TransmissionCritical
CVT overheating and failure — the defining Altima issue.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test-drive hard, watch for whining, shuddering, RPM flare, or a burnt smell; check for prior CVT replacement.
2013–2018 Nissan Altima · common problems & known faults
The Altima is comfortable and efficient, but its CVT is the single most important thing to check — failures can be costly.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2018 Nissan Altima are CVT overheating and failure — the defining Altima issue, Extremely dim dipped-beam headlights due to burnt internal projector bowls and Rear lower control arms corrode severely, potentially snapping and causing sudden loss of wheel alignment. Of the documented issues, 1 rated critical and 2 rated high · these are the ones worth inspecting first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Nissan Altima.
3.8/ 10
- Critical
- 1
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 2
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Nissan Altima problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
EngineMedium
2.5L timing chain rattle.
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a rattle on cold start.
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Build the inspection planBodyMedium
Hood latch / secondary latch recall.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Confirm the recall was completed and the hood latches securely.
InteriorLow
Dashboard and trim wear.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect the dash and seat bolsters.
Electrical / LightingHigh
Extremely dim dipped-beam headlights due to burnt internal projector bowls.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine the dipped beams against a wall or workshop door. Look for a weak, yellow, or uneven beam pattern indicating burnt reflectors.
Rear SuspensionHigh
Rear lower control arms corrode severely, potentially snapping and causing sudden loss of wheel alignment.
- Typically appears
- 5-8 years
- What to inspect
- Kneel behind the rear wheels with a torch and inspect the tubular lower control arms for heavy flaking rust or structural cracking.
Engine / GasketsMedium
Oil leaking from the rocker cover gasket into the spark plug tubes, causing misfires.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Remove one of the easily accessible front ignition coils with a 10mm spanner and check the rubber boot for fresh engine oil.
HVACLow
Loud clicking or tapping noise from behind the glovebox when adjusting the cabin temperature.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on, set the blower to low, and cycle the climate control temperature from minimum to maximum. Listen for rapid plastic clicking.
Inspecting a Nissan Altima?
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Are Nissan Altima CVT problems real?
Yes — the CVT is the biggest concern. Look for extended-warranty history and any prior replacement.
What mileage do Altima CVTs fail?
Problems often appear from 60,000–100,000 miles, though many last longer with careful fluid service.
Should I avoid the Altima?
Not necessarily — a well-maintained example with a healthy CVT is a comfortable car, but the transmission risk is real.
Is the 3.5L V6 engine more reliable than the 2.5L four-cylinder?
The 3.5L V6 is generally more robust than the 2.5L, avoiding the four-cylinder's timing chain rattle. However, the V6 is still mated to a CVT, meaning transmission failure remains a primary concern. V6 models also consume more fuel and are harder to source on the used market.
Why do the halogen headlamps fail MOT tests so frequently on this model?
The internal reflective bowls within the halogen projector units degrade and burn away due to excessive heat. This drastically reduces light output, leading to dangerous nighttime visibility and immediate MOT failure. The only permanent fix is replacing the entire headlamp assemblies, which dealers must factor into preparation costs.
How can I check if the rear suspension recall has been completed?
Nissan issued a major recall for rear lower control arm corrosion. You must run the vehicle's registration or VIN through the official Nissan recall checker or the DVSA database. If outstanding, a main dealer will replace the arms free of charge, but this delays forecourt readiness.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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