2012 Nissan Rogue

2012 Nissan Rogue

Overview

The 2012 Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV that offered a decent balance of practicality and fuel efficiency for its class. It primarily came equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While generally considered a reliable vehicle for its time, like any used car, it can exhibit specific issues as it ages. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.

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Engine

2.5L QR25DE (4-Cylinder)

Oil Consumption

• Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not monitored.
• Solution: Regular oil level checks and top-offs. In severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
• Cost: $1,200 - $2,500

CVT Transmission Issues

• Symptoms: Hesitation, slipping, rough shifting, or complete failure. Often accompanied by a whining noise.
• Solution: CVT fluid changes at recommended intervals. Transmission repair or replacement.
• Cost: $2,500 - $5,000

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

Overheating and Failure

• Symptoms: Jerking, slipping, loss of power, and warning lights. Can be exacerbated by towing or heavy use.
• Solution: Regular fluid changes and ensuring proper cooling. Transmission replacement is often the ultimate solution.
• Cost: $2,500 - $5,000

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Strut Mounts

• Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises when turning or going over bumps.
• Solution: Replacement of strut mounts.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Wheel Bearings

• Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise that increases with speed and changes when turning.
• Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearing.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

• Symptoms: Various electrical components (lights, power windows, locks) acting erratically or not working at all.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1,000

Key Fob Battery Drain

Key Fob Battery Depletion

• Symptoms: Key fob stops working unexpectedly, requiring frequent battery replacement.
• Solution: Replacement of key fob battery. In some cases, a faulty receiver or switch may be the cause.
• Cost: $5 - $20 (for battery)

Exterior

Paint and Clear Coat

Clear Coat Peeling

• Symptoms: The clear coat on the roof, hood, or other exterior panels begins to peel or flake.
• Solution: Professional repainting or touch-up work.
• Cost: $500 - $2,000+

Sunroof

Leaking Sunroof

• Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, often around the seals or through the drain tubes.
• Solution: Cleaning and clearing sunroof drain tubes. Seal replacement if necessary.
• Cost: $150 - $400

Interior

HVAC System

Blower Motor Resistor Failure

• Symptoms: HVAC fan only works on the highest setting, or not at all.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Infotainment System

Navigation System Glitches

• Symptoms: Navigation screen freezing, becoming unresponsive, or displaying incorrect information.
• Solution: Software update or replacement of the head unit.
• Cost: $500 - $1,500

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Summary Verdict

The 2012 Nissan Rogue is a generally dependable compact SUV, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The CVT transmission is a significant concern, with reports of premature failure and costly repairs. Engine oil consumption can also be an issue that requires diligent monitoring. Other potential problems include suspension component wear, electrical glitches related to the BCM, exterior paint issues, and interior HVAC or infotainment system faults. Regular maintenance, especially for the CVT, and thorough pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to mitigate these risks.