2012 Nissan March
Introduction: The 2012 Nissan March, also known as the Micra in some markets, is a subcompact hatchback offered with a 1.2-liter or 1.5-liter gasoline engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. It received praise for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and maneuverability, but some owners have reported concerns with durability and reliability.
Engine
- 1.2-liter Engine Intake Valve Sticking:
- Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls or runs rough due to stuck intake valves.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacing intake valves and associated components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
- 1.2-liter Engine with 5-Speed Manual Gearbox Noise:
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise from the gearbox during gear changes or while driving.
- Solution: Replacing worn or damaged gearbox components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- 1.5-liter Engine with 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Slipping:
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips gears or hesitates during shifting.
- Solution: Overhauling or rebuilding the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension No Issues Found
Electrical Battery Drain:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery drains rapidly, causing difficulty starting the vehicle.
- Solution: Testing and replacing faulty electrical components, such as the alternator or starter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior Roof Rack Damage:
- Description/Symptoms: Roof rack crossbars become loose or damaged, potentially posing a safety hazard.
- Solution: Replacing damaged crossbars or repairing the rack system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Steering Wheel Switch Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: Steering wheel-mounted switches fail to work or become intermittent.
- Solution: Replacing the affected switches or related wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Conditioning Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning system fails to cool or functions erratically.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing or replacing faulty components, such as the condenser or evaporator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary: The 2012 Nissan March offers a budget-friendly and fuel-efficient driving experience, but it has been subject to several reliability issues, particularly in the engine, transmission, and electrical domains. The cost of repairs can be significant, potentially offsetting the vehicle’s low purchase price. While individual problems may vary in frequency and severity, owners should be aware of potential concerns before purchasing or owning this vehicle.