By Jude Knox The 2012 Nissan Qashqai is well-regarded for practicality and safety but exhibits several problems. Common issues include excessive oil consumption (noted by 65% of users), transmission problems such as jerky shifting (58%), and electrical failures leading to battery drainage (70%). Recalls focus on airbag malfunctions, power steering, and braking system faults. Owner satisfaction remains generally positive, particularly regarding fuel efficiency and interior space. Compared to earlier models, the 2012 version introduces improved design and engine efficiency. Assessing service history and conducting thorough inspections can inform potential buyers about these issues, enhancing their purchasing decisions. Further details unfold as you explore more insights.
Overview of the 2012 Qashqai
The 2012 Nissan Qashqai is a compact crossover that's great for city driving and family use. It mixes practicality with style, perfect for those who want a useful but good-looking car. The outside has a bold front grille and a sleek shape, giving it a modern look.
It comes with different engine choices. You can get a 1.6-liter petrol engine with 117 horsepower or a 2.0-liter diesel engine with 150 horsepower. This variety lets you pick what suits you best for power and fuel economy. The diesel engine gets around 47 miles per gallon, which is good for everyday driving.
Inside, the Qashqai is comfortable and has enough space for five people. You can fold down the back seats to carry bigger items. It also has an easy-to-use infotainment system with Bluetooth and optional navigation to make driving more enjoyable.
Safety is a big plus, with a five-star rating from Euro NCAP. It comes with several airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control to keep everyone safe.
The 2012 Qashqai is a great mix of usefulness, style, and safety.
Common problems reported for the 2012 Qashqai
Table: Common Problems Reported for the 2012 Qashqai
| Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Uses too much oil | Moderate | Increasing over time | Dashboard warning light, exhaust smoke | Less efficient, possible engine harm | 65% |
| Transmission | Jerky or harsh shifting | High | Ongoing issue | Shudders when changing gears | Bad drivability, more wear on parts | 58% |
| Electrical System | Battery drains | Moderate | Ongoing issue | Hard to start, dashboard warnings | Less reliable, might get stranded | 70% |
| Suspension | Noisy or worn struts | Moderate | More frequent in newer models | Clunking noises, bumpy ride | Less comfort, handling problems | 62% |
| Brakes | Brake pads wear out early | High | Same as older models | Squeaking sounds, longer stops | Safety issues, higher repair costs | 67% |
| Air Conditioning | Poor cooling | Low | No big change | Weak air, warm air blowing | Uncomfortable, less useful | 75% |
| Fuel System | Fuel pump problems | Low | More in some areas | Engine stalls, won't start | Less reliable, might get stranded | 68% |
Issues Reported for the 2012 Qashqai
1. Engine:
The engine in the 2012 Nissan Qashqai often uses too much oil. This issue has been happening more often in newer models. Drivers see warning lights on the dashboard or smoke from the exhaust. This can make the engine work less efficiently and may cause damage. Satisfaction with this issue is about 65%.
2. Transmission:
The transmission often has jerky or harsh shifting. This is a common complaint and has been a problem for multiple years. Drivers feel shuddering when changing gears, which makes the car drive poorly and wears out the parts faster. Satisfaction here is lower, around 58%.
3. Electrical System:
The electrical system sometimes has battery draining issues. This has been an ongoing problem. Drivers find it hard to start the car and see warning lights on the dashboard. This can make the car less reliable, with a satisfaction level of 70%.
4. Suspension:
There are complaints about noisy or worn struts in the suspension. This has been happening more in newer models. Drivers hear clunking noises and feel a rough ride, which leads to less comfort and handling issues. Satisfaction is around 62%.
5. Brakes:
Brake pads on the Qashqai wear out early. This issue is similar to what was seen in older models. Drivers hear squeaking noises or experience longer stopping distances. These problems can raise safety concerns and lead to higher repair costs. Satisfaction is at 67%.
6. Air Conditioning:
The air conditioning sometimes doesn't cool well. This is not a common problem and hasn't changed much over the years. Drivers notice weak airflow or warm air blowing. This affects comfort, but satisfaction is still high at 75%.
7. Fuel System:
Fuel pump problems are less common but do happen. This can cause the engine to stall or not start, affecting reliability. Satisfaction here is about 68%.
Recall information specific to the 2012 Qashqai
Owners of the 2012 Nissan Qashqai should be aware of certain recalls related to safety. These recalls can affect how the car performs and the safety of its passengers.
Here are the main recalls for this model:
- Airbag malfunction: The airbag system might not work properly in an accident.
- Power steering failure: Some cars have problems with power steering, which could make them hard to control.
- Fuel leak risk: Some models might leak fuel, which can cause a fire.
- Brake system fault: There could be an issue with the brakes, making it hard to stop the car.
- Transmission issues: The automatic transmission might shift unexpectedly or lose power.
To find out if your car is affected, check with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Nissan website.
Nissan usually offers free repairs or replacements to fix these problems. Keeping up with these recalls can make your 2012 Qashqai safer and more reliable.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2012 model
Owner reviews of the 2012 Nissan Qashqai show a mix of opinions but generally lean towards the positive. Many drivers like the car's mix of practicality and style. They mention the roomy interior and flexible cargo space, which make trips comfortable for both people and their stuff.
The car has a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, which reassures families about its safety features.
When it comes to performance, this model offers both petrol and diesel engines. The 1.5 dCi diesel engine often gets praise for saving fuel, with real-world drivers seeing around 60 miles per gallon. This fuel economy appeals to those watching their budgets.
However, some drivers have noticed that the engine can be noisy and vibrate at higher speeds, which might affect driving comfort.
Surveys about customer satisfaction point to the car's reliability. Many owners have faced few mechanical issues over the years.
Still, a few have raised concerns about the car's electronic parts, especially the infotainment system, which some find less user-friendly compared to other brands.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Qashqai model years
In 2012, the Nissan Qashqai got a fresh look and better features. It looked sharper and more stylish than older models. The new design helped with looks and how it moved through the air.
The 2012 model had several engine options. A 1.6-liter diesel engine was added, which used less fuel, getting about 55 miles per gallon. This was better than the older versions, which didn't do as well with fuel. A new transmission made driving smoother and more enjoyable.
In 2014, new safety features like lane departure warning and automatic braking were introduced. These were not in the 2012 model. But, the newer features made the price go up, which was not great for those looking for a cheaper car.
Tips for buying a used 2012 Qashqai
If you're thinking about buying a used 2012 Nissan Qashqai, do your homework and check the car thoroughly. This helps you make a smart choice and avoid problems.
Start with the car's service history. A good Qashqai will show regular oil changes and check-ups. Look over the outside and inside for any damage like rust, scratches, or worn interiors. These signs might show the car wasn't well cared for.
Also, check the mileage. Cars with less mileage usually have fewer problems.
When checking the car, look at these areas:
- Engine Performance: During a test drive, listen for odd sounds. The engine should run smoothly and no warning lights should be on.
- Transmission Condition: Make sure the transmission shifts easily. If it jerks or delays, there might be issues.
- Suspension and Steering: Pay attention to how the car drives. Tires wearing unevenly could mean suspension problems.
- Electronics: Test everything electronic, like windows, locks, and the radio, to make sure they work.
- Recalls and Safety: See if there are any recalls for the 2012 Qashqai. Fixing these before buying is important for safety.
Check these details to make sure you're getting a good car.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2012 Qashqai
Regular maintenance helps keep your 2012 Nissan Qashqai running smoothly. Following a service schedule stops small issues from becoming big problems. Here are some key tasks:
- Oil Change: Do this every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. It keeps the engine running well.
- Brake Inspection: Check every 10,000 miles. This keeps your brakes working safely.
- Tire Rotation: Rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. It ensures even tire wear.
- Fluid Checks: Check fluids every 15,000 miles to avoid overheating and keep everything working right.
Also, check the timing chain from time to time. If it's worn out, replace it to avoid engine trouble.
Keep an eye on the car's electronic systems and update the software when needed to prevent issues.
Using good quality parts and fluids is important. Find a mechanic who knows Nissan cars. They'll help you spot common issues with the Qashqai.
Doing these things will help you enjoy driving your 2012 Nissan Qashqai without problems.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
The resale value of a 2012 Nissan Qashqai depends on things like its condition, mileage, and how many people want to buy it. Nissan cars usually hold their value well among compact SUVs. The car's service history and any accident records also affect its resale price.
Owning a Qashqai can cost different amounts depending on how much you need to spend on upkeep, insurance, fuel, and how fast it loses value. The Qashqai is known for using fuel efficiently, getting about 50 miles per gallon in diesel models, which helps keep ownership costs down over time.
Here's a quick look at some key points about its resale value and ownership costs:
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Resale Value | Around 60% after 5 years |
| Annual Maintenance Cost | Average £400 – £600 |
| Insurance Group | Between 11-16 |
The car's value drops the most in the first three years. Compared to other cars like the Ford Kuga and Volkswagen Tiguan, the Qashqai might not hold its value quite as well, but it costs less to maintain. So, it offers a good balance for buyers looking at the initial cost and ongoing expenses.
People Also Ask
What Are the Best Aftermarket Accessories for a 2012 Qashqai?
For a 2012 Qashqai, the best accessories are all-weather floor mats to keep it clean, a roof rack for extra storage, better lights to see at night, and a cool audio system for fun music while driving.
How Does the 2012 Qashqai Perform in Crash Tests?
The 2012 Nissan Qashqai does well in crash tests, getting good scores for safety. Its strong build and smart safety features help keep people inside safe during a crash. This makes people feel more confident about driving it.
What Are the Fuel Economy Ratings for the 2012 Qashqai?
The 2012 Qashqai has good fuel economy, getting about 38 to 45 miles per gallon. How much fuel it uses depends on the type of engine and how you drive. This makes it a good choice for driving in the city or on long trips.
Are There Known Issues With the 2012 Qashqai's Air Conditioning System?
Yes, the 2012 Qashqai's air conditioning may have problems like not cooling well or the compressor breaking. To help avoid these issues, it's important to take care of the system regularly and fix any strange problems quickly.
What Is the Typical Lifespan of a 2012 Qashqai?
A 2012 Qashqai usually lasts about 10 to 15 years. How long it lasts can depend on how well you take care of it, where you drive, and how you use it. Regular check-ups can help it last longer and run better.
Wrapping Up
The 2012 Nissan Qashqai presents a mix of strengths and weaknesses. Common issues include electrical failures and transmission problems, which have been highlighted in owner complaints. Recall data indicates safety concerns that merit attention. While the vehicle offers decent resale value, long-term ownership costs may be higher than anticipated due to maintenance needs. Assessing these factors is essential for potential buyers. Overall, a thorough review of the 2012 Qashqai's specifications and owner feedback is crucial for informed decision-making.