2012 Nissan NP300

The 2012 Nissan NP300 is a workhorse pickup truck known for its ruggedness and reliability, primarily sold in markets outside of North America. Engine options typically included a 2.5L diesel engine, and a 2.4L petrol engine. The 2.5L diesel engine produces approximately 131 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. It is generally liked for its utilitarian design and dependability, while downsides often include a basic interior and relatively unrefined driving experience. Transmission options were mainly a 5-speed manual.

Engine

2.5L Diesel (YD25DDTi)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, whistling noise from the turbocharger, and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced fuel economy, and potential engine knocking.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+ (depending on the number of injectors replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, stalling, loss of power, and potential engine damage if the pump fails completely.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Petrol (KA24DE)

• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, difficulty starting, rough idling, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaking Head Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and coolant mixing with oil.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket, potentially requiring cylinder head resurfacing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Difficulty Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, especially 1st and reverse, grinding noises during gear changes.
  • Solution: Could be due to worn synchros, clutch issues, or shift linkage problems. Requires transmission inspection and repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the severity and parts replaced).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, clutch pedal sticking or feeling spongy.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and potentially the throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, reduced load-carrying capacity, rough ride, and potential bottoming out under load.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ (for both rear springs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during cornering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the shocks and/or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (for a set of front or rear shocks/struts)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light on, difficulty starting, and eventually a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noise when trying to start the engine, engine not cranking, and intermittent starting problems.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially in areas prone to moisture and salt exposure (frame, body panels, undercarriage).
  • Solution: Rust removal and repair, panel replacement in severe cases. Prevention includes rust-proofing treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the severity, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in hot and sunny climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair with a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Nissan NP300, while generally reliable, can suffer from issues typical of work trucks, including drivetrain wear and tear, especially given its prevalent use in demanding conditions. Engine and transmission problems, while not exceedingly common, can be costly to address. Suspension wear is expected, and rust can be a significant concern in certain climates. While issues exist, they are largely manageable with proactive maintenance and timely repairs. Overall, it is a decent work truck with acceptable severity and repair costs.