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

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant safety recall activity, especially concerning the airbag system, requires verification of completed repairs.
- A high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests potential for various other issues that may impact long-term ownership.
- The 1.8-liter engine and 6-speed manual transmission combination delivers good fuel efficiency for its class.
- While lacking formal complaints, the extensive recall history indicates potential underlying issues that could affect reliability.
2013 Nissan Sentra
Critical Failure Risk
Issues with the Occupant Classification System (OCS) can lead to the airbag system not deploying or deactivating unexpectedly. This is a recurring issue with multiple recalls.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 130HP
- Torque
- 128 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel economy over long-term mechanical certainty.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal risk of unexpected repairs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2013 Nissan Sentra Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Nissan Sentra.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 130 hp
- Torque
- 128 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 30
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbag System Malfunction (OCS)
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Fuel Tank Leak
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation
Est. shop cost: $70 - $120
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FAQ
Is the 2013 Nissan Sentra reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Nissan Sentra is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2013 Nissan Sentra for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.8/10. EPA combined economy is 30 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 428 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2013 Nissan Sentra?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Nissan Sentra is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.8/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Nissan Sentra?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (OCS) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).
What engine is in the 2013 Nissan Sentra?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.8. Output is 130 hp • 128 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2013 Nissan Sentra use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Sentra, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Nissan Sentra?
EPA combined estimate is 30 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Nissan Sentra?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2013 Nissan Sentra?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Sentra, fuel economy range is 27-39 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2013 Nissan Sentra?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Sentra, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2013 Nissan Sentra?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Sentra, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2013 Nissan Sentra use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Sentra, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Nissan Sentra?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Nissan Sentra?
This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.