2012 Nissan Xterra
Reliability, common problems, recalls and owner complaints
Before you message the seller, know the documented failure patterns, repair cost exposure, and risk level for the 2012 Nissan Xterra.
Recalls on the 2012 Nissan Xterra
Engine and engine cooling
SOME OF THE BOLTS THAT CONNECT THE ENGINE OIL COOLER AND THE ENGINE OIL FILTER TO THE ENGINE IN THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED…
Suspension: hub
These vehicles may have been equipped with front wheel hubs that may not meet the design hardness specifications.
Source: NHTSA
What 16 owners reported
Source: NHTSA
2012 Nissan Xterra at a glance
- Trims
- PRO-4XSX
- Engine
- 4.0L 6-Cylinder
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd, Automatic 5-spd
- Drivetrain
- RWD, 4WD
- Fuel
- Gasoline
- Body style
- SUV
Other Nissan Xterra years
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Frequently asked questions
What are the common problems with the 2012 Nissan Xterra?
Owners have filed 16 complaints about the 2012 Nissan Xterra with NHTSA, most often about the power train. 2 recall campaigns cover this model year.
Is the 2012 Nissan Xterra reliable?
Owners have filed 16 complaints about the 2012 Nissan Xterra with NHTSA, most often about the power train. 2 recall campaigns cover this model year. How a specific car holds up depends on its engine, mileage and maintenance record.
Should I still get a pre-purchase inspection on a 2012 Nissan Xterra?
Always. A Squeezed buyer guide is the triage step before the inspection: it shows you the documented failure patterns and what to check so you can decide which 2012 Nissan Xterra listings are even worth a mechanic's time, then walk into the PPI knowing exactly what to look for.
Squeezed is a buyer guide based on public data and industry patterns, not a mechanical inspection. Always get a professional pre-purchase inspection before you buy.