2012 Nissan Altima used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• CVT failure73 owner complaints, usually around 96,000 miles, owners paid about $4,700

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Sudden loss of power34 owner complaints, usually around 96,800 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Complete transmission failure28 owner complaints, usually around 80,000 miles, owners paid about $3,900

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• SuspensionRecall number 12V494000, Oct 10, 2012
• Air bagsRecall number 12V055000, Feb 14, 2012
• Air bagsRecall number 11V408000, Aug 9, 2011
• SuspensionRecall number 11V371000, Jul 19, 2011

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Clicking noise from front or rear axle during take-off/accelerationMar 29, 2023
• Non-Methane Organic Gases (NMOG) Engine Control Module (ECM) Reprogram Voluntary Emission Recall Campaign...Mar 27, 2020
• MIL on with DTC P2423 noteMar 26, 2020
• VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS RECALL CAMPAIGN 2010-2012 ALTIMA SEDAN AND COUPE (SULEV); ENGINE CONTROL MODULE...Mar 26, 2020
• Nissan; DTC P0456 caused by evap leak at vent control valve o-ringJan 29, 2019
• OBD II evapNov 28, 2018

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.