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    Nissan Altima

    EPA MPG: 26 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    We expect the 2025 Altima will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2022 and 2023 models, and the Nissan brand score.

    The 2012 Nissan Altima has been recalled 4 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2012 Nissan Altima owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Shocks or struts

    "Struts needed to be replaced two times. I am now on my third set."

    Anonymous, NJ (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "at over 150000 miles, the car started to feel 'a little loose' when going over bumps/potholes; needed repairs to the suspension system both front and back"

    Anonymous, MA (2012 Nissan Altima S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Springs or torsion bars

    "after 12 years on rough roads, the springs finally needed to be replaced. I noticed the car didn't handle well going over bumps/potholes. The suspension system needed repairs, both in the front and back"

    Anonymous, MA (2012 Nissan Altima S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "The springs on the back of the car rusted out. With the age of the vehicle not surprised this happened."

    Anonymous A., WI (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Steering linkage (includes rack and pinion)

    "Replaced control arm assemblies"

    Anonymous, VA (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Wheel bearings

    "Have had to replace three of the four wheel hubs in the last 12 months (waiting for the fourth to fail soon)."

    Anonymous A., ON (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    "A/C compressor developed a leak and had to be replaced."

    Anonymous A., OK (2012 Nissan Altima S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Other climate system problem

    "I had a ac line start leaking and needed to me replaced."

    Anonymous, AL (2012 Nissan Altima S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Refrigerant leaks

    "A/C was not cooling. Adding refrigerant fixed it."

    Anonymous, LA (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Catalytic converter

    "Catalytic converter is welded as single unit to the exhaust manifold. You must replace both even if only one is necessary."

    Anonymous, AZ (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Loose/rattling heat shield

    "Nissan Altimas have had heat shields that become loose and rattle for a long time. In addition to my car we know two additional people who have had this problem. Their Altimas are 2012 models as well."

    Anonymous, NJ (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Other/unsure

    "broken rear springs, broken tie rod"

    Anonymous, NY (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Display screen goes blank

    "whenever it gets hot outside, the display screen goes blank until it cools down. Nissan dealer replaced it once, but it doing it still. I just live with it now."

    Anonymous, GA (2012 Nissan Altima S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "It seems to be heat related. When the car is parked in the heat, the display will not show."

    Anonymous, GA (2012 Nissan Altima S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Radio

    "preset buttons need to be pressed several times"

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Nissan Altima S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Air or water leaks

    "Sun roof drains get blocked up and then water leaks into floor boards and interior roof."

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Nissan Altima S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Squeaks or rattles

    "Heat shield rattles during acceleration"

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    Headlights

    "The headlight on the passenger side went out. Replaced it. Still wouldn't work. Wasn't the fuse. Finally figured out that there was a split in the line when I followed it all the way to the connection point"

    Anonymous, RI (2012 Nissan Altima 3.5-L V6)
    Keyless entry

    "The keyless entry on the door itself died and no longer works. The sensors still work fine on the passenger's side and the trunk sensor. I thought it could be a blown fuse or something. Found out the only way to fix it, is to replace the entire door."

    Anonymous, MO (2012 Nissan Altima SR 3.5-L V6)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

    "The paint on the hood and roof is peeling and looks terrible."

    Anonymous, GA (2012 Nissan Altima S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "paint is flaking off of the hood"

    Anonymous, LA (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Engine mounts

    "Knew about the mounts needed to be replaced when I bought the car. Time consuming due to backorder on at least one of the four mounts."

    Anonymous, AZ (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    "something to do with the flywheel. I don't remember specifics. I have a Car Shield policy that covered the costs of the repair."

    Anonymous, MO (2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    Traction control

    "The traction control system would activate on it's own and limit acceleration. It would just turn on and after a few minutes of being on it would kill the engine entirely or prevent you from accelerating at all. Turning off the traction control system wouldn't help because you the driver never turned it on. Temperature wasn't a deciding factor. Although, it was more of an issue when it was cold. I still had issues when it was warm."

    Anonymous, MO (2012 Nissan Altima SR 3.5-L V6)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    2012 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
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    Overall Reliability Verdict
    NA
    NA
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    NA
    NA
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    NA

    NA

    NA
    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
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    NA
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    NA
    Engine Major
    NA
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    Engine Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Cooling
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Electrical
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Major
    NA
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    NA
    NA
    NA
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    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Drive System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Suspension/Steering
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for over 300,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2024 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical accessories. NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    STEERING, SUSPENSION
    Oct 10, 2012
    The affected bolts could become loose and fall out which may lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
    Summary:
    Nissan is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Altima vehicles manufactured from May 10, 2012, through July 26, 2012. These vehicles may have been equipped with transverse link bolts and power steering rack bolts that were not torqued to proper specification.
    What should you do:
    Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the bolts to the proper torque specifications. The safety recall is expected to begin during November 2012. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V494000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 13919
    AIR BAGS
    Feb 14, 2012
    THE SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS MAY NOT DEPLOY, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
    Summary:
    NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 ALTIMA AND VERSA VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS THAT CONTAIN AN INCORRECT PROPELLANT MIXTURE FOR THE INITIATOR COMPONENT USED, RESULTING IN INSUFFICIENT OUTPUT OF COMPRESSED GAS.
    What should you do:
    NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ONE OR BOTH SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAG MODULES, AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 12, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 615-725-1000.
    For more information:
    CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V055000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 976
    AIR BAGS
    Aug 09, 2011
    THE AFFECTED ACU WILL NOT OPERATE AS DESIGNED AND THIS ISSUE MAY CAUSE THE AIR BAGS NOT TO INFLATE IN A CRASH WHEN THEY ARE DESIGNED TO INFLATE. THIS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY.
    Summary:
    NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 NISSAN ALTIMA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 15, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 21, 2011 AND MODEL YEAR 2012 NISSAN NV VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 23, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 28, 2011 BECAUSE THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU) WAS ASSEMBLED INCORRECTLY.
    What should you do:
    NISSAN WILL REPLACE THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
    For more information:
    OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV>HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV</A> .
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V408000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 54
    SUSPENSION
    Jul 19, 2011
    IF THE BOLT COMES OUT COMPLETELY, THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY CONTROLLING THE DIRECTION OF THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
    Summary:
    NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN ALTIMA SEDAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 25, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 10, 2011 AT THE CANTON, MISSISSIPPI PLANT. THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TORQUED TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION. THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE BOLT TO BECOME LOOSE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, CREATING A RATTLING NOISE AND VIBRATION.
    What should you do:
    NISSAN WILL REPLACE THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLTS AND NUTS AND TIGHTEN THEM TO THE PROPER TORQUE SPECIFICATION FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 8, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
    For more information:
    OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV>HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV</A> .
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V371000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 20000
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