2012 Nissan Cube

The 2012 Nissan Cube is a quirky and distinctive compact car known for its boxy shape and spacious interior. It came equipped with a 1.8-liter inline-4 engine producing 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Owners appreciate the Cube’s unique styling, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride, but some dislike the unconventional aesthetics and limited rear visibility.

Engine

1.8L I4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms can include the low oil light illuminating or the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
  • Solution: In some cases, Nissan has addressed this issue with updated piston rings and software updates. If the consumption is severe, replacing the piston rings may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Catalytic Converter
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter can fail prematurely. Symptoms include a check engine light, decreased fuel economy, and a sulfur smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT

• CVT Failure/Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT transmission is known for experiencing issues such as shuddering, hesitation, slipping, and complete failure. Warning lights may illuminate, and the vehicle may have difficulty accelerating or maintaining speed.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, the CVT may require a software update, valve body replacement, or complete replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3500 - $5000+ for full replacement
  • Recalls:
    • Recall Number: 16V913000
    • Recall Date: 2016-12-15
    • Description: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Nissan Altima vehicles manufactured January 03, 2013, to November 06, 2013; model year 2013-2014 Nissan Sentra vehicles manufactured January 15, 2013, to September 13, 2013; model year 2013-2014 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles manufactured February 20, 2013, to August 21, 2013; and model year 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles manufactured February 15, 2013, to August 20, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the transmission control module (TCM) may have an incorrect program which could cause the engine to stall.
    • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the TCM, free of charge. The recall began on January 30, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. Nissan’s number for this recall is PC328.

Suspension

• Rear Axle Bearing Noise/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported excessive noise coming from the rear axle bearings, which can eventually lead to failure. Symptoms include a humming or grinding sound from the rear of the vehicle, especially at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected rear axle bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the Bluetooth system. Symptoms include difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections, or inability to use Bluetooth features.
  • Solution: Attempt a system reset or software update. If the problem persists, the Bluetooth module may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• BCM (Body Control Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The BCM can fail causing issues with various electrical functions such as the lights, windows, locks, and wipers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the BCM and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Door Latch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening the rear door, or the door latch failing to properly secure the door.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the door latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, especially in vehicles exposed to high heat and sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, or using a dashboard cover to conceal the cracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Nissan Cube has some significant potential problems, particularly related to the CVT transmission which is one of the most severe and costly issues. Engine oil consumption and catalytic converter failures can also be expensive to repair. The other issues while less severe, still impact the ownership experience. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and inspect the vehicle carefully before purchase.