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

With 33 recalls, many focused on critical safety components like airbags, the 2012 Versa demands a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

How many recalls does the 2012 Nissan Versa have?

The 2012 Nissan Versa currently has 33 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Nissan Versa a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. With 33 recalls, many focused on critical safety components like airbags, the 2012 Versa demands a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Despite zero logged consumer complaints, the sheer volume of recalls suggests potential underlying quality issues. Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined 27 MPG, making it an economical choice for daily driving. The 1.8L engine and 4-speed automatic are standard fare, prioritizing efficiency over spirited performance. Confirm all recall work, especially for airbag systems, has been completed by a qualified technician. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

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

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

2012 Nissan Versa Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026Daniel Wilson29 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

With 33 recalls, many focused on critical safety components like airbags, the 2012 Versa demands a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Despite zero logged consumer complaints, the sheer volume of recalls suggests potential underlying quality issues.
Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined 27 MPG, making it an economical choice for daily driving.
The 1.8L engine and 4-speed automatic are standard fare, prioritizing efficiency over spirited performance.

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Overview

2012 Nissan Versa

The 2012 Nissan Versa offers an economical transportation option with respectable fuel efficiency, achieving a combined 27 MPG. Its 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, provides adequate power for daily commuting, delivering between 109-122 horsepower. Safety is a mixed bag, with an overall 4-star NHTSA rating, but frontal crash protection is rated at 3 stars. However, a substantial number of recalls, especially those related to airbag inflators, cast a significant shadow over its long-term reliability and ownership experience.

Critical Failure Risk

Extensive recalls related to airbag inflator modules, particularly from Takata, indicate a systemic risk of inflator rupture. This can lead to dangerous deployment or non-deployment in a crash. Even replacement parts have been subject to recalls.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns33

Service Bulletins115

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower: 109–122HP
Torque: 107–127 lb–ftLB-FT

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency for short commutes.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair concerns.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Nissan Versa Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Horsepower: 109-122 hp
Torque: 107-127 lb-ft
Transmission: Automatic 4-spd
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
EPA Combined MPG: 27

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbag System Malfunctions

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Suspension Coil Spring Fracture

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

Est. shop cost: $100 - $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

33 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Nissan Versa reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Nissan Versa is 7.1/10. Reliability score is 7.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 33. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Nissan Versa for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.5/10. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Nissan Versa?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Nissan Versa is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.5/10.

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

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $150 - $250. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Inflator Module (estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,000+).

What engine is in the 2012 Nissan Versa?

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.8. Output is 109-122 hp • 107-127 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2012 Nissan Versa use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Nissan Versa, transmission is Automatic 4-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

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

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

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

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

How many people fit in a 2012 Nissan Versa?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Nissan Versa, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2012 Nissan Versa?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Nissan Versa, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Nissan Versa use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Nissan Versa, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 4-spd.

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

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 3/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Nissan Versa?

This model year has 33 official safety campaigns listed.