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2013 Nissan Cube Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2013 Nissan Cube Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2013 Nissan Cube is rated for average reliability, making pre-purchase inspection crucial.
  • A key ownership concern is the potential for the ignition start/stop button to stick, a known issue addressed by a recall.
  • While complaint data is minimal, 59 TSBs indicate common minor issues that could affect long-term ownership.
  • Fuel economy is respectable, rated at 27 MPG combined, contributing to reasonable running costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Nissan Cube

The 2013 Nissan Cube stands out with its distinctive, asymmetrical design and surprisingly spacious, practical interior. It's powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined. While its quirky styling appeals to a niche market, its overall reliability is rated as average, with a single recall concerning the ignition switch. A significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest potential for minor, recurring issues that warrant attention.

Critical Failure Risk

The start/stop button can stick due to exposure to high temperatures, potentially preventing the vehicle from starting or shutting off. This was addressed by a recall.

Early detection can help you avoid a $100-$500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
122HP
Torque
127 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
27
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.6/ 10

Practicality

4.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by small boot.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a highly distinctive and practical small car.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing sporty driving dynamics or conventional car designs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Nissan Cube Reliability Analysis

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

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
122 hp
Torque
127 lb-ft
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Crossover
MSRP Range
$16,760 - $18,860
EPA Combined MPG
27

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Most Common Issues

1. Ignition Switch Sticking

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Various Minor Electrical and Mechanical Issues

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

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

5,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Nissan Cube reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Nissan Cube is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

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

Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 323 litres.

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

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Nissan Cube is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 4.9/10.

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

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Ignition Switch (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $300).

What is the MSRP range for the 2013 Nissan Cube?▾

MSRP range is $16,760 - $18,860.

What engine is in the 2013 Nissan Cube?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.8. Output is 122 hp • 127 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2013 Nissan Cube use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Cube, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

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

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

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

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

What is the fuel economy range for the 2013 Nissan Cube?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Cube, fuel economy range is 25-31 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2013 Nissan Cube?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Cube, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2013 Nissan Cube?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Cube, body style is crossover.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Nissan Cube use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Cube, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

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

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.

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

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Nissan Cube?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Toyota Scion xB and 2013 Honda Fit.

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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