Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Nissan NV
The 2012 Nissan NV shows a few concerns based on the NHTSA data, with four recalls and seven complaints. Issues primarily involve air bag malfunctions and power train problems. The limited number of complaints suggests these issues may not be widespread, but diligence in checking these areas is recommended.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Nissan NV has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 7 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V188000 Driver Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V095000 Shift Lever may Indicate Incorrect Gear NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11V592000 ENGINE OIL COOLER CONNECTOR BOLT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11V408000 AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 3 complaints
- Air Bags 2 complaints
- Electrical System 1 complaint
- Tires 1 complaint
- Wheels 1 complaint
Of the 7 complaints on file, 1 reports a crash (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Air bag inflator may rupture
How to check: Verify the recall repair has been done with the VIN check.
Gear shift misalignment
How to check: While parked, check that gear positions match indicated positions.
Engine oil bolts below specs
How to check: Inspect engine for oil leaks at the cooler connections.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine sounds or ticking noises.
Red flag: Loud ticking or grinding sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check if the gear indicator matches lever positions.
Red flag: Indicator and lever mismatch
- 03
Stop and go driving
What to check: Ensure shifts are smooth and timely.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Accelerate smoothly and track vehicle alignment.
Red flag: Delayed acceleration or pulls to side
- 05
Normal braking
What to check: Brake smoothly without noise or vibration.
Red flag: Grinding or pulsing brakes
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag inflator been replaced?
- Has the gear shift recall been addressed?
- Any issues with power train you've noticed?
- Are there any recurring electrical issues?
- Has the engine cooler been inspected?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall completion records
- Recent maintenance receipts
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Nissan NV at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2012 Nissan NV? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.