CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2013 Nissan Altima has multiple problem trends including the CVT transmission, and now that this model is out of warranty, it earns our "Avoid Like The Plague" badge.

Owners complain about vibration and transmission failure related to the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), a whining noise from the power steering pump, and constant windshield problems that appear to be the result of poor design.

Be warned: the 2014 & 2015 Nissan Altima appears to share these same problems.

4.7

definitely annoying
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
6,500 miles
Total Complaints:
3 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (2 reports)
  2. replace cracked alternator bracket (1 reports)
2013 Nissan Altima engine problems

engine problem

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2013 Nissan Altima Owner Comments

problem #3

Aug 082014

Altima SL 2.5L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 4,400 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

When I start my car in the morning as soon as it idles down that's when the vibration starts, it starts in the passage side door. It sometimes vibrates at the red light when I come to a complete stop. I took it back to the dealership and they told me that all the 2013 Nissan Altima have a vibration to it. I really don't know what else to do, should I return the car back in because I know for myself that this is not normal for a brand new car......

- lyonsgirl, Greenwood, MS, US

problem #2

Jul 012014

Altima 3.5S V6

  • CVT transmission
  • 7,500 miles

Vibrating, shuddering at high speeds, 60-80 MPH, and a roaring noise from the tires. Almost like it was out of alignment. The dealer rotated the tires and I couldn't duplicate the problem after that. So I guess it's fixed? I get the feeling this problem is going to pop back up like a groundhog. This car is too poorly made for it not to.

- gringerer, Phoenix, AZ, US

problem #1

Jan 122014

Altima SV 2.4L 4

  • CVT transmission
  • 7,512 miles

So far I have had only only one complaint for this car. There was a transmission noise/vibration which sounded like it was coming from under the car, like it was the exhaust system. The service manager explained that this noise was actually coming from the alternator bracket. I have driven only 3,000 miles since it was fixed and it has not occurred since the repair. Otherwise, I really like the car.

The CVT transmission in my previous 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe was a solid performer. My 2013 Altima is very comfortable (I have lower back issues) and I don't even have lumbar support in this car. I consistently achieved 38 mpg on a trip to Asheville, NC and Gatlinburg, TN and back to NJ in the summer of 2013. Normally you will not reach 38 MPG on the highway, until the gas is down to about 1/4 of a tank or less remaining. This is one car that achieves higher gas mileage the faster you drive, i.e. 75 mph to 80 mph. .

- williamwoods, Parsippany, NJ, US

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