What are the most common problems with the 2012 Nissan Rogue?

Thoroughly inspect the **electrical system vulnerability**, specifically the driver-side floor harness connector, as it's a known issue with potential for shorts and costly repairs.

How many recalls does the 2012 Nissan Rogue have?

The 2012 Nissan Rogue currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Nissan Rogue a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Thoroughly inspect the **electrical system vulnerability**, specifically the driver-side floor harness connector, as it's a known issue with potential for shorts and costly repairs. Expect average reliability, backed by a high TSB count (84) which suggests numerous minor issues may arise over time. The 2.5-liter engine and automatic (variable gear ratios) transmission prioritize fuel economy (23 MPG combined) and smooth operation over performance. Benefit from a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including a 5-star side crash rating. Verify all recalls, especially the electrical system recall (15V032000), have been completed by a Nissan dealer. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Nissan Rogue?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Nissan Rogue.

2012 Nissan Rogue Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026Ethan Miller

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Thoroughly inspect the electrical system vulnerability, specifically the driver-side floor harness connector, as it's a known issue with potential for shorts and costly repairs.
Expect average reliability, backed by a high TSB count (84) which suggests numerous minor issues may arise over time.
The 2.5-liter engine and automatic (variable gear ratios) transmission prioritize fuel economy (23 MPG combined) and smooth operation over performance.
Benefit from a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including a 5-star side crash rating.

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Overview

2012 Nissan Rogue

The 2012 Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV designed for practicality and efficiency. Equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and an automatic (variable gear ratios) transmission, it delivers a combined 23 MPG. The All-Wheel Drive system provides confident traction in varied conditions. Safety is a strong point, with a 4-star overall NHTSA rating. However, its reliability is rated as average, primarily due to a significant electrical system recall and a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (84 TSBs) indicating various potential issues. While no consumer complaints were logged, the electrical system vulnerability represents a notable ownership risk.

Critical Failure Risk

A known issue (Recall 15V032000) involves water and road salt ingress into the driver-side floor harness connector, leading to corrosion and potential electrical shorts. This can cause various electrical malfunctions, including power window failure, AWD system issues, or even a fire risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a $3,500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking an affordable, used All-Wheel Drive crossover for daily commuting and light family duties.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers looking for a performance-oriented or highly engaging driving experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Nissan Rogue Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Crossover
EPA Combined MPG: 23

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System Vulnerability (Water Ingress)

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic Blend) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Engine Oil (4.8 quarts), Oil Filter (Nissan 15208-65F0A or equivalent)) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes, Hoses, and Lines - Inspect Fluid Levels and Top Off

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

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

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Nissan Rogue reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Nissan Rogue is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Nissan Rogue for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Nissan Rogue?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Nissan Rogue is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 4.6/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

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

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic Blend) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Engine Oil (4.8 quarts), Oil Filter (Nissan 15208-65F0A or equivalent)) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes, Hoses, and Lines - Inspect Fluid Levels and Top Off at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $9,840. Repair prediction highlight: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) (typical at 100,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,500 • Max: $5,000+).

What engine is in the 2012 Nissan Rogue?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2012 Nissan Rogue use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Nissan Rogue, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Nissan Rogue?

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

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

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

What body style is the 2012 Nissan Rogue?

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

What drivetrain does the 2012 Nissan Rogue use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Nissan Rogue, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Nissan Rogue?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Nissan Rogue?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.