2012 Nissan Frontier problems
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Common 2012 Nissan Frontier problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2012 Nissan Frontier, several common problems have been reported:
- Power Steering Issues: Problems with power steering components such as pumps, hoses, and leaks have been reported. These issues can affect the handling and maneuverability of the vehicle, potentially leading to safety hazards on the road.
- Transmission Problems: Complaints include the need for transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter issues, premature clutch replacement, rough shifting, slipping transmission, and leaks. Transmission problems can result in drivability issues and costly repairs.
- Paint and Trim Defects: Owners have reported paint fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking, as well as loose interior or exterior trim or moldings. These aesthetic issues can impact the vehicle's appearance and potentially lead to rust problems if not addressed promptly.
- Engine Issues: Some owners have faced engine-related problems like stalling, camshaft sensor issues, engine rebuild or replacement needs, cylinder head problems, and timing chain or belt issues. Engine issues can cause performance issues and may require significant repairs to resolve.
- Electrical System Malfunctions: Complaints include issues with the infotainment system, rear entertainment system, backup camera/sensors, head-up display, cruise control, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, and more. Electrical system malfunctions can lead to various operational challenges and safety concerns.
- Cooling System Problems: Reports of radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, and overheating have been noted. Cooling system issues can result in engine overheating, which can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Drivetrain and Suspension Concerns: Problems with driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, and electronic stability control have been mentioned. These issues can affect the vehicle's drivability and overall performance.
- Air and Water Leaks: Seals and weather stripping issues leading to air and water leaks have been reported. These leaks can cause interior damage, affect cabin comfort, and potentially lead to further issues if not fixed in a timely manner.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2012 Nissan Frontier highlight a range of issues spanning from safety concerns with brakes and power steering to performance and reliability issues with the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. Addressing these problems promptly through proper maintenance and timely repairs is crucial to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
What problems does the 2012 Nissan Frontier have?
Brakes. Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
Are there any recalls on 2012 Nissan Frontier?
Electrical system: Wiring: Fuses and circuit breakers
(Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2012 through 2014 Frontier vehicles manufactured from November 28, 2012, through December 17, 2013.
How many miles is a 2012 Nissan Frontier good for?
Nissan vehicles are generally known for their reliability and longevity. On average, a well-maintained Nissan can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles. This means if you drive around 15,000 miles per year, which is the average for most drivers, you can expect your Nissan to last between 13 to 20 years.
What year was a bad year for a Nissan Frontier?
Nissan Frontiers with automatic transmissions manufactured between 2005 and 2008 have a defective radiator design. The fluid lines for the truck's transmission pass through the radiator. Any leaks or problems with the radiator can instantly destroy both the radiator and the transmission on these Frontier models.
2012 Nissan Frontier car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Frontier problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Nissan Frontier vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Nissan Frontier
The NHTSA has received 76 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Nissan Frontier. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Nissan Frontier vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-09
- VIN: 1N6AD0ER5CC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Frontier. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the steering was difficult to turn. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over and stopped the vehicle. The contact shifted into park(P); however, several attempts were needed to restart the vehicle. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the cam shaft sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred and had the cam shaft sensor replaced again. Additionally, the contact stated that the ignition key was no longer working and turning the ignition switch. The contact then drove the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the cam shaft sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle failure had reoccurred, and the vehicle was not taken back to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 179,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
- VIN: 1N6AD0EVXCC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: We were told about the recall, never got a recall letter in the mail. When we went to Nissan, they said they couldn’t help us if only we had the recall letter.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-04
- VIN: 1N6AD0EV2CC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Frontier. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH in cold weather with the seat belt connected, the seat belt warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the front passenger’s side seat belt assembly and the sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The approximate failure mileage was 89,333.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-31
- VIN: 1N6AD0EV0CC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Took vehicle to dealership for recall. Air bag light on dashboard was flashing. Dealer said air bag was ok and they did not go any further to find the problem. The light is still flashing, so I do not know if my air bags are safely operative. Thank you very much.1031
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-09
- VIN: 1N6AD0ERXCC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Frontier. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E012000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-15
- VIN: 1N6AD0ER1CC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Frontier. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E012000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-17
- VIN: 1N6AD0EV9CC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Frontier. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E012000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-30
- VIN: 1N6AD0ER7CC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Frontier. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E012000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-18
- VIN: 1N6AD0EV2CC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT HAS APPEARED ON A VEHICLE WITH LESS THAN 83,000 MILES . NO ACCIDENT HAS OCCURRED BUT ITY IS OF CONCERN SINCE OTHER MANUFACTURER MODELS HAVE HAD SAME PROBLEMS AND WERE REPAIRED BY DEALER THROUGH MANUFACTURER RECALL
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-22
- VIN: 1N6AD0CW7CC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nisan Frontier. The contact stated that on multiple occasions while driving under 50 MPH, the supplemental air bag safety warning light remained illuminated. The VIN search confirmed that the vehicle has one open recall at this time NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E012000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the passenger seat belt assembly pretensioner, and passenger’s side seat cushion needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 71,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-11
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1n6BD0CT3CC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Involved in a auto accident on June 11 2021. Airbags deployed, however, little rock type projectiles also exploded from the airbag landing all over the car and passenger causing a risk to the eyes, face and other body parts. Has not been taken to the dealer, auto I believe is totaled. Photos sent to adjuster along with photos of the car damage. No warnings. I have photos have the projectiles throughout the car and I have also collected a small sample in a zip bag.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-01
- VIN: 1N6AD0CW1CC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE PAINT ABOVE THE FRONT WHEEL WELL ON BOTH THE PASSENGER AND DRIVERS SIDE OF MY 2012 NISSAN FRONTIER (BLUE) WITH 69,0000 MILES IS PEALING OFF IN CHUNKS. IF DO AN INTERNET SEARCH ON 'PAINT FLAKING NISSAN FRONTIER' YOU CAN SEE NUMEROUS PICTURES. TALKING WITH THE DEALER, PREVALENT ISSUE ON DARK COLORED FRONTIERS (BLUE IS ESPECIALLY PREVALENT. CLEARLY A FACTORY DEFECT AS THE PAINT IS NOT ADHERING TO THE PRIMER. TALKED TO NISSAN CONSUMER SUPPORT AND THEY BASICALLY SAY IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY SO GOOD LUCK WITH REPAIR. CLEARLY THIS IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT THAT SHOULD NOT HAPPEN. NOT A SAFETY ISSUE, BUT POOR CUSTOMER SUPPORT. HAS IT BEEN FIXED? MY EXPECTATION IS THERE SHOULD HAVE BEEN SOME COST SHARE FOR THIS REPAIR.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-06
- VIN: 1N6BD0CT3CC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 NISSAN FRONTIER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH AN UNKNOWN WIRE NEEDING TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WIRE WAS REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE FAILURE PERSISTED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO ASSISTANCE PROVIDED SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT FINANCED THROUGH AN AUTHORIZED NISSAN DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 28,000.*DT Consumer stated there is more accurate statement on BBB Complaint Form Complete.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-19
- VIN: 1N6AD0EV5CC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 NISSAN FRONTIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING UP A MOUNTAIN AT 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART AND WAS TOWED TO NAPA NISSAN (510 SOSCOL AVE, NAPA, CA 94559) WHERE THE MECHANIC REPLACED TWO CAMSHAFT POSITIONING SENSORS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SAME CAMSHAFT SENSORS WERE REPLACED TWO ADDITIONAL TIMES BY THE SAME DEALER FOR THE SAME FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 136,291.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-01
- VIN: 1N6AD0EV8CC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 NISSAN FRONTIER. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A HOLE IN THE FLOORBOARD UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER'S SEAT CAUSED BY EXTREME CORROSION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE INSPECTED NOR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 93,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-25
- VIN: 1N6AD0EV0CC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WOULD RANDOMLY STALL WHILE DRIVING, PARTICULARLY WHEN SLOWING FOR A TRAFFIC SIGNAL. THE ENGINE STOPPING WOULD CAUSE ALL POWER ASSISTED FUNCTIONS TO CEASE MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO STEER AND BRAKE. MOST RECENTLY THE VEHICLE WOULD START EXTREME HESITATION WHILE DRIVING AND I COULD NOT GET UP TO THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT OF 55 MPH. I HAD TO USE MY FLASHERS TO WARN OTHER DRIVERS THAT MY SPEED WAS ONLY APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH. ALSO THE TRANSMISSION HAD DIFFICULTY SHIFTING. THIS WAS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS ON A 2 LANE HIGHWAY WHERE VEHICLES RAPIDLY APPROACHED FROM THE REAR. IT WOULDN'T NEGOTIATE A LARGE HII (LACK OF POWER) AND I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO MY HOME. RECEIPT BELOW. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-13
- VIN: 1N6AD0CU4CC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF HIS SON WHO OWNS A 2012 NISSAN FRONTIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE WOULD SHUDDERED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION AFTER EXPERIENCING THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO METRO NISSAN OF MONTCLAIR 9440 AUTOPLEX ST, MONTCLAIR, CA 91763, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 63,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-28
- VIN: 1N6AD0ER7CC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 NISSAN FRONTIER. WHILE REVERSING OUT OF A PARKING LOT, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. ALSO, WHILE AT A STOP WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT NO FAILURE CODE WAS FOUND. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-12
- VIN: 1N6AD0ER3CC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE HOSING DOWN THE TRUCK THE PAINT ON MY FRONT FENDERS STARTED TO PEEL IN LARGE CHUNKS ON THE DRIVERS SIDE. ACCORDING TO THE DEALERSHIP IT SHOULD NOT BE PEELING.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-16
- VIN: 1N6AD0CWXCC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY TRUCK HAS HAD WHAT FEELS TO ME LIKE A ROUGH IDLE FOR ABOUT AS LONG AS I'VE HAD IT. IT WAS FINE FOR SEVERAL YEARS BUT A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO THE TRUCK DIED AT A STOP LIGHT. IT STARTED RIGHT BACK UP AND I DIDN'T THINK I'D BE ABLE TO REPLICATE THIS FOR A MECHANIC SO I JUST KEPT DRIVING IT. IT ALSO DIED ONCE ON MY WIFE BUT SHE DIDN'T TELL ME ABOUT IT AT THE TIME. A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT LOWER SPEEDS DUE TO TRAFFIC. IT DIED ON ME AGAIN AND THIS TIME IT WOULDN'T START. I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO A NISSAN DEALER. THEY REPAIRED A PART IN THE TRANSMISSION AND GAVE IT BACK TO ME. IT SEEMED OK BUT AFTER ABOUT TEN MILES IT DIED AGAIN. I BROUGHT IT BACK AND THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. THEY CLEANED THE THROTTLE BODY AND GAVE IT BACK TO ME. IT IS STILL IDLING ROUGH. IT HASN'T DIED AGAIN YET BUT I'M AFRAID OF WHAT MIGHT HAPPEN IF IT DOES. I'VE LOOKED ONLINE AND THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THESE TRUCKS. I THINK IT HAS SOME DEFECT THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED THROUGH A RECALL FOR THE SAFETY OF DRIVERS ON THE ROAD.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-08
- VIN: 1N6AD0EV3CC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CALLED NISSAN A COUPLE OF TIMES REGARDING DEFAMATION OF PAINT IN 2012 FRONTIERS AND MY FRONT FENDERS ARE PEELING IN LARGE CHUNKS JUST AS SEVERAL OTHER 2012 BLUE NISSAN FRONTIERS
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-09
- VIN: 1N6BDOCT6CC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL.. A TRANSMISSION ISSUE
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-17
- VIN: 1N6AD0EV2CC
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT DETERMINED CODE PO488. THE VENTILATION SYSTEM FOR THE GAS TANK - DOES NOT FORM A VACUUM WHEN ENGINE RUNNING AND IMPACT FUEL DELIVERY.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-04
- VIN: I N6ADOCW9C
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE PASSENGER SEAT WARNING LIGHT.AND SEAT SENSOR MALFUNCTIONED AND NOW THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT WILL NOT ENGAGE.I CANNOT HAVE A PASSENGER IN MY TRUCK BECAUSE OF THI PROBLEM.I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW THI COULD BE SAFE AT ALL.THE MANUAL SAYS THAT WHEN THIS HAPPENS TO BRING IT IN TO THE DEALER BECAUSE THE SENSOR AND THE SEAT BELT LATCH MUST BE REPLACED. I'VE OWNED.MANY VEHICLES IN MY LIFE AND NEVER EVER HAD A SEAT BELT FAILURE LIKE THIS .THIS IS DANGEROUS WHAT IF THIS OCCURS WHEN I HAVE A PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE AND THE SEAT BELT.UNMATCHED OR WON'T UNMATCHED. HOW CAN THIS BE SAFE. NO ONE GETS INTO MY VEHICLES WITHOUT PUTTING ON THE SEAT BELTS IN N.Y.IT IS A VIOLATION
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-02
- VIN: 1N6AD0CW2CC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 NISSAN FRONTIER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, A LOUD NOISE WAS PRESENT COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO NISSAN OF SALEM (33 MAIN ST, SALEM, NH) AND ALL FOUR TIRES WERE REPLACED, BUT THE NOISE GREW LOUDER. LATER, WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, A LOUD BANGING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE LEAF SPRINGS HAD FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,000.
2012 Nissan Frontier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2012 Nissan Frontier.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2012 through 2014 Frontier vehicles manufactured from November 28, 2012, through December 17, 2013. In the affected vehicles, a circuit breaker may have been installed incorrectly causing the main wire harness connected to the circuit breaker to face outward, potentially contacting a metal bolt located on the A-pillar.
- Consequence: The bolt may wear through the wire harness covering, resulting in an electrical short which could cause a fire.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the circuit breaker orientation. If the circuit breaker orientation is incorrect, dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The recall began on March 17, 2014. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:HUB
- Summary: Nissan is recalling certain model year 2012 Frontier, Pathfinder, and Xterra two-wheel drive vehicles manufactured from June 19, 2012, through July 12, 2012. These vehicles may have been equipped with front wheel hubs that may not meet the design hardness specifications. A wheel hub that was manufactured below hardness specification may wear prematurely and eventually crack.
- Consequence: If the vehicle is driven in this condition, the wheel hub may break, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replaced the left and right side front wheel hub assemblies free of charge. The safety recall began on October 22, 2012. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 INFINITI FX, MODEL YEAR 2012 INFINITI M, MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN FRONTIER, MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN XTERRA, MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER, AND MODEL YEAR 2012 NISSAN NV VEHICLES. SOME OF THE BOLTS THAT CONNECT THE ENGINE OIL COOLER AND THE ENGINE OIL FILTER TO THE ENGINE IN THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED TO BELOW SPECIFICATION STRENGTH. AS A RESULT, THE BOLT MAY BREAK AT THE OIL FILTER ATTACHMENT POINT AND CAN CAUSE AN ENGINE OIL LEAK.
- Consequence: IF THERE IS AN ENGINE OIL LEAK, THE ENGINE OIL PRESSURE WOULD DROP AND THE ENGINE COULD SEIZE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CONNECTOR BOLTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 30, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Negative 2012 Nissan Frontier car reviews
Positive 2012 Nissan Frontier car reviews
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I've only had this truck for a few weeks, but it's already exceeding my expectations. It came with a Snugtop shell and appears to have had light use. I chose the SL trim line over the Pro 4X because I wanted features but not the off-road ride. At 53,000 miles, it feels very tight. The engine is a little raspy when cold, but it smooths out in a few miles. I've only used the 4-wheel drive a little in the snow, but switching was easy and it worked. The limited slip and ABS were new to me, but they work great. Although I have to duck when getting in, the headroom is fine. The heated leather seats are firm but not hard, with no signs of wear. I found myself using the heated seats well into spring. The center armrest is a bit far back, but it has decent storage and a power port. The rear seat headrests do block vision somewhat when looking back, but the heated mirrors work well too. The sprayed-on bedliner is not as thick as the LineX I had in another truck, but it's okay for light use. The tailgate liner is not sprayed on, is very slick, and scuffs easily. Now, a year later, I have only changed the plugs and filters and switched to synthetic oil. MPG has gone up some, reaching 20 or so on longer trips. However, I am noticing a lot of bump steer. An alignment showed no issues and didn't help much. Now, a couple of years later (2020), I have changed the battery (the tray is from Titan, so I went for a larger one). Also, at 64,000 miles, I replaced the shocks with Bilstien 5100's. The back ones were shot, and the front ones were weak. This took care of the bump steer problem, and now it drives like new.
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I have the leather Pro-4X model with every available option. The off-road system with locker is fantastic, making it very nimble off-road. The cargo system is the best I have seen from a factory. It is also very quiet when driving down the highway. Living in the city and playing off-road, it is the perfect size. I have even taken my son and my friends' kids, all in car seats, and there was still plenty of room in the back seat. The brakes and motor feel very solid and have never let me down. On the highway at 75-80, expect around 18-19 mpg. Around town in Las Vegas, it gets 15 mpg. Towing the maximum 6k weight will take you down to 7-9 mpg when going through mountains. I have not had any warranty issues and have only needed oil changes to date.
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I was looking for a truck that I could use occasionally to pull and carry small loads. I am really happy with the Sports Appearance Package as it catches the eye and I have received many compliments on the wheels and overall look. The truck pulls great and has lots of power for getting on and off highways. The mileage is okay at 19.5 with a mix of city and highway driving, and the Bluetooth works great. However, the backseats are not suitable for anything more than a small child, so it's better to use the area for storage. The truck handles really well, and the steering feels good and tight. I also love the locking tailgate. The headlights and fog lights light up the roads well, and the truck was very comfortable on an 8-hour road trip.
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Great value for a truck! I'm glad to hear that you haven't had any issues with it. Sounds like you've found a keeper.
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I am the fourth owner of this great truck, which I bought with only 12,000 miles on it. She's black on black and really sexy. I named her Stray because the previous three owners didn't want or appreciate her. Their loss is definitely my gain. I added running boards because I had a hard time getting in and out while wearing a skirt and trying to be ladylike. I also updated the technology and added an Alpine car stereo with GPS carplay. I drive between my two homes in the city and the country and sometimes have trouble navigating either territory. The only thing I wish for is a six-cylinder engine for going over mountains, as the transmission can be a little sluggish while hauling.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Nissan Frontier problems:
Thinking about purchasing a 2012 frontier : r/nissanfrontier
Nov 7, 2021 ... I have a 2012 with 120k on it and it's the best vehicle I have ever owned. These trucks will rust in the common truck rust areas like the rear ...
2012 Nissan Frontier problems | Nissan Forum
May 18, 2023 ... A common problem with random engine shutdowns, difficult startups, rough running is a marginal camshaft position sensor (CMP) or a marginal ...
2012 Nissan Frontier Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Top 2012 Nissan Frontier Problems · Noise From the Front of the Engine. 155 people have reported this. 50 · No Start, Engine Stalls. 152 people have reported ...
2012 Nissan Frontier Reliability - Consumer Reports
Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
2010 Nissan Frontier, what to look for? | Grassroots Motorsports ...
The only real problem I discovered was some years(I think 2012 though) had issues with the radiator failing internally, causing a cross ...
Other years of Nissan Frontier
Are you having problems with your 2012 Nissan Frontier?
Kristopher Kovacek 2025-11-12
I traded in my Nissan for a Ford Ranger Lariate with only 45,000 miles. All repair and service were done at the dealer. Although Nissan claimed that all rims corrode and brakes rust, I had to replace the brakes at 28,000 miles and the allow rims were corroded. After buying 3 trucks, 3 Maximas, and 1 Murano LE, which we traded in for a Lexus RX350, this is my last Nissan. The truck has a long turning radius and is hard to backup. I had to remove the rear headrest for better visibility. At around $37,000, the cost is way overpriced for what it offers. The sunroof has been a problem since day one, and it has been repaired several times. The rails and guides were replaced just out of warranty, and after several leaks, I had to pay for a repair to their repair. The overall quality is very poor, and the ride is rough. I am looking forward to the new Tacoma 2020.
Lukas Daugherty 2025-06-13
This truck has everything! I'm coming from a 2003 Tacoma which I love more than the new Frontier and the New Tacoma. The Frontier has features that Toyota should be ashamed they don't have, such as power seats, heated seats, heated mirrors, and a rear defroster. Who do they think is out in the weather, the little sedan or the 4X4 guys? This omission does not make sense. The only problem with this truck is that it wanders on the highway and even on back roads. You have to drive this truck and keep your eyes on the road. This truck is the top SL version with 18'' tires. I've tried removing some air from the tires, but it's still not perfect.
Lowell Friesen 2025-03-03
This truck is a great size, not too big like a Ford F150 that wouldn't fit in my garage. The seats are incredibly comfortable and it handles road bumps really well for a truck. The power train is fantastic, with 4x4 low taking you up a 40 degree dirt road like it's a flat surface. While Nissan may have cut corners with interior space and some trim, it still has a lot of great features. The only downsides are the wide turning radius and the glove box being too small for the owner's manual. Overall, I'm averaging 18mpg which is not bad for a 4x4 V6.
Paul Bernhard 2024-06-17
I purchased a 2012 Nissan Frontier SV Crew Cab V6 Four Wheel Drive with 80000 miles on it. Although I did not experience any issues during the first two years of ownership, the check engine light and anti-skid light are now on. I have decided to sell this vehicle and purchase a Ford, which I believe would have been a better choice from the beginning.
Payton Jenkins 2024-05-07
I purchased my pickup from Wholesale Outlet in September 2017. Unfortunately, in April 2019, I noticed that the paint was peeling on both front fenders. My pickup is a 2012 model with 77,500 miles on it. After doing some research, I discovered that this was a common issue with the 2012 Nissan Frontier SV pickups. I contacted the Nissan dealer in Spartanburg, SC, but they were unable to cover the cost of the repair. I was disappointed with the quality of the paint job, which seemed to have a poor primer coat and clear shield. Overall, I had a negative experience with this product and would hesitate to purchase another Nissan product in the future.