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.

6.7

fairly significant
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
9,800 miles
Total Complaints:
3 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (3 reports)
2013 Nissan Altima drivetrain problems

drivetrain problem

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2013 Nissan Altima Owner Comments

problem #3

Jun 182015

Altima SL 3.5L

  • CVT transmission
  • 27,000 miles

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

Car has a constant vibration since new CVT installed. (at <27,000 and a year of constant trips to service department) Used to be a smooth comfortable ride. Feels like I am driving down the road on metal tires.

- Theresa B., Necedah, WI, US

problem #2

Sep 012013

Altima SL 2.5L

  • CVT transmission
  • 1,000 miles

Just reiterating another complaint someone else had! Very annoying when accelerating and transmission wants to stay in low rpm. It has this growling like exhaust rattling noise coming from the transmission. Bought it back to the dealership. Among other complaints like a super loud electric power-steering unit that back feeds noise through all the electronics!! Like you're in outer space!! No known complaints, says the dealership! It's all normal! Come on Nissan, not everybody is as stupid as you! You have a long way to catch up with Ford!

- kevinbmass, Raynham, MA, US

problem #1

Mar 012013

Altima SL 2.5L

  • CVT transmission
  • 1,400 miles

My car has something vibrating underneath of it when my Trans Vibrates(i posted another complaint about the vibration of the trans) i have taken it in for both counts and was told this is normal, Items should not vibrate when a car is operating that means they can come loose. Something is wrong and i do not want to be the test dummy!

- dynarider84, Reston, VA, US

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