2012 Nissan Versa

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 486 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the airbags. It has been recalled 11 times.

Avoid One of the Nissan Versa years to avoid: 2.6× the complaints of a typical Versa year. Which Nissan Versa years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
60,088 milesMedian miles at failure

313 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2012 Nissan Versa problems

159 of the 486 complaints (33%) are about the airbags.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Air Bags · airbags155
24023
Power Train · transmission138
200
Engine33
111
Unknown or Other23
100
Service Brakes · brakes23
515
Electrical System20
130
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration14
201
Suspension13
000
Steering10
000
Structure › Body · body and frame9
200

2012 Nissan Versa airbags problems

33% of all complaints

159 of the 486 complaints are about the airbags. This is what owners describe:

  • shows an airbag warning light12% · 19
  • sets off warning lights on the dash6% · 10
  • did not deploy its airbags in a crash6% · 10

Share of the 159 airbags complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
44,357 mi
median of 53 reports
Peak year of filing
2017
84 airbags complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
24 · 0 · 23
in these complaints
“The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the contact became aware that the air bag warning light was blinking off and on. The contact took the vehicle to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the air bag spiral cable on the driver’s side to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired.”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 9, 2022 at 140,000 miles
“I stopped at an atm when I backed out of space cruise control lights started flashing horn going off air bag light flashing passenger door clicking. Made it to store parked car got horn to stop. When I backed up out of space and turned wheel air bag deployed. Lights flashing horn sounding alarms. Turned off vehicle call 911 fire department came to see if no danger of fire and if I was ok.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 8, 2021

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2011: 2 complaints, 0 about the airbags'112012: 20 complaints, 6 about the airbags2013: 18 complaints, 1 about the airbags'132014: 40 complaints, 8 about the airbags2015: 65 complaints, 9 about the airbags'152016: 55 complaints, 6 about the airbags2017: 128 complaints, 84 about the airbags'172018: 64 complaints, 25 about the airbags2019: 31 complaints, 7 about the airbags'192020: 22 complaints, 4 about the airbags2021: 15 complaints, 4 about the airbags'212022: 8 complaints, 3 about the airbags2023: 7 complaints, 1 about the airbags'232024: 5 complaints, 0 about the airbags2025: 5 complaints, 1 about the airbags'252026: 1 complaints, 0 about the airbagsRecall 12V032000 (transmission)Recall 12V055000 (airbags)Recall 15V507000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 15V573000 (suspension)Recall 17V028000 (airbags)Recall 17V144000 (airbags)Recall 18V044000 (airbags)Recall 18V401000 (airbags)Recall 22E066000 (airbags)NHTSA investigation EA21002NHTSA investigation PE16013NHTSA investigation PE14018
All complaintsAbout the airbagsRecall (red: the airbags)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2012 Versa peaked in 2017, with 128 filed that year. Owners had filed 0 complaints about the airbags before the first recall that covers it, 12V055000 in February 2012; 159 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 1 so far.

11 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module22E066000
Filed Aug 9, 2022375 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain air bag inflator replacement service parts that may have been installed as part of a theft or collision repair. The parts include certain passenger-side air bag inflators designed to fit Infiniti 2002-2003 QX4, 2006-2010 M35 and M45; Nissan 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, and both driver and passenger-side inflators designed to fit 2007-2012 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback vehicles. Please see Nissan's recall report for the specific part numbers. These replacement inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace the inflators as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 14, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V401000
Filed Jun 15, 2018104,762 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2011 Nissan Versa sedan vehicles and 2011-2012 Nissan Versa hatchback vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Nissan is also recalling 2010-2011 Nissan Versa sedan vehicles and 2010-2012 Nissan Versa hatchback vehicles ever registered in the states of ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began July 5, 2018. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V044000
Filed Jan 10, 201852,614 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Versa Hatchback, and 2009-2011 Versa Sedan vehicles ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Nissan is recalling certain 2009-2010 Versa Hatchback, and Versa Sedan vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Nissan is also recalling certain 2009 Versa Hatchback and Versa Sedan vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 9, 2018. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Suspension › Front › Springs › Coil Springs17V637000
Filed Oct 11, 20171,119 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2012 Versa Hatchback vehicles that were sold or ever registered in the District of Columbia, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Road salt may corrode the front coil springs, possibly resulting in the coil springs fracturing.

Risk. If a front coil spring fractures, it may contact the tire, possibly puncturing it, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace both front coil springs, free of charge. The recall began December 6, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. This campaign expands recall 15V573.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module17V449000
Filed Jul 17, 2017515,394 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and 2007-2012 Versa Hatchback vehicles. The affected vehicles have a driver frontal air bag inflator that may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to moderate absolute humidity, temperatures, and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the subject inflator with a new one manufactured by a different supplier, free of charge. The recall began on March 9, 2018. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Air Bags › Side/Window17V144000
Filed Mar 6, 201754,751 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2012 Nissan Versa vehicles. Degradation of the side impact sensor connector pins may cause the curtain and seat-mounted air bags to deploy unexpectedly if the door is slammed.

Risk. If the curtain and seat-mounted air bags inadvertently deploy, it can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will install a new jumper harness, and replace the side impact satellite sensors, free of charge. The recall began November 28, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module17V028000
Filed Jan 10, 2017152,554 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2012 Nissan Versa hatchbacks originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan) and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A". Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" above, Nissan is recalling certain 2009-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45 and 2009 Nissan Versa sedans and hatchbacks originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B". Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Nissan is recalling certain 2005-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45, 2006-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2008 Nissan Versa vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began on June 8, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Suspension › Front › Springs › Coil Springs15V573000
Filed Sep 14, 2015218,019 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan (Nissan North America, Inc.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2012 Nissan Versa vehicles manufactured May 8, 2006, to November 12, 2012, that were sold or ever registered in the District of Columbia, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Road salt may corrode the front coil springs, possibly resulting in the coil springs fracturing.

Risk. If a front coil spring fractures, it may contact the tire, possibly puncturing it, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace both front coil springs, free of charge. The recall began on February 2, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal15V507000
Filed Aug 12, 2015298,747 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Nissan Versa sedan vehicles manufactured June 9, 2011, to March 11, 2015, and 2014-2015 Nissan Versa Note vehicles manufactured April 23, 2013, to March 11, 2015. The affected vehicles have a center console trim panel that may catch the driver's shoe and delay the transition from the accelerator pedal to the brake pedal.

Risk. A delay in the application of the brake pedal would lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will modify the console trim panel, free of charge. The recall began on September 14, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Air Bags › Side/Window12V055000
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.

Power Train › Manual Transmission › Shift Pattern Indicator12V032000
Filed Feb 1, 201236,608 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.

Defect. NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 VERSA VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION AND MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 9, 2011, THROUGH JANUARY 13, 2012 FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 114,”THEFT PROTECTION.” DUE TO INTERFERENCE BETWEEN THE SHIFTER ROD AND THE SHIFT KNOB, THE VEHICLES MAY BE SHIFTED OUT OF THE PARK POSITION WITHOUT DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL.

Risk. THE OPERATOR CAN INADVERTENTLY SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO GEAR WITHOUT THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH OR INJURY TO A NEARBY PEDESTRIAN.

Remedy. NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE SHIFTER KNOB OR THE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY AS NEEDED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MEARH 5, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

All 11 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. 7 name the 2012 Versa.

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA21002Open
Opened Sep 17, 2021airbags

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at …

Inadvertent Curtain and Seat Air BagPreliminary evaluation PE16013Closed
Opened Sep 28, 2016Closed Mar 20, 2017Led to recall 17V144000airbags

The Office of Defects Investigations opened this Preliminary Evaluation to investigate complaints alleging an inadvertent deployment of side air bags on model year 2012 Nissan Versa vehicles.The three complaints indicate the driver or passenger curtain and seat mounted air bags deployed when the front door on the same (affected) side was shut.According to Nissan, the defect identified involved the dissimilarity of the metals used in the side air bag sensor electrical connectors, gold versus tin materials.This combination may lead to fretting and oxidation on the connector pins of the …

Front Coil Spring FracturePreliminary evaluation PE15019Closed
Opened May 13, 2015Closed Oct 2, 2015Led to recall 15V573000suspension

In a letter dated September 10,2015, Nissan North America,Inc. (Nissan) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a safety defect that may result in coil spring fracture in approximately 218,019 model year (MY) 2007 through 2012 Nissan Versa vehiclesproduced from May 8, 2006 through November12, 2012 and originally sold or ever registered in the following 22 states and the District of Columbia: Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, …

Pedal Operation InterferenceEngineering analysis EA15003Closed
Opened Apr 1, 2015Closed Sep 1, 2015Led to recall 15V507000brakes

On August 11, 2015, Nissan North America, Inc., submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) describing a condition that may impede the driver's ability to transition quickly and smoothly from the accelerator pedal to the brake pedal in certain model year (MY) 2012 through 2015 Nissan Versa Sedans and MY 2014 through 2015 Nissan Versa Note vehicles (NHTSA Recall No. 15V-507).According to Nissan's DIR, in certain circumstances related to driver foot position and shoe type, the right edge of the driver?s shoe may catch the edge of the center console lower trim panel.Nissan indicated that this …

Pedal Operation InterferencePreliminary evaluation PE14018Closed
Opened Jun 24, 2014Closed Apr 27, 2015brakes

On June 24, 2014, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-018 to investigate allegations that the tunnel carpet cover trim panel on model year (MY) 2012 through 2014 Nissan Versa, Versa Sedan and Versa Note vehicles has, in certain situations, interfered with the driver's ability to promptly release the accelerator pedal and transition to the brake pedal. This may result in delayed brake application or brief incidents of unwanted acceleration.At the opening of PE14-018, ODI had identified one complaint, VOQ 10597004, alleging that the driver's foot became caught by the subject …

SRS Warning Light IlluminationPreliminary evaluation PE12023Closed
Opened Aug 15, 2012Closed Jan 22, 2013airbags

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation after receiving Nissan early warning reports (EWR) concerning supplemental restraint system (SRS) light illumination on model year (MY) 2012 Nissan Versa vehicles.Information in the reports suggested that the SRS spiral cable harness from the spiral cassette to the driver?s air bag module became pinched within the steering wheel assembly during installation.The pinching condition was apparently causing a short to ground condition. As reported by Nissan, the shorts were the result of isolated operator errors, specifically …

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

157 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2012 Versa. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

transmission 25electrical system 24equipment 21engine 13airbags 11body and frame 9fuel system 8suspension 7
CVT Owner LetterWarranty extensionMay 11, 2020transmission

Dear Nissan Sentra Owner: Thank you for being a Nissan owner. We strive to provide you with an excellent ownership experience that includes confidence in your vehicle s performance, features and overall reliability. To that end, Nissan is extending the limited warranty covering your continuously variable transmission (CVT) to 7 years/84,000 miles, whichever …

Sentra_Versa_AltWarranty extensionMay 11, 2020transmission

CVT Warranty Extension In an effort to assure customer satisfaction, demonstrate our confidence in continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), and to address customer concerns including those expressed by customers in the class actions, Nissan will extend the warranty coverage on the CVT. The warranty extension includes the CVT assembly and internal CVT …

Sentra_Versa_AltWarranty extensionOct 30, 2019transmission

CVT Class Action Owner Notification Attention: Dealer Principal, Sales, Service & Parts Managers In early November, current and former owners and lessees of the following vehicles will receive a postcard from a Settlement Administrator informing them of the terms of a proposed class action that, subject to final court approval, could extend the warranty on …

NTB19-071DService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 19, 2024airbags

DTC B00A0-00 STORED This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin. IF YOU CONFIRM DTC B00A0-00 (OCCUPANT DETECTION SENSOR UNIT) is stored, AND OCS zero point reset cannot be performed, (continued on the next page)

NTB19-071BService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 26, 2022airbags

DTC B00A0-00 STORED This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.

NTB19-071AService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 5, 2021airbags

DTC B00A0-00 STORED This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.

NTB19-071Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 12, 2019airbags

DTC B00A0-00 STORED IF YOU CONFIRM DTC B00A0-00 (OCCUPANT DETECTION SENSOR UNIT) is stored And OCS zero point reset cannot be performed (continued on the next page) And The following screen displays: ACTION 1. Check the Occupant Classification System (OCS) control unit using the ODS Analysis tool software.  Refer to SERVICE PROCEDURE on page 5. HINT: OCS …

Nissan AftersaleService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 29, 2019airbags

Subject: Takata Completion Objectives for Q4 Nissan is continuing to ask its dealers to urgently help increase customer participation in the Takata recalls and to help it achieve 100% customer recall participation for the following vehicles: - 2007-11 Versa Sedan - 2007-12 Versa Hatchback - 2002-06 Sentra - 2002-04 Pathfinder - 2001-03 Maxima Nissan expects …

NTB17-049bService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 10, 2019airbags

TAKATA INFLATOR FIELD QUALITY PARTS COLLECTION INITIATIVE 2012, 2014, AND 2015 VERSA SEDAN Parts Collection Initiative ID #s PM670, PM671, PM672, and PM673 are No Longer Active. - Repair orders opened after January 10, 2019 are no longer eligible for reimbursement under Parts Collection Initiative ID #s PM670, PM671, PM672, and PM673. - Please discard …

Showing the newest 6 of 11 bulletins about the airbags, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2012 Nissan Versa 4 DR FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★14.7%
2012 Nissan Versa 5 HB FWD—★★★★★—★★★★★14.0%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control
Filed Jan 30, 2026ID

My car keeps having sensors go out. Such as the tire pressure sensor and fuel compression sensor I think is what they called it anyways. They start to go up a hill. And my car loses all speed and slows way down my traction control. Don't turn on when it's supposed to. And needs to my cruise control, quit working when this went out. And my engines started sounding louder, which is weird because it's the one variable transmission. I love this car. I really. I'm tired of replacing sensors, though. Why do they keep going out? I kind of need those sensors to keep the carving good and the tire sensor lets me know if my tires are going flat or not. And I don't know now. I have to constantly be checking my tires with it. Pressure gauge also May I ask how to find out value? I found out the Carla. I'm buying this from has charged me 3 times more than it's claimed value that carmax says it's worth Which honestly I love this car so much? It really doesn't bother me that they did. But at the same time, I'm having to spend all this money getting it fixed. Because things keep going out. Online it says that it's only worth maybe 6000 I'm paying almost 15000 plus I've paid out a pucket Quite a bit and On top of that it has a warranty But I'm still having to replace things that are kind of strange to be going out. You've repeatedly what could be causing this to happen over and over

Power Train
Filed Oct 14, 2025WA

The transmission failed on the highway making the car serging violently from high to low speeds and then to nothing

Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System
Filed Sep 4, 2025AL

The contact owns 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated that while the vehicle was idling or while driving at various speeds, the driver's side floor was significantly hot, and the contact could feel the heat on her feet. The contact stated that the front driver's side floor carpet was burned, and the metal was visible. Additionally, the contact stated that the front brake pads were wearing prematurely and were replaced several times. The contact stated that while an oil change was being performed at Express Oil, the technician informed the contact that he had burned his hand due to the exhaust and manifold being significantly hot. The contact was referred to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where the contact was provided an estimate for a diagnostic test and the repair. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that she would be contacted later. The failure mileage was unknown.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 1, 2025MI

I bought a used 2012 Nissan Versa from a third party at a very low mileage (46k miles), and it’s now at 54k, and the CVT is showing issues. Check engine light recently came on and I’ve always went to Nissan technicians and they said they’re surprised at 54k miles I’m even having this kind of an issue. However because of the age of vehicle and warranty expired in 2018 well after I purchased it, Nissan refuses to repair what they’ve seem to have poorly manufactured. I’m a student and cannot afford this kind of repair which was the sole purpose of purchasing a low mileage vehicle to begin with. The car is is in great condition, well taken care of, LOW mileage, but a broken down CVT? This is unacceptable.

Power Train
Filed May 28, 2025IN

It won’t let me go over 30 without the rpm’s significantly increasing and transmission light is on

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette
Filed Jan 27, 2025136,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated that occasionally while driving at various speeds, the horn failed to function while needed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who advised the contact to reach out to the local dealer because the failure might be due to a possible air bag failure. The local dealer advised the contact to reach out to the manufacturer for assistance. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the manufacturer related the failure to an unknown NHTSA Campaign that was possibly associated with the VIN in the past. The failure mileage was approximately 136,000.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 17, 2024MO

11587629 does not explain the issue I Reported 2012 Nissan Versa SV made July 2011, purchased Sep. 2011. 2022 45000 miles check engine light. o2, crankshaft position codes. A pig tail connected up stream o2 to crankshaft pos. sensor. Pig tail wires not togather, only taped' These two sensors were not connected to main wire harness.. Nissan new harness and labor $1100.+ , for what they didn't make right when built. How many people have been charged for this repair? That was Nissan's fault.

Electrical System
Filed May 8, 202445,000 milesMO

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway and restart the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with an unstated wiring harness. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 45,000.

Wheels
Filed Mar 22, 2024NY

Wheel hub came right out of the drum nothing broke my wheel just came off car..

Engine
Filed Mar 22, 2024NY

Horn issues horn isn't working Car shuts off constantly Multiple misfire codes reading permanent Codes won't clear on code reader Air bag light keeps blinking

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 29, 2024WA

Upon purchasing my vehicle the frame bolt had rattled loose and the motor mounts were broke because of how hard the engine rattles.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 14, 2023165,000 milesKY

The contact owned a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, another vehicle crashed into the contact vehicle; however, the air bags failed to deploy. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact was injured but did not receive medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was taken to the contact's residence. The vehicle was deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jun 6, 2023VA

I carry my family with me and in traffic the traction control light would come on and the car would loose power and not accelerate almost causing accidents I was told it was the speed sensors malfunctioning and the brakes would not work properly when trying to stop

Power Train
Filed Apr 24, 2023111,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was jerking while depressing the accelerator pedal. Additionally, the RPM was revving. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed, and the mechanic determined that the transmission had failed. An unknown repair was completed; however, the failure recurred while driving. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that she had stopped driving the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 7, 2023VA

I carry my family in the vehicle and the lights would come on for the traction control and check engine light and speed sensor light and the car would stop moving and shut off while going down the road and the brakes would barely work and the transmission would stop pulling or slip and the engine would not rev up that is really dangerous when your traveling with traffic something needs to be done about this and I have read alot of other complaints about the same problems that other people are having

Power Train
Filed Mar 6, 2023MA

2012 nissan versa commonly known for defective cvt transmissions I had taken it to costal nissan to get it looked at before for a jerking transmission and the dealership just adjust a brake light switch the problem came back and threw an engine code for input sensor after replacing all my bulbs the problem went away for a couple months but the past 2 months it started slipping jerking stuck in low gears high reving rpms I had the transmission fluid serviced or replaced and it worked good for about a week died in the middle of the road with no throttle response I've only driven this car 5k miles in 8 months of purchase vehicle is available for inspection at any time

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 4, 2023PA

Unknown

Engine
Filed Feb 2, 2023VA

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while reversing into a parking spot, the vehicle began to hesitate and jerk before the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the check engine and brake warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that after several attempts the vehicle restarted. The contact stated she had experienced the failure six times. The contact called and notified the Used Car dealer where she purchased the vehicle of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 24, 2022TX

Air bag on driver side red airbag light blinking repaired Coil needs replacing Motor mouth broken Front seat belt not locking Car wasn't starting

Power Train
Filed Aug 25, 202288,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving on the highway at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle hesitated then lost motive power and stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to maneuver the vehicle off the highway. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to replace. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure; however, did not offer any further assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 20, 2022NC

IN reference to NHTSA Recall 15V-507 on this vehicle which included a CVT transmission reprogramming ,which I handled by taking vehicle to the dealer on 10/20/2015! The letter I received added this issue as if it were a COURTESY action of Nissan and made NO mention of the CVT transmission having MAJOR ISSUES! As MOST Car Owners, I assumed that this 2015 CVT reprogramming would resolve any PAST or FUTURE issues with it.! I was still concerned that my vehicle was only 3 years & already had 2 recall items! Sadly, I trusted the dealer & once these were handled , I felt good about driving the vehicle, thinking it should go to about 150,000 miles! I have NOW learned that so many of the CVT transmissions were totally failing and lawsuits were being filed because of it. Apparently in 2017, NISSAN admitted it and extended the warranty on CVT transmissions. If I ever received notice of this, I have no printed copy or memory of that! I lived 2 minutes from work in 2012 and retired a year after purchase. I primarily drive locally and short distances and have very low miles on this vehicle. NOW..My 6-week dilemma:*Check engine light came on 7/9/22, right after I got gas! Garage kept, only 52,000 miles on it, routinely serviced and in stellar condition, I am NOW being told that the CVT transmission needs TOTAL replacement. MY CAR however, did PASS NC inspection at a Nissan dealership (with Check Engine light STILL ON) 7/21/22, with them giving a 4200.00 estimate When I said I had no money,

Power Train
Filed Jul 16, 2022MO

After having my transmission replaced with a used CVT transmission on Dec 2021, I went to leave the transmission shop only to have no power. When I gave my vehicle gas, there was no power it would not go forward or backwards. The code repeatedly coming up was P2101. My car was in the shop for 4 months with Williams Transmission in Park Hills, MO 63601. (573) 431-6570. Every time Willie would call & say it’s fixed & I would go try driving g home, again same issue. Finally on March 23, 2022 I was called once again to come pick up my car after hack v another used CVT Transmission put in still the same code P2101 was coming up with the check engine light. It took me 40 mins to go home occasionally getting evcrlation to make it home, it should’ve took no more than 10 mins from his shop to my house.. I paid $3000 to have transmission replaced and still isn’t running correctly. I lose excelaration on highway, county & city tosds. I never know when!! It’s a big issue & major safety issues & concerns

Air Bags
Filed May 6, 2022CA

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number 17V449000 (Air Bags) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted.

Power Train
Filed Apr 15, 2022110,000 milesOR

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving approximately 20-70 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed and the transmission started slipping. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact released the accelerator pedal and continued to drive; however, the failure reoccurred while driving. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring increasingly while depressing the accelerator pedal and had worsened. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

Power Train
Filed Feb 21, 2022DC

The vehicle is a 2012 Nissan Versa driven only 81,000+ miles. I was driving the vehicle up a modest incline on Saturday, February 12, 2022. The car started to shudder and felt like it was losing power, as if it were running out of fuel. I pulled off when I turned the next corner and stopped. As I started out again, the check engine light came on, so I drove it to my mechanic. He has informed me that the malfunction code is a transmission failure code, and he is performing more diagnostics related to this code. In doing research, I now know that there is a fundamental failure with the CVT automatic transmissions for this model year of Nissan Versa, typically occurring at 75,000-85,000 miles. I am not eligible for Nissan's $278M settlement of a class action suit for this issue, because claims were only eligible for the first 84 months after purchase and the claim window is now closed. Everything I have read suggests that this is a critical and dangerous problem, because this CVT transmission failure can even result in the car losing all power and coming to a complete stop in traffic. This is a fundamental and life-threatening issue for which I believe Nissan should provide a full recall for the affected vehicles.

Air Bags
Filed Feb 9, 2022140,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the contact became aware that the air bag warning light was blinking off and on. The contact took the vehicle to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the air bag spiral cable on the driver’s side to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Approximately one week after the repair, the air bag warning light was again illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer to be diagnosed. The mechanic stated that the air bag module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

Power Train
Filed Nov 16, 202172,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle would shake then inadvertently shut off. Additionally, while driving the vehicle at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle would jerk. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with transmission failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 19, 2021116,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was unable to pull over and had to push the vehicle onto the shoulder and waited approximately 20 minutes before the vehicle was able to be restarted. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the torque converter replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V032000 (Power Train) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 19, 2021AR

I’ve had problems with this car from day one. All manor like Ac and heater going out that’s OK. All issues I can deal with in time. But Now this can’t handle I’ve had to actually stop driving my vehicle. The check Engine light starts to flash then the car doesn’t want to shift feeping like your about to blow up the car if you go over 20mph. transmission start to jerk and sUpper like your not get fuel or something. It’s been missing up so bad not to mention it’s freakin scary and you terrified you’ve got to pull it over. Turn off the car try again. I’ve had to leave my vehicle at random places multiple times too scared to drive it home. Now I tried to finally look at the problem to see what it might be happening cus nobody else seems to know what the issue is. And I see there several people with the same issue on the 2012 Nissan Versa.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Oct 16, 2021TN

When driving the car slows down to a crawl or just stalls and want pick up speed or while driving comes to a complete stop, also it makes a noise and when it rains it sounds like Rain is trapped in the doors or walls of the car.

Power Train
Filed Oct 14, 202125,000 milesPR

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle began to decelerate. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated the failure persisted and was getting worse. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the transmission to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V032000 (Power Train) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.

Power Train
Filed Aug 13, 2021TX

Vehicle is moving in forward direction always even if the gear shift is in Park or Reverse mode. It is scary. It put us lot of stress in terms of physical health, mental health and finance. We nearly met with an accident as vehicle was moving always in forward direction as soon as we moved the car from the parking lot. We towed the vehicle considering our and public safety. Contacted Nissan dealership and consumer affairs team. They went only by the books. Told that there is no recall. They did not seem to care about the safety. They asked me to go ahead and shell out for fixing. The same vehicle stopped in the middle of the road with heavy jerk/forward movement. We were lucky that we did not meet with an accident. We had to tow the vehicle in that case. I had to replace fuel pump at my own cost. With multiple safety concerns on this vehicle, I am surprised that there is no recall on this model. At the least, I was expecting this for my VIN. Request you to help on the recall considering the public safety. With vehicle few thousand dollars worth still, I may need to review and make a choice on disposing this vehicle (not sell) by taking the financial hit. Financial hit in this uncertain situation means a lot to me. It puts pressure. Since I care about public safety, I am reviewing this as the last choice. Nissan does not seem to be worried as there is no recall. Correct option is to have this vehicle recalled. Request you to review and help from safety perspective

Air Bags
Filed Aug 10, 2021FL

Backing up out of a parking space the lights started flashing cruise control air bag horn started blowing whole dash lit up when I straightened the vehicle the horn stopped. Got to my destination backed up a few feet as soon as I turned the wheel and attempted to put it in drive the airbag deployey. I did not hit anything. The airbag deployed for some unknown reason. Fearful car might catch fire very startling called 911 fire dept disabled battery had the vehicle towed and reported the issue to Nissan. I also reported this on Sunday after it happened.

Air Bags
Filed Aug 8, 2021FL

I stopped at an atm when I backed out of space cruise control lights started flashing horn going off air bag light flashing passenger door clicking. Made it to store parked car got horn to stop. When I backed up out of space and turned wheel air bag deployed. Lights flashing horn sounding alarms. Turned off vehicle call 911 fire department came to see if no danger of fire and if I was ok. Called ins company set up CV claim because air bag deployed for no apparent reason hit me in the chest possibly due to electrical something malfunctioned.police also came but said I did not need to report anything because I did not hit anything. Called geico had vehicle towed and because air bag deployed they created a claim. Had vehicle towed to firestone but they were closed today adjuster from insurance company coming out tomorrow 892021 to assess damage and repairs needed.

Power Train
Filed Jul 29, 202172,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Versa. The contact stated while driving 20 mph, the vehicle started shifting gears inadvertently and stalled. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact veered to the side of the road and restarted the vehicle after a short period of time. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the transmission had failed, and the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V032000 (Power Train) however, the Vin was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the Vin was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 72,000.

Engine
Filed May 8, 2021VA

MUFFLER IS RUSTED AND THE MANUFACTURE DOESN'T CARE KEEP SAYING IT'S YOUR PROBLEM RIGHT NOW IS BROKEN AND CAT DOESN'T EVEN HAVE 60000 MILES VERY UPSET

Power Train
Filed Apr 14, 2021112,000 milesTN

THE TRANSMISSION FAILED AT ONLY 112,000 MILES WHILE I WAS ON THE INTERSTATE AT 65 MPH.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 3, 2021158,000 milesTN

WHEN FILLING VEHICLE UP WITH GAS IT STARTS POURING OUT UNDER THE VEHICLE AND WHEN DRIVING IT WHEN I TURNED AROUND A CURB GAS POURED ALL OVER THE ROAD.

Air BagsCrash
Filed Feb 10, 202168,945 milesGA

NISSAN VERSA 2012 HAS A ENGINE PROBLEM WITH THE MASS AIR SENSOR AND ALSO THE ELECTRICAL PROBELM.MY CAR SHUT OFF ON THE ROAD WHILE I WAS DRIVING.I SENT TO THE MECHANIST BUT THEY COULD NOT FIND THE EXACT PROBLEM.I ALSO SENT TO A NISSAN DEALERSHIP BUT THE PROBLEM STILL REMAIN IT. I ONE TIME ALMOST GOT A ACCIDENT BECAUSE OF IT.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Feb 7, 2021100,000 milesGU

ON FEBRUARY 2, 2021 AROUND 0820 ON SOUTH MARINE CORP DRIVE RT.1 (ACROSS EAST AGANA MOBIL GAS STATION) THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG IN MY VEHICLE HAD UNEXPECTLY DEPLOYED WHILE DRIVING (VEHICLE IN MOTION) TO WORK; WHILE IN THE MIDDLE OF RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC. I'M HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO NISSAN GUAM FOR THEM TO INVESTIGATE AND THE RESULTS WERE GIVEN TO ME BY SERVICE MANAGER GIBERT A SPIRAL CABLE IN THE STEERING COLUMN GROUNDED, OVERTIME CAUSING A SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE AIRBAG MODULE WHICH ENACTED THE UNEXPECTED DEPLOYMENT AND HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE RECALL. AND BECAUSE THE AIRBAG HAS DEPLOYED WE THERE IS NO RECALL ITEMS TO REPLACE. THE VEHICLE REMAINS IN NISSAN GUAM'S POSSESSION AT THE MOMENT.

Power Train
Filed Jan 8, 2021100,000 milesFL

DRIVING CAR STARTING JERKING AND THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO WRECK VERY SCARY ON MY ROAD IN MOTION

Power Train
Filed Dec 26, 202045 milesNC

TRANSMISSION IS NOT CHANGING GEARS LIKE IT IS SUPPOSE TO AND STUTTERS AT STOP SIGNS AND STOP LIGHTS.

Engine
Filed Nov 27, 202075,848 milesGA

ON NOVEMBER 12, 2020 MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON LEAVING FROM MY JOB SO I MADE AN APPOINTMENT ON NOVEMBER 14,2020 TO GET THE CAR SERVICE. I WENT TO THE NISSAN CAR DEALERSHIP SPOKE WITH THE SALESMAN IN REFERENCE TO MY VEHICLE AND THE PERSON STATED I HAVE WATER IMMERSED IN MY TAIL LIGHT IS WHY THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS COMING ON AND IF I DON'T GET THE PROBLEM FIX THE LIGHT WOULD STAY ON. I ASKED IF I GET THE PROBLEM FIX WILL IT HAPPEN AGAIN THE ANSWER WAS YES DO TO THE MODEL AND MAKE ON MY VEHICLE I BELIEVE THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 2, 2020CA

THERE IS A RECALL REGARDING MY AIRBAGS #B2TP-3VL AND NISSAN REFUSES TO PROVIDE ME WITH A LOANER VEHICLE. MY RECALL NOTICE SAYS THAT THEY HAVE TO PROVIDE ME WITH A LOANER VEHICLE. ITALKED TO THE DEALER AND TO THE NISSAN CORPORATE OFFICE AND NOBODY WILL HELP. I CANNOT AFFORD TO TAKE TIME OFF OF WORK NOR SPEND MY DAY OFF AT THE CAR DEALERSHIP AS I WATCH MY GRANDCHILDREN OVER THE WEEKENDS

Air Bags
Filed Oct 19, 2020CA

THE FRONT AIRBAG IS NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY. BECAUSE OF THE STEERING I ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT, MY WHEEL DIDN'T WANT TO TURN. THE BRAKES ALWAYS MAKE NOISE.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 14, 2020137,254 milesSC

DRIVERS AIRBAG MODULE BAD IN THE VEHICLE AND THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS FLASHING. THE DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG WILL NOT DEPLOY IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT. I KNOW THERE WAS A RECALL FOR MANY OF THEM FOR THIS MODEL YEAR BUT THIS IS NOT ONE OF THEM AND THIS VEHICLE IS EFFECTED. THIS NEEDS TO ONE CORRECTED

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 17, 202060,000 milesKY

THE KEY WILL NOT COME OUT OF THE IGNITION AND IT IS STUCK. NOTHING HAPPENED TO CAUSE THIS, IT JUST HAPPENED. TOOK IT TO NISSAN AND THEY COULDN'T GET IT OUT. THEY TOOK IT APART FOR DIAGNOSTICS AND SAID THE ENTIRE SHIFT LEVER ASSEMBLY NEEDS REPLACED AND IT IS $865 ESTIMATED REPAIR.

Power Train
Filed Jul 12, 2020CA

I'VE HAD ISSUES WITH MY CAR SINCE THE DAY I BOUGHT IT. IT TAKES A WHILE FOR IT TO ACTUALLY ACCELERATE AND I'VE HAD SERIOUS ISSUES SINCE 60K MILES AND I TOOK IT IN TO THE DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES AND ASKED IF THEY COULD LOOK INTO IT. THE SECOND THAT MY WARRANTY EXPIRED IS WHEN THEY LET ME KNOW THAT I NEEDED TO GET MY TRANSMISSION FLUID CHANGED, BUT THEN IT TURNED OUT TO BE MY TRANSMISSION, AND THEN THEY KEPT GOING BACK AND FORTH AND DIDN'T WANT TO DO IT BEFORE BECAUSE IT WAS UNDER WARRANTY. THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL TIMES ON THE FREEWAY WHERE IT STALLS AND WON'T GO MORE THAN 20MPH. IT IS VERY SCARY WHEN THIS HAPPENS AND I'VE HAD TO PULL OVER MULTIPLE TIMES TO STOP AND THEN BE ABLE TO GO AGAIN. I'VE ALWAYS BEEN ON TOP OF THE MAINTENANCE AND I'M HOPING WITH THE RECALL THAT THEY ARE ABLE TO ASSIST WITH REPLACING THE TRANSMISSION AT NO COST. I DON'T SEE MYSELF EVER BUYING A NISSAN VEHICLE AGAIN.

Power Train
Filed Jul 2, 202058,664 milesPA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 NISSAN VERSA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CVT WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO REEDMAN TOLL NISSAN OF DREXEL HILL, 5018 TOWNSHIP LINE RD, DREXEL HILL, PA 19026 TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED OR REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CVT TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED ONCE BEFORE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,664.

Power Train
Filed Jun 25, 202068,500 milesVA

MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING FROM OHIO TO VIRGINIA WHEN HER CAR STOPPED WORKING WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY. THE CAR WOULD NOT GO WHEN ACCELERATED. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSE A FATALITY. HAD THE CAR TOWED SEVERAL TIMES TO FINALLY END UP AT A NISSAN DEALER IN CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA. THE SERVICE TECHNICAL SAID THAT HER TRANSMISSION NEED TO BE REPLACED. THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH NISSAN AND WAS A PAST RECALL. BECAUSE THE RECALL TO FIX THE TRANSMISSION HAS EXPIRED, NISSAN REFUSED TO FIX IT. THE CAR ONLY HAS 68,500 MILES ON IT AND THE TRANSMISSION IS DEAD. THIS IS NOT A NORMAL CASE AND I WOULD LIKE FOR NISSAN TO EXTEND THIS RECALL AND FIX THE CAR AS THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED MY DAUGHTER TO LOSE HER LIFE. *TR

Complaints 1-50 of 486, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2009
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202512000Routine
202496100Routine
202337100Routine
202220000Routine
202132300Routine
202064200Routine
201924100Routine
201857200Routine
201762300Routine
201681021Fatalities reported
2015168121Fatalities reported
2014207201Fatalities reported
2013204103Fatalities reported
2012 — this page4861161Fatalities reported
2011269761Fatalities reported
2010269831Fatalities reported
2009504820Above average
2008381883Fatalities reported
2007354981Fatalities reported

Compare every Versa year →

2012 Nissan Versa: questions buyers ask

Is the 2012 Nissan Versa a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Versa years to avoid: owners filed 486 complaints, 2.6 times as many as a typical Versa year. The most common complaint is about the airbags (33%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 4 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2012 Nissan Versa?

The airbags: 159 of the 486 complaints (33%) are about it. Owners most often say it shows an airbag warning light (12%), sets off warning lights on the dash (6%) and did not deploy its airbags in a crash (6%). The typical report comes at 44,357 miles.

How many recalls does the 2012 Nissan Versa have?

11 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Aug 9, 2022. The largest, 17V449000, covered 515,394 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 Versa problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 60,088 miles. For the airbags the midpoint is 44,357 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2012 Nissan Versa?

Yes, 7 times. The latest, EA21002 ("Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture"), was opened Sep 17, 2021 and is still open.

Are there service bulletins for the 2012 Nissan Versa?

The manufacturer filed 157 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the transmission (25), the electrical system (24) and the engine (13). They include a warranty extension, CVT Owner Letter, filed May 11, 2020. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

1 death reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

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: Aug 9, 2022. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.