by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2013 Nissan Versa Review: Extremely Unreliable & Expensive To Own

Rating: 4.22
Based on 49 Owner Reviews â–¶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2013 Nissan Versa is a subcompact car known for its affordability and spacious interior, particularly in the rear seats. It's part of the Versa's second generation, produced from 2012-2019. The primary body style is a sedan. Key trims included the S, SV, and SL. New, it ranged roughly from $12,000 to $16,000. Its exceptional fuel economy and low price point made it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Good

The 2013 Nissan Versa offers excellent fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers seeking low running costs. It boasts a surprisingly spacious interior for its class, enhancing comfort. Its low price makes it an attractive "first car" or budget-friendly option, providing peace of mind with affordable transportation. While not sporty, it gets the job done reliably.

The Bad

The 2013 Nissan Versa suffers from a somewhat bland driving experience and a lack of engaging features. Its acceleration is sluggish. Watch out for potential CVT transmission issues, especially with higher mileage. The interior materials are generally low-grade. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate potential problems.

2013 Nissan Versa: Quick Overview

Here's a bullet-point summary of the 2013 Nissan Versa's key specifications:

  • Engine: 1.6-liter 4-cylinder
  • Horsepower: 109 hp @ 6,000 rpm
  • Torque: 107 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
    • Manual: 27 mpg city / 36 mpg highway
    • CVT: 31 mpg city / 40 mpg highway
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 10.5 - 11.5 seconds (depending on transmission)
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
  • Trim Levels and Key Features:
    • S: Base model. Includes standard features like air conditioning, a two-speaker audio system, and manual windows and locks.
    • S Plus: Adds a CVT transmission and rear spoiler.
    • SV: Includes features like power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control, and a four-speaker audio system.
    • SL: Top-of-the-line trim. Features alloy wheels, fog lights, upgraded cloth upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system. Available options may include a navigation system and a rearview camera.
  • Transmission Options: 5-speed manual (S trim only) or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
The Versa prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance. The CVT transmission is designed to maximize gas mileage, but it can sometimes feel sluggish during acceleration. The trim levels offer a range of features to cater to different budgets and preferences.

2013 Nissan Versa Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2013
Make Nissan
Model Versa
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Mexico
Manufacturing City AGUASCALIENTES CITY
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.6-L I4
Engine Size 1.6L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds Continuously Variable
Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis
View VINCheck Report

What Problems Does the 2013 Nissan Versa Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2013 Nissan Versa often revolve around the CVT transmission. Some owners have reported issues such as slipping, shuddering, or complete failure, particularly at higher mileages. Regular CVT fluid changes are crucial to prolonging its lifespan. Other common complaints include issues with the air conditioning system, specifically compressor failures. Some owners have also reported problems with the ignition system and sensors. While not as widespread, there have been reports of issues related to the electrical system, such as malfunctioning sensors or control modules.

Recalls for the 2013 Nissan Versa have included issues related to the fuel system and airbags. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website to see if it has any outstanding recalls. Long-term reliability can be a concern, especially with the CVT transmission. Owners should adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule and address any unusual noises or behavior promptly. The 2012 and 2014 model years of the Versa also experienced similar CVT issues, so the problem wasn't unique to 2013, but is a characteristic of this generation Versa.

How long will the 2013 Nissan Versa last?

With good maintenance, a 2013 Nissan Versa can realistically last for 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-15 years. However, longevity heavily depends on consistent maintenance, especially CVT fluid changes every 30,000 miles. Neglecting maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan. The primary long-term durability concern is the CVT transmission. Other potential weaknesses include rust, particularly in areas with road salt, and wear and tear on interior components. Proper care and timely repairs are key to maximizing the Versa's lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
coloroutsidethelines
Many options - Navigation, keyless entry, back up camera, usb, remote start, plus new transmission and new tires. Metallic blue with clean, sandstone interior. Plenty of trunk space.
Arvind Iyer
I, being an international student, was looking for a car, that had a blend of good gas mileage, low and hassle-free maintenance, space, comfort and safety, all at an affordable price. Because I did not wand to spend too much, I looked in the direction of used cars, and since I travel around 60 miles per day for work, I needed a car with good gas mileage, in order to reduce the fuel bills. After looking and considering various options, one day, I saw an online advertisement for this car. After doing a thorough research, taking a test drive of this car and discussing with my family, I came to a conclusion that this would be the perfect first car for me. I bought this car around 3 months ago and I am extremely happy with my purchase. I find this car extremely easy and comfortable to drive. I am getting around 37 miles per gallon on the highway (the gauge shows an average gas mileage of 35.2 miles per gallon), which is really good, considering that I tend to drive this car briskly at times. I have driven this car at 87 mph on I-95, and I am happy to report that the car was extremely stable, even at this speed. This car has a fantastic combination of good pulling power, along with good gas mileage. My car is an SV model, equipped with a CVT gearbox, power windows, central locking, tilt steering adjust, and most importantly cruise control and an aux-in port for playing music. Cruise control helps me in improving the car's gas mileage, while aux-in port means that I can play music in the car through my phone, which is million times better than playing music through a CD Player, perfect in this day and age for tech-savvy people, who also like to listen to music. One day, I tried sitting in the backseat of my car, behind the driver's seat, after pushing it all the way back. And I am happy to report that I did not feel cramped at all (my height is 5'11", and I have long legs) and I had enough space between my legs and the seat, which proves that this car is extremely spacious .Another point that I would like to make, is that honestly, I find this car much better looking than the Nissan Versas after it (i.e. 2015 and beyond, with their bigger grille and headlights), and finally, this car scores top marks with regards to safety, I mean frankly, there is no modern used car, apart from this one, that costs under $5000 and comes with 6 airbags (most cars in this price come with only two airbags), anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure-monitoring (TPMS), traction control etc. And to top it all off, Nissan is an extremely reliable brand. Honestly, if you are looking in the market for your first car, and you want the car to be affordable, safe, spacious, comfortable, music-friendly and great on gas mileage, it is hard to beat the Nissan Versa.
Stephanie
This car is perfect for the both of us. It's stereo is awesome,we have perfect leg room, the seats are comfy. It has a nice big trunk. It's awesome on gas,we've taken a couple road trips already and love the great gas mileage we got. We love our new car,it's so dependable and cute. Thank you Keifer Nissan Volvo of Corvallis.
Negative Owner Reviews
paul
I have had 2 major brake malfunctions and almost crashed both times in my new 2013 nissan versa . This was the worst buy I have ever purchased and the people i deal with at nissan are even worse.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2013 Nissan Versa offers basic tech and safety features typical for its class and price point. Standard features on the base S trim are minimal, including a basic two-speaker audio system and air conditioning. Higher trims (SV and SL) offer more amenities.

Entertainment:
  • Higher trims include a four or six-speaker audio system.
  • Available Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls (SL trim).
  • Optional navigation system on the SL trim.
Driver-Assistance:
  • Cruise control is available on SV and SL trims.
  • Optional rearview camera on the SL trim.
Safety Features:
  • Standard antilock brakes (ABS).
  • Electronic stability control (ESC).
  • Traction control.
  • Front and side airbags.
Crash Test Ratings:
The 2013 Nissan Versa received good overall safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it an overall rating of four out of five stars. It's important to note that the base model lacked some features, and opting for a higher trim level provided a more comprehensive set of safety features. The Versa focuses on providing essential safety features rather than advanced driver-assistance systems commonly found in newer vehicles. The availability of optional features depended on the specific trim level and package.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Metallic Blue
Super Black
Brilliant Silver Metallic
Graphite Blue
Fresh Powder
Red Brick
Interior Colors
Sandstone
Charcoal

2013 Nissan Versa Prices and Market Value

The 2013 Nissan Versa had a starting MSRP of around $12,000 when new, with higher trims reaching approximately $16,000. Current used market prices generally range from $4,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The Versa depreciates significantly due to its initial low price and the availability of newer, more feature-rich competitors. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, maintenance history, and location. Models with lower mileage, a clean title, and documented maintenance records command higher prices. The CVT transmission's reliability (or lack thereof) also impacts resale value negatively.

2013 Nissan Versa Cost of Ownership

The 2013 Nissan Versa is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its affordable price and safety ratings. Fuel economy is excellent, contributing to lower running costs. Routine maintenance is relatively inexpensive. However, potential CVT transmission repairs can be costly. Overall, the Versa is a budget-friendly choice, but preventative maintenance is key to avoiding major expenses. Long-term ownership costs are lower compared to many other vehicles, provided the CVT is well-maintained.

2013 Nissan Versa Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage 26 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 35 miles/gallon

2013 Nissan Versa Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2013 Nissan Versa Recalls & Defects

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:pedals and Linkages
Recall date 2015-08-12
Recall no. 15v507000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012-2015 Nissan Versa Sedan Vehicles Manufactured June 9, 2011, TO March 11, 2015, and 2014-2015 Nissan Versa Note Vehicles Manufactured April 23, 2013, TO March 11, 2015. THE Affected Vehicles Have A Center Console Trim Panel That MAY Catch THE Driver's Shoe and Delay THE Transition From THE Accelerator Pedal TO THE Brake Pedal.
Consequence A Delay IN THE Application OF THE Brake Pedal Would Lengthen THE Distance Needed TO Stop THE Vehicle and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Modify THE Console Trim Panel, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 14, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Recall date 2015-08-12
Recall no. 15v507000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012-2015 Nissan Versa Sedan Vehicles Manufactured June 9, 2011, TO March 11, 2015, and 2014-2015 Nissan Versa Note Vehicles Manufactured April 23, 2013, TO March 11, 2015. THE Affected Vehicles Have A Center Console Trim Panel That MAY Catch THE Driver's Shoe and Delay THE Transition From THE Accelerator Pedal TO THE Brake Pedal.
Consequence A Delay IN THE Application OF THE Brake Pedal Would Lengthen THE Distance Needed TO Stop THE Vehicle and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Modify THE Console Trim Panel, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 14, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2013 Nissan Versa Insurance

Insurance for a 2013 Nissan Versa is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2013 Nissan Versa Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2013 Nissan Versa competes with subcompact cars like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, and Chevrolet Sonic. In terms of price, the Versa is often one of the most affordable options in its class. However, its performance is generally considered less engaging than the Fiesta or Fit. The Yaris and Sonic offer similar levels of fuel efficiency, but the Fit stands out with its versatile cargo space and practicality. Reliability-wise, the Toyota Yaris generally has a stronger reputation than the Versa, particularly regarding transmission issues. The Honda Fit offers a more refined driving experience and better overall build quality.

In terms of features, the Versa offers a decent selection, especially in higher trims, but it may lack some of the advanced technology available in competitors like the Fiesta or Sonic. If reliability and driving enjoyment are priorities, the Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris are better alternatives, even at a slightly higher price point. If budget is the primary concern, the Versa is a viable option, but potential buyers should be aware of the CVT transmission's potential issues and factor in the cost of regular maintenance. The Chevy Sonic also offers a more modern interior design and better safety scores than the Versa.

Ranks #1093 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 (5.0★)
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★)
1093 2013 Nissan Versa (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Nissan Versa a Good Sedan?

The 2013 Nissan Versa is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking affordable and fuel-efficient transportation, particularly those prioritizing a spacious interior over driving excitement. It's a decent choice for first-time car buyers or those needing a basic commuter vehicle. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition. A well-maintained used model with documented CVT fluid changes can be a good value. Avoid models with high mileage or signs of transmission problems. The SV or SL trims offer better features than the base S trim. Given its age, buying used is the only option. Consider alternatives like the Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris if reliability and driving dynamics are higher priorities.

2013 Nissan Versa Owner Reviews

4.22
Consumer Rating, Based on 49 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
Cancel
Thank You for Your Review!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you took to share your experience with us.

Uh oh!

Something went wrong, please try again later.

William Nichols on June 23, 2022

Great car

I bought it new. Mine is manual transmission. I have 162k miles, I have never had a problem. I have only done oil changes and tires. It's best car I have ever owned.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Nydia's Nissan on December 13, 2020

Good car for it's year and mileage

Is a good car for his time, have some characteristics that make me feel comfortable driving it. It's my first car and make me feel sure.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

coloroutsidethelines on October 30, 2020

Great car, great gas mileage!

Many options - Navigation, keyless entry, back up camera, usb, remote start, plus new transmission and new tires. Metallic blue with clean, sandstone interior. Plenty of trunk space.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

MrMaestro on October 25, 2019

Disappointment

Great mileage and an inexpensive buy, but man did it rip my heart (and wallet) out. Transmission died at 64k miles. Electric system then began to malfunction causing the car to stall in traffic. Nissan couldn’t figure it out and I’m no mechanic. Ended up getting rid of it at 70k, very disappointed. Nissan also refused to stand by it and offered no compensation for its miserable performance.

Was this review helpful?
0
1

Nissanfan on October 5, 2019

Most economical car I’ve owned

This car is small but mighty! It is so easy to maneuver and fits in the smallest parking spaces but has so much room inside! It would drive me to and from work and school but now since I moved our of state I could use the cash

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Ali on August 17, 2019

Nissan versa 2013 with very good condition

This car is very good inside out with no problem what so ever it Drive perfect good Engine and trans the body is great with no problem

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Cook baker on June 27, 2019

Nissan senta

Transmission don't like. Ride is hard. Gas mileage great. Body ok, Interior ok light weight on the interstate. Move around in wind and cars passing

Was this review helpful?
0
1

Shazia on January 23, 2019

Most reasonable car

I was recommended this car by my Father as being the most reliable and Reasonable one. It did turn out to be the best choice as i was looking for a good car in less prize!

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Arvind Iyer on November 8, 2018

An exceptional first car.

I, being an international student, was looking for a car, that had a blend of good gas mileage, low and hassle-free maintenance, space, comfort and safety, all at an affordable price. Because I did not wand to spend too much, I looked in the direction of used cars, and since I travel around 60 miles per day for work, I needed a car with good gas mileage, in order to reduce the fuel bills. After looking and considering various options, one day, I saw an online advertisement for this car. After doing a thorough research, taking a test drive of this car and discussing with my family, I came to a conclusion that this would be the perfect first car for me. I bought this car around 3 months ago and I am extremely happy with my purchase. I find this car extremely easy and comfortable to drive. I am getting around 37 miles per gallon on the highway (the gauge shows an average gas mileage of 35.2 miles per gallon), which is really good, considering that I tend to drive this car briskly at times. I have driven this car at 87 mph on I-95, and I am happy to report that the car was extremely stable, even at this speed. This car has a fantastic combination of good pulling power, along with good gas mileage. My car is an SV model, equipped with a CVT gearbox, power windows, central locking, tilt steering adjust, and most importantly cruise control and an aux-in port for playing music. Cruise control helps me in improving the car's gas mileage, while aux-in port means that I can play music in the car through my phone, which is million times better than playing music through a CD Player, perfect in this day and age for tech-savvy people, who also like to listen to music. One day, I tried sitting in the backseat of my car, behind the driver's seat, after pushing it all the way back. And I am happy to report that I did not feel cramped at all (my height is 5'11", and I have long legs) and I had enough space between my legs and the seat, which proves that this car is extremely spacious .Another point that I would like to make, is that honestly, I find this car much better looking than the Nissan Versas after it (i.e. 2015 and beyond, with their bigger grille and headlights), and finally, this car scores top marks with regards to safety, I mean frankly, there is no modern used car, apart from this one, that costs under $5000 and comes with 6 airbags (most cars in this price come with only two airbags), anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure-monitoring (TPMS), traction control etc. And to top it all off, Nissan is an extremely reliable brand. Honestly, if you are looking in the market for your first car, and you want the car to be affordable, safe, spacious, comfortable, music-friendly and great on gas mileage, it is hard to beat the Nissan Versa.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

rayman on August 23, 2018

great car looks great rides good

the only thing is it has sensors on the tires but over all a great car I just got the car just the car I was looking for

Was this review helpful?
1
0
Author Image
Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.