general problems of the 2013 Nissan Altima - part 2

121 problems related to electrical system have been reported for the 2013 Nissan Altima. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2013 Nissan Altima based on all problems reported for the 2013 Altima.

36 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/30/2018

Takata recall. One recall performed, second airbag light shows on dash soon after first airbag replaced. Diagnostics on November 30 shows all electronics problems with driver side airbag. Cost estimated minimum from $651+ tax to $3427. 92+ tax. This failure is not due to misuse. It is a recall problem. See attached diagnostics and repair estimate attached. Request this be replaced under recall.

37 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2018

Airbag warning light indicates faulty electronics. Began about 50,000 miles. This is not due to misuse. It's companion to earlier recall for a faulty airbag, which was corrected. Reported to dealer. Cost estimate to repair from $800 to $5,000 depending the level of defect. Owner believes this should be Nissan's responsibility, as it's not due to negligence.

38 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/01/2018

My 2013 Nissan Altima 3. 5sv , the gear shifter will not come out of park , this is a safety issue and Nissan refuses to take care of it. They offered a 60/40 split but this clearly being a safety issue should be issued as a recall or taken care of 100% by the manufacturer. This is not safe if you can't get you care out of park, Nissan knows of the issue but continues to ignoring the problem.

39 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/28/2018

The gear/shift got stuck at parking. Every time I drive, I have to use a screw driver to manially release the shift lock.

40 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/15/2018

As I was driving my 2013 Nissan Altima with 35k miles on it, I came to a stoplight at a busy intersection and my car cut off completely without any indication that something was wrong. I was not able to put my foot on the brakes, I could not move my steering wheel, it just cut off. I was able to cut my car back on, however whenever I shifted my gear into drive it cut off again. I had my car towed to the Nissan dealership, and they stated they could not find the issue but reprogrammed my cvt since there was a recall issued for my car. They determined that after driving it for 25 minutes that day and 25 minutes the next that the cvt reprogramming could have been the solution to the problem but to return it to the dealer if it happened again. 3 days later my car began shaking and stalling very roughly while in motion and again cut off in the middle of the road while in drive. This time my young son was in the car with me, and him and I could have both been harmed or caused an accident and harmed someone else. This is unacceptable that Nissan has not recalled these vehicles or the car has been returned to customers without a solution to the problem.

41 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 12/21/2017

Car will not release from park unless you press on the brake release button. This happened as my car reached 65k miles. This could be a huge issue and safety if someone was to be stranded out somewhere and they are h able to leave because there car will not come out of park. This problem is affecting a lot of vehicles coming out of Nissan.

42 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/27/2017

We haven't driven the car in like 10 days and tried starting it and it wouldn't start. Got the car jump started and noticed that every time I turned the steering wheel the car bogged down the navigation system shuts off and the steering wheel becomes very difficult to turn. Also the same exact thing happens when I put the car in reverse and turn the steering wheel, the navigation system and the back up camera goes completely dark.

43 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/20/2017

Tl the contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the air bag warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Nissan 112 (730 medford Ave, patchogue, NY 11772, (631) 651-1987) where it was diagnosed that the battery sensor needed to be reset. The battery sensor was reset; however, the air bag warning indicator illuminated again. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where the battery sensor was reset a second time; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the occupant detection system needed to be reset and the front driver's and passenger side sensors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failures. The approximate failure mileage was 78,000.

44 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 10/08/2017

Drivers electronic door unlock/lock switch has disconnected from the door lock ability, unable to safely exit vehicle without rolling down the window to unlock manually from outside he car. Makes it unsafe to exit in case of an emergancy.

45 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/30/2017

2013 Nissan Altima 2. 5s shuts off electrical while driving key dont work (1 out of 2 keys dont work) door handles are broken both driver and passenger a/c compressor doesnt work.

46 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/01/2017

The Nissan Altima 2013, driver side door handle breaks, trapping individual in car causing a safety issue in any urgent or emergency situation. Car was stationary when complaint happened. Frequent occurrence with thousands or models 2011-2015 as indicated by consumer reports. Consideration for recall.

47 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/28/2017

The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. While driving 55 mph, the vehicle sputtered and stalled without warning. The contact stated that the check engine warning indicator illuminated after the vehicle stalled and remained lit. The vehicle was taken to Nissan 422 of limerick (55 autopark blvd, limerick, PA 19468, (610) 495-1856), but it had not yet been diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted or notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 94,458.

48 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/19/2017

I tried to start my car and the onboard computer screen say no key detected, I have the key in my hand and still it will not start, I can unlock the doors, trunk etc. Fine, I even went and bought the same exact new battery for the key fog and the problem persist, I went online and look up Nissan owners with similar problem with Nissan Altima key fog problem and it seem like a common issue, but surprise that there is no recall on the issue, everybody I know that owns a Nissan told me there is time they be driving and the onboard computer state no key detected, thank god I don't live I a remote location or else I would be stranded, online everyone that had the problem had to end up paying $500 or more to fix the issue, which I feel is a defect in Nissan engine control unit system, I contact the dealership that I bought my Nissan Altima from and they wanted to charge me over #500 total to fix the issue, I think it is a scam, I found a work around the issue but it is just not right that they know the engine control unit has a problem and the refuse to address the issue, except leave the customer with a new bill or stranded.

49 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/04/2017

I bought my car in April 2016 I've had nothing but issues it chugs all the time on highway/city/county roads, and while turning left and right with cruze set or not. Every time I get in my car and try to shift it down from park it don't always shift or if I try shifting up it's like it sticks it has been fixed once already, when the heated seats are on low or high setting if left on longer than 5 minuets it gets burning hot. The steering wheel is also super loose my car has 82,000 miles on it I've had it for a year and a half and I've had so many issues including the air conditioning marquart motors out of chippewa falls WI refuses to return my calls (I bought the car from them they are useless and unhelpful ) I have a extended warranty as well so most repairs are covered thank god but won't be for long. It's very frustrating that I paid 23,000 for a car that has so many issues I really just wish I could give it back so scared to have my children in it and I shouldn't have to feel that way. Alsothere are 3 or four recalls and I can't seem to ever get it in for repair because our Nissan dealer is always so booked or don't have the parts to fix it till days or weeks later.

50 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2017

After a few years of normal operation the low-beam headlights are no longer effective. They are too dim to rely on while driving on dark roads/highways. Must use high-beams for proper visibility. Replacing bulbs does not help.

51 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2017

Shifter needs to be replaced a/c compressor needs replaced seat belt light/air bag light issue.

52 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/06/2017

2013 Nissan Altima 2. 5s was serviced on December 19, 2016 at planet Nissan 5850 centennial center blvd. Las vegas, nv 89149 dealer performed r1609 OCS recall & pc490 cvt reprogram recall. During these process some electrical items damage. Now cvt (continues variable transmission) is failing. On April 6, 2017 took vehicle to autonation Nissan las vegas 5800 w. Sahara Ave the service consultant said cvt is bad and needs to be replace but Nissan do not want to pay. Vehicle drives but when you reach 25-35 miles per hour it jerks, also 65 miles per hour it jerks then it looses power, vehicle comes to a stop and it does not move. This vehicle is not safe to be on the road. Nissan needs to correct this issue before somebody gets injured.

53 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2017

Engine start problems! when I push the engine start button, the engine crank and start engine. And the dashboard screen are all renew like a factory reset.

54 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/28/2017

I drove my car on February 28 from my garage in my house in bolton, MA to lexington MA at 9 am. Upon starting, I noticed a slight strange smell. It was a bit like oil or maybe chemical smells but I am not sure as I had not smelled this before. I rolled down the windows as I drove to clear it and kept an eye on the temperature gauge, which was normal. After 5 mins, the smell cleared, the heat temp was normal and I drove for about 40 mins while talking on my bluetooth. I parked in front of grace chapel in lexington on the street and as I pulled to a stop to park on the street in front of the church, I noticed some smoke. I immediately shut off the car. Within moments there were flames and I called 911 as I got out. I had only time to get my purse, my bag and the food in the trunk I was bringing for the pantry and moved away. Within 3 minutes, it was engulfed about 30% up to the windshield as the first police arrived. He moved the car parked right in front of mine, thank god. Two minutes later firemen came and about two minutes later they had water on the car but it was fully engulfed. They were able to keep the damage to only affect two other cars parked in the parking lot next to the street across from my car, separated by a sidewalk. The vehicle has been meticulously maintained by us. No accidents. No mechanical problems. All recalls followed. I drive normally. Oil changes are done regularly. No mechanical work has been done on the car. There are recalls on the v6 2013 Altimas for possible fire issues. Mine is a v4. Here's one website but if you google 2013 Altima fires, you will find others. . Read more...

55 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/18/2017

I have been having an issue with the gear lock not allowing me to get out of park. I have push to start and my car starts with no problems. This has happened more than once and the only way to get the gears to move is by pushing down the gear release lock. I do it have a video but there are complaints of thi and videos on youtube!.

56 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/09/2017

The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the spare tire was faulty. The dealer was contacted several times, but the contact was unable to receive a response to determine if a replacement could be provided. In addition, the center console was unstable in the vehicle, the instrument panel/cluster shorted several times, and the vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact was uncertain of what the dealer diagnosed and repaired. The contact no longer owned the vehicle. The VIN and failure mileage were not available. The manufacturer was not notified of the failures.

57 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/24/2016

I was in an accident and the air bags did not deploy. My children and I were injured. I serviced my car at Nissan for the airbag recall twice. I received a recall from NHTSA and Nissan wouldn't comply. Every time I've taken my car for the brake pads to be serviced I only need rotors never brake pads! the driver side door handle broke for no reason what so ever this car is a clunker!.

58 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/16/2016

The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. While driving approximately 55 mph, the vehicle stalled. In addition, the vehicle failed to shift out of the drive gear. The contact, who had an infant present, had to engage the emergency hazard lights and received help pushing the vehicle to the side of the road. The contact placed a screwdriver in the gear shifter to help change gears, and was able to restart the vehicle on the third attempt. The vehicle was diagnosed by an independent mechanic who determined that the shifter cylinder was fractured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer stated that the vehicle was not under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.

59 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/01/2016

The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that there was a strong hesitation and the vehicle stalled several times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.

60 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/01/2016

Airbag light has been going off n on w no passenger. . . Scared somethings not gonna work in the event of an accident. Car jerking on hghwy not accelerating . . N loss of power mid drive or turn. . I have kids n this is becoming a death trap. . W no ck engine light .

61 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/23/2016

En noviembre del 2014 compre un Nissan Altima 2013 con apenas 31000 millas, a las 54000 millas tuve que cambiar el alternador,y ahora siento que tengo problemas con la transmision, ES un carro relativamente nuevo,no deberia dar tantos problemas, espero me ayuden a resolver el problema!! gracias!!.

62 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/15/2016

Intermittently the car is completely shutting off while driving on the road. The engine starts vibrating while slowing down or braking and turns off. It will start immediately7-8 times in a row but will turn turn off as soon as the transmission is put into drive. This has happened 5-6 times in the past 2 weeks. We have taken this to the Nissan dealer only for them to tell us they can't fix it because there are no codes showing up! our concern is the number of other people who have complained about the same issue and there is no recall for whatever is causing this.

63 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/02/2016

The contact owned a 2013 Nissan Altima. While driving approximately 30 mph, an abnormal odor emitted from the vehicle and smoke came from the hood. The contact mentioned that the failure occurred after the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be serviced for an oil change. The fire department extinguished the fire. A police report was filed and there were no injuries. The vehicle was destroyed. The approximate failure mileage was 61,000.

64 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/01/2016

Tl- the contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the vent controls failed to function when using the a/c function as hot air had blown out of the vents as the failure progressed. The vehcle was inspectd by more than one independent mechanic. The dealer auto nation Nissan las vegas, 5800 w sahara Ave, las vegas, nv 89146, 702-886-2004 diagnosed that the air compressor needed to be replaced. The contact was uncertain if the vehicle was included or excluded from a manufacturer campaign for the 9999 cummins air compressor. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was waiting to determine their response pertaining to the dealers diagnosis. The approximate failure mileage was not available. Dyd.

65 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/01/2016

Loud vibrating sound when depressing the accelerator at 40mph and 70mph. At low rpms to car also vibrates around 25mph. It also vibrates at 40mph and 70mph when pressing on the accelerator.

66 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/26/2016

The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. While driving approximately 20 mph, the invalid key warning message displayed. The failure recurred sporadically. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was informed that the key fob would need to be replaced and reprogrammed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 55,000.

67 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/25/2016

The contact owned a 2013 Nissan Altima. While driving 30 mph, the vehicle revved and accelerated without warning. The contact depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle did not respond. As a result, the contact's vehicle crashed into another vehicle. The air bags failed to deploy. A police report was filed. The driver sustained injuries to the pelvic, both legs, head, teeth, and. Medical attention was required. The vehicle was destroyed and towed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 29,000.

68 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/05/2016

A/c has not worked properly till it just stoped. The ac blows air intermittent cold and hot. Compressor not working properly. Filled with freon but will not consistently blow cold. Headlights very dim. The lenses are clear.

69 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/01/2016

When the turn signal automatically returns to the off position after a right hand turn, the left turn signal starts blinking.

70 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 10/05/2015

Tl-the contact owns a 2013 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to respond when the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact also stated that the air condition unit failed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The contact was informed that the transmission and air condition unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact also stated that while driving and pulling into a parking space there was an abnormal electrical odor coming through the air condition vents. The contact stated the vehicle caught on fire. The contact stated that while trying to exit the vehicle, the door handle failed to work. The contact was able to exit the vehicle through the driver's side window. The vehicle was towed an independent mechanic. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 31,898. Ah.



Altima Service Bulletins
Altima Safety Recalls
Altima Defect Investigations