Known Issues Preview
⚠️ High RiskDrivetrain
CVT Transmission Failure
The 2013 Altima's Xtronic CVT transmission is the most complained about issue in the entire Altima lineup. Owners report the transmission getting stuck while driving, forcing them to pull over and restart the vehicle. The transmission shudders, jerks, and hesitates during acceleration. Many owners needed full transmission replacement as early as 55,000 miles, well before the average lifespan of 150,000 miles. The 2013 model earned an Avoid Like the Plague badge from CarComplaints.com with over 2,000 complaints for this issue alone.
Estimated Repair Cost
$3,000 to $5,700
2,100+
owner complaints
⚠️ High RiskSafety
Airbag System Defect
The 2013 through 2016 Altima has a documented airbag defect that can cause airbags to fail to deploy in a crash. This is a critical safety issue affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles. Nissan issued recalls to address this but always verify the recall was completed before purchasing any 2013 Altima.
Estimated Repair Cost
$900 or more if out of warranty
400+
owner complaints
Recall Alert
🚨
CVT Transmission Class Action Lawsuit Settled
2013 through 2016 Altima owners may be eligible for reimbursement
Nissan settled a class action lawsuit covering 2013 through 2016 Altimas with CVT transmission issues. Owners may be eligible for reimbursement on transmission repairs. Verify all airbag recalls are completed and ask the seller for full service records before signing anything.
More Known Issues
Seller Questions and Mechanic Checklist
CarScope Verdict
Unlock the full report
Get every known issue, repair costs, best and worst years, seller questions, mechanic checklist, and our final buying verdict.
✓
3 more known issues with costs✓
Best and worst model years explained✓
5 questions to ask the seller✓
Mechanic inspection checklist✓
CarScope buying verdict
Join Waitlist · Get Full Report Free at Launch
Related Vehicle Reports