The Good
The 2013 Nissan Altima offers a comfortable and smooth ride, appealing to those seeking a relaxing driving experience. Its fuel efficiency is a major draw for practical buyers, while the stylish design and spacious interior provide emotional appeal. The car delivers good value for money, balancing price, features, and performance.
The Bad
The 2013 Nissan Altima's continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a known weak point, with potential for premature failure. Some owners have reported issues with the electronic systems and interior materials. Regular maintenance and careful driving habits are crucial to mitigate these potential problems.
2013 Nissan Altima: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5-liter 4-cylinder: Standard engine.
- 3.5-liter V6: Available on higher trims.
- Horsepower:
- 2.5-liter 4-cylinder: 182 hp.
- 3.5-liter V6: 270 hp.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5-liter 4-cylinder: 27 mpg city / 38 mpg highway.
- 3.5-liter V6: 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times (Approximate):
- 2.5-liter 4-cylinder: 8.4 seconds.
- 3.5-liter V6: 6.2 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim Level Features:
- S: Base model with standard features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
- SV: Adds features like alloy wheels, automatic headlights, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system.
- SL: Upgrades with leather upholstery, heated front seats, a Bose audio system, and available navigation.
2013 Nissan Altima Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2013 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | Altima |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | SAMUKAWA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.5L V6 |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2013 Nissan Altima Have?
How long will the 2013 Nissan Altima last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are somewhat limited compared to newer vehicles, but some models include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Safety features consist of standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. The 2013 Nissan Altima received generally positive crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" award. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it's essential to check the specific crash-test ratings for the 2013 model year on both the IIHS and NHTSA websites for detailed information. Optional features include a sunroof and upgraded audio systems, depending on the trim level.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2013 Nissan Altima Prices and Market Value
2013 Nissan Altima Cost of Ownership
2013 Nissan Altima Fuel Efficiency
2013 Nissan Altima Safety Rating
NHTSA
2013 Nissan Altima Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2013 Nissan Altima Compare to Other Sedan?
Alternatives to consider include:
- Toyota Camry: Known for its exceptional reliability and strong resale value.
- Honda Accord: Offers a balance of performance, features, and reliability.
- Mazda6: Provides a more engaging driving experience with sporty handling.
If reliability is a top priority, the Camry or Accord are generally better choices. If you prioritize driving dynamics, the Mazda6 is a compelling alternative. If budget is a major concern and you find a well-maintained Altima with documented CVT service, it could be a reasonable option, but proceed with caution.
Ranks #1088 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1088 | 2013 Nissan Altima | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Nissan Altima a Good Sedan?
Dale on April 29, 2024
I own a 2013 Altima with technology package sport modeI own a 2013 Altima with technology package sport mode use shifting flippers to shift at red line v6 270hp flat out flies for a Sudan.
Jessica O. on February 29, 2024
Best car when taken care ofI bought my 2013 Altima Coupe brand new with 11 miles total of me test driving it. I had the car 9 years with no issues and 73,000 miles. My only regret was trading it in on a Jeep which was a nightmare. I miss my Altima and wish I still had it. No issues at all with routine maintenace.
Ken H on April 19, 2023
You can't make juice with this lemonIn 2013, I bought a new Altima (4 cylinder, SV trim) at Concordville Nissan. Aside from the usurious interest they charged me for the financing, everything seemed okay with the car. Then about five or six years ago, the secondary latch for my hood malfunctioned and my hood flew open on the highway, completely blocking the view out the windshield and almost causing me to crash. It also damaged both front quarter panels. Later, there was a recall notice about this, but it was too late for me. About two years ago, the right rear control arm completely broke away from the frame WHILE I WAS IN MY DRIVEWAY causing the right rear wheel to collapse in on itself. It was a good thing it happened where it did because the day before, I had been on Route 78 near Allentown driving next to dozens of semis in concrete cattle chutes. I could have been killed if it had snapped off then. Nissan did pay to fix this, but there should have been some sort of additional compensation for selling me a car that almost killed me. Then the "CVT" transmission in the Altima totally failed a month ago, the repair cost estimate for which exceeded $5,000. With just 110,000 miles on the odometer after ten years, this car should have been worth anywhere from $8,000 to $12,000. Instead, the CVT transmission failure essentially turned the car into scrap metal. I asked if Concordville Nissan would buy the car back from me and they initially offered me a measly $500 even though they knew that the CVT transmissions on these cars were failing very prematurely. After I posted an initial version of this review, Concordville Nissan reached out to me and agreed to pay $1,500. Not a bad deal for them considering that Nissan raked in $6,000 in interest on top of the purchase price. They can now repair the car at their hourly rate costs and then sell it in a hot used car market with low inventory. I wish in retrospect I had bought a Honda, Toyota, Mazda, etc. Those manufacturers know how to take care of their customers. For example, I had a 1999 Toyota Tacoma which had issues with excessive underbody corrosion. Instead of leaving their customers high and dry like Nissan has done to me here, Toyota recalled the truck at 1.5 times the blue book value in 2008.That worked out to be $15,000 for a nine year old pickup. That was 15 years ago, too, when the dollar was worth a lot more than it is now. Concordville Nissan, on the other hand, gave me just $1,500. They and/or Nissan corporate, knowing that CVT transmissions were failing well before their time, should have bought back my car years ago like Toyota did. Or they could have offered me a new car at their cost with no interest financing. That’s how Toyota would have handled it.
Marie Lynnette May on July 17, 2022
Love My Altima!Got this vehicle in 2020. Couldn’t ask for a better riding, better looking vehicle. Excellent gas mileage! Couldn’t be any happier with this vehicle. Awesome!
Daily on January 26, 2021
Worst car I ever bought!The transmission went bad at 97000 miles. It was sold to me from Ed Martin Anderson with a bad transmission. Two weeks after I drove it off the lot the transmission was shot.
Sabriya anita on January 21, 2021
Truly a luxury carI am truly impressed with the lighting of the dashboard as well as the seating. The overall style is impressive along with the comfort. Exceeded my expectations.
Nissan Fan on January 11, 2021
Very reliable and great on GasWould buy this car again. Most reliable car I ever own. no major mech. issues. Third Nissan product I've owned. Previous car was a Nissan Rogue which i had for 5 years...no issues.
Adam on January 4, 2021
It’s a great car!The only problem I have with my 2013 Altima 2.5 SL, is that the Interior door handles suck. Mine broke 1 month in. 8/10 otherwise it’s an awesome car.
Fun car on November 18, 2020
Awesome commuter carThis v6 SL Trim line is the Best car I ever owned. Powerful zippy and great for long rides. Handles well in all weather conditions. Great great value!
joepdough on October 26, 2020
Most reliable car I've ownedThis car met all my needs. It was comfortable, and enjoyable to drive. I highly recommend it to anybody interested in picking one up for themselves.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.