Car Defect Radar
Get the report
Built from NHTSA complaints and recalls collected for this model, generated October 26, 2026. Totals reflect what has been collected, not every complaint ever filed.
Confirm 12 recalls before you buy.

Ask the seller for proof the repair was completed, or run the free VIN check. Recall repairs are done at no cost by a dealer.

Before you buy

  1. Dim low beam headlights: about 1 in 5 complaints.
  2. Passenger airbag sensor turns airbag off: about 1 in 7 complaints.
  3. Rear lower control arm fractures: about 1 in 9 complaints. Have the rear lower control arms inspected for rust and cracks, and ask whether they have been replaced.
  4. Safety: CVT transmission failure (can affect control: 18 of 22 reports), about 1 in 14 complaints.
  5. Run the free VIN recall check for the 12 recalls to confirm on this model, starting with the safety recall (20V315000).

Based on a random sample of 300 of the 2,310 complaints filed with NHTSA for this model, read and summarized with AI. 290 of them describe a failure the owner experienced; the rest (recall notices, parts delays, worries) are left out of these counts. Complaints are unverified owner reports.

Known problems

41 found · 300 complaints read

What owners report most often, grouped into named problems. Summaries are written by AI from the complaints; open a problem to read the owners' own words.

Dim low beam headlights

Reduced safety margin: 56 of 56 reports

Owners report low beam headlights so dim they barely light the road at night, often because the reflector coating inside the headlight assembly degrades. New bulbs usually do not help, and some dealers replaced the whole headlight assemblies.

How common
56 of the 300 complaints we read (19%), roughly 431 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Reduced safety margin: 56 of 56 reports; 1 report mentions a crash
  • Headlights are extremely dim even after replacing bulbs, requiring high beams almost always at night. · filed Jun 2026
    Read the owner's complaint

    Headlights are extremely dim almost always have to drive with my high beams on at night since the lights are so dark. Have tried replacing bulbs on my own but lights are still dim. No warning or anything were ever shown

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11743107

  • Headlights are very dim, making it hard to see when it's dark outside. · filed Nov 2024
    Read the owner's complaint

    The headlights are very dim and it's very hard to see when it's dark outside

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11623221

  • Low-beam headlights are very dim with a foggy film inside the lens that cleaning doesn't fix; multiple dealerships have refused to address the known defect. · filed Jun 2023
    Read the owner's complaint

    Both front head lights (low lights) are very dim; right headlight may require re-wiring due to constant burning out of head light (low lights) and turning signal light. Measures have been taken by owner to address the situation by careful step-wise cleaning of headlight covers. After cleaning of headlight covers, there was significant fogginess still noted as having a film like appearance. This film appeared to be on the inside portion of the head lamps. Visibility was not improved after cleaning headlights. Night time driving visibility is significantly affected, leading to issue of safety while driving. Passengers have noted inability to distinguish whether headlights are turned on or off while driving at nght. Issue has been brought up to multiple nissan car dealerships who refuse to further inspect or acknowledge the issue of defect in the 2013 Nissan Altima. The issue has previously been brought up in the case of Rafael Suarez, et al. v. Nissan North America, Inc., Case No.3:21-cv-00393-WLC-AN. Dealership refuses to acknowledge case or issue in general.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11529675

Passenger airbag sensor turns airbag off

Reduced safety margin: 41 of 41 reports

Owners report the passenger airbag off light coming on or flickering with an adult in the seat, leaving the passenger airbag disabled. Many say the problem returned after recall sensor repairs or resets.

How common
41 of the 300 complaints we read (14%), roughly 316 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Reduced safety margin: 41 of 41 reports
Related recalls
Owners mention 14V138000, 16V244000, 15V681000. Check the VIN for it.
  • Passenger airbag status indicator flickers on and off unpredictably, leaving the owner unsure if the passenger airbag or seat belt is active. · filed Mar 2022
    Read the owner's complaint

    My passenger air bag monitor seems to have a shortage. If there is no one in the passenger seat it will show on the dash as being on or when no one is in the seat it will show on and then sometimes off. Most days there isn't any symbol on the dash when someone is sitting in the passenger seat. I never know if the passenger seat belt is on or off. My second concern is my exterior headlights, they are so dim that I have to use my bright lights to see the roads. I have basically tried to stop driving very early in the morning, or at night.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11455745

  • After an airbag recall repair, the warning light returned, turning off only when someone sits in the passenger seat; dealer quoted $400-$1,500 to fix it. · filed Mar 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    A FEW MONTHS BACK I TOOK MY CAR IN TO HAVE THE AIRBAG RECALL FIXED. FLASH FORWARD A FEW MONTHS AND THE AIRBAG LIGHT HAS COME ON. IF SOMEBODY SITS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT THE LIGHT GOES OFF. THE NISSAN DEALER IS SAYING THE OCS SENSOR SOMETIMES GO BAD AND QUOTES $400-$1500 TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THE CAR HAS NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT AND IS KEPT CLEAN SO THERE IS NO CHANCE THAT AN ITEM EFFECTED THE OCS SENSOR UNDER THE SEAT WHEN THE SEAT WAS MOVED. BUT THE MORE I RESEARCHED THE ISSUE THE MORE SUSPICIOUS THIS SEEMS. HOW DO SO MANY PEOPLE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM...AND HOW MAMY OTHERS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM BUT CANT OR DONT KNOW HOW TO REPORT IT.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11399035

  • Owner says a passenger airbag sensor recall repair left the airbag warning light not indicating properly when a passenger is seated. · filed Feb 2019
    Read the owner's complaint

    I TOOK MY VEHICLE IN FOR A SENSORY RECALL FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG. PRIOR TO THIS THE AIRBAG INDICATOR LIGHT WORKED PROPERLY. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT THE LOCAL NISSAN DEALERSHIP ADJUSTED THE SENSORS AND SINCE THEN THE AIRBAG INDICATOR HAS NOT BEEN WORKING PROPERLY. I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO HAVE THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT READJUST THE SENSORS IN THE SEAT BUT THAT DID NOT CORRECT THE PROBLEM. I HAVE RETURNED TO THE DEALERSHIP SEVERAL TIMES TO HAVE THE PROBLEM CORRECTED BUT WAS TOLD THEY COULD NOT SEE A PROBLEM. I HAVE TAKEN THEM PICTURES AND VIDEOS SHOWING A PASSENGER IN MY CAR WITH THE AIRBAG LIGHT STILL ON. I HAVE CONTACTED NISSAN CORPORATE WITH THIS PROBLEM AS WELL. NISSAN CORPORATE HAS TOLD ME TO TAKE MY CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP WHEN THE LIGHT/AIRBAG HAS NOT ENGAGED WHEN PASSENGER IS IN THE SEAT BUT THE LAST INCIDENT HAPPENED AT 7:30 IN THE EVENING WHEN I WAS OUT OF TOWN. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN ONGOING NOW SINCE 2017. I AM REACHING OUT TO YOU BECAUSE I DON'T KNOW WHAT ELSE I CAN DO TO MAKE MY CAR SAFE FOR EVERYONE THAT RIDES IN IT. THANK YOU... I ALSO HAVE A VIDEO OF A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT BUT CAN'T GET IT TO LOAD TO THE DOCUMENT.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11176314

Rear lower control arm fractures

Can affect control: 26 of 34 reports

Owners report the rear lower control arms cracking or breaking while driving or backing up, dropping a corner of the car or causing loss of control. Some found the other side cracking in the same spot.

How common
34 of the 300 complaints we read (11%), roughly 262 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Can affect control: 26 of 34 reports; 1 report mentions a crash

Before you buy: Have the rear lower control arms inspected for rust and cracks, and ask whether they have been replaced.

  • Driver-side rear lower control arm broke from rust while driving, with a dashboard warning light coming on; owner managed to get home before a worse incident occurred. · filed Aug 2026
    Read the owner's complaint

    Driver side rear lower control arm broke/rusted through. Was able to get the vehicle home prior to an catastrophic incident. See pictures attached. Warning light came on the dash at the time of the brake of the control arm.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11759024

  • Both rear lower control arms rusted through and cracked; owner was told the VIN isn't covered by the corrosion service campaign despite living in a listed salt state. · filed Aug 2025
    Read the owner's complaint

    Both of my rear lower control arms on my 2013 Nissan ALTIMA sedan have rusted thru and cracked. It has been reported on Nissan Service Campaign P9324, dated October 25, 2019. Unfortunately, I have been told my VIN is not included in the P9324 campaign. But both of my lower control arms are rusted through and cracked and I do live in New Hampshire, one of the salt states listed in the campaign. My car is at the dealer and I have been told that I cannot drive it anymore until it has been repaired.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11682523

  • The rear lower control arm detached from corrosion, causing wheel misalignment; it was repaired, and the other side is expected to fail the same way soon. · filed Jun 2024
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact stated that the wheels were misaligned and had detached. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a detached passenger’s side rear lower control arm due to corrosion. The contact was informed that the passenger’s side rear lower control arm needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact was advised that due to the corrosion, the driver's side rear lower control arm would soon need to be replaced as well. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 124,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11593532

CVT transmission failure

Can affect control: 18 of 22 reports

Owners report the CVT transmission failing while driving, locking up or refusing to move in drive or reverse, with some needing more than one replacement.

How common
22 of the 300 complaints we read (7%), roughly 169 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Can affect control: 18 of 22 reports
  • The CVT transmission failed for the second time. · filed May 2023
    Read the owner's complaint

    Cat transmission when out for the second time

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11519882

  • The CVT transmission failed and the car went dead while driving; a shop said the transmission needs costly replacement. · filed May 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    2013 NISSAN ALTIMA JUST WENT DEAD WHILE DRIVING ON STREET. GOT IT TOWED TO GARAGE, GARAGE SAID CVT DEAD, TRANSMISSION NEEDS REPLACEMENT, $$$$$, VERY UNHAPPY

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11415054

  • Transmission failed prematurely, causing stalling, odd vibration and pulling at low speed, and a burning smell; owner says a CVT recall is needed. · filed Apr 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    THE TRANSMISSION HAS FAILED PREMATURELY. THE CAR HAS STALLED CREATING A DANGEROUS SITUATION. THE VEHICLE WILL VIBRATE AND PULLS ODDLY AT LOW SPEEDS. A BURNING SMELL HAS NOW DEVELOPED AND I CANNOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE DUE TO SAFETY CONCERNS. THERE ARE MANY MANY OTHER NISSAN ALTIMA OWNERS REPORTING THE SAME ISSUE AND THERE NEEDS TO BE A RECALL ON THE CVT TRANSMISSION ON MY CAR.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11413889

Hood flies open while driving

Injury risk: 6 of 15 reports

Owners report the hood flying open while driving and blocking the windshield, even when latched, with some dealers replacing the hood latch.

How common
15 of the 300 complaints we read (5%), roughly 116 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Injury risk: 6 of 15 reports; 1 report mentions a crash
Related recalls
Owners mention 20V315000, 16V029000, 16V244000. Check the VIN for it.
  • Hood suddenly unlatched, blocking visibility and causing the car to veer into a light pole, damaging the bumper; the failure became a regular occurrence. · filed Feb 2024
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the hood suddenly became unlatched, compromising front visibility. As a result, the contact veered into a light pole, damaging the bumper. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The air bags did not deploy. A Police report was not filed, and no injuries were reported. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V244000 (Air Bags), and the VIN was included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 160,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11571491

  • After a hood latch recall repair, the hood flew open at highway speed and struck the windshield; owner says three previous hood latch recalls have failed to fix the defect. · filed Dec 2023
    Read the owner's complaint

    Hello, I took my Nissan Altima into my local Nissan dealer for a hood latch recall on 11/13/2023. On 11/21/2023 at about 6:40 pm I was driving my car at a speed of maybe 45-50mph and my hood flew open hitting my windshield causing damage to my car, and scaring my son and I. I called the dealer the next morning and spoke to Anthony from the service department regarding this situation, and he stated a faulty latch could have been put on my car, causing this to happen. I sent pictures to him via email, and he advised that he would contact the director and call me back with an update. I received a callback within hours advising Nissan would cover the damages but I would need to contact consumer affairs to see which location could do the repairs as they were behind by 8 month at that location in particular and could not provide me with a loaner car. After a week of waiting for an update from a dealer to confirm repairs, I had the car towed to the Thomas Nissan of Joliet on 12/4/2023 as the car would not accelerate anymore due to the hard brake. As of today 12/18/2023 I have spoken to the service manager there and he advised parts came in but they do not have a date for repairs or approval on the acceleration issue and for now will only repair the body. I advised that I am extremely saddened by the way I am being handled after such a traumatic ordeal that could have been deadly or life altering. This recall was supposed to prevent this issue, and it only caused it. This recall hasn't done anything to fix the cars, and neither have three other hood latch recalls for Altima cars. Altima drivers are in danger from hoods that suddenly fly open while driving, and this situation just proves a problem. Nissan doesn't know how to properly repair it, and my car and I are proof.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11560640

  • Hood opened on its own while driving; manufacturer said the recall repair for this had already been completed by the previous owner in 2016. · filed Oct 2023
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the hood opened independently. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign: 20V315000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the manufacturer had received the notification and the manufacturer informed the contact that the recall repair had been completed by the previous owner in 2016. The failure mileage was approximately 151,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11547677

Transmission shudder and jerking

Can affect control: 11 of 15 reports

Owners report the transmission shuddering, hesitating, bucking or jerking when pulling away, slowing down or at speed, and a software update did not always help.

How common
15 of the 300 complaints we read (5%), roughly 116 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Can affect control: 11 of 15 reports
  • Car hesitates and won't accelerate pulling out of intersections due to a known CVT transmission issue; Nissan declined to help since the car is out of warranty and there is no recall yet. · filed Sep 2023
    Read the owner's complaint

    There is a known cvt transmission issue with certain years of different models of Nissans. My sons car recently started hesitating and not accelerating when pulling out of intersections. I took the vehicle to Nissan and was told that there is a known issue and they have extended warranties on the issue but my sons car was out of warranty and they were not willing to assist due to no recalls as of yet. The issue with the car hesitating is a huge safety concern. They recommended a new transmission for 6500.00.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11544245

  • Transmission jerked and lost proper acceleration on the highway; it had already been replaced once for the same failure and now needs replacing again. · filed Oct 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle suddenly jerked and would no longer accelerate properly. The vehicle was driven to the local dealer who diagnosed that the transmission was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact indicated that the transmission was previously replaced for the same failure, but the failure recurred. The failure mileage was 97,722.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11438460

  • Transmission jerked back and forth approaching a stop light, forcing the owner to steer away to avoid oncoming traffic; dealer said it needs replacement. · filed Jun 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving at 45 mph, approaching a stop light the vehicle began to jerk back and forth, the contact was able to stop the vehicle and turn the steering wheel to the right side of a merging lane to avoid oncoming traffic. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer who inspected the vehicle and diagnosed the failure with the transmission and it would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately mileage 153,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11421891

Airbag warning light stays on

Reduced safety margin: 13 of 14 reports

Owners report the airbag warning light coming on and returning after recall repairs or reprogramming, with dealers blaming modules, wiring or the airbag itself and quoting costly repairs.

How common
14 of the 300 complaints we read (5%), roughly 108 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Reduced safety margin: 13 of 14 reports
  • Airbag warning light stayed on at startup; dealer diagnosed a faulty airbag wiring harness that needs replacement. · filed Jun 2025
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the air bag warning light illuminated and remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and was diagnosed with an air bag wiring failure. The contact was informed that the air bag wiring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11665779

  • Dashboard warning shows the steering wheel airbag is not functioning; dealer says diagnosing the sensor issue could cost up to $5,000, and Nissan has not responded to years of complaints. · filed Sep 2024
    Read the owner's complaint

    The dashboard light shows that the steering wheel air bag is non functioning. This has been reported on line to Nissan for several years, and not one response from Nissan. The dealership indicates that it's a malfunction, probably a sensor, and it might require me to pay up to $5,000 to identify the deficiency. I view this as a safety issue and not one of misuse. Kindly advise when this can be resolved. Your assistance will be greatly appreciated.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11614015

  • Airbag stopped functioning correctly and might not have deployed in a crash; owner paid $2,800 to replace it and says Nissan refused reimbursement. · filed Mar 2023
    Read the owner's complaint

    My 2013 Nissan Altima had a malfunctioning air bag which "could or could not" deploy correctly, and at any time. I had to pay $2800.00 for replacement of this serious safety issue, and Nissan will not reimburse me. This air bag had simply stopped operating correctly, it had never been deployed. At the time of replacement the car had 86,000. I had no choice about replacing it unless I wanted my passenger to be at a serious safety risk.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11512850

Engine stalling

Can affect control: 13 of 13 reports

Owners report the engine shutting off while driving, at idle, at stops or when shifted into gear, often with no cause found.

How common
13 of the 300 complaints we read (4%), roughly 100 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Can affect control: 13 of 13 reports
  • Vehicle lost power and stalled on the highway with a warning light on; mechanic said the airbag module and ECU need replacement. · filed Jun 2022
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving on the highway at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the roadway and restarted the vehicle. The contact stated that an unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the air bag module and ECU module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11471189

  • Car intermittently stalls at idle or when stopping, restarts then cuts out again; the dealer has been unable to diagnose it after three days. · filed Jul 2020
    Read the owner's complaint

    CAR STALLING AT IDLE OR STOPPING. CAR STARTS THEN CUTS OUT, WON'T RUN. CAR HAS BEEN IN SHOP FOR 3 DAYS NOW PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT AND CAN'T SEEM TO PIN POINT EVEN WITH FIXD OR OTHER DEVICES.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11338288

  • Car jerked back and forth then completely shut off in an intersection with a child aboard; happened repeatedly when shifting into drive or reverse. · filed Mar 2020
    Read the owner's complaint

    WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC, THE CAR BEGAN JERKING BACK AND FORTH BEFORE COMPLETELY SHUTTING OFF. I WAS WITH MY SMALL CHILD IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION WHEN THIS HAPPENED. THIS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES WHENEVER I'D PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE OR DRIVE. I'M ONE OF HUNDREDS, IF NOT THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE AFFECTED BY THIS ISSUE, WHICH IS KNOWN TO SPECIFICALLY AFFECT 2013 MODELS. MY CHILD AND I NEARLY GOT IN AN ACCIDENT WHEN THIS HAPPENED.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11318052

Shifter stuck in park

Not a safety issue

Owners report the gear shifter getting stuck in park because the shift lock solenoid does not release, needing restarts or the manual override.

How common
10 of the 300 complaints we read (3%), roughly 77 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Not a safety issue
  • Shifter's brake-shift interlock doesn't release when the brake is pressed, requiring the manual override to shift out of park. · filed Oct 2025
    Read the owner's complaint

    Shifter Lock does not release when brake is pressed. Unable to shift out of Park. Need to manually press the shift relesae override to shift.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11696486

  • Gear shifter got stuck in park due to a failed interlock solenoid, requiring a shift assembly replacement; owner says Nissan won't help with the widespread issue. · filed Jun 2022
    Read the owner's complaint

    Shift stuck in park. Shift assembly needs replacing due to bad interlock solenoid. $1000.00 to fix. This problem has affected many cars and Nissan will do nothing about it.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11471534

  • Car repeatedly gets stuck in park and needs a tool to release the shift lock; once stuck at a railroad crossing after a train passed. · filed Apr 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    UNABLE TO SHIFT INTO GEAR WHEN ENGAGING FOOT BRAKE WHEN STARTING VEHICLE. SHIFT IS STUCK IN PARK. HAVE TO USE TOOL IN SHIFT LOCK RELEASE TO MOVE BETWEEN GEARS TO DRIVE CAR. I WAS DRIVING AND WAS STOPPED AT A RAILWAY CROSSING. PUT CAR IN PARK. ONCE TRAIN HAD PASSED I TRIED TO PUT CAR IN DRIVE POSITION AND WAS UNABLE TO DO SO. AFTER READING MANUAL I DISCOVERED THAT IF A FAULT OCCURS YOU MUST USE A TOOL ON THE SHIFT LOCK BUTTON RELEASE TO MOVE VEHICLE. VERY DANGEROUS.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11405963

Transmission slipping and power loss

Can affect control: 7 of 8 reports

Owners report the transmission slipping, the engine revving high while the car barely accelerates, and sudden power loss, sometimes after overheating on the freeway.

How common
8 of the 300 complaints we read (3%), roughly 62 of all 2,310 on file
Safety
Can affect control: 7 of 8 reports
  • Transmission overheats and the engine loses power between 45-60 mph on the freeway, requiring the owner to stop and let it cool down. · filed Aug 2025
    Read the owner's complaint

    Fuel System: Car hesitates and cut off after pumping fuel.\n' + 'Outer Tie rods torn rubber, vehicle never been realigned, but tires were worn on both front sides. \n' + 'Takata Air bag light has been on for over 2 years.\n' + 'Transmission over heats. Engine cuts back between 45 and 60 mph on the freeway. So we stop and allow it to cool off.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11682483

  • Car stutters and jerks when accelerating from a stop or slowing down; mechanic found a transmission slipping code, and owner now avoids the highway. · filed Feb 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD (IN SUBURBS) WHEN I CAME TO A STOP SIGN. I STARTED NOTICING A LITTLE STUTTER WHEN I APPROACHED THE STOP SIGN AND STARTED SLOWING DOWN. THIS IS A CONTINUOUS PROBLEM WHENEVER MY CAR NEEDS TO ACCELERATE AFTER A STOP (BETWEEN 5-40 MPH) OR SLOW DOWN TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. I HAVEN'T BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY SINCE I NOTICED THIS PROBLEM BECAUSE I AM WORRIED FOR MY SAFETY. I WENT TO A MECHANIC IMMEDIATELY ONCE I NOTICED THE STUTTER AND SMALL JERKS. THE ENGINE LIGHT IS NOT ON SO WHEN I DESCRIBED THIS TO HIM HE SAID HE HAD TO DO AN IN DEPTH READ OF MY TRANSMISSION. HE ENDED UP FINDING A CODE IN MY TRANSMISSION THAT HAD PICKED UP ON THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPING / STUTTERING.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11398084

  • Transmission warning light came on and the transmission felt like it was slipping; not yet diagnosed or repaired. · filed Dec 2019
    Read the owner's complaint

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 NISSAN ALTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND IT FELT AS IF THE TRANSMISSION WAS SLIPPING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 66,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11288913

Less common problems (complaints in the sample)

  • Accelerator not responding (7)
  • Airbags not deploying in crashes (7)
  • Interior door handles breaking (6)
  • Torque converter failure (4)
  • Power steering heavy or failing (3)
  • Transmission stalling the car (3)
  • Car drifts at speed (2)
  • Catalytic converter failure (2)
  • Infotainment freezing and crashing (2)
  • Key fob not detected (2)
  • Power steering noise (2)
  • Water leaking onto floorboards (2)
  • Windshield cracks on its own (2)
  • Battery terminal burnout (1)
  • Brake noise (1)
  • Brake warning light on (1)
  • Clock spring failure (1)
  • Dashboard glare in hot weather (1)
  • Electrical fire from vents (1)
  • Engine compartment fire (1)
  • Engine sputtering (1)
  • Engine vibration (1)
  • Fuel delivery stalling (1)
  • Oxygen sensor check engine light (1)
  • Push-button start left running (1)
  • Rear brake caliper failure (1)
  • Rear suspension spring noise (1)
  • Rear window shatters (1)
  • Steering wheel shake (1)
  • Sunroof rattle (1)
  • Wheel falls off while driving (1)

Recalls

12 total · 12 to confirm

Safety issues the manufacturer must repair for free. A recall means confirm the fix was done, not walk away.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 20V315000 · May 2020

Corrosion to the secondary latch may cause it to bind and remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed. If the primary latch is inadvertently released again and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will install a stronger release spring in the hood release lever, a warning label near the secondary hood latch, and an Owner’s Manual addendum card with instructions on how to lubricate and maintain the secondary hood latch mechanism, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: Recall 16V-029 remains open for any unremedied 2013-2015 Altimas and this recall applies to all vehicles covered by 16V-029 even if those repairs have already been performed.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Airbags recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 16V911000 · Dec 2016

If the front passenger seat occupant is misclassified, the air bag may deploy incorrectly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECU and update the OCS software free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Airbags recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 16V244000 · Apr 2016

If the passenger frontal air bag does not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, the passenger is at an increased risk of injury.

Remedy
Nissan will notify their owners. Chevrolet City Express owners will be notified by General Motors. Dealers will reprogram the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) and OCS Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in Altima, Maxima, Murano, Rogue, and Sentra vehicles, and replace the OCS ECU in LEAF, NV200, NV200 Taxi, Pathfinder, Infiniti Q50, JX35, and QX60 and Chevrolet City Express vehicles, free of charge. Interim notices were sent to owners on May 31, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669, Infiniti customer service at 1-888-833-3216 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 16V029000 · Jan 2016

If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy
These vehicles were previously included in recalls 14V-565 and 15V-116, however the previous remedy plan may not have been performed consistently to remove the safety risk. To correct this issue, Nissan will re-notify all affected owners and dealers will replace the hood latch with a new one, free of charge. The recall began on February 17, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 14V-565 and 15V-116.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Airbags recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 15V681000 · Oct 2015

If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger air bag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will update the OCS software, free of charge. The recall began on November 30, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Fuel system recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 15V486000 · Aug 2015

If fuel leaks from between the fuel sending unit and the tank, it may increase the risk of a fire in the event of a crash.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will install a retainer ring between the fuel tank and the fuel sending unit. The recall began on September 28, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 15V116000 · Feb 2015

If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will be instructed to modify the bend angle of the hood actuation lever to eliminate potential interference with the hood inner panel. In addition, dealers will clean and lubricate the latch joint as needed. If significant corrosion is observed, the latch assembly will be replaced. This repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 14V-565.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 14V565000 · Sep 2014

If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will be instructed to modify the bend angle of the hood actuation lever to eliminate potential interference with the hood inner panel. In addition, dealers will clean and lubricate the latch joint as needed. If significant corrosion is observed, the latch assembly will be replaced. This repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 20, 2014. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Electrical system recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 14V138000 · Mar 2014

If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger airbag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will update the OCS software, free of charge. The recall began on April 14, 2014. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Tires recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 13V158000 · Apr 2013

Tires that are significantly over- or under-inflated may fail without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and adjust the spare tire pressure, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 29, 2013. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Airbags recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 13V069000 · Mar 2013

If the vehicle is involved in a crash necessitating airbag deployment and the passenger airbag is suppressed, there may be an increased risk of personal injury.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ODS sensors and replace them as neccessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 6, 2013. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Steering recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 12V494000 · Oct 2012

The affected bolts could become loose and fall out which may lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the bolts to the proper torque specifications. The safety recall is expected to begin during November 2012. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Is 2,310 complaints a lot? They were filed between 2012 and 2026, roughly 164 a year, which is more than the typical model in this dataset. We do not have sales figures for this model, so treat this as a rough volume, not a rate per car on the road. Popular, high-volume models naturally collect more complaints over time.

How does it compare with other years? The 2013 has 2,310 complaints on file, more than the 2012 (425) and more than the 2014 (1,113). That is the most of the 15 model years of the Nissan Altima we cover. Older model years have had longer to collect complaints.