2013 Nissan Altima used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Headlights failing or too dim428 owner complaints, usually around 80,000 miles, owners paid about $1,000

  Check every exterior and interior light, and look for condensation inside the headlights.

• Airbag warning light254 owner complaints, usually around 17,857 miles, owners paid about $1,500

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Ball joint or control arm failure222 owner complaints, usually around 101,000 miles, owners paid about $1,300

  Drive over bumps and listen for clunks or rattles. Look for uneven tire wear.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 20V315000, May 28, 2020
• Air bagsRecall number 16V911000, Dec 19, 2016
• Air bagsRecall number 16V244000, Apr 26, 2016
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 16V029000, Jan 22, 2016
• Air bagsRecall number 15V681000, Oct 20, 2015
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 15V486000, Aug 4, 2015
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 15V116000, Feb 27, 2015
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 14V565000, Sep 15, 2014
• Electrical systemRecall number 14V138000, Mar 25, 2014
• TiresRecall number 13V158000, Apr 24, 2013
• Air bagsRecall number 13V069000, Mar 1, 2013
• SuspensionRecall number 12V494000, Oct 10, 2012

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• DTC B00A0-00 storedSep 19, 2024
• CVT/TCM calibration data “write” procedureJun 7, 2024
• DTC P17F0 or P17F1 stored in the TCMApr 18, 2024
• CVT judder and DTC P17F0 or P17F1 storedDec 15, 2023
• Halogen Headlamp Voluntary Service Campaign REVISED August 18, 2023 Please discard earlier versions ofAug 18, 2023
• CVT/TCM calibration data “write” procedureMay 8, 2023

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.