By Finn Hart The 2012 Nissan NV series, comprising NV1500, NV2500 HD, and NV3500 HD models, presents several issues. Engine problems, notably excessive oil consumption, have been reported, with 65% owner satisfaction. Transmission difficulties include slipping and rough shifting, yielding a 55% satisfaction rate. Electrical failures such as faulty starter motors occur, with a 70% owner satisfaction rating. Brake systems show premature wear issues, affecting 60% satisfaction. Comparatively, other commercial vans like the Ford Transit demonstrate better reliability ratings. Comprehensive vehicle assessments are crucial for potential buyers to ensure a well-informed purchase decision. Additional insights are available for deeper understanding.
Overview of the 2012 NV
The 2012 Nissan NV is a big van made for work. It comes in three types: NV1500, NV2500 HD, and NV3500 HD. These models suit different business needs.
The NV1500 has a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD have a stronger 5.6-liter V8 engine, offering 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque.
The NV is known for its roomy interior. The NV3500 HD can hold up to 323.1 cubic feet of cargo. The van's low step makes loading and unloading easy. Businesses that make many deliveries find this helpful.
The back doors open wide, up to 243 degrees, for easy access to the cargo space.
Safety features are included, like antilock brakes, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. You can also get a rearview camera and parking sensors to help in tight spaces.
Common problems reported for the 2012 NV
Problems with the 2012 Nissan NV
The 2012 Nissan NV has several reported issues across its main parts and systems. Here's a breakdown of these problems:
Engine
Owners often face excessive oil use in the engine. This problem appears in many model years. Signs include warning lights on the dashboard or smoke from the exhaust.
These issues can lead to the engine not working as well as it should. About 65% of users are satisfied with the engine's reliability.
Transmission
The transmission often has problems like slipping or rough shifting. These issues have increased over time.
Drivers notice the car doesn't accelerate smoothly and jerks during gear changes, making it harder to drive. Only 55% of owners are happy with the transmission.
Electrical System
Some vehicles have a faulty starter motor. This problem doesn't happen often and hasn't changed much over time.
When it does occur, the car may be hard to start and make a clicking noise. Satisfaction here is higher, with 70% of users content.
Brake System
Brakes may wear out sooner than expected, especially in the 2012 model. This can cause squeaking and make the car harder to stop quickly, which is a safety concern.
Satisfaction with the brakes is at 60%.
Suspension
The front suspension often makes noise, like clunking or rattling. This has been a common issue over the years, affecting how comfortable and easy the car is to drive.
Satisfaction with the suspension is about 58%.
HVAC System
The heating and cooling system doesn't always work well. Some owners report temperature changes and weak airflow.
Despite this, 72% of users are satisfied with the HVAC system.
Fuel System
In some cases, the fuel pump fails. This is not common but can cause the engine to stall or not accelerate properly, affecting reliability and safety.
Satisfaction here is around 68%.
Recall information specific to the 2012 NV
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Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2012 model
Owner satisfaction with the 2012 Nissan NV often depends on its mix of usefulness and performance. Many owners like the roomy interior and cargo space, which are great for business needs. The NV has up to 323.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which makes it stand out among commercial vans.
The 2012 model has a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This setup provides decent acceleration and response, even when carrying a full load. Its towing capacity goes up to 9,500 pounds, which users who need to tow heavy loads often appreciate.
Some owners have concerns about fuel efficiency. The NV gets about 17 miles per gallon in the city and 23 on highways. Other vans, like the Ford Transit and Chevrolet Express, have slightly better fuel economy, which might sway some buyers.
Most customers find the NV reliable, though some mention issues with electrical systems and interior fittings. Overall, people rate the 2012 NV well due to its strong performance, keeping in mind the trade-offs in fuel efficiency and minor defects.
Businesses using the NV for deliveries or service tasks value its durability and easy maintenance, making it a popular choice for commercial use.
Comparison to previous and subsequent NV model years
When looking at the 2012 Nissan NV compared to earlier and later models, several points stand out that affect what buyers think. The 2011 NV, the first in the line, was known for its utility and versatility but wasn't great on fuel efficiency and interior comfort.
The 2012 model made some improvements with better materials and a more user-friendly layout, which made it more attractive for businesses.
In the years after, like 2013 and 2014, the NV kept getting better. The 2013 model had a stronger V8 engine option, with 375 horsepower, which helped with towing. The 2012 version had a V8 with 317 horsepower, which was okay but not as strong as rivals like the Ford Transit.
By 2015, Nissan added features like a rear-view camera and better crash test results, appealing to more than just businesses.
The 2012 model had some early transmission problems, but these were fixed later, which made people trust newer models more.
Tips for buying a used 2012 NV
Thinking about buying a used 2012 Nissan NV? It could be a great choice if you need a dependable work van. Here's what to consider to make sure you're making a good buy.
- Check Vehicle History: Get a report to see if the van has been in any accidents, has title problems, or has service records. This will show you how the van was treated before.
- Get a Mechanical Check: Have a mechanic look at the van. They can spot issues like transmission or electrical problems, which might cost a lot to fix.
- Go for a Test Drive: Drive the van to see how it handles, stops, and feels. Listen for weird noises or vibrations—they might mean trouble.
- Think About Cargo Needs: Look at what you need to carry. Make sure the NV's space and weight limits work for you.
The 2012 NV comes in NV1500 and NV2500 models, which can hold different amounts of cargo.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2012 NV
Taking care of your 2012 Nissan NV helps keep it running well. Follow these steps to avoid problems:
- Change the engine oil every 5,000 miles or every six months. Use good synthetic oil to keep the engine in top condition.
- Check the brakes every 10,000 miles. Worn brakes can lead to less stopping power and more expensive repairs.
- Rotate the tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This helps them wear evenly and last longer. Keep an eye on tire pressure to prevent blowouts and save on fuel.
- Check fluid levels monthly. Make sure transmission, coolant, and brake fluids are at the right levels to avoid serious damage.
Here's a quick guide:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles | Keep engine running smoothly |
| Brake Inspection | Every 10,000 miles | Ensure safe braking |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000-7,500 miles | Extend tire life |
| Fluid Level Check | Monthly | Avoid major breakdowns |
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
The resale value of the Nissan NV affects what you might spend over time. As a commercial van, it offers space and utility, but how much it loses value is something to think about. Things like demand, the van's condition, and how reliable it's known to be all play a part in its resale value.
When looking at the Nissan NV next to other vans like the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, check how much each one depreciates and what they might resell for. The Nissan NV generally loses value at a moderate rate compared to others, which can be good for long-term costs.
Here's a look at these vans based on what they might sell for after five years:
| Vehicle Model | Average Resale Value | Depreciation Rate (5 Years) | Reliability Rating | Ownership Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan NV | $20,000 | 45% | 4.0/5 | Moderate |
| Ford Transit | $23,000 | 42% | 4.5/5 | Moderate |
| Mercedes-Benz Sprinter | $30,000 | 38% | 4.8/5 | High |
| Ram ProMaster | $21,500 | 44% | 4.0/5 | Moderate |
| Chevrolet Express | $19,000 | 47% | 3.9/5 | Low |
The Nissan NV's value drop and ownership costs are reasonable. Think about what you need and want in a commercial van when making a choice.
People Also Ask
What Are the Engine Options Available for the 2012 Nissan NV?
The 2012 Nissan NV has two engine choices. One is a 4.0-liter V6 engine that makes 261 horsepower. The other is a 5.6-liter V8 engine that gives 317 horsepower. These engines help the van work well for different jobs.
How Does the 2012 NV Perform in Fuel Efficiency?
The 2012 Nissan NV gets about 12 to 18 miles per gallon, depending on the engine and how you drive. This is pretty average for big vans like it. So, it's not the best for saving gas, but it's not the worst either.
Are There Special Tools Needed for NV Repairs?
Yes, special tools are needed for NV repairs. These include scan tools to check electronic systems, special wrenches for fixing engines, and tools to adjust suspensions. Using the right tools helps to fix things quickly and correctly.
What Is the Towing Capacity of the 2012 Nissan NV?
The 2012 Nissan NV can tow up to 9,500 pounds if it has the right equipment. This means it can pull heavy things like trailers, boats, or other vehicles. It's good for both work and fun activities that need towing.
How Does the Nv's Warranty Compare to Competitors?
The Nissan NV's warranty is usually good and similar to what other car makers offer. It's important to check each car brand because warranties can change a lot. Always compare them to see which one gives the best deal for your needs.