2012 Nissan Rogue

The 2012 Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV known for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. It comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Many owners appreciate the Rogue’s spacious interior and smooth ride. Common complaints often revolve around the CVT transmission and some electrical issues.

Engine

2.5L QR25DE Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust, especially upon startup.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings can resolve the issue. Other times, a complete engine replacement might be necessary if the cylinder walls are damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine light illuminates due to a faulty catalytic converter, sometimes caused by excessive oil consumption. Can cause the vehicle to fail emissions testing.
  • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter. It’s important to diagnose the root cause, such as oil consumption, to prevent repeat failure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Transmission Slipping/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: The most common complaint is transmission slippage, especially during acceleration. Some owners report hesitation or a feeling of the transmission “hunting” for the right gear. The transmission may also exhibit jerking or shuddering.
  • Solution: A software update may sometimes temporarily alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, a transmission replacement or rebuild is required. Regular CVT fluid changes at shorter intervals than recommended by the manufacturer might help prevent issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Whining Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report a whining noise coming from the transmission, especially during acceleration or deceleration. This can be a sign of internal wear within the CVT.
  • Solution: A transmission replacement or rebuild is typically required to address the noise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Strut/Shock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report experiencing premature failure of the struts and shocks, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride. This is noticeable when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts and shocks. Consider replacing both front or rear sets at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report unexplained battery drain issues, even with a relatively new battery. This can result in the vehicle not starting.
  • Solution: Thoroughly check for parasitic draws. Common culprits include faulty door switches, aftermarket accessories, and the Body Control Module (BCM).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airbag Warning Light
  • Description/Symptoms: The airbag warning light illuminates on the dashboard. This could indicate a problem with the airbag system, which needs immediate attention.
  • Solution: Diagnose the problem using an OBD-II scanner capable of reading SRS codes. This may require repair or replacement of the clock spring, sensors, or other components of the airbag system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls:
    • Recall Number: 13V582000
    • Recall Number: 14V781000
    • Recall Number: 16V380000
    • Recall Number: 16V381000
    • Recall Number: 16V244000

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Hatch
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing around the license plate area and bottom edge of the rear hatch.
  • Solution: Sand down the rust, apply rust converter, and repaint. Replacement of the hatch might be necessary if the rust is severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard develops cracks, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement. Also, use of a sunshade while parking helps to avoid cracking of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sun Visor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sun visors breaking or becoming loose, making them ineffective.
  • Solution: Replacing the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Nissan Rogue, while generally reliable, has some notable issues. The most significant concern is the CVT transmission, which can experience slipping and require costly repairs or replacement. Engine issues like excessive oil consumption and catalytic converter failure can also be expensive to address. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the airbag system, and interior issues like dashboard cracking, round out the common complaints. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision, along with a thorough inspection and maintenance history review.