Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Nissan Versa
The 2012 Nissan Versa has significant concerns with airbags and the power train, highlighted by numerous complaints and recalls. While issues like the suspension and electrical system are less frequent, they shouldn't be overlooked. With 11 recalls and 486 complaints, check each aspect carefully and be prepared for potential repairs.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Nissan Versa has 11 NHTSA recall campaigns and 486 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #22E066000 Replacement Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V401000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V044000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V637000 Front Coil Springs may Corrode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V449000 Driver Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V144000 Side Air Bags may Deploy Unexpectedly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V028000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V573000 Front Coil Springs may Corrode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V507000 Lower Trim Panel may Impede Pedal Operation NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V055000 CURTAIN AIR BAG INFLATOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V032000 SHIFTER/FMVSS 114 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 167 complaints
- Power Train 163 complaints
- Unknown or Other 51 complaints
- Engine 50 complaints
- Electrical System 34 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 33 complaints
Of the 486 complaints on file, 40 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 486 complaints, owners report 31 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Airbag inflator failure
How to check: Verify airbag recall repairs are completed.
Power train issues
How to check: Check for smooth shifting and unusual noises.
Coil spring issues
How to check: Inspect front coil springs for corrosion or damage.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for knocking or ticking sounds from engine.
Red flag: Loud engine noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for any warning lights on the dashboard.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor for smooth acceleration and shifting.
Red flag: Jerking or hesitation
- 04
Braking
What to check: Test brakes for smooth and firm application.
Red flag: Spongy brakes or noises
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for strong and consistent power delivery.
Red flag: Lag in acceleration
- 06
Turning
What to check: Listen for clunks or creaks when turning.
Red flag: Unusual noises when steering
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been completed?
- Have you experienced any transmission issues?
- Has the suspension been inspected recently?
- Were there any unresolved warning lights?
- How often was the car serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Maintenance history
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty coverage details
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Nissan Versa at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2012 Nissan Versa? 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.