2012 Nissan GT-R

The 2012 Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sports car boasting a hand-assembled 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. In 2012, this engine produced 530 horsepower and 448 lb-ft of torque. All GT-Rs came standard with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Owners typically praise the GT-R for its incredible acceleration, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and track-ready performance. Criticisms often include the harsh ride quality, dated interior, and relatively high maintenance costs.

Engine

3.8L Twin-Turbocharged V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Timing Chain Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil dripping from the front of the engine, oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Resealing or replacing the timing chain cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Boost Leaks (Intercooler Piping)
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, hissing noise under acceleration, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing or tightening intercooler piping and clamps.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

• Clutch Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during gear changes, difficulty engaging gears, shuddering, error codes.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement. Upgraded clutches are often recommended for increased durability, especially with tuned vehicles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+ (including labor and potentially upgraded parts)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Software Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift, error messages displayed on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Transmission Control Module (TCM) reflash or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Gear Grinding
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting, especially into certain gears.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $15,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper (Shock Absorber) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, leaking fluid from the shock.
  • Solution: Shock absorber replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ (depending on whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MAF Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor performance, engine stalling, check engine light.
  • Solution: MAF sensor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car not starting after sitting for a short period.
  • Solution: Diagnosing parasitic drain, replacing the battery, or fixing faulty wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Spoiler Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: Clear coat peeling off the carbon fiber spoiler.
  • Solution: Refinishing or replacing the spoiler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on repair vs. replacement and aftermarket options)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blank screen, unresponsive touch screen, freezing.
  • Solution: Navigation unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on new vs. used parts)
  • Recalls: None Found

In summary, the 2012 Nissan GT-R, while an impressive performance machine, can be prone to certain issues. The most concerning and costly issues revolve around the transmission (clutch wear/failure) and engine (turbocharger failure). While some electrical and interior issues may arise, they are generally less severe in terms of both cost and potential impact on the vehicle’s drivability. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision, including budgeting for potential maintenance and repairs.