an extreme safety hazard to not have the road visible at night. I, along with others, have received warnings from the police as well for not having proper lighting. Please help fix this issue.
2024-11-02
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-01
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP6DC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlights are very dim and it's very hard to see when it's dark outside
2024-11-01
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP1DC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Delamination of headlight units has left low beam use unsafe. Seeing more than 20-25ft ahead of vehicle is impossible at night. There was a class action suit for this issue but I was not notified and now the window for replacement had passed. This seems like it should have been a safety recall. I attempted to get relief from Nissan but was stonewalled. Not even a discount on replacing the units.
2024-10-30
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP7DC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Unsafe to drive due to transmission not registering lower gears when at complete stop, takes full minute before gears accelerate. I have unexpectedly stalled in the middle of traffic and was almost rear ended. Going under the legal miles per hour on standard roads causing delays in traffic and potential Fire Risk due to overheating because of transmission issues. Potential harm to myself and others by causing collisions. Big O's in Boise Idaho (208) 996-1306 has confirmed it is unsafe to drive 10/29/2024. appointment with Nissan dealership 10/30/2024 Check engine light has failed to appear. The closure of a class action lawsuit over CVT transmission issues in vehicles like the 2013 Nissan Altima, without a recall, poses significant safety risks. Without a recall, critical transmission problems such as stalling, power loss, or erratic shifting remain unresolved for many drivers. Financial constraints may prevent owners from paying out-of-pocket for expensive repairs, leaving unsafe vehicles on the road. Unlike recalls, which require manufacturers to notify all affected owners and provide free repairs, lawsuits end without ongoing accountability, meaning these safety risks can persist indefinitely. Additionally, future owners, especially in the used car market, may be unaware of the defect, unknowingly operating cars with hidden risks. The lack of consistent resolution means thousands of vehicles with potentially faulty transmissions continue to pose dangers not only to their drivers but also to other road users. A recall would ensure that all affected vehicles are inspected and repaired, but without one, the burden unfairly shifts to owners, compromising road safety on a large scale.
2024-10-23
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP8DC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Power train gives out when car warms up. I’ve had fluids checked for the power train and Everything was fine. When on high way power train would either jerk tremendously or just give out. It almost caused me to wreck one day ass there was a truck behind me who nearly avoided rear ending me because the car completely slowed down.
2024-09-11
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-02
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP7DN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The dashboard light shows that the steering wheel air bag is non functioning. This has been reported on line to Nissan for several years, and not one response from Nissan. The dealership indicates that it's a malfunction, probably a sensor, and it might require me to pay up to $5,000 to identify the deficiency. I view this as a safety issue and not one of misuse. Kindly advise when this can be resolved. Your assistance will be greatly appreciated.
2024-09-02
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-17
- VIN: 1N4BL3AP8DN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: OCS not working, passenger airbag is off when adult is in seat. Apparently was recalled before but seeing that despite being “fixed” and the problem came back. Hard to get in contact with anyone at Nissan or the dealerships to take responsibility for it.
2024-08-27
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP4DN
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Very stiff steering.
2024-08-01
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP5DN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Sometimes when I'm driving the car starts idling as if I'm going fast that's how it sounds and I'm making a turn and it's sounds like it's accelerated but it won't go as much as I step on the gas it will not go so I got to pull over to the side wait for a little bit turn off the car and let it sit and then I'll go back tomorrow and it's every time this light turns on the dashboard with a car with the swively lines
2024-08-01
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed that the lower control arm frame on the driver's side was completely rusted and had detached from the vehicle. There was no warning illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 188,000. The VIN was not available.
2024-07-29
STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-27
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP6DN
- Components: STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: While driving on a highway at 65 mph, the hood of the car completely opened. When attempting to close it, The latch that holds the hood wouldn't hold it at all. There were no warning lights, when I called the dealership they said that because there were no recalls on it currently, they couldn't do anything. The hood completely blinded us and dented the roof and sides of our car.
2024-07-22
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP1DN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I was traveling straight and made an abrupt turn. I lost control of my car and struck a pole, then hit a brick building. None of the airbags in my vehicle deployed and I hit my nose on the steering wheel and sustained other injuries.
2024-07-10
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP9DC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Upon driving, the Left control arm snapped in two. The car veered to the left but I was able to regain control fortunately. Ten minutes prior I had been on a major highway. Results may have been different in that regard. Firestone Complete Auto Care assessed it and quoted me up to $600.00 for repair. I researched the Control Issue only to discover that this was a common problem on 2013 Nissan Altimas. There were beyond numerous complaints in USA and Canada, and over a quarter million Altimas were repaired for this defect. My mechanic told me that the Right Control Arm had already been repaired prior to myself purchasing the vehicle in 2016, but the Left control Arm was not repaired. Apparently there was simply a "Campaign" regarding this defect and it was never considered a recall. I am wondering if there can be some reimbersement for the $673.51 I paid to get my car fixed. I would appreciate a reply. Thank you.
2024-07-05
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP1DN
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have taken the car to 3 mechanics for 4-5 incidents knowing that the mechanics were indeed certified in professionally fixing the issue. I was driving the car and made a proper left turn, yielding to oncoming traffic when suddenly the vehicle was unable to accelerate. The other car was approaching and I pushed on the gas as hard as I could to barely get it to move out of the way, luckily avoid a collision. The car died and will restart and drive another 11 miles, repeating the process. No mechanic has been able to properly identify the cause. Please understand, I could be that "lies" to individuals in order to sell the car, but do I really want to put another person's life at such a faulty incident? Well, I recommend another recall on the issue, regardless of the cost because a little hood latch and a simple light compartment isn't anything like an unknown cause of malfunction stall towards driving in a hectic traffic.
2024-06-26
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP6DC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Front lower control arm bushings appear worn out with progressive clunking and severe shaking leading to unstable steering and unevenly worn tires
2024-06-10
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP0DC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact stated that the wheels were misaligned and had detached. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a detached passenger’s side rear lower control arm due to corrosion. The contact was informed that the passenger’s side rear lower control arm needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact was advised that due to the corrosion, the driver's side rear lower control arm would soon need to be replaced as well. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 124,000.
2024-06-08
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-08
- VIN: 1N4AL3APXDN
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The lights are positioned too low to the ground and they are not bright enough. I end up having to keep my high lights on when driving at night because the visibility is very poor otherwise. Dangerous
2024-06-08
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-08
- VIN: 1N4AL3APXDN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The paint bubbles and chips off. Bad paint job on this vehicle.
2024-05-28
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-25
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP2DC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I have contacted 2 dealerships about fixing the recall and nobody will call me back to schedule to fix. All they say is they will talk to the shop manager, and I never hear back. Now the hood is constantly stuck or not opening.
2024-05-23
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-23
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP1DC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlights on my 2013 Nissan Altima SL are dangerously dim. The car was purchased used in July, 2022 and has been driven daily by my son since then. While driving with him recently on his way home college I was driving and could barely tell that the headlights were on while driving at night through the un-lit Interstate in Virginia. The extremely low light level was alarming to me as I could not see well without using the high beams which was not always possible due to surrounding traffic, and I was constantly nervous that the others on the road may not be able to see my vehicle. Nissan is fully aware that there is an issue. In response to a class action lawsuit in 2022 they agreed to replace the headlight assemblies for those that filed a claim within a certain timeframe. The lawsuit pointed to a delaminating of the reflective materials inside the headlight assembly, so replacing the bulbs does not significantly raise the lighting output. Unfortunately the deadline for a free replacement expired prior to me purchasing the car. I contacted a local Nissan dealer on [XXX], 2024 and they indicated that the free replacement has long since expired and estimated that it would cost approximately $1,500 to replace the headlights. I then contacted Nissan corporate on the same date and received the same response. I honestly do not understand how this did not become a Safety Recall. The lights obviously do not produce adequate light levels to safely drive at night. This is worsened by the prevalence of ultra-brite HID Halogen and LED headlights on the majority of cars on the road today. Though Nissan “did not accept” liability in response to the class action lawsuit in 2022, Nissan did replace thousands of sets of headlights- admitting that they know the OEM headlights are an issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-05-17
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-17
- VIN: 1N4BL3AP8DN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: OCS System for Passenger Airbag is not working properly. Went to two dealerships and they said it was not covered under the recall 16V-244. I spoke with Nissan Consumer Affairs and they said that the recall was addressed in the past but was not able to provide when and where. The dealerships I go to for servicing do not have any history of the OCS ever being repaired which means that it was probably repaired sometime with the original owner. Assuming it was actually replaced in the past, with replacement, the part is still failing and not having reached the 15 year mark for the car or the actual recall itself is alarming.
2024-05-16
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-17
- VIN: 1N4AL3APXDC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My vehicle has a code failure for the air bag sensor light. In order to pass inspection the light has to clear itself and it is not. I’ve had this vehicle since 2015 and have never had this issue. After talking to a representative at Nissan service department, he claimed that this is an issue he has with his Nissan as well leading me to believe that this is a manufacturer issue. Upon receiving a diagnostic there is no actual damage to the sensor in question it’s just malfunctioning. Below is an explanation from the service team at Nissan. DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE: B00A0-00 OCCUPANT SENSOR MAL. CHECKED HARNESS FOR ANY DAMAGES AND FOUND NONE. UNPLUGGED UNIT AND SENSOR AND RECONNECTED THEM. ATTEMPTED TO CLEAR CODES DID NOT CLEAR, UNSUCCESSFUL. ATTEMPTED TO PERFORM ZERO POINT RELEARN, UNSUCCESSFUL. ATTEMPT TO CLEAR CODES AGAIN AND CODES DID NOT CLEAR
2024-04-30
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP0DC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Nissan never informed me of the head light recall in 2022 and as a result I've been driving on dim lights which is quite dangerous. This week I took it into a Nissan dealership in Anderson, SC to get them repaired and it cost $1500! They informed me it should have been covered under the recall but that it's expired. This is unacceptable. Nissan is responsible to inform it's car owners of all recalls and the fact that they didn't should not enable them to get away with making people pay for these recall repairs.
2024-04-30
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-25
- VIN: 1N4AL3AP3DN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I bought the car at 48, 750 miles at 71,000, transmission was sputtering and stalling. Extended warranty from Zurich paid for new parts in an old transmission. Now, car is at 106,000, transmission is shot, it is banging and knocking while driving.
2024-03-22
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- VIN: 1N4AL3APXDC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Passenger airbag safety light does not light up as it should, shows passenger isn't wearing seat belt when they are. Airbag might not deploy under these conditions. There was a recall for this, took to dealership, was not corrected. Transmission stalls and studders, will not accelerate due to faulty CVT. Causes near miss accidents. Shift lock occasionally prevents car from changing from park, reverse, drive.
Nissan Altima 2013 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the Nissan Altima 2013.
2020-05-28
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2018 Nissan Altima vehicles. If the primary hood latch is inadvertently released, there is an increased likelihood that the secondary hood latch may corrode over time.
- Consequence: Corrosion to the secondary latch may cause it to bind and remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed. If the primary latch is inadvertently released again and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will install a stronger release spring in the hood release lever, a warning label near the secondary hood latch, and an Owners Manual addendum card with instructions on how to lubricate and maintain the secondary hood latch mechanism, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: Recall 16V-029 remains open for any unremedied 2013-2015 Altimas and this recall applies to all vehicles covered by 16V-029 even if those repairs have already been performed.
2016-12-19
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant is misclassified, the air bag may deploy incorrectly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECU and update the OCS software free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
2016-04-26
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: If the passenger frontal air bag does not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, the passenger is at an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify their owners. Chevrolet City Express owners will be notified by General Motors. Dealers will reprogram the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) and OCS Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in Altima, Maxima, Murano, Rogue, and Sentra vehicles, and replace the OCS ECU in LEAF, NV200, NV200 Taxi, Pathfinder, Infiniti Q50, JX35, and QX60 and Chevrolet City Express vehicles, free of charge. Interim notices were sent to owners on May 31, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669, Infiniti customer service at 1-888-833-3216 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.
2016-01-22
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Nissan Altima vehicles manufactured March 6, 2012, to December 31, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch may bind and remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.
- Consequence: If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: These vehicles were previously included in recalls 14V-565 and 15V-116, however the previous remedy plan may not have been performed consistently to remove the safety risk. To correct this issue, Nissan will re-notify all affected owners and dealers will replace the hood latch with a new one, free of charge. The recall began on February 17, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 14V-565 and 15V-116.
2015-10-20
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger air bag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will update the OCS software, free of charge. The recall began on November 30, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
2015-08-04
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified the agency on July 31, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2016 Nissan Maxima vehicles manufactured February 10, 2015, to August 18, 2015. On October 14, 2015, Nissan expanded the recall to cover an additional 41,388 vehicles, including certain model year 2013-2015 Altima 3.5 vehicles equipped with a V6 engine manufactured March 30, 2012, to August 18, 2015 as well as the vehicles covered by the July 31, 2015 notification. In the affected vehicles, due to an improperly installed o-ring that may not have been seated correctly at the time of assembly, fuel may leak during a crash from the area where the fuel sending unit attaches to the fuel tank.
- Consequence: If fuel leaks from between the fuel sending unit and the tank, it may increase the risk of a fire in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will install a retainer ring between the fuel tank and the fuel sending unit. The recall began on September 28, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
2015-02-27
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Nissan Altima vehicles manufactured March 1, 2013, to December 31, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the secondary hood latch may bind and remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.
- Consequence: If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will be instructed to modify the bend angle of the hood actuation lever to eliminate potential interference with the hood inner panel. In addition, dealers will clean and lubricate the latch joint as needed. If significant corrosion is observed, the latch assembly will be replaced. This repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 14V-565.
2014-09-15
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013 Nissan Altima vehicles manufactured March 6, 2012, to February 28, 2013. In the affected vehicles, interference between the hood inner panel and the secondary latch lever, in combination with debris and corrosion, may cause the secondary hood latch to bind and remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed.
- Consequence: If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will be instructed to modify the bend angle of the hood actuation lever to eliminate potential interference with the hood inner panel. In addition, dealers will clean and lubricate the latch joint as needed. If significant corrosion is observed, the latch assembly will be replaced. This repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 20, 2014. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
2014-03-25
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, and Sentra, model year 2013 NV200 (aka Taxi) and Infiniti JX35 and model year 2014 Infiniti Q50 and QX60 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the occupant classification system (OCS) software may incorrectly classify the passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult.
- Consequence: If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger airbag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will update the OCS software, free of charge. The recall began on April 14, 2014. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
2013-04-24
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE
- Summary: Nissan North America is recalling certain model year 2013 Altima vehicles manufactured March 21, 2012, through March 26, 2013. The spare tires may have been significantly over- or under-inflated.
- Consequence: Tires that are significantly over- or under-inflated may fail without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and adjust the spare tire pressure, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 29, 2013. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
2013-03-01
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Nissan is recalling certain model year 2013 Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, Sentra, and Infiniti JX35 vehicles. Sensors within the passenger Occupant Detection System (ODS) may have been manufactured out of specification. This may cause the system to malfunction and permanently suppress the passenger airbag.
- Consequence: If the vehicle is involved in a crash necessitating airbag deployment and the passenger airbag is suppressed, there may be an increased risk of personal injury.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ODS sensors and replace them as neccessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 6, 2013. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.
2012-10-10
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Nissan is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Altima vehicles manufactured from May 10, 2012, through July 26, 2012. These vehicles may have been equipped with transverse link bolts and power steering rack bolts that were not torqued to proper specification.
- Consequence: The affected bolts could become loose and fall out which may lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the bolts to the proper torque specifications. The safety recall is expected to begin during November 2012. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.
Negative Nissan Altima 2013 car reviews
Positive Nissan Altima 2013 car reviews
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83,000 miles and no problems. That's great to hear! I'm going to flush the cvt trans before I hit 90,000 miles. I have changed the oil every 7,500 miles. I love the car.
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I purchased this amazing car for my wife about three months ago. When I drive it, I have a lot of fun. The Altima is quick, and it did 8.9 at 83mph in the 1/8 mile, which even surprised the announcer! I hardly feel any bumps, and I don't hear any noises. The CVT transmission is the best thing Nissan can do for their cars. This car even beat a stock Lancer Evolution 2006 by a whole car, which goes to show how well this transmission keeps its power band. Compared to a Toyota Camry, you hardly feel the shifting points. The car has 3500 miles on it, and we haven't had any problems yet. My wife and I are very satisfied with our new Altima 2013 in pearl white color.
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This is an excellent buy! The Altima is dependable, quiet, and provides an economical ride. I love the mixed driving of 28+mpg and 34 on straight interstate. The CVT transmission is fantastic! Over 5 years, I have had no problems with this car. It has a big car ride and feel, but with the high mpg you would expect from a small car. Even though white is a common color, mine is much more attractive than a Camry. The sound system in my S version is above average, and the motor and acceleration are peppy, zippy, and quiet. The interior trim is also above average, and there is plenty of legroom for a 6'-3
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The 2013 Altima S we purchased in Dec. 2012 has unfortunately been back to the dealership three times due to passenger side airbag and seatbelt warning light malfunctions. Despite the dealership claiming that the high whine from the power steering pump is normal, it is clear that only some vehicles are affected. It is disappointing that they refused to attempt a resolution. However, it is important to note that the transmission noise is a trade-off for better gas mileage. Overall, while there are some issues with the car, we remain confident in our decision to purchase it.
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I recently purchased this car after a few months of struggling. Although the CVT transmission felt different from anything I had experienced before, I quickly adjusted to it. The engine is small but peppy, and while it is not designed to be driven hard, it is meant for economy. Hard acceleration does produce some noise, but none of these are intolerable given the great mileage I am getting. For a car that is not a hybrid, it really does get over 37 mpg with behaved driving. If you are looking for a midsize, well-designed, comfortable economy car, this should definitely be on your list to consider.
Additional sources
More sources of information about Nissan Altima 2013 problems:
2013 Nissan Altima Problems and Complaints - 15 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2013-nissan-altima/problems
Top 2013 Nissan Altima Problems · Nissan Crankshaft and Camshaft Sensor Recall · Check Engine Light Due to Failure of Catalytic Converter Closest to Cylinder ...
2013 Issues, problems, reliability? | Nissan Altima Forum
https://www.altimaforums.net/threads/2013-issues-problems-reliability.8786/
Feb 5, 2013 ... There are dirty hand prints on the headliner, rattles in the dash and front doors. Scratches on some of the interior trim pieces. The 2.5 engine ...
I've read the 2013 Nissan altima is the worst altima and it should be ...
https://www.quora.com/Ive-read-the-2013-Nissan-altima-is-the-worst-altima-and-it-should-be-avoided-like-the-plague-Is-it-really-that-bad-I-want-to-buy-one-the-3-5SL-fully-loaded-Would-it-be-a-bad-decision
Mar 11, 2021 ... Their CVT transmissions don't have the greatest reputation for reliability, but other than that they are pretty good cars. If you get one with a ...
2013 Nissan Altima Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/nissan/altima/2013/common-problems/
How reliable is the 2013 Nissan Altima? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2013 Nissan Altima Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/nissan/altima/2013
No, the 2013 Nissan Altima is not a good car, based on information from 1,099 owner reviews, and 19 government and automotive websites. Positives include some ...
Other years of Nissan Altima
Are you having problems with your Nissan Altima 2013?
Sam Weber 2024-11-12
I am disappointed with my Nissan vehicle. As a first-time Nissan buyer, I had high expectations due to the brand's reputation for reliability. Unfortunately, my 2013 Nissan Altima with only 62,000 miles experienced a transmission failure, which will cost $3,750 to replace. I believe Nissan should take responsibility for the faulty CVT transmissions and issue a recall. In the future, I would consider purchasing a Toyota or Honda. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Eugene Rice 2024-11-12
I purchased this car based on the features it had to offer. However, after driving 5000 miles, I started experiencing some issues. The brake lights would come on randomly while driving, and I took it to the dealership three times, but they couldn't find anything wrong. On one occasion, the car even stopped on the road with the engine sign on, and a part had to be replaced. Unfortunately, after driving another 100 miles, the same issue occurred, and another part had to be replaced. Additionally, the air conditioning stopped working, and the compressor had to be replaced. The side mirror also came loose and was making a rattling sound, but the dealership fixed it. However, after a month, the side mirror switch stopped working. Finally, the navigation system is not refreshing while driving, and the dealership said they have to replace the SD card. I have complained to North America Nissan, but unfortunately, they are not doing anything to replace the car.
Chandler Lubowitz 2024-10-15
I purchased a beautiful car with 22k miles and unfortunately, the transmission went out after only 8 days of driving. Despite encountering some resistance from the dealer, I was able to get the issue resolved. Additionally, the air conditioner stopped working, but it was determined that it was not covered under warranty due to a leaf being found in it. Although this was frustrating, I understand the reasoning behind the decision. I am currently waiting for the car to be repaired, but I am confident that it will be back on the road soon. Overall, I am still pleased with my purchase and look forward to enjoying my car once it is fully functional.
Domenick Russel 2024-09-09
I recently purchased a 2013 Altima in Pearl White, but unfortunately discovered a paint defect the day after. The defect is noticeable in low light and shade and is listed as smottling, shadowing, or zebra/tiger striping. After a bit of drama due to clerical errors that prevented the financing from going through, I was able to return the vehicle to the dealer a month later, which saved me the time of a Lemon Law case. Although I tried contacting Nissan by creating a case, I was stalled by a representative that kept needing additional time for 'review'. Interestingly, the defect was also evident in the showroom of another dealer for a car assembled in Smyrna, TN. I also experienced some other issues consistent with reviews for heated seats, transmission, and steering noise. Perhaps it's time to consider an Accord instead.
Rodolfo Purdy 2024-08-10
I purchased the car in March of 2013. Despite being only 2 years old and having 66,000 miles, the dealer tells me it needs a new transmission. Unfortunately, Nissan has refused to offer any financial assistance due to the car being 6,000 miles out of warranty. However, I remain confident in my decision to purchase a Nissan and will continue to recommend the brand to others. While this experience has been frustrating, I trust that Nissan will continue to produce quality vehicles and stand behind their products.