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2013 Nissan Altima Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Daniel Wilson·8 Critical Recalls
2013 Nissan Altima Report

Overall Score

7.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant safety recall history, particularly for the hood latch and airbag systems, necessitates thorough inspection.
  • The 2013 Altima achieved top marks in NHTSA crash tests, indicating good occupant protection.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with the combined MPG rating of 25 contributing to reasonable running costs.
  • A high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests potential for various minor issues beyond major recalls.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Nissan Altima

The 2013 Nissan Altima presents a mixed bag for used car buyers. While it offers respectable fuel economy and strong safety ratings, its reliability record is overshadowed by a substantial number of recalls. The 3.5L V6 engine provides ample power, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in most trims, though some models feature a 6-speed automatic. Potential buyers must be diligent in verifying the history and condition of any example.

Critical Failure Risk

Multiple recalls address issues with the hood latch mechanism, including binding and potential unlatching. This can lead to the hood opening unexpectedly while driving, posing a significant safety hazard.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls15
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing strong safety scores and decent fuel economy on a budget.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal unexpected repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Nissan Altima Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Nissan Altima.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (AV-S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
25

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See the full 2013 Nissan Altima buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Hood Latch Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Air Bag System Faults (OCS)

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Hood Latch Mechanism

Est. shop cost: $80 - $120

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
15 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Nissan Altima reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Nissan Altima is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 15. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2013 Nissan Altima for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Nissan Altima?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Nissan Altima is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Nissan Altima?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Hood Latch Mechanism at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Hood Latch Assembly (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $500).

What engine is in the 2013 Nissan Altima?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2013 Nissan Altima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Altima, transmission is Automatic (AV-S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Nissan Altima?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Nissan Altima?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 Nissan Altima?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Altima, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Nissan Altima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Altima, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Nissan Altima?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Nissan Altima?▾

This model year has 15 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Nissan Altima?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Toyota Camry and 2013 Honda Accord.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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