By Jude Knox The 2012 Nissan Note faces several common issues reported by owners, primarily affecting the electrical system, transmission, and braking components. Notably, electrical problems include battery and alternator malfunctions, leading to hard starts, with owner satisfaction rated at 70%. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) exhibits slow acceleration and jerking, contributing to a satisfaction level of 65%. Braking systems often experience quick pad wear, achieving a lower satisfaction of 60%. Additional concerns involve air conditioning compressor failures and suspension noise. These insights highlight the importance of thorough inspection and consideration for prospective buyers, especially regarding maintenance and safety records.
Overview of the 2012 Note
The 2012 Nissan Note is a small car designed for city driving. It has a roomy interior that fits five people and has lots of space for luggage. Its length is 4,100 mm, and its width is 1,695 mm, making it easy to drive in narrow streets while still being comfortable for longer trips.
This model comes with two engine options: a 1.5-liter diesel engine and a 1.6-liter petrol engine. The diesel version is fuel-efficient, offering about 65 mpg, making it a good choice for saving on fuel costs. The petrol version provides about 50 mpg and offers a smoother driving experience.
Safety is a priority for the Note, with features like multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. These make it a safe choice for city driving.
Compared to cars like the Ford B-MAX and Citroën C3 Picasso, the Nissan Note is known for its space, comfort, and good fuel efficiency. It is practical and works well for different lifestyles, whether for city workers or families.
Common problems reported for the 2012 Note
Issues Reported for the 2012 Nissan Note
Electrical System
The car's electrical system has problems with battery and alternator connections. These happen often and haven't changed much over time.
Drivers may find it hard to start the car or see warning lights on the dashboard. This affects how reliable the car is and might cause it to stall. Satisfaction for this is at 70%.
Transmission
Many owners report issues with the car's CVT, or continuously variable transmission. Over time, these problems are becoming more frequent.
Drivers notice slow acceleration or jerking when shifting gears. This impacts how well the car performs, leading to poor acceleration and less efficiency. Satisfaction here is about 65%.
Suspension
Some drivers have issues with the suspension. The parts wear out, making the ride noisy and causing tires to wear unevenly.
These problems have stayed the same over time. They affect how the car handles and the comfort of the ride. Satisfaction is around 75%.
Braking System
The brakes, especially the brake pads, wear out quickly and this issue is on the rise.
Drivers hear squeaking noises and notice a drop in braking power. This can raise concerns about safety and the risk of accidents. Satisfaction in this part is lower, at 60%.
Air Conditioning
The AC system sometimes has problems, mainly with the compressor.
Owners notice the cooling isn't enough or hear strange noises when the AC is on. While it doesn't affect the car's performance much, it does impact comfort. Satisfaction is 68%.
Engine
There are high reports of the engine using too much oil. Some drivers see excessive smoke and need to top up the oil often.
This problem is becoming more common. It could lead to engine damage if not addressed. Satisfaction is 62%.
Interior
The interior of the car has some quality issues. Owners hear rattling noises and notice the materials wear out quickly.
While this doesn't affect how the car runs, it does affect how it looks. Satisfaction here is 70%.
Recall information specific to the 2012 Note
The 2012 Nissan Note had several recalls due to safety and performance problems. Knowing these issues can help car owners stay safe and keep their vehicles in good condition.
Here are some of the main recalls:
- Fuel Pump Problem: The fuel pump might be faulty, which can cause the engine to stall. This poses a risk while driving.
- Airbag Issues: Some models had trouble with airbags, which might not work in a crash.
- Brakes Malfunction: There were problems with the brakes, which could make it take longer to stop the car.
- Electrical System Problems: Electrical glitches could lead to power steering failure and other important functions not working.
Car owners should check for any recall updates and fix issues promptly.
Visiting a Nissan service center ensures that repairs follow the manufacturer's instructions. Keeping up with consumer reports can also help manage these recalls effectively.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2012 model
How do owners feel about the 2012 Nissan Note? Some like it, some don't. About 70% of owners are happy with their car. They like its practical design, roomy inside, and good gas mileage.
The Note is small but roomy. It's easy to drive in cities. Inside, there's a lot of space for legs and stuff, making it good for families. It uses fuel well, getting about 54 miles per gallon, which is good for saving money.
But not everyone is happy. Some say it doesn't speed up well or handle nicely. The engine can be weak when carrying heavy loads or merging onto highways. The car's infotainment system also has problems, like connection issues and confusing controls.
There are some reliability issues too. Owners have reported electrical problems and early wear on brakes.
Even with these problems, many still like the car for its value and features. The 2012 Nissan Note has its good and bad points, but many owners still find it a worthwhile car.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Note model years
The 2012 Nissan Note had some noticeable updates compared to previous and later models.
Models from 2006 to 2011 had simpler features and basic engines, like the 1.5-liter diesel and 1.6-liter petrol, which didn't offer much in terms of fuel efficiency or power. The 2012 version brought in the 1.2-liter DIG-S engine, which boosted both power and fuel economy, reaching up to 65.7 mpg.
Later models, particularly in 2013 and 2017, moved towards a more modern look. They included advanced features like Nissan's Safety Shield, offering lane departure warning and emergency braking.
The interiors improved too, with more comfortable seating and better infotainment systems, which appealed to tech-savvy buyers.
However, some owners of these newer models have mentioned problems with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). While it provided a smoother ride, it was sometimes seen as unreliable.
On the other hand, the 2012 Note's regular automatic transmission was often viewed as more reliable.
Tips for buying a used 2012 Note
When you're thinking about getting a used 2012 Nissan Note, check out these things to make sure it's a good buy:
1. Maintenance Records: Ask for the car's service records. This will show if the car had regular care like oil changes and brake checks.
Also, see if any recall repairs were done. A complete history often means the last owner took good care of the car.
2. Test Drive: Take the car for a spin. Listen to how the engine sounds.
See if the brakes work well and if the steering is smooth. Weird noises or handling issues might mean there are problems.
3. Body Condition: Look at the outside and inside of the car.
Check for rust, dents, and the state of the seats. These things can change how the car looks and its resale value.
4. Professional Inspection: Get a mechanic you trust to check the car before you buy it.
They can find problems that you might not notice on your own.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2012 Note
To keep your 2012 Nissan Note running well, regular care is key. Here are some easy steps to follow:
- Oil Changes: Change the oil every 5,000 miles or every six months.
- Air Filter: Check and replace the air filter every 15,000 to 20,000 miles for better engine performance.
- Tire Care: Rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. Make sure tire pressure is correct for better fuel use and handling.
Here's a simple guide for maintaining your 2012 Nissan Note:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles |
| Air Filter Replacement | Every 15,000-20,000 miles |
| Tire Rotation | Every 6,000-8,000 miles |
| Brake Inspection | Every 10,000 miles |
- Fluid Levels: Check coolant and brake fluid regularly.
- Brakes and Suspension: Inspect these parts often to keep your car safe and running smoothly.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Taking care of your 2012 Nissan Note helps it run better and can boost its resale value. Buyers often prefer cars that have been well looked after because they seem more dependable. Regular check-ups and repairs keep the car in good shape, which can make it worth more when selling.
Owning a car for a long time involves costs like depreciation, fuel, insurance, and upkeep. The Nissan Note is known for saving on fuel, which can lead to less money spent over the years. Parts are affordable and fixing it doesn't cost much, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Here's a quick look at what affects resale value and ownership costs:
| Factor | Impact on Resale Value | Long-Term Ownership Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance Frequency | Positive | Increases reliability |
| Fuel Efficiency | High | Reduces fuel expenses |
| Insurance Rates | Moderate | Affects overall costs |
| Depreciation Rate | Slower than rivals | Holds value longer |
People Also Ask
What Are the Common Aftermarket Modifications for the Nissan Note?
People often make changes to the Nissan Note to make it look cooler and drive better. They might add new shiny wheels, better shocks, louder exhausts, special air filters, or awesome sound systems. These changes help the car look nice and feel fun to drive.
How Does the Nissan Note Perform in Different Weather Conditions?
The Nissan Note does well in different weather. It stays stable and easy to handle in the rain, helping you drive safely. In the snow, it has good traction, so it doesn't slip easily. This makes it a good car for many types of weather.
Are There Any Known Issues With the Infotainment System?
The infotainment system sometimes has problems like software bugs, trouble connecting to smartphones, and it can be slow to respond. These issues can make it hard to use, so people are asking for updates or improvements to make it better.
What Is the Average Fuel Economy for the Nissan Note?
The Nissan Note usually gets between 50 to 60 miles per gallon. This means it doesn't use much gas, which is good for both city and long trips. Different models and how you drive can change these numbers a bit.
How Does the Nissan Note Compare to Competitors in Its Class?
The Nissan Note is a good choice because it is practical, saves fuel, and has cool technology. While other cars might be better in some ways, the Nissan Note is still a great option for many people who want a reliable car.