# Nissan Altima 2013–2018 Pre-Purchase Checklist | CarCaseFile

Canonical: https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/nissan-altima-2013-2018/checklist/

> Printable pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2013–2018 Nissan Altima: the generation-specific checks that separate a good one from someone else's problem.

Case file · NISSAN-ALTIMA-2013-2018 · Field document

# Nissan Altima 2013–2018 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes, not generic used-car advice.

[← Full case file](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/nissan-altima-2013-2018/)

Check 01

Drive it 20+ minutes including highway and stop-and-go. Any shudder, hesitation, whine, or a 'rubber-band' surge in RPM means a sick CVT. Walk away or price in a full transmission.

Check 02

Ask for proof the CVT was replaced, and whether Nissan's 84-month/84,000-mile warranty extension was used (a Nissan dealer can confirm by VIN).

Check 03

Check the open hood-latch recall status by VIN at nhtsa.gov. 2013–2018 Altimas were recalled (and re-recalled) for hoods that can fly open.

Check 04

On the 2.5L QR25DE, check the oil level and color, and ask how much oil it uses between changes. High consumption is common past 100k.

Check 05

Cold-start it before any warm-up: listen for a metallic timing-chain rattle from the front of the engine that fades after a few seconds.

Check 06

On 2015–2017 cars, check the rear door latch recall remedy was done correctly (a re-recall covered doors that could open with the window down).

Check 07

Inspect front suspension for clunks and uneven/inner tire wear. Control arms and bushings wear early on this car.

Check 08

Confirm the CVT fluid was actually serviced on schedule; many were neglected, which accelerates failure.

Walk-away signals

2013 (worst CVT failure rate; CarComplaints 'avoid like the plague') · 2014–2015 (still high CVT failure + power-train complaints)

CarCaseFile.com/vehicles/nissan-altima-2013-2018/ · Independent case files on used cars · We buy our own parts. Nobody pays for a verdict.