“The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle briefly lost motive power before slamming into gear. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The vehicle was not repaired for the most recent failure.”
Owner complaint, filed Jun 2, 2025
“Transmission spudders at times. It is very delayed when pulling out sometimes. Turning the car off and back on might help sometimes. Car will go in limp mode. Nissan dealer said it was the Transmission. There is a big safety concern because when you push the gas trying to cross an intersection, it might lag behind and not go. This could result in being hit.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 16, 2022
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2012 Altima peaked in 2018, with 69 filed that year. No recall on file covers the transmission, the subject of 29% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 5 so far.
Filed Oct 10, 201213,919 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.
Defect. Nissan is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Altima vehicles manufactured from May 10, 2012, through July 26, 2012. These vehicles may have been equipped with transverse link bolts and power steering rack bolts that were not torqued to proper specification.
Risk. The affected bolts could become loose and fall out which may lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the bolts to the proper torque specifications. The safety recall is expected to begin during November 2012. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.
Filed Feb 14, 2012976 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.
Defect. NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 ALTIMA AND VERSA VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS THAT CONTAIN AN INCORRECT PROPELLANT MIXTURE FOR THE INITIATOR COMPONENT USED, RESULTING IN INSUFFICIENT OUTPUT OF COMPRESSED GAS.
Risk. THE SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS MAY NOT DEPLOY, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy. NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ONE OR BOTH SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAG MODULES, AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 12, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 615-725-1000.
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module-inactive11V408000
Filed Aug 9, 201154 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.
Defect. NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 NISSAN ALTIMA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 15, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 21, 2011 AND MODEL YEAR 2012 NISSAN NV VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 23, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 28, 2011 BECAUSE THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU) WAS ASSEMBLED INCORRECTLY.
Risk. THE AFFECTED ACU WILL NOT OPERATE AS DESIGNED AND THIS ISSUE MAY CAUSE THE AIR BAGS NOT TO INFLATE IN A CRASH WHEN THEY ARE DESIGNED TO INFLATE. THIS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy. NISSAN WILL REPLACE THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Filed Jul 19, 201120,000 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.
Defect. NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN ALTIMA SEDAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 25, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 10, 2011 AT THE CANTON, MISSISSIPPI PLANT. THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TORQUED TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION. THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE BOLT TO BECOME LOOSE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, CREATING A RATTLING NOISE AND VIBRATION.
Risk. IF THE BOLT COMES OUT COMPLETELY, THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY CONTROLLING THE DIRECTION OF THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy. NISSAN WILL REPLACE THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLTS AND NUTS AND TIGHTEN THEM TO THE PROPER TORQUE SPECIFICATION FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 8, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
All 4 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2012 Altima.
Autoliv Air Bag Propellant MixtureInvestigation EQ12002Closed
Opened Feb 14, 2012Closed May 8, 2012airbags
The summary for this investigation, labeled EQ12-002 Autoliv Closing Resume, can be found attached separately to this resume.This EQ is closed.
Technical service bulletins
121 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2012 Altima. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
electrical system 19equipment 17engine 13transmission 9wheels 8brakes 7fuel system 7body and frame 6
Non-Methane Organic Gases (NMOG) Engine Control Module (ECM) Reprogram Voluntary Emission Recall Campaign ***** Campaign Summary ***** Nissan is conducting a Voluntary Emissions Recall Campaign on approximately 116,479 specific MY2010-12 Altima 2.5L SULEV vehicles identified in Service Comm to reprogram the Engine Control Module (ECM) to assure compliance …
NTB20-020Warranty extensionMar 26, 2020engine
2010-2012 ALTIMA; MIL ON WITH DTC P2423 NOTE: The warranty period for the front exhaust tube with catalyst (20010-ZX10A) has been extended on the Applied Vehicles if the following criteria are met: ï· - The MIL is ON and DTC P2423 is stored in the ECM. ï· - The VIN is shown in SERVICE-COMM under L32 NMOG EXT_DTC P2423 NTB20-020. ï· - The vehicle is …
CLICKING NOISE FROM FRONT OR REAR AXLE DURING TAKE-OFF/ACCELERATION This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
CLICKING NOISE FROM FRONT OR REAR AXLE DURING TAKE-OFF/ACCELERATION This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
CLICKING NOISE FROM FRONT OR REAR AXLE DURING TAKE-OFF/ACCELERATION This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
CLICKING NOISE FROM FRONT OR REAR AXLE DURING TAKE-OFF/ACCELERATION This bulletin has been amended. The APPLIED VEHICLES section has been revised. No other changes have been made. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
"ALTIMA, SENTRA, AND ROGUE; CVT FAIL-SAFE CONDITION SERVICE INFORMATION THIS BULLETIN HAS BEEN AMENDED. THE APPLIED VEHICLES SECTION HAS BEEN REVISED. NO OTHER CHANGES HAVE BEEN MADE. PLEASE DISCARD PREVIOUS VERSIONS OF THIS BULLETIN."
SERVICE INFORMATION The information in this bulletin is provided to help ensure correct diagnosis and repair of fluid leaks. All fluid leaks, when properly diagnosed, should be repaired (whether under warranty or customer pay) to ensure proper vehicle operation. However, certain normal operating conditions can be misdiagnosed as a leak requiring repair. …
Showing the newest 6 of 9 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version tested
Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk
2012 Nissan Altima 2 DR FWD
—
—
—
★★★★★
9.3%
2012 Nissan Altima 4 DR FWD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
10.5%
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Steering
Filed Sep 22, 2026CT
Am submitting a formal safety defect report regarding the steering system on my 2012 Nissan Altima Coupe. The vehicle exhibits a loose and unstable steering feel, accompanied by a distinct clunking impact whenever the wheel is turned, including during low‑speed maneuvering. This condition indicates a potential failure within the steering linkage, intermediate shaft, or associated structural components. Although my VIN does not currently appear in Nissan’s recall database, the symptoms are materially similar to steering‑related defects previously documented for this model year. Under federal motor vehicle safety standards, any defect that affects steering performance constitutes a safety hazard regardless of recall status. The looseness and clunking present an unreasonable risk of loss of steering control, which could result in a crash or injury. I am requesting immediate inspection, formal documentation of the defect, and corrective action consistent with Nissan’s obligations under safety defect reporting requirements.” than you for your kind and immediate attention to the safety of your driver's. Misc is s responsible and prominent company and I know that they take care of their customers. Thank you again for your attention to this hazardous matter. 8
Structure › Body
Filed Aug 16, 2026NY
Took the car to a repair shop to get an alignment. Was told that the frame rear cross member was so rusty that it needed to be replaced, and that if it broke while driving I would lose control of the car. The component has not been removed from the car. No one else has looked at the car. Only prior warning/message/symptom was uneven rear tire wear first noticed about 6 months prior, but that may have been due to bad rear shocks.
Air BagsCrash
Filed Jul 24, 2026FL
I was working, and as I was on my way to a location a lady in front of me came to a complete stop since a couple of ducks were crossing causing me to come to a complete stop as well. As I stopped I looked into my rearview mirror I noticed the lady behind me was not stopping and then smashed into the back of me launching me into the car in front of me. My passenger air bag went off, however my driver seat airbag did not go off, failing to protect me. My car was completely totaled in result of the accident.
Tires
Filed May 1, 2026OH
215/60/r16 Driving down, interstate st 70 steering wheel started to shake, then load noise as if running over something, then could see the entire middle tread of the tire flying into the lane behind me to the right. So luckily no one was in that lane or it would’ve crashed into the front of their car. Car was recently purchased from a dealer and the dealer had just gotten it from an auction so little to no information about the tires except for the date on the side, which was 0419, I assume April of 2019. Incident beyond panic caused tire tread to cut rear bumper in half as well as bending up metal positions, where the bumper attached to under the car. The tire also took out the entire inner fender well and smacked against the door in rear fender, causing damage. The tire remains inflated although all of the middle section is completely missing and wires are sticking out everywhere. The tires had just been rotated, and inspected and thankfully the failing tire was not on the front of the vehicle or it could’ve been much worse. Mechanic stated tread was OK. Tires looked OK and of course, made sure the correct psi was in them. The tire is available for inspection. The tire has not been looked at by anyone else the place were not involved and there was no warning light.
Unknown or OtherCrash
Filed Apr 9, 2026NC
I am reporting a potential unintended automatic emergency braking event involving a 2025 Tesla Cybertruck. On 23Mar2026, at approximately 40 mph, I was traveling behind a Tesla Cybertruck on a public roadway. There were no visible obstacles, hazards, or debris in the roadway that I observed. The Cybertruck suddenly and aggressively braked without warning. The abrupt deceleration appeared inconsistent with road conditions and is consistent with what is commonly described as “phantom braking.” As a result of the sudden stop, I was unable to avoid a collision with the rear of the vehicle despite maintaining a reasonable following distance. After the impact, the Cybertruck initially left the scene, stating they were unaware a collision had occurred. No debris or roadway hazard was documented at the scene in the police report (FVPD report #2026-00777). The other driver later indicated a plastic bag may have triggered the vehicle’s emergency braking system. I am submitting this report as a potential safety issue involving unintended or inappropriate automatic emergency braking behavior.
Engine
Filed Nov 22, 2025IN
There is a recall for the manufacturer emissions that the website doesn’t have on this car.
Power Train
Filed Jul 22, 2025FL
I drove out of town about 40 miles and everything was fine, next day went to leave to come home and immediately noticed high RPMs going about 20MPH. I pulled over, turned the car off and turned it back on, started driving and same thing. I had no choice but to drive it on the interstate. I could get up to 60 very carefully but I was still sitting around 4000rpms. It wouldn’t shift gears at all (I know it’s a CVT and doesn’t have gears). I then noticed a high squealing noise, thankfully made it home with a lot of honking and middle fingers even though I had my hazards on. Once I made it home, plugged in my OBD scanner and had a pending DTC of P1778 which I have found to be the stepper motor. Aka the death code. It’ll start, shift into all other gears, but is making a high squealing noise even when idle and in park and when revving in park the squeal gets louder. I even attempted the “semi manual’ to see if I could get it to catch, I couldn’t at all. No matter what “gear” I was in it wouldn’t bring the RPMs down.
SteeringCrash
Filed Jun 30, 2025TN
The vehicle is unsafe to driver and others on the road. The power steering hose has had a leak since it was manufactured and was not fixed by the manufacturer at all! Tie rods gave away within 5 years of a mileage less than 24,200 miles. Cv joints along with tie rods have been easily compromised and damaged causing loss of control and steering .suspensions are no longer in tact nor reliable and will pose a danger. All errors were not found by manufacturer and has caused immediate danger to not only driver but everyone on the road. The engine has a rattle only after 2 years which is not usual.
Power Train
Filed Jun 2, 2025TX
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle briefly lost motive power before slamming into gear. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The vehicle was not repaired for the most recent failure. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics after purchasing the vehicle and the mass air flow, spark plugs, sensor coils, and other various engine parts and catalytic converters were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Engine
Filed Mar 21, 2025AZ
Clunking and bouncing from right tire followed by acceleration not working properly
Engine
Filed Dec 27, 2024IL
The sensor was replaced but the light engine light still came back on now the speed sensor is causing the issue. The abs light comes on while accelerating it jumps and jerks
Suspension
Filed Oct 18, 2024236,000 milesCT
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, there was an abnormal banging sound coming from the rear end of the vehicle, followed by a dragging sound. The contact also stated that the vehicle began to shake abnormally. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over and discovered that the rear driver side tire was hanging from the suspension. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it remained. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 236,000.
Engine
Filed Apr 23, 2024GA
The transmissions go out fast in the ctv Nissan Altima 2012
Structure › Body
Filed Apr 10, 2024PA
I have owned this vehicle for over ten years and now there is paint delamination on the hood and roof of the vehicle which is a manufacture defect.
Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 26, 2024NY
Transmission
Power Train
Filed Feb 26, 2024NY
Service Engine Soon light on. Was driving on highway at 55mph Transmission started to slip and car started to slow down while I was pressing gas pedal. The more I pressed on gas pedal the more the car lost acceleration. Had to move off to side of the road and turn car off. Took to mechanic and had transmission flushed and plate replaced. Transmission needs to be replaced. Ran diagnostic and codes for Transmission comes up.
Air Bags
Filed Dec 8, 202378,000 milesNJ
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the OCS control unit was malfunctioning. The dealer determined that the front passenger’s side seat needed to be replaced. The dealer charged a fee to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.
Power Train
Filed Oct 6, 2023FL
I have a 2012 nissan altima that I purchased in 2018. in florida. check engine light appeared first. it currently doesn't run because of the transmission. it doesnt excelerate above 20mph. is there is a nationwide recall because of the cvt transmissions going bad?. I already tried to fix 2 separate parts on the transmission the code I'm getting is p1778. I changed the stepper motor and valve body and it's still won't go above 20mph. I don't have 5,000 to replace a transmission. we've been stuck on the road twice in traffic when it doesn't want to excelerate above 20mph
Air Bags
Filed Sep 20, 202328,000 milesWA
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but the cause of the failure was not determined. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the seat sensor unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V408000 (Air Bags) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 28,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 2, 2023CA
I just recently financed my car I haven’t even had it 1 month and every time I drive it for more than 1 hour the transmission fills like it’s going out on me on the freeway I can’t seem to get it to go over 40 miles an hour and it makes sun weird noise and idles high I can also feel it when I drive I can fill it slipping it jerks it only has 117000 miles on it I did mention it to the dealership and he said it wasn’t the transmission it was something else I know it’s the transmission I just wanted to know if it was a recall or anyone else had this issue I have not had it inspected being it hasn’t even been a month yet
Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 23, 2023KS
Driving back from Wichita today my hood kept popping open. I had to pull off the interstate and close it.
Engine
Filed Apr 1, 2023TX
When I BARELY accelerate my car it does a very aggressive bucking motion along with loud noise. I have done put over $3k in vehicle! Nissan fix your shit!
Electrical System
Filed Mar 11, 2023LA
Have a '12 SR coupe. Car keeps turning over for 5-10 seconds before starting. The alternator checked fine, but the battery voltage was a little low. I bought a brand new battery and that seemed to fix the problem....... for an hour. New battery is at the correct voltage, and alternator came back fine again. Even Nissan themselves have bo idea what's wrong. I've never seen this complaint anywhere, but I assume not that many people own the coupes. I even had an 09 SE coupe that never did this.
Traction Control System
Filed Mar 8, 2023180,000 milesWI
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the traction control warning light illuminated, and the vehicle was jerking. Additionally, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 25-30 MPH. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Feb 23, 2023CA
What component or system failed or malfunction and is it available for inspection upon request. The CVT failsafe high fluid temperature protection mode enacted while I was driving on the highway at speeds of 65 to 70 mph going with the flow of traffic it is not available for inspection upon request because this issue only occurs while you're driving down the highway. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? My safety and the safety of my passengers and the safety of my fellow commuters was put in jeopardy due to negligence of the manufacturer of the 2012 Nissan Altima when this occurs all acceleration ceases your foot can be all the way to the floor on the gas pedal and your car will not accelerate and in the fast lane on the highway when this happened I became a Sitting Duck in the flow of traffic cars are flying by me and my passengers and I can't get enough speed to change lanes and get out of danger due to a failsafe that Nissan put in these cars on purpose they were fully aware of these issues this is a direct quote from the 2012 Nissan Altima owners manual page 5-17 warning when the high fluid temperature protection mode or fail safe operation occurs vehicle speed may be gradually reduced the reduced speed may be lower than traffic which could increase the chance of a collision be especially careful when driving if necessary pull to the side of the road to a safe place and allow the transmission to return to normal operation or have it reparative necessa
Air Bags
Filed Feb 16, 2023CA
The airbag warning light started flashing in late November or early December 2022. I took the car to my mechanic on Dec. 5, 2022 who ran a diagnostic which identified the need to replace the sensor in the front passenger seat. The sensor is so integrated into the seat that the entire seat (not the back) must be replaced. I was then told that Nissan has stopped making the seat because the car is over 10 years old and a replacement is unavailable nationwide and will not become available. I called a Nissan dealer to confirm that the part is unavailable and they confirmed it. As a result, it is unsafe for a person to sit in the passenger seat. It seems wrong that Nissan can stop making such an essential part and devalue someone's life or the vehicle itself in this way. It also seems to me that I cannot sell the car in this condition and it only has about 76,000 miles on it. The vehicle is available for inspection should someone wish to do so.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jan 12, 2023GA
Hi I’m having trouble with my transmission in my car due to a safety feature that Nissan has installed on there cvt transmissions. After driving for 1 1/2 to 2 hour trips my car does not accelerate or will have a slow time gaining speed. Nissan has a high fluid temperature protection mode that basically when the transmission temp gets too high the computer cuts you off completely and intentionally stops you from going any faster. This is a serious issues if your in traffic or driving somewhere on the highway and not able to move to the side of the roadway or to a median. If my car was to completely stop in the middle of the road due to this safety feature, it could cause collisions and life threatening injuries.
Power Train
Filed Dec 16, 2022TN
Transmission spudders at times. It is very delayed when pulling out sometimes. Turning the car off and back on might help sometimes. Car will go in limp mode. Nissan dealer said it was the Transmission. There is a big safety concern because when you push the gas trying to cross an intersection, it might lag behind and not go. This could result in being hit. This has been a great car but the cat is complete junk and Nissan should be ashamed of themselves for this. If they get enough law suits they may change something. Well maybe, They don't care about peoples lives.
Power Train
Filed Nov 27, 2022KY
Vehicle when in drive or reverse would barely move and almost got stranded in traffic. Finally will not move at all
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Nov 5, 2022NC
2012 Altima defective sticky melting dashboard cause severe windshield glare when driving when sun from a certain angle ( no vehicle accident so far)
Power Train
Filed Oct 30, 2022CA
After making right turn onto very busy 4 lane road with cars traveling 55 mph, the car failed to accelerate and had no power. Car acted as though it was in neutral. Fortunately, the road was downhill at this point and after turning on emergency blinking lights was able to coast about 3/4 mile to next street and turn right. I was almost rear ended three times during this coasting period at about 15 mph. On this part of the highway there was no place to pull over as the curb was next to the right hand lane. Had the car towed to a Nissan dealer the next day and was told that the transmission had "totally disintegrated" and was "unrepairable." Cost $4800 to repair. Was told that this was a "common occurrence" with the 2008-2014 CVT Nissan transmissions. Nissan has recalled many CVT transmissions but not 2012. Service manager also said that we were "lucky that disintegrated the way it did as some cars locked up in geared and immediately stopped." There was no prior warning of a transmission problem. No lights, no noise, no nothing. There was no way to know a problem or potential failure was imminent. This car is a danger. Had this occurred on a freeway in Los Angeles where we were driving just prior to this failure, it could have caused a major injury accident. This transmission should be recalled. The car had 97,000 miles. Nissan should be required to recall and reimburse owners who have suffered this failure in 2012 Altima transmissions.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Oct 3, 2022SC
Car had a hard impact, not on the front end but flipped multiple times, air bags and side air bags did not deploy
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 19, 2022UT
On a road trip car stopped accelerating above 60. Caused us a long time sitting on the side of the road when car cooled we started up and went again. Took it into the shop and replaced the fuel pump. Then one week later on a trip to Idaho car is doing the same thing over the Milan pass. Acceleration does not work at high speeds even with a new fuel pump. Seems to make an airy fan sound like an air valve is wide open. Think it is a dangerous sensor issue. Ug. Help.
Unknown or Other
Filed May 19, 2022TX
THE DASHBOARD IS MELTING. IT IS NOW TO THE POINT WHERE IT PEELS UP IF ANY ITEM IS PLACED ON IT AND THEN REMOVED. THERE IS A WET OILY SUBSTANCE FORMING IN PLACES ALL OVER THE DASH. IT IS INCREDIBLY STICKY ALL OVER. I PLACED MY CELL PHONE ON THE DASH WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I HAD TO APPLY FORCE TO GET IT OFF OF MY DASH. THAT RESULTED IN THE VEHICLE GOING IN TO THE LANE ADJACENT WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL WAS JERKED DURING REMOVAL OF THE PHONE. IT POTENTIALLY COULD HAVE BEEN A SERIOUS CRASH. THE PHONE PULLED PART OF THE VINYL DASH OFF AS WELL. I HAVE CHECKED RECALLS FOR NISSAN AND THE DASH IS NOT AMONG THEM. I NOTED A VERY SLIGHT STICKINESS ON THE DASH WHEN I PURCHASED THE ALTIMA USED IN 2017 AFTER HURRICANE HARVEY. IT HAS PROGRESSIVELY BECOME WORSE UNTIL I AM NOW IN THE SITUATION I HAVE REPORTED. AS A SIDE NOTE, I HAD PREVIOUSLY OWNED A 2006 TOYOTA SOLERA IT HAD THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE DASH. TOYOTA DID ISSUE A RECALL ON THE DASH. I HAD IT REPLACED BY THE DEALERSHIP WITHOUT INCIDENT.
Traction Control System
Filed Apr 21, 2022110,000 milesFL
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the traction control warning light would intermittently illuminate. As a result, the vehicle would hesitate upon depression of the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that he would turn off the vehicle for approximately 20 seconds before restarting the vehicle to resume normal driving. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic where minor repairs were performed; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered no assistance. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Power Train
Filed Apr 11, 2022CA
I have a 2012 Nissan Altima. Four years ago I drove from Sacramento, CA, to Reno, NV, with two friends in my car. As I was driving over the summit on Highway 80 my car started to lose power. This was extremely scary as the highway is only two lanes and since it was a Saturday there was a lot of traffic. I was driving in the slow lane and as my car continued to lose power and slow there was noplace to get off the road. I pulled onto the narrow sholder between the slow lane and the concrete barrier and my car came to a complete stop. Since there were cars whizzing by I was not able to open either the drivers side door or the passenger side door, which was inches away from the concrete divider. At this point I was shaking uncontrollably and in a panic I called Nissan of Sacramento to tell them what happened. The technician suggested that my transmission may have over-heated. He suggested that I wait for the transmission to cool and see if I was able to then make it to the nearest freeway offramp, which I did. After exiting the freeway we waited for an hour or so and were then able to proceed to Reno, NV. Once there, I took my car to a mechanic who checked the other systems and could find nothing wrong. Once back home in Sacramento I took my car to Nissan of Sacramento and was then informed that my transmission had burned and would need to be replaced. They contacted Nissan and were informed that there were no recalls and that I would need to pay for a new transmission out of poc
Air Bags
Filed Apr 9, 2022GA
Our vehicle has been in no collisions or anything and has been well taken care of. Out of nowhere about 3 years our airbag light came on indicating that it will not deploy. We tried to get Nissan to fix it due to hearing of recalls in the past but they said our vehicle was not included. They then said they had to try one thing at a time and the first thing was replacing the seat for $1400 and if that didn't work they will continue down a list of 10 possible things. So basically the vehicle is a deathtrap and we are not sure how it even became that. Seems like it has to be an electrical issue or the issue mentioned in the recall.
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Apr 7, 2022FL
CAR DASH HAS BECOME A HAZARD TO DRIVING SAFELY. THE DASH ORIGINALLY, WHEN PURCHASED NEW FROM THE DEALER, HAD A PEBBLED MATT FINISH SIMILAR TO A FOOTBALL OR BASKETBALL. IN THE PAST YEAR THAT FINISH IS DISSOLVED INTO A SLICK STICKY HIGHLY REFLECTIVE STATE. THIS REFLECTIVE STATE CAUSES THE DRIVER TO BE VISUALLY IMPAIRED AND UNABLE TO SEE OUT OF THE FRONT WINDOW; THIS IS EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS. FURTHER RESEARCH OF THIS EVENT WITH MY VEHICLE HAS FOUND IT NOT TO BE UNIQUE TO MY VEHICLE. THIS IS A VERY COMMON AND VERY DANGEROUS. THIS IS A DEFECT OF DESIGN ONLY AND AS SUCH NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED BY NISSAN CORPORATE.
Structure › Interior Panels › Dashboard
Filed Mar 29, 202250,000 milesNC
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, he noticed that the dashboard was shiny and was melting in a small area. The failure expanded to cover the entire dashboard causing visibility issues while driving. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer; however, the mechanic declined to diagnose the failure without a diagnostic fee being paid. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 14, 2022GA
Car got stuck in a high gear on the interstate. Speed reduced dramatically and went below minimum speed limit (40mph). No warning lights illuminated. My vehicle has had this issue twice within the last 6 years. Took my car to the dealership where I bought it but they said that they didn't have anybody that could check a CVT.
Power Train
Filed Jan 19, 2022CA
Had transmission fluid changed now starts bit doesn't go in gear took it to shop and was told I need a new transmission don't understand why new fluid would cause this and have heard nissan has had numerous problems with cat transmission
Structure › Body
Filed Dec 18, 2021NJ
The hood latch is defective and the hood can not close properly.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Dec 14, 2021TX
Cvt transmission jerking, can’t accelerate. The vehicle has been inspected by multiple mechanics my vehicle stopped accelerating in the highway while everyone was going 80 mph mine dropped to 60 causing almost a collision also my car had turned off because of the jerking was so bad there is no check engine light on at all
Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 8, 2021TX
I live in Texas and the heat is causing the dashboard to melt. This is not a cosmetic issue, the glare from the dashboard makes it very hard to see when driving and is serious safety concern. Also the melting may be problematic if the airbags need to deploy because the integrity of the dashboard is compromised. I am attach thing letters from the center for auto safety which are exactly describing the scenario.
Structure › Interior Panels › Dashboard
Filed Nov 1, 2021121,439 milesAL
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the dashboard was melting and became shiny, causing a visibility issue from the windshield reflection. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 121,439.
Steering
Filed Oct 22, 2021129,921 milesMD
The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the steering wheel would emit an abnormal whining noise while both stationary and while making turns in either direction. As the failure persisted, the steering wheel began to vibrate, and excessive force was needed to steer the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. A dealer was not notified of the failure. The contact called the manufacturer and was informed that her vehicle was not covered under NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V494000 (Steering, Suspension). The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 129,921. Consumer stated RECALL was called due to the rack and pinion of the steering wheel of the car.
Air Bags
Filed Oct 20, 2021CA
The airbag light that is under the dash board always turns on all of a sudden I am concerned the airbags might open or their migght be something wrong and god forbid in a accident they dont open also the suspention has always had issues
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 18, 2021MA
While driving at 70mph on interstate the hood flew open with no known explanation as to why as hood had not been opened by anyone in the last 120 days prior to incident. This caused hood to snap back, strike and smash windshield and significantly dent roof of car in front of moonroof.
Power Train
Filed Oct 14, 2021TN
While driving the car stopped accelerating. Thankfully this happened on a 2 lane road while no other vehicles were around and there was a driveway to pull into. My husband and child were also in the car when this happened. No warning lights/noises alarmed before this happened. We had to have the car towed home. It will turn on but will not drive. This car is notorious for transmission issues. Now we have a car that we can't drive but still owe way more than it's worth to fix. We are unable to trade/sale either. It has been very frustrating situation. We will never own another Nissan.
Power Train
Filed Sep 23, 2021NC
3 times car has decelerated when driving on interstate for 1 to 2 hours. Last time speed dropped to 20 mph when most cars were doing 70 to 80 mph. This creates a very dangerous situation that could result in loss of life if not corrected. Nissan refuses to address the matter and problem is well documented on the internet and lawsuits. Nissan should have issued a recall covering the defective CVT. My college age grandson is driving the car as he has no other option but he is putting his life and friends at risk each time he goes on an extended trip. Nissan should at minimum replace the transmission as a safety issue but have denied our claim. Your help would be greatly appreciated.
Complaints 1-50 of 426, newest first, reproduced as filed.
It is not among the Altima years to avoid. Owners filed 426 complaints, against about 238 for a typical Altima year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (29%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 4 stars overall.
What is the most common problem with the 2012 Nissan Altima?
The transmission: 123 of the 426 complaints (29%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses power (23%), sets off warning lights on the dash (13%) and turns on the check engine light (9%). The typical report comes at 95,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2012 Nissan Altima have?
4 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Oct 10, 2012. The largest, 11V371000, covered 20,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2012 Nissan Altima problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 75,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 95,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2012 Nissan Altima?
Yes, once. EQ12002 ("Autoliv Air Bag Propellant Mixture") was opened Feb 14, 2012 and closed May 8, 2012.
Are there service bulletins for the 2012 Nissan Altima?
The manufacturer filed 121 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (19), the engine (13) and the transmission (9). They include a warranty extension, R1720 2010-12 Al, filed Mar 27, 2020. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Oct 10, 2012. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.