The Good
The 2012 Pathfinder offers a strong V6 engine providing capable performance. It boasts a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to families. Its truck-based design gives it a rugged appeal and decent towing capacity. The Pathfinder presents a good value proposition for those seeking a capable and dependable SUV.
The Bad
Fuel economy is a known weakness; the Pathfinder isn't the most efficient SUV. Some owners have reported issues with the transmission and electrical components. The interior materials aren't as luxurious as some competitors. Rust can be a concern in regions with harsh winters, so inspecting the undercarriage is essential.
2012 Nissan Pathfinder: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 4.0-liter V6
- Horsepower: 266 hp @ 5,600 rpm
- Fuel Economy (City/Highway):
2WD: 15/22 mpg
4WD: 14/20 mpg (Estimates may vary based on driving conditions) - 0-60 mph: Around 8.0 seconds (estimated)
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (with proper equipment)
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Standard features include cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a basic audio system.
- SV: Adds alloy wheels, automatic climate control, upgraded audio system, roof rack, and available navigation.
- LE: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, premium audio system, sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system (optional), and available four-wheel drive.
- Additional Notes:
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Available in 2WD or 4WD
- Seating Capacity: 7 passengers
- Cargo Volume: 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 79.2 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | Pathfinder |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | YOKOSUKA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.0-L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Have?
Recalls for the 2012 Pathfinder can be checked on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website using the vehicle's VIN. Long-term reliability can be affected by neglecting regular maintenance, especially fluid changes. Pay close attention to scheduled maintenance intervals for the transmission and cooling system. While the engine is generally robust, keeping up with oil changes is vital to prevent potential issues. Addressing small problems promptly can help avoid more significant and costly repairs down the road.
How long will the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It included standard features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and stability control. Higher trims might have included features like rear parking sensors. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking available.
Safety features included standard front and side airbags, as well as side-curtain airbags for all three rows. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) crash test ratings for the 2012 Pathfinder varied. It generally received good scores in frontal and side crash tests. Information on specific rollover ratings should be verified on the NHTSA website using the vehicle's VIN. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also provided crash test ratings, which can be consulted for a more comprehensive assessment of the vehicle's safety performance.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Prices and Market Value
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Cost of Ownership
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Fuel Efficiency
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Recalls & Defects
Suspension:front:hub
Engine and Engine Cooling
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Compare to Other Wagon?
In terms of reliability, the Toyota 4Runner generally outperforms the Pathfinder. The Honda Pilot offers a more balanced package of reliability, fuel economy, and passenger space. For those prioritizing off-road capability and longevity, the 4Runner is a better choice. If fuel efficiency and interior space are paramount, the Pilot or Traverse might be more suitable. However, the Pathfinder offers a decent balance of features and performance at a potentially lower price point on the used market. It's worth considering if you need moderate towing capacity and don't prioritize fuel economy.
Ranks #953 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 953 | 2012 Nissan Pathfinder | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder a Good Wagon?
Proud USMC Semper Fi on October 23, 2023
400K still going strong!!2012 Best truck ever made! But it used with alittle over 30k , Just reached 400K ( 397,899 ) Powerful V8 363 HP ! Got it out on open road with a max speed of 152 MPH She flew like a bat out of xxxx! Nissan was stupid to change this model!!
Mountain Man on May 14, 2023
The Beast! R52 2012 PathfinderOur 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is a Beast! 375K Miles on her and going strong !! Top notch off road SUV is more powerful than a F250 truck! We haved pulled out Jeeps and F250s even a H2 out of our Muddy Roads in our town ! The power of speed is incredible! 135 mph Feels like 80 mph ! It climbs steep hills at 70 mph without any problems! Its a heavy duty SUV that will last a lifetime if maintained!!
Ed on April 17, 2020
Bought it new in 2012, never a problemI have used this vehicle for towing, transporting groups. I just hit 100,00 miles and i'm keeping it. Never had a problem. 8 years and I hope to get 8 years more. Glad I bought it. Every time I bring it in for service, they offer me to trade it in at a good price and I say no.
Powerful link on February 7, 2020
2012 The Best SUV / Truck one can buyThe 2012 Nissan pathfinder 4x4 is one power suv / truck , Having towed out a dodge ram from a muddy road in spring in Montana was perfect for what it was meant to do ! I use mine on Dirt roads and it handles them better than any other truck in my 40 years of driving! Millage of my 2012 Nissan 4x4 pathfinder is ( 281 ,367 ) miles.
NYCPuntilla on November 29, 2019
Amazing performance car.Powerful, excellent stability while driving a high speed, remote starting which is so helpful on winter time, back up camera which is the best and very helpful, V6 4.0 power that make me to go from cero (0 ) MPH to 70 MPH in just 5 seconds. You cannot get better car than this, 3er Row that gives you space for 7 persons.
Jway87 on September 30, 2019
Rugged and Reliable. A pleasure to drive.This vehicle has been one of the best that I've owned. Minimal maintenance other than normal service has been required. Runs and drives great and have no doubt it will run for many years to come. Does well on and off road and pulling a trailer. It's an excellent all around vehicle. One of the last SUVs of it's kind.
bee123 on August 9, 2019
The best suv that I have owned so farThis suv is ideal for long trips, everyday use and whatever you need it for. The only thing that I can say is that it is not that great with gas. Overall I am so glad that I purchased this vehicle. Other trucks may be fancier but this one is great with cargo space and legroom.
PATHFINDER on May 4, 2019
I bought a extended warranty and have never used iThis is the perfect smaller SUV fun to drive but big enough hold a family of 8. And it runs perfectly with new tires and cold AC everything work's and has tow package
Lbc6954 on August 19, 2018
Excellent carI am crazy about this car. I have had zero issues with it. I love the styling and wish Nissan would have never changed it.
Kamara?s on August 10, 2018
A great vehicle!My family of 7 can all fit in this vehicle. Everyone loves the car and can carry it all our belongings very well. Love it!
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.