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2012 Nissan Cube Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ryan Davis
2012 Nissan Cube Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2012 Nissan Cube has a solid record with zero safety recalls and zero consumer complaints.
  • A significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest potential, though not necessarily safety-critical, issues that may require attention.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 27 MPG.
  • The 1.8-liter engine and manual transmission combination offers straightforward, if not thrilling, performance.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Nissan Cube

The 2012 Nissan Cube presents a distinctive, urban-friendly package. Its quirky, asymmetrical design houses a practical interior, making it a niche choice for city dwellers. Under the hood, a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a manual transmission delivers adequate power for daily commuting, while its fuel economy is respectable for its class. The absence of safety recalls and consumer complaints is a positive sign, but a high volume of TSBs indicates potential for non-safety-critical issues that buyers should investigate.

Critical Failure Risk

A high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicate potential issues that, while not safety recalls, can affect reliability and owner satisfaction. These often relate to powertrain, electrical systems, or HVAC.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
27
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.7/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a distinctive, compact vehicle for urban environments.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand cutting-edge performance or sporty handling.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Nissan Cube Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Nissan Cube.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Crossover
EPA Combined MPG
27

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Most Common Issues

1. TSB-Related Issues (Various)

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. CVT Transmission Issues

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Nissan Cube reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Nissan Cube is 9.7/10. Reliability score is 9.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Nissan Cube for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Nissan Cube?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Nissan Cube is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Nissan Cube?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Ignition Coil (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $800).

What engine is in the 2012 Nissan Cube?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.8.

What transmission does the 2012 Nissan Cube use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Nissan Cube, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Nissan Cube?▾

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Nissan Cube?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2012 Nissan Cube?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Nissan Cube, body style is crossover.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Nissan Cube use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Nissan Cube, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Nissan Cube?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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