The Nissan Altima has been a solid midsize car for around 30 years. However, not every model year of the Altima offers drama-free ownership; the 2013 and 2014 Nissan Altima are the automaker’s only vehicles on a list of the most problematic vehicles, as reported by drivers. The Nissan sedans exhibit transmission issues that could be a headache for potential owners.  

Is the 2013 Nissan Altima a reliable car?

The 2013 Altima is of below-average reliability. According to U.S. News, the midsize Nissan car earned a lower-than-average reliability score, making it uncompetitive with other models in the segment. Moreover, the 2013 model’s litany of owner complaints earned it a spot among the most unreliable cars, per owners.  

Does the 2013 Nissan Altima have transmission problems?

The most common issues owners and drivers reported to Car Complaints about the 2013 Nissan Altima are transmission problems. Specifically, over 300 owners have cited transmission defects, with rough operation or total failure at the top of the list. 

Unfortunately, drivers who experience these issues may have to replace the transmission, which could cost around $3,120. Moreover, the Continuously Variable Transmission’s (CVT’s) poor operation happens at an average of just 56,250 miles. 

In addition to the reports of transmission issues, RepairPal shows that over 1,300 people have reported problems with their Crankshaft and Camshaft Sensors. However, the sensor is covered by a recall, so owners can get it repaired for no cost.   

Is a 2014 Nissan Altima a reliable car?

The 2014 Nissan Altima is of average reliability for the segment, and U.S. News ranks it alongside a Chevrolet Malibu from the same timeframe. However, some of the 2014 model’s issues, like transmission problems, could drive potential owners to consider other midsize sedans.  

What is the most common problem with the 2014 Nissan Altima?

The most common problem that 2014 Nissan Altima owners complain about is transmission failure, an issue that could happen at as little as 74,950 miles.

Like the 2013 model, the 2014 Altima has a recall for a Crankshaft and Camshaft Sensor issue. Unfortunately, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that over 600 owners complained about faulty airbags in 2013 and 2014 models. Moreover, some owners say that Nissan wouldn’t reimburse them for remedying the issues, per Car Complaints. 

Which model years of Nissan Altima are dependable?

Unsurprisingly, there are few complaints about the latest Altima models regarding dependability. The 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019 models have fewer than 65 complaints combined on Car Complaints. Moreover, RepairPal gives the latest Altimas a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0. 

Furthermore, the newest Altimas have an annual repair cost of $483, around $43 less than the industry average. What do you think of the used Altima models? Tell us in the comments below!