2012 Nissan NV3500

2012 Nissan NV3500

The 2012 Nissan NV3500 is a full-size van available with a choice of two powerful gasoline engines: a 4.0L V6 with 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.6L V8 with 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission, and a 7-speed automatic transmission is optional on V8 models. The NV3500 is praised for its spacious cargo area, versatile seating configurations, and powerful engines. However, it has been criticized for its poor fuel economy, stiff ride, and limited technology features.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Knock from the engine:
  • Description/Symptoms: A persistent knocking noise coming from the engine, especially when accelerating or under load.
  • Solution: Replace the engine knock sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.6L V8

• Timing chain failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling or grinding noise coming from the engine, accompanied by a loss of power and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission shifts gears erratically or refuses to engage certain gears, causing loss of power and difficulty driving.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Automatic

• No issues found.

Suspension

• Rear leaf springs breaking:
  • Description/Symptoms: A sudden drop in the rear of the vehicle, causing the tires to rub against the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Replace the broken leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The electrical system fails to charge the battery, causing the battery to discharge and the vehicle to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear bumper rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion developing on the rear bumper, especially in areas exposed to road salt or moisture.
  • Solution: Clean and repaint the bumper or replace it if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate control problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system fails to heat or cool the cabin adequately, or it makes loud noises while operating.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component, such as the AC compressor, blend door actuator, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Nissan NV3500 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it has experienced some notable issues, particularly with the engine, transmission, and suspension. While some of these issues can be costly to repair, the severity and frequency of the problems vary, and many owners report having positive experiences with the NV3500.