2013 Nissan Altima Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
2013 Nissan Altima
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
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.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (AV-S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 25
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Most Common Issues
1. Hood Latch Malfunction
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Air Bag System Faults (OCS)
Usage data observed
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
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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.