It’s not unusual for a car to have a particularly terrible year. In fact, many of the most recurring and troublesome flaws don’t show up until the car has been owned for a while. The Nissan Altima had a good year virtually every year. But let’s talk about the Nissan Altima 2013 problems.
Of course, there are sporadic instances where car owners experience issues, but for the most part, people adore their Nissan Altima sedans since they are reliable automobiles.
However, there is one issue with the 2013 models that seem to be occurring for an increasing number of owners. Additionally, it is a very costly problem to have.
- 2013 Nissan Altima
- Nissan Altima Problems
- Nissan Altima To Avoid
- Altima Acceleration Problems
- Frequently Asked Questions
2013 Nissan Altima
A full-size vehicle must have been the length of a stretch limo if the 2013 Nissan Altima was to establish a new benchmark for the midsize sedan segment.
The Nissan Maxima was about an inch shorter than the new Altima, which is huge, really big. Either those vehicles are moving around in the Nissan range, or a boat will replace the next Maxima.
The Good
The 2013 Nissan Altima has a smooth ride, and its continuously variable transmission significantly improves fuel economy. The offered navigation system has a Google address search feature.
The Bad
The more recent, more energy-efficient engine technology is not utilized in the new Nissan Altima. The phone system is the only thing that the basic voice command manages.
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder or the 3.5-liter V-6 is the two engine options for the Altima, which is available in trims from base to SL.
The 3.5 SL top-trim model was a great vehicle. At this level, the automobile is exceptionally well-equipped; the only option left is GPS. Strangely, the $1,090 navigation package was not an option on the SL.
Additionally, it has a networked system that uses Google to search for areas of interest. Blind-spot detection is one of the helpful features included in the navigation package.
1. Paddle Shifters
Shift paddles for the continuously variable gearbox of the Altima are located behind the steering wheel.
We are not talking weak little plastic bits that are tacky-taped to the back of the spokes, but rather broad, magnesium paddles that are fastened to the steering column.
The CVT’s seven virtual shift points are oddly complemented by the paddles, which are uncommon on any midsize sedan.
A surprising addition to the midsize sedan class is the full-size shift paddles, which are mounted to the steering column.
However, there is another feature of this Altima that implies the paddles may not be completely inappropriate.
The Altima’s ride quality is remarkably smooth as if it were spring-loaded to haul a few tons of goods. As the Altima cruises along the interstate, it makes quick work of the bumps and expansion joints, giving off a distinct sensation of quality.
The stiff suspension setup of the Altima effectively resists body roll in the corners.
Nissan chooses a hydraulic-electric hybrid power-steering system over the pure electric power-steering systems that are increasingly popular in order to improve driving quality.
The latter sort of technology completely replaces the older pure-hydraulic systems that draw power from the engine to maintain pressure by boosting steering input through an electric motor.
2. Altima Hybrid
Nissan’s hybrid technology avoids draining engine power by increasing steering input with hydraulics while maintaining pressure with an electric pump.
This power steering technology gives the Altima a more traditional steering feel. The Altima’s steering wheel exhibits a recognizable heaviness and conveys a road feel to the driver, as opposed to the numb, lifeless feeling typical of electronic power steering systems.
Along with travel details, the instrument cluster LCD also displays the currently playing music.
It offers a fun driving experience along winding mountain roads because of the suspension, handling, and large paddle shifters.
Some understeer is noticeable in the sharper turns, but it’s starting with how much the Altima resembled a rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
With this latest generation, Nissan claims to have been aiming for European handling, and many would argue that the business was successful.
3. Conventional LCD Display
The center dash of the Altima SL was still equipped with a 5-inch LCD screen, which was 2 inches smaller than it would have been with navigation.
In addition to showing audio data, this LCD also contains a non-interactive panel for the Bluetooth hands-free phone system that is voice-activated.
With a button to launch the iPod menu and a tuning dial to cycle through lists of artists, albums, or tracks, the stereo’s user interface is simple to use.
When it is available, the LCD even displays the album art for the current song. The Altima’s USB port is conveniently located in front of the shifter at the base of the central dashboard.
4. The Features
Additionally, the stereo has Bluetooth audio streaming, which, at least when using an iPhone, displays complete track information on the LCD.
While playing audio from an iPhone via Bluetooth, the Altima’s 5-inch LCD displays all track information.
The Altima’s voice command is highly constrained without the navigation option; it can only operate the hands-free phone system.
However, it does provide complete contact list integration, so you could call someone by saying their names from my phone’s contact list.
The nine-speaker Bose audio system is a wonderful standard feature of the SL-trim Altima. The music it produces is really loud and rich, albeit the clarity may be improved.
The system’s powerful vocal reproduction was particularly impressive. The bass did not sound very powerful with the default settings, but raising it up produced frequencies that one could feel.
Some discovered that several of the tracks got buried in densely layered electronic music, concealing some of the softer or more delicate sounds.
While a nicely detailed LCD on the instrument cluster displays the currently playing track or trip information, depending on what the driver selects, the steering-wheel spokes are home to a number of buttons and switches for managing the stereo and enabling voice command.
5. Dated Engines
The 3.5-liter V-6 engine from Nissan’s VQ series drove the front wheels of this car. These days, when fuel efficiency is of the utmost importance, a V-6 in a midsize sedan seems excessive.
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in the Nissan produces what should be a sufficient 182 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, compared to the V-6’s 270 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the four-average cylinder’s fuel efficiency is nearly 6 mpg higher than the V-6’s.
Both of these engine options rely on the tried-and-true variable valve timing, without truly pushing the efficiency technology envelope.
The Altima V-6’s ability to get 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the interstate is primarily due to the CVT. Nissan will eventually need to make use of direct-injection and turbocharging technology employed by other manufacturers to lower engine displacement and increase fuel efficiency.
It is strange that Nissan did not use this new Altima as an opportunity to enhance its engine technology.
6. CVT Transmission
The CVT, however, is more effective than ever. This transmission provides smooth acceleration and maintains the engine’s operating range, which maximizes fuel efficiency.
The CVT quickly changed ratios as I pushed on the gas to accelerate quickly, drawing more power from the engine. Nissan also provides seven preset fixed ratio shift points that you can choose from utilizing those substantial magnesium paddles.
In addition to including this navigation system, the Tech package also includes driver assistance capabilities.
Nissan seems to have prioritized ride quality with the 2013 Altima as a key value rather than pushing for new technology.
The CVT stands out as the most cutting-edge part of the drivetrain, and Nissan used clever engineering to the power-steering system to keep it feel traditional while gaining the efficiency of an electric system.
With the additional benefit of a connected search option for the navigation system, the accessible cabin electronics satisfy essential features.
Voice command was fairly limited, at least in a car without the GPS feature. Nissan should make it possible to control the audio system with it.
2013 Nissan Altima Problems
The technology found in the 2013 Altima has more issues than the 1992 model did with several of its advanced functions.
According to the NHTSA, the 2013 Nissan Altima’s airbags, electrical system, and transmission are some of its frequent trouble spots.
Nissan Altima Years To Avoid
Do you want to buy a used Nissan Altima mid-size sedan, but you’re not sure which model year to pick? You are on the right page.
One of Nissan’s oldest and most well-known models, the Altima, is also one of their most reliable models. Nissan is a Japanese carmaker. But not every Nissan Altima model is the same, and some are just more dependable than others.
There is a good reason why the Altima mid-size sedan is so well-liked. The majority of the Nissan Altima’s versions are solid choices if you’re wanting to purchase one used.
However, there are a few Nissan Altima model years that customers like you may want to avoid because they are said to have some serious problems such as with the Nissan Altima 2013 problems.
2002 Nissan Altima
Customers’ reviews of the 2002 Altima on CarComplaints.com show that there have been over 1,000 complaints and over 12 recalls, which doesn’t give prospective purchasers much hope.
The 2002 Altima has some of the worst issues, including high oil usage, catalytic converter failure, and exhaust system issues.
Many owners have reported that their Altima started billowing smoke and guzzled oil like crazy. The cost to correct this specific oil consumption problem is estimated to be around $3,300+, which is absurd.
Currently, purchasing a 2002 Altima is a major gamble because it is simply much too old.
The 2002 Nissan Altima’s flaws are so serious that Car Complaints awarded it the “Avoid Like the Plague” mark.
2005 Nissan Altima
the Nissan Altima 2005 model is another vehicle with very many complaints. Engine problems, body/paint problems, and transmission problems were the three places that got the most complaints.
The corroded floor pan is one of the main problems with the 2005 Altima. The floor pan eventually became so rusty that a basketball-sized hole appeared under the floor mat. This issue typically costs around $1,000 to fix.
The 2005 Altima experiences excessive oil consumption around 100k miles, which might result in $2,000 in repair costs for owners.
Last but not least, the climate system usually fails after 100k or more miles, and a replacement can cost up to $1,400.
2009 Nissan Altima
The 2009 Nissan Altima is one of the worst models to steer clear of with over 2000 complaints. Looking at the defect categories, it appears that the 2009 Altima has a significant steering issue.
In particular, several owners of Altima have encountered steering wheel locks which made it impossible for drivers to maintain adequate control of the car.
Of course, there is a significant safety concern here, and repairs often cost $960.
In addition, many drivers report a whining sound that gets louder as the vehicle speeds up.
It appears that this was a transmission-related problem, which typically manifests itself at about 100k miles. The warranty will typically cover the $5,700 average repair cost for this problem.
2013 Nissan Altima
The 2013 Nissan Altima is the worst model year, based on the volume of Nissan Altima 2013 problems, according to Car Complaints.
With over 3,000 complaints and the “Avoid Like the Plague” badge of disapproval, the 2013 Nissan Altima ought to be among the worst models to stay away from.
The 2013 Altima’s defective CVT transmission mechanism is to blame for the majority of the complaints. The transmission frequently becomes stuck while a customer is driving, requiring them to stop and restart the car.
You may have to pay up to $3,000+ for repairs because the model is no longer covered by a warranty.
The 2013 Altima’s climate control is yet another area where it struggles the most. According to numerous accounts, the compressor will rub against the structure of the car, causing damage to occur more quickly. You will typically have to pay $1,200 to fix this issue.
2016 Nissan Altima
Although it’s not the least dependable car on this list, the 2016 Altima does have a few issues that you might not want to deal with.
The 2016 Nissan Altima had a Reliability Rating of 1 out of 5 overall from Consumer Reports.
The 2016 Altima’s gearbox continues to have issues. A common complaint among owners is that their car would suddenly stop accelerating in traffic or that the transmission would mostly slip when turning.
Expect to spend roughly $4,260 on a replacement for the transmission.
The Altima was not part of the Takata airbag recall, even though other 2013 Nissan vehicles were.
However, there are issues with the occupant classification system (OCS). The OCS, commonly referred to as the supplemental restraint system, is a component of an automobile’s airbag system (SRS).
The OCS recognizes tenants of various sizes. This enables the passenger airbag to turn off if a child or other tiny passenger is present. Small people can suffer serious injuries from airbags.
Due to an OCS error, the passenger airbag might not deploy.
Two sensors positioned in the seat cushions and a specialized control module make up the OCS system in the 2013 Nissan Altima.
The two sensors communicate the passenger weight data to the control module. This data goes to the airbag diagnostic unit via the control module. The passenger airbag should then be disabled, as determined by the airbag diagnostic unit.
Concerning issues with the OSC control module, Nissan issued a recall. It claims that during assembly, a bad OSC control module might be the cause.
In the event of a collision, this may result in improper airbag deployment, raising the possibility of damage.
Nissan Altima 2013 Problems #1 – Powertrain
The use of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) in automobiles is very recent. To improve fuel efficiency, many manufacturers utilize them in place of conventional automatics.
Most CVT transmissions (like the one Nissan uses) employ a steel belt and pullies rather than gear sets.
This offers an endless variety of “gear ratios.” The CVT transmission found in the 2013 Nissan Altima is notorious for being quite problematic.
Nissan Altima 2013 Problems #2 – Issues With The CVT Transmission
A vast number of symptoms, including shuddering, slippage, and neutralizing, can be present in 2013 Nissan Altima CVT gearboxes that are malfunctioning.
Additionally, Nissan Altima 2013 problems as well as with the 2016 model issues with the CVT assembly could cause “limp mode” and turn on the check engine light.
Nissan provided its dealerships with a technical service bulletin (TSB) pertaining to the CVT. A flow chart for diagnosis is available in the TBS.
The service expert will then have to either replace the transmission valve body or complete transmission as a result. The former rarely works, necessitating a complete transmission replacement.
Nissan Altima 2013 Problems #3 – Electrical Apparatus
Informational systems are wonderful—until they break down. With its NissanConnect infotainment system, Nissan has experienced numerous issues such as with the Nissan Altima 2013 problems.
A number of TSBs are relevant to the system. A screen that malfunctions are one of the key worries.
Nissan Altima 2013 Problems #4 – Major Key Fob Issues
Numerous owners complain about their inability to start their cars due to the system failing to recognize the key fob.
iPod audiobooks play at double speed or the center display turns black.
Owners of Altimas have voiced complaints about infotainment screens going blank or behaving strangely.
Audiobooks sometimes play through the iPod connector at double the normal speed. Nissan published a TSB in relation to this problem. The manual gives service technicians instructions on how to upgrade the unit’s software.
2013 Nissan Altima Acceleration Problems
Delay in acceleration is one of the most frequent Nissan Altima 2013 problems owners have with the Nissan Altima in general. Although others have previously mentioned it, the 2016 Nissan Altima has been the subject of extensive reporting.
The issue arises when the car appears to stop accelerating for a brief amount of time. A car has come to a stop.
You press on the pedal. There is no vehicle revving. For a brief period, nothing happens. You cannot press the pedal harder without the car moving.
The second issue is that, when it does move, it does so abruptly and severely. This implies that the car will suddenly accelerate swiftly after a brief period of inactivity. An accident risk may increase as a result of this.
The fact that the experts struggle to replicate the issue when they try to fix it is a major worry. It is challenging to make happen in a workshop since it happens so rarely.
Nissan hasn’t announced any recalls or provided any information regarding this issue.
Nissan Altima 2013 Problems #5 – Reduced Acceleration
In operation, you will notice that the acceleration drops.
The Nissan Altima frequently experiences a decrease in acceleration while the driver is in control of the car.
When the owner randomly presses the accelerator, nothing happens. The car doesn’t stop, but it also doesn’t get bigger as the driver would like.
Nissan Altima vehicles from a range of years, including the 2016 and 2017 versions, often have this issue.
When the user tries to speed above 55 miles per hour, it frequently occurs. High speeds can cause this to occur, making it challenging for drivers to maintain control of the car’s speed. This poses a serious risk to your safety.
When they press the accelerator, drivers claim that the RPMs do not rise.
Others claim that, for a little moment, the gas pedal appears to be inactive. Some claimed they could let the speed go below 55 mph before stepping on the gas. They can somewhat quicken their speed if they do this.
Dealerships have also had trouble reproducing this issue. Some have reported that maintaining the transmission can solve the issue. An early transmission flush could be useful here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Nissan Altimas Last
Whether you drive a sedan or a coupe, the Nissan Altima is a fantastic car to own. You can anticipate your Nissan Altima to last 200,000 to 300,000 miles—or 13 to 20 years.
What Is Nissan CVT Transmission
The CVT type of transmission is an automatic transmission which has a belt made of steel belt between two pulleys. The drive pulley diameter which sends torque from the engine, and the driven pulley, which transmits torque to the wheels, are simultaneously adjusted by the CVT to continuously modify its gear ratios.
Do Nissans Have Transmission Problems
Problems with Nissan CVT transmissions are frequent in a wide range of Nissan automobiles. In general, anyone who owns a Nissan car with a faulty CVT transmission may be eligible to sue Nissan for damages.
Image Notes:
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- Nissan-Altima-2013-Problems-1-1.jpg sourced from https://usa.nissannews.com/en-US/releases/release-b40f14dcc5d4433baf1fededdf9cd37d-2013-nissan-altima#
- Nissan-Altima-2013-Problems-2-2.jpg sourced from https://usa.nissannews.com/en-US/releases/release-b40f14dcc5d4433baf1fededdf9cd37d-2013-nissan-altima#
- Nissan-Altima-2013-Problems-3-1.jpg sourced from https://usa.nissannews.com/en-US/releases/release-b40f14dcc5d4433baf1fededdf9cd37d-2013-nissan-altima#
