Comparing the 2012 Nissan Altima to other midsize cars from the same year, it has a typical amount of issues. Compared to the 2013 model that underwent revision, there are noticeably less issues.
The most frequent issue is a transmission failure, which can result in a decrease in speed and a loss of power. A transmission cooler is sometimes installed by owners to fix the issue, but other times the entire unit needs to be replaced, which costs over $2,000 to do.
Another issue reported by owners is issues with Bluetooth and other infotainment systems. The problem is typically resolved by just restarting the stereo and reconnecting the devices. Rarely, if there is a hardware issue, the head unit needs to be replaced, which costs about $400.
Another issue noted is the engine shutting down and stalling. An alternator failure can be identified by a complete loss of power while driving. Depending on local labor rates, replacing the alternator costs roughly $350.
There are four recalls, which is typical for a 2012 model. The steering and suspension bolts, the air bag control unit, the air bag inflator, and transverse link bolts are among the items being recalled. The most crucial bolts are those with damage since failures can cause collisions.
In This Article...
Is the Nissan Altima having a good year in 2012?
Based on its rating in the 2012 Affordable Midsize Cars category, the 2012 Nissan Altima is ranked third. Based on our review of 111 pieces of research and data items from many sources, the Nissan Altima currently has a score of 8.7 out of 10.
What is the maximum mileage for a 2012 Nissan Altima?
Response given by. Whether you drive a sedan or a coupe, the Nissan Altima is a fantastic car to own. You can anticipate your Nissan Altima to last 200,000 to 300,000 miles, or 13 to 20 years, because Nissan is committed to quality and performance.
Is the Nissan Altima a trustworthy vehicle?
Since its introduction in 1993, the Nissan Altima has shown to be a dependable and trustworthy vehicle. Owners of Nissan Altima vehicles rely on them for their dependability and safety. They are sturdy automobiles. In terms of dependability, the Nissan Altima performs admirably. It ranks 11th out of 24 midsize automobiles with a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, according to RepairPal.
The Nissan Altima has lower ownership costs than the industry standard due to its low average repair cost of less than $500. Furthermore, Altima substantial repairs are not common. A Nissan Altima’s average annual cost for repairs and maintenance is $483, which is lower than the $526 average for other vehicles in the same category.
What is the Nissan Altima’s biggest issue?
The Altima’s continuously variable gearbox is where the majority of its issues lie (CVT). Owners complain about a shuddering or jerking sensation when accelerating as well as a delayed throttle response. Transmission failures have even occurred in some models.
Are there any 2012 Nissan Altima recalls?
Summary: CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 ALTIMA AND VERSA VEHICLES ARE BEING RECALLED BY NISSAN. THESE VEHICLES COULD BE FITTED WITH SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS THAT DO NOT CONTAIN THE APPROPRIATE PROPELLANT MIXTURE FOR THE APPLIED INITIATOR COMPONENT, CAUSING AN INSUFFICIENT OUTPUT OF COMPRESSED GAS.
Which Altima model year is best?
The 1993, 1996, and 2019 Nissan Altima model years are the greatest. The worst Nissan Altima model years, on the other hand, are 2002, 2005, 2009, and 2013. If you’re seeking to buy a used Nissan Altima, it’s vital to pay attention to these model years.
Which Nissan model is the most trustworthy?
Reliability was recently discussed as the Murano’s superpower. According to CR’s automotive data, the Murano is Nissan’s most dependable model. This Nissan is a worthy midsize SUV if this factor is one of your top objectives. The Murano additionally received a distinction that few other vehicles did. Due to its long-term quality, J.D. Power ranked it one of the top 2020 family SUVs. It also comes equipped with several of the newest active safety and infotainment systems, just like other new Nissans.
Another important selling factor for SUVs is their power. A 3.5-liter V6 engine with 260 horsepower and a continuously variable transmission are standard on all Muranos (CVT). The CVT on the Murano is unobtrusive and the V6 is quick. However, with an EPA rating of 23 mpg, it merely has average fuel efficiency. The Murano has poor external visibility as well.
A timing belt is present on a 2012 Nissan Altima, right?
Timing belt vs. chain: There is no timing belt; the 2.5L 4-cylinder and 3.5L V6 engines both have a timing chain. It is not necessary to replace the timing chain on a regular basis.
Pros include sporty exterior styling, a coupe with a sharp appearance, good handling, a spacious trunk, a good engine, passing scores in crash tests, and fuel efficiency for 4-cylinder variants.
Cons: The 4-cylinder engine is noisy while accelerating, the rear seat room is average for the class, and the CVT is the sole automatic transmission available.
Overall: As of December 2021, Consumer Reports gave the 2011 and 2012 Altima a dependability rating of “Better than average,” while only giving a “average” rating to the 2009 and 2010 model years. The Nissan Altima 2007 and 2008 garnered the most of complaints, according to the NHTSA website. Some of the complaints mentioned the 2008 Altima’s dashboard “melting” in hot weather and the 2007 Altima’s broken rear stabilizer bar.
The CVT transmission has a few problems. For 2003–2010 Nissan vehicles with with Continuously Variable Transmissions, Nissan extended the CVT limited warranty for a further ten years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first (CVT). The CVT transmission may cost up to $4,000 to replace if it breaks down and is not covered by a warranty. Due of this, a lot of used Nissan car purchasers choose to get an extended warranty (service contract) for the powertrain, which will pay for any necessary transmission replacements. Surprisingly, the CVT in the next-generation Altima had more issues, particularly in the 2013 and 2014. Pros and cons of purchasing a vehicle with a CVT transmission.
Overall, it’s a fantastic car with a reliable engine. The finest model years of this generation are 2011 and 2012. The price of replacing the CVT if it breaks down is our primary worry.
When buying a used Nissan Altima, keep the following in mind: Verify every interior accessory, including the windows, the stereo system, and the air conditioner.
Watch out throughout the test drive for any whining or humming sounds that become more audible during acceleration or at higher speeds; some of these sounds may be the result of a worn-out CVT transmission.
Check to see whether the driver’s seat shifts while turning; this problem has been brought up in some complaints. Avoid the vehicle if there are any indications of a gearbox issue or if the engine shakes when it is first started. More reading: Signs of automatic gearbox difficulties when test driving a used automobile and How to inspect a used car – illustrated guide.
Choosing the Altima model without the Tire Pressure Monitoring System would be a good decision. Have the car thoroughly inspected by a mechanic before purchasing. See also: What used-car miles is acceptable?
Nissan superior to Toyota?
Dependability and Excellence Toyota is known for producing some of the most dependable vehicles on the market. The business was rated as the second most dependable brand overall by Consumer Reports for 2021. Nissan ranked in sixteenth place, substantially further down the list.
What is the lifespan of an Altima transmission?
According to RepairPal, the Nissan Altima’s yearly maintenance expenditures come to $483 on average.
The Altima is far less expensive to maintain than the average vehicle ($651 annually), according to statistics.
According to data from RepairPal, the following are the Nissan Altima’s most frequent issues:
- Replacement of the Intake Manifold Gasket: $207–253
- Replacement of the Powertrain Control Module: $1,184
- $1,21
- Replacement of a water pump: $287–329
- Adjusting the parking brake system: $44–$55
- $44-$56 Drive Axle Assembly Leak Inspection
- Replacement of the Sunroof Motor: $1,002
- $1,046
- Replacement of a Suspension Shock or Strut: $809–867
How Long Do the Brakes Last?
Depending on how you drive, the Nissan Altima brake pads can last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles.
If you frequently travel in stop-and-go traffic, your brakes will probably deteriorate more quickly.
How Long Do the Tires Last?
A well-kept Altima tire should last you three to five years. A reasonably driven Altima tire can travel 50,000 miles, according to the mileage it has covered.
Regular tire rotation and wheel alignment are crucial for extending the life of your Nissan Altima. Maintain the Nissan Altima’s specified tire pressure as well.
How Long Do the Spark Plugs Last?
The Altima makes use of unique spark plugs that don’t need to be changed as frequently as some others.
Platinum-tipped spark plugs, which the Nissan Altima uses, have a 105,000-mile lifespan.
What does a Nissan Altima have high mileage?
The Nissan Altima has a lifespan of between 250,00 and 300,000 miles, which, when multiplied by the yearly mileage of the average driver, translates to 15 to 20 years. It’s not unusual for Nissan Altimas to endure beyond 300,000 miles, depending on things like maintenance and driving style.
Altima or Sentra, which is better?
The interior room, engine options, and features are the key distinctions between the Sentra and Altima. In contrast to the Sentra, the Nissan Altima offers more potent engine options, a larger cabin, and optional all-wheel drive. The Sentra, in contrast, will cost less and have better gas mileage than the Altima.
How much does a 2012 Nissan Altima transmission replacement cost?
Depending on the car, a new 2012 Nissan Altima transmission might cost over $3,500. In contrast, transmission services like fluid changes and fluid flushes are significantly less expensive, sometimes costing less than $150.
Are altimas still worth anything?
Altima by Nissan. The Altima distinguishes out in this high-volume, fiercely competitive market because it is more enjoyable to drive than its more conservative rivals. The sharp handling and ample power from its four-cylinder engine, as well as the additional power from an available V-6, are particularly praised by reviewers.
With a four-cylinder rating of 27 MPG in cities and 38 MPG on the interstate, the Altima’s fuel economy is among the best in its class. Test drivers also laud the roomy backseats and plush front bucket seats in the cabin. The list price for an Altima is between $22,138 to $30,305. Edmunds predicts that after five years, it will still be worth 47.3%.